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Miss South Florida Fair loves animals, especially this little piggy, Stella Dot! |
I'll try to describe how I feel, but I am not exactly sure how to put it all into words! Before anything, I have to thank God for proving to me once again, that He has a perfect, marvelous plan for me. He has been my rock throughout my entire journey and this first blog is truly dedicated to my heavenly father.
The moment I was crowned continues to replay in my mind! It was all so surreal. It finally happened!! I am not sure if many of you reading this know my story with this particular pageant...I'll share it briefly. In 2009, the first year I competed, I was awarded 2nd runner-up and received $750 in scholarship money. This was all thanks to Kelly Hoback, my mom for believing in me, and my
awesome, hot pink pageant resale gown! Ha! In 2010, I competed once again, but was awarded 3rd runner-up and $500 in scholarship money. In 2011, I was awarded 1st runner-up (so close!) and $1,000 in scholarship money (woohoo). And finally, a few weeks ago, the moment I knew would happen, but wasn't sure when it would...
HAPPENED!
Many, many people have asked me why I kept going, or if I was frustrated all those years not winning.
I kept going because I was so passionate for this title. My friends and the incredibly talented previous titleholders (Jess, Court, Cassie, and Brit) were young women I looked up to and they were always so happy, I wanted to be them! I also continued to compete because it was so fun! This pageant is seriously one of the best in our state! New friends, a glam wardrobe, the thrill of being on a stage, the hair...make-up...the talents...I loved it all! And of course the wonderful pageant committee and staff. They made my experience these 4 years so enriching and special.
To answer the second question, no I was never frustrated! Of course, there's that thought of, "Dang, it..." but I just smiled and thought, "Okay, it's not my year, that's alright God...next year!"
So here I am, I finally achieved my goal and I couldn't be happier! As many of you have seen, I have been posting several pictures on facebook highlighting my journey so far. I have been at the fair nearly everyday, pretty much having the time of my life! It all happened very quickly, I was crowned Saturday night and was right back at the fairgrounds Sunday morning. I had no problem with that, great prep work for Miss Florida ;)
I have experienced some incredible moments at the fair...here are a few:
Modeling with animals...for real! A giant turkey, a beautiful chicken named Phoenix, all kinds of cows, a very famous little piggy (Who I might have
kissed made-out with...twice!) ...and many more!
Riding on my first motorcycle with my friend Pete. What an adrenaline rush!
Being in my first parade with Dr. Dennis Gallon, President of Palm Beach State College. I can't even describe how amazing that was!
Finding healthy fair-food options! Chicken Kabob, roasted corn (don't hold the butter), and kettle corn!
Being arrested by the Yesteryear Village Sheriff...that was hilarious!
Sitting on top of an elephant! What!?
Taking pictures and having short conversations with little girls and boys. THE BEST part of my job. They call me princess but they are the true princesses and princes! One little boy came up to me and said, "Can I take a picture with the prettiest girl at the fair?" AWE. YES. I melted.
Having my face on a pin (lol) that various fair board members, trustees, and volunteers wear. Oh, I can't forget, actually pinning it on the Fair's President/CEO Rick Vymlatil. What!?
Enjoying the beautiful fair theme "Our Nation's Capital: Washington, D.C." (In case you don't know, I have a strong love affair with DC! The fact that I won this year, with this theme is not a coincidence whatsoever!)
Lastly, being surrounded by such supportive, encouraging individuals on a daily basis! I'm now apart of the South Florida Fair family, and that in itself makes my eyes teary and my heart warm.
I've been having an incredible time and since it is the closing weekend of the fair, I encourage everyone to come and enjoy it! I am so excited for these next two days!!
My next blog post will be all about thanking everyone!
Love you all very much!
Nicole
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20