I still can't believe that I am Miss Elkhart County 2010! It was an emotional evening, one that I will never forget.
I arrived to rehearsal Friday evening nervous, anxious and excited to start what I knew would be a tremendous weekend of meeting new people and learning about myself. We rehearsed the opening number, choreographed by Heather, and had a great time laughing with each other and the outgoing Miss Elkhart County's Outstanding Teen, Chloe, who would be the first one to tell you she is not a dancer. We rehearsed well into the evening to make sure each contestant was comfortable being on stage in each area of competition.
Saturday morning, the day of the pageant, was filled with emotion. My mom had surgery in October and since then has had major complications that forced her to be in and out of the hospital and doctors offices for months. With my family on my mind I needed to focus on my interview that morning and being the best Jackie that I could be. After our interviews, we had an opportunity to meet the young girls who would be the Miss Elkhart County Princesses for the evening. It was so much fun to feel like a celebrity to each of those young girls. Each contestant was a role model in their eyes whether they were wearing a crown or not. By the start of the pageant we were all nervous and excited and ready to impress the crowd. I was the contestant backstage playing upbeat music and dancing around hoping to put my newfound friends at ease. We walked on stage with our colorful boas and had so much fun "Looking Good and Feeling Gorgeous" which was the title of our opening number song. After opening number the night was a blur of sequins, laughs and some tears.
While waiting on stage to hear who the winners were, my heart was pounding so fast wondering what it would be like if I was chosen to wear the crown. My name was called as the Interview winner and I was thrilled. I also had the honor of winning the Love Award, which was voted on by each contestant. Of all of the awards I have always felt this one was the most meaningful, to be chosen and recognized by not only your peers, but others you are competing with. The Mistress of Ceremonies began to announce the runners-up and my heart was racing as each name was called. While she read the list of prizes and the responsibilities that accompanies the title I vowed if I was the one picked to be Miss Elkhart County 2010 that I would not only do my best to represent my community, but each girl on that stage who also wished to wear the crown. My name was called, and tears burst from my eyes for so many reasons. I finally had the Miss Elkhart County crown, and the exciting chance to represent my hometown. I looked out into the audience and saw my Dad, I knew that my mother could not make it to see me crowned as she was back in the hospital.
The evening was bittersweet. I was thrilled and overjoyed, but saddened that my Mom and other family members could not attend to share this evening with me. The next morning I went to the hospital to visit my Mom. I put the crown on her head which looked great with her hospital robe. I took her my huge bouquet of roses, but I know she was only excited to see me and hear about my exciting evening.
I am so thrilled to represent Elkhart County and to promote my platform of "Support the ARTS, A Vital Part of a Vibrant Community."
