Day 12 ...Prelims...

Whew. Prelims are now over. Tonight the top 15 were chosen. I've got my fingers & toes crossed for good things this Sunday. At that point I would have an entirely new set of judges to "wow" over.... who's crossing their fingers with me?

Even though I woke up with anxiety and the feeling of being a "hot mess" those feelings slowly disintegrated as the day progressed. We had rehearsal all day as well as a full-on dress rehearsal before the actual preliminary competition. The dress rehearsal was the very first time I have worn my gown on stage (eek) and sometimes it likes to slip right on in under my shoe... sneaky thing.

Ahhh preliminary competition....

Our dressing room is a big white tent located behind the auditorium. Every girl is lined up and I get to sit right next to two of my favorite girls.... New York and New Jersey (my Zeta sister!). The tent was so warm that most of my makeup turned into puddles,but  eventually it cooled down. We had plenty of time to get ready and relax, it was fantastic. After I chugged a (warm) 5 Hour Energy drink and sprayed butt glue in places that people shouldn't have glue I was ready to go. I certainly had some nerves but I have envisioned this day for years. I have been on my feet every waking second practicing my turns and poses and run through the moment in my head countless times. I completely trusted myself and the persistence I have given this endeavor.

Have I told you all that I love love love my gown? I'm freakishly obsessed with it. I sometimes find myself starring at it in the mirror.I am so thankful for the fabulous (and unique) Sherri Hill gown and for Sherri for putting it together. Also can't forget those brilliant former students of mine for picking the most dynamite color for me. Additionally, it wouldn't be mine if it weren't for my incredible state directors. I can't say that I have ever felt like a princess before, a real-life princess, up until now. Unreal. Oh, and man oh man am I in love with my earrings from First America Traders in Gallup, NM.

Right after prelims I went to do more filming with a few of the girls and the reigning Miss USA and Miss Universe. Oh my gosh they were both fabulous. Gorgeous and warm and fun. Look out for us during the telecast on June 19th.

Even though it's 2:12am and I'm incredibly sleepy, my feet are in major pain, and my head is pounding like a hammer- I've still got the biggest smile on my face and most incredible feeling in my heart. I cannot believe how much love I have received. The endless cards, letters, emails, wall posts, voicemail, texts and Tweets just light up my day. Thanks for tuning in, cheering on, and sending positive vibes... I felt 'em. I especially favored a Facebook note from one of my former student's mom that said: "We loved watching you in the prelims. Breanna says hi and you looked beautiful!" Melts my heart.....


I highly recommend you check out these beautiful women & this flawless production (we worked kinda hard so please do it!)


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Also, now you can text vote (along with your relentless online voting) by texting "NM" to 772937. It would make me O so happy. ;)

dreams & divas,