What can I say? Of the many things I have envisioned myself doing in life, I never imagined that one day I would end up on a National Stage as Mrs. New Hampshire International
competing for the title of Mrs. International. For me, this has been a "once in a lifetime opportunity" that I will treasure forever. I can't even begin to explain it. It was by far one of the most individually competitive things I have ever done (non sports and work related). It was an honor and privilege to be among such educated, professional, accomplished and beautiful women who truly had genuine passion for their platforms and
causes. I thought I had done and achieved many things, well, let me tell you, every single woman had a resume, attitude and overall aura about them that was just outstanding!
Ok, so I'm personally
disappointed that I didn't make it as a finalist, but I look at it this way, if I'm not going to win, well, I'm happy knowing that I competed among the BEST. And for this
particular moment in time, the Best was
Laine Berry! Congratulations to her, she was stunning from all perspectives.
What I take away from all of this is first, the friendships I made with many of these ladies. Some I got to know very well, others, not as much, but that's
ok, it was such a hectic week and it was difficult getting to know everyone. There is this network of women from all over the US and Internationally that I can reach out to at any time and feel that there will always be a connection from the Mrs. International class of 2008. To me, that is priceless! Second, is the experience. Seriously, it still makes me giggle when I put my crown and banner on to think I represent a state. New Hampshire, I can honestly say, I feel I did you proud. I can walk away knowing that I did my best and I represented our state with class, pride, passion and most of all with
character and integrity!
Ok, so I can also kick butt on the stage a bit - thanks to all my former dance and theater past (wink wink). And last but not least, I take away from this experience the unyielding support and love of my close
friends and of course, my family! My mom watched our girls during the pageant week - thank you!!!! My girls, well, they are my biggest fans and they just kept telling me "mommy, break your leg, break your leg", as they say in theater. Only it's coming from a 3 and 5 year old, so you get the point! And my husband Scott, what can I say there? Correction, Mr. New Hampshire International. He's been on the ride with me every step of the way. I love him dearly.
So now, we are back to reality here in New Hampshire. I am still Mrs. New
Hampshire International. I have lots of things to do and awareness to raise in regards to the mission of the March of Dimes and promoting / encouraging volunteerism in our schools and communities. I go back to work at
Brookstone in August. I'm one of the incoming Volunteer Coordinators for one of our Elementary Schools here in town so, there's lots to get
organized and ready for the upcoming school year. I'm also coaching
cheerleading for the Amherst Patriots, lots of routines to choreograph as practice starts next week. Then there's all the "other stuff" I'm involved in which is too much to list. And oh yes, the most important job, I'm Mr.
NH's "Wife" and my girls "Mama". So, life is busy to say the least. Yet in all the craziness of life moving at this super fast pace, I try to stop, take a breath and remember to always be thankful for life and every single one of it's blessings.
I had the wonderful opportunity of being involved with the Milford Pumpkin Festival as Mrs. New Hampshire International! Mother Nature was sure good to everyone 
This is my one of my favorite pictures from the Pumpkin Festival - with my wonderful husband, Scott!
