307

307 days stood between the night I was crowned Miss New York International and the moment Miss International 2013 would be named.  307 chances to make my mark on my state and those I came across.
307 opportunities to work toward a once in a lifetime moment and year.  307 times to visualize what actually hearing my name called on July 27, 2013 would look and feel like (ok, maybe 307 times 2 for that one).

If I may speak candidly - when I left my full-time career back in January in order to make the most of my year as a state titleholder, without realizing it I tacked on some unwelcomed extra pressure.  Pressure to not have to look back on my leap of faith with regret, pressure to validate the sacrifices my loved ones made, and pressure to live up to the well wishes and positive expectations of those I met throughout my journey.  I immediately realized that I would have to work incredibly hard and leave no stone unturned in the process.  I truly believe that anyone within a 5 block radius felt the stress and tension that sometimes accompanied my preparation (oops).

Then something beautiful happened when I arrived in Chicago.  I just felt happy to be here, honored to be on an international stage, knowing that so few women will ever get the chance to experience something like that. Even beyond this, I started really falling in love with the women I was meeting!  As a volunteerism advocate, I had so many moments of comfort knowing that I was surrounded by our next generation of service leaders and positive role models.  All of that pressure melted away and I was able to just have fun.  From cheering on my sister queens during rehearsal, giggling in the green room getting our hair and make-up done,  and taking silly photos backstage I knew that if it wasn’t me I would be happy seeing any of those ladies have their moment.

I was eerily calm Saturday evening – with the exception of being called TENTH in the top ten… not so calm then.  I led a few group prayers with the ladies on my side of the stage and the other Miss contestants before evening gown, feeling SO grateful for how far we had come and how I knew that God’s plan was about to be revealed.

And then it happened.  I heard my name.  307 days, chances, opportunities all coming to fruition in those few words that announced that my life would be forever changed.  Looking out in the audience and seeing my State Directors, Jodi and Scott Cessna, and all of my loved ones crying along with me made all of the hard work and dedication so worth it.  This was as much a triumph for them as it was for me.  It was the collective effort and support they offered when my faith waivered that got me to this point in one piece – I will be forever grateful to each of them for being my strength when I thought I had nothing left to give.

I will probably still wake up tomorrow and wonder if it’s real, wonder if it is just another dream.  The moment was perfect, everything I hoped it would be.  However, the real treasure was in the unexpected: the relationships, the inspiration, the late night conversations with my sister queens, and the friendships that I will always cherish.

At the Coronation Ball with my State Directors, the Cessnas, and some of my sister queens from New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania

I took this video at the conclusion of finals competition… BEFORE results.  I wanted to always remember that moment before I knew what the outcome would be. 

Love,
Jesse

My Crowning Moment

I stood on stage grinning ear to ear, squeezing the hands of the girls next to me. I could hear the voices of the hosts and the excited cheers of the crowd and I could see the bright lights and the smiling faces, but my mind was somewhere else.

I wasn’t thinking about winning, but about my week spent with the other contestants. I had made new friends, my sister queen had truly become my sister, and I had grown so much in those few short days. I 

had had the time of my life and I didn’t want it to end, but here we were and it was almost over.

The International Pageant system has always been one that I deeply loved. I admired the national queens for their grace, dignity, and kind hearts. They exemplified the qualities of a true queen in every area of their lives. It was an honor just to be given the chance to compete for the title and we were proud to be the class of 2013. We gave it our all and we left everything on the stage. It was an exhilarating week full of memories that we will never forget, bonds that formed and friendships that grew. The young women I met throughout that week reflected integrity, confidence, leadership, and character. These virtues shown through not only on the stage, but off it as well. The girls that I came to know were kindhearted and genuine and I will miss them terribly.

What I will miss the most is the time spent with these girls. Dancing backstage with Miss Teen Georgia, making silly faces with Miss Teen Illinois, and our bridge (or was it more like a tunnel?) that we all 

ran through backstage laughing before finals. These are the memories that I will always remember, laugh about, and treasure. 

To think it was over and they were about to announce who the new Miss Teen International was seemed crazy to me. All of the preparation that went into this competition and it was over! It didn’t seem real!

We stood in a line with our heads held high and our shaking hands clasped tightly in one another’s. Our hearts were pounding and the butterflies in our stomachs were fluttering. It’s a hard thing to describe, but it was a terrible yet wonderful feeling.

Then he said my name and I almost fell on the floor. I couldn’t believe it. In fact, I still can’t believe it! It’s hard to wrap my head around and I still wake up in the mornings and think “Did this really happen?”

Throughout that night, the question everyone continuously asked me was “How do you feel?” and every time my answer was “I have no words.”

Because in that moment the way I felt was indescribable.

Always,

Haley Pontius

Miss Teen International 

My Crowning Moment

My first walk as Mrs. International 2013!

Words cannot explain what it felt like when I became the new Mrs. International 2013. I may never be able to find the right words to describe it and for so many reasons.

For years I have come to watch Mrs. International.  Whether it be with friends or to cheer on friends; it has been an annual tradition. I understand the high caliber of ladies who are a part of this system.  Then I was able to spend a week getting to know the ladies who are part of our 2013 class. During the Saturday rehearsals, we listened to each other speak about our platforms and what lead us to them.  What strong women who had triumphed insurmountable circumstances! It brought me to tears along with just about everyone else out of inspiration and admiration.

In the dressing room with some of the most amazing ladies from around the world!

There were so many great moments during our week.  I began writing to you about our week together and realized I would have to break it down in to smaller pieces or you would be reading it for the next…well, week.  Aside from seeing my family and friends in the audience, one of my MANY favorite moments was during finals night.  Those of us who had just been called from the top 15 to the top 10 had but a few minutes to change in to fitness.  This is a workout in itself! So, I came flying down the stairs into our dressing room for Group “C” and there waiting for me were several of my classmates.  I am tearing up right now just thinking about them.  I stood there as everyone buzzed about me, helping me get dressed.  I had two people putting in my earrings (at the same time), while another helped get my feet into shoes. Someone else guided my arms into the correct holes of the top. I can only imagine how it must have looked! Yet, it was perhaps one of the sweetest (yet hectic) moments I have witnessed in a long while. So generous and helpful and knowing our class, it was not a surprise.

The magnitude of becoming Mrs. International 2013 is hard to explain. What this year will allow me to do on behalf of CASA is simply mind-boggling.  And considering each one of my classmates and what they are doing in their communities makes me extremely proud and diligent in my job to represent us all this year.

And I thank the International Pageants system.  None of this would be possible without Mary and Mel Richardson and their loyal staff who work tirelessly throughout the year so we could have such a wonderful experience and a year of great potential.  And for me, I can never truly thank the very large circle of family, friends, and cheerleaders I have in my life. Their encouragement and advice has been instrumental.  The support I have received from CASA and like-minded organizations reminds me always of why I must do everything I can to make the most of every single opportunity this year.

ALL of that was all swirling about me as we all returned to the stage for the opening of the envelope. Once I heard them say, “The new Mrs. International is Mrs. Illinois…Amy Gregorio,” my brain briefly checked out and then returned once I saw my sweet husband walking toward me on-stage. It is an honor.  It is a privilege.  And it is phenomenal.

Be the change,

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International 2013

Thank You Class of 2012

 As we begin the oh so anticipated 2013 competition week, I can't help but think of all of the wonderful people that have played such an important role in my life throughout this year.

A chaperone told us that often times, the girl that feels the most lonely at the end of the week is the girl with the crown. However, in my case, this statement was far from true.

The Class of 2012 was full of vivacious, confident, beautiful, and truly genuine young ladies. The friends I made last year have been my biggest support system throughout the year. I distinctly remember being afraid that no one would want to talk to me at the Coronation Ball.

However, ALL of my precious friends were so excited for me! Their reaction spoke volumes about the type of ladies they are. It has been such an honor to represent the Class of 2012. I will forever treasure the friendships we made!

All my love,
"Alabama"

Writing Your Onstage Speech

I cannot believe that the 2013 Miss Teen International pageant is only three weeks away!! Time has really flown by for me, and I know that with all of the things you have had to do in preparation for competition, you are probably really beginning to feel the pressure!

As you know, during the competition you will receive a panel interview score and an onstage interview score, which is comprised of a 30 second speech and a platform-based question. I noticed that a lot of contestants focused more on being prepared for the question than their speech. However, your speech is very important!

As Miss Teen International 2012, I have used the information in my speech on many occasions because it provides a brief yet powerful overview of my platform. As a contestant, your speech is important to you because it determines your level of confidence and calmness going into your onstage question. If you nail your speech, you are sure to be able to deliver a confident and powerful answer onstage.

A great speech has two major components: content and delivery. You should include a brief summary of what your chosen platform is and why it is an important idea or organization. In other words, look at your platform page and choose the most important information. You are allotted a 30 second time period to deliver your speech. About 3 seconds before your time is up, you will hear the faint sound of wind chimes. The audience probably does not even hear this sound, but as a contestant, the wind chimes are an extremely stressful sound. Most girls tend to speed the last line (which was probably intended to be the most powerful) up. Make sure that you do not make your speech exactly 30 seconds, so you have adequate time to clearly deliver your speech.

This brings me to the second, and most important, component of the speech: your delivery. Because you have to memorize the speech, it is very difficult to sound passionate about what you are speaking about. My mom told me that I needed to speak in such a passionate way that every member of the audience would want to take part in the Miracle League and Shane's Inspiration because even if I did not win the crown, I had the perfect opportunity to teach hundreds of people about the organizations that are so close to my heart. In my opinion, it is more important to speak clearly and from your heart than to pack in tons of information! I hope this information is helpful as you write a speech of your very own!

I am looking forward to seeing you all very, very soon!

Caroline

A Note to International Contestants

It is hard to believe that it is once again time to start preparing for the 2013 International state preliminary pageants! For those of you that have already been crowned, CONGRATULATIONS! We are so honored to have you as part of our family.

If you are considering competing in the International system: I cannot praise this system highly enough! I had the most amazing experience both in Chicago and as a state queen. Although only one young lady will walk away with the crown next year, every single contestant will have grown stronger in their beliefs and as a person. I have made friends that I know will last me a lifetime! Competing in the International system is one of the best decisions I have ever made and was so well-worth it!

If you are preparing to compete in your local preliminary pageant: BREATHE! I know from experience how nervous and excited you must be! Remember that preparation is the key to success. God has a plan for your life, and no crown will ever justify the beauty He sees in you! Speak from your heart, always be yourself, and make LOTS of memories!

If you have already been crowned as a state, country, or regional title holder: Congratulations! You are in for the ride of a lifetime! I cannot stress enough the importance of sponsors. It is very easy to become overwhelmed with finances. I promise that once you tell people about your platform and all that you are doing to better the lives of others, they will jump at the opportunity to help you succeed.

Remember, WE ARE A FAMILY. I, along with my sister queens and the entire staff, are here to help you in any way that you can. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to message me on Facebook, Twitter (@caroline_c13), or e-mail me at missteeninternational2012@gmail.com. Oh, and by the way, WELCOME TO THE CLASS OF 2013.

All my love,

Caroline Crowley

Miss & Teen Finals

I am not certain how most people feel, but from my perspective, I would rather be on the stage competing versus sitting in the audience of a pageant absolutely any day! As the recently crowned Mrs. International it was my privilege to support all of the lovely young women vying for the titles of Miss Teen International 2012 and Miss International 2012!

Kudos to those parents and loved ones filled with excitement and nerves, who hoot and howler, wave signs, and blow kisses as they watch the young woman whom they support take such a risk. Yes, I believe it is a risk to place oneself in a spotlight and allow yourself to be judged in such a public manner. Yet, we do it, because the return on investment can be so sweet!

Speaking of a return on investment, I would argue that having the crown placed on your head is not the only way in which to win a pageant. In my humble opinion, I have learned more from the pageants I have lost than those that I have won. It has been said that, “failure is not falling down, but refusing to get back up.”

As I watched these young women on stage during the pageant finals, I was bursting with pride for each contestant and their display of courage. That said, it is impossible not to make a special mention about the two fabulous young ladies with whom I shared a stage the night we were all crowned together in St. Cloud, Minnesota! Gabby and Krista both did an amazing job on the International stage, and together I believe we all did Minnesota proud! Included is a picture of the three of us at the Coronation Ball.

Looking forward, I could not be more thrilled for Krista Wanous and Caroline Crowley! These young women are going to make a difference in the world and I can’t wait to see it happen!

With love and admiration,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

A BIG Reason for Celebration!

Upon my arrival back to my hometown, my friends and family gathered at The River Nile in Dothan for a congratulatory party in my honor. I was showered with love, gifts, and my personal favorite…amazing cakes!

I am so lucky to have such loving and supportive people in my life. They were beyond helpful and generous when helping me prepare for competition. I was so happy to be able to celebrate with all of the people I love most!

Silly poses with my sparkly gifts from Ms. Terri!

Check out my amazing cake made by Mrs. Debra West!

My best friend, Hayden

Caroline Crowley

Photos Fit for a Queen

Last week, the International queens had our first photo shoot with renowned photographer, Clay Spann! I am fortunate enough to live about five minutes from his studio, so I have had many photo shoots with Clay. However, he NEVER ceases to amaze me with his creativity and talent. Here is a look at some of my more recent shoots with Clay! My new photos will be debuted on the  Miss Teen International website, www.missteeninternational.us in a few days.

I think my favorite part of my photo shoot was afterwards, when I got all new Clay Spann make-up to wear to appearances. I hope school counts as an appearance!

With the Miss Teen International titles comes a fun surprise around every corner. I am so blessed!!

Love always,

Caroline Crowley

Winning the Title of Miss International 2012

Everyone keeps asking me, “How did it feel?” and honestly, it is a question that leaves me with few words. Winning the title of Miss International 2012 was indescribable. When we are young, we see these “beauty queens” on TV who compete in glamorous pageants. We imagine them living a luxurious life style full of excitement and sophistication. As a little girl, when I thought of a pageant queen, I never pictured myself in that role. I never thought I was beautiful.

When I found out about the Miss International pageant, which was on a complete whim, I knew I had found something special - a way for me to show my beauty. Beauty is not in the eye of the beholder; it is in your very own hands. You have the ability to show others how beautiful you are no matter what your physical beauty may be. That’s what the International Pageant system showed me. I am beautiful in my own special way. I may not have been the most physically attractive, but I did present my most humble, honest self, the true Krista. All week, my mantra was “be yourself”. I know pageant girls hear this all the time, “Just be yourself - be authentic,” but how can you be yourself, while also completely changing the way you walk, talk, sit, stand, and appeal to five different judges?  When we are true to our own heart, not putting on a perfect persona, our true beauty shines through.

The final night of competition, I said to God, as I have said many times before, “I give it to you. I trust in you Lord and I know that you have a plan for me. Whatever it is, I accept it. If it is to make top ten, top five, win, or not place at all, I will be grateful, for you have already granted me more than I ever thought I could have.” Surprisingly, I was calm during competition and on stage. I knew the decision was already made. Someone’s destiny was already written on the card inside the envelope. Even though I was most nervous about the on-stage question, I didn’t fret and worry about it backstage rehearsing over and over my possible Rolodex of answers. Instead, I simply prayed for inner peace and a calm mind. Honestly, if I didn’t know it by now, I wasn’t going to get it 30 seconds before I went on stage. I just gave it to God and trusted that he would give me the words I needed.

I was honored to have made top ten. I was blessed to be surrounded by ten incredible accomplished, beautiful women, any of which would have done great things with the title. It was even more fun when I got to stand right next to Miss Congeniality, Miss Haiti, who is always positive, enthusiastic and encouraging. Her excitement was contagious that night!

When we lined up to be called for top five, I looked out into the audience and saw a few faces. My favorite faces; my best friend, Melanie Hoang and her boyfriend Eric Bell who have been supporting throughout my entire journey, as well as, my parents Tom and Patti, my boyfriend Donovan and his whole family, my lovely coach “Glenda” and so many friends / MN pageant sisters all of whom have been a never ending source of guidance, confidence, and love. I am so grateful that you were all there! When my name was called as this year’s representative for Miss International, I have never felt so much joy, accomplishment, relief and excitement!! I was shocked. It felt like I was dreaming, because let me tell you, I had dreamt and visualized about this moment many times!

I am pleased to say that I remained true to myself, and the judges saw my inner beauty, my passion for helping children through the arts and my dedication to my platform. I am honored to represent all the Miss International titleholders across the world. I don’t know why God chose me, but I am sure He has great plans in store for me. Stay tuned!

“As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand”
Isaiah 14:24

All my Love,

Krista Wanous
Miss International 2012

My Crowning

There are moments in our lives that not only stay with us forever, but they are so intense they transport us back to the experience in the blink of an eye. A first kiss, being pronounced husband and wife, and when your name is the last name called as a new titleholder, these are just a few of those precious moments.

My journey, to what is in my opinion the most beautiful and coveted crown, spans three decades and began when I was a teenage girl who took a chance and filled out the application for the Miss Teen of Minnesota pageant. There have been highs and lows, wins and losses, trials and triumphs, and most importantly love and friendships forged. I am not afraid to say that at 46 preparation took significantly more dedication and hard work than it did when I was younger. For those who question asking for help, I can only say that I am blessed and humbled to have a village of supporters who shared their encouragement and talent to help me become my best, for which I am filled with gratitude. My only regret is that I could not share the crowning moment with each of them by my side, but I hope they know they were each in my heart.

From the opening number, I have never felt so comfortable on a stage, as I knew I had done everything up until this point to the best of my ability. This year there would be a top 16 named and I was ready. My goal was to make the “cut,” however, I had so much respect for the other ladies participating I was willing to accept the decision of the judges. As the 13th name was called, I started preparing myself to exit stage left and to imagine myself in the balcony watching the top 16 compete for the on-stage interview with the satisfaction that I left no stone unturned. By now the 14th and 15th names had been called and I was in a good place. When they announced the 16th and final name, I heard Minnesota and threw my hands over my face with shock and appreciation.

As I presented my platform to the audience, I can only describe the feeling as both electric and intimate. It was my opportunity to share my story of survival in a spotlight center stage, and yet I felt like I was sharing a story one-on-one with a close friend. The interview question that followed was an opening that allowed me to further express my passion for connecting people and hopefully touching lives around the world.

When the curtains opened after intermission, the top 10 names were called. I was at peace and proud of myself for putting it all out there. Again, as the names were called I stood watching one exceptional woman after another take her position. When they finally got to finalist number 10 and I heard Minnesota again I felt complete elation!

As I led the ladies off stage right for the second time, we ran into the dressing rooms, where the Mrs. International Class of 2012 exemplified the best of sportsmanship and showed extreme grace by assisting in any way possible inclusive of hugs and kisses as we prepared for Fitness Wear and then Evening Gown. One of my favorite parts in the competition was sharing time on stage with Joe in his tux, while I was dressed in a custom designed gown by the gifted Gionni Straccia.

As Joe escorted me back stage, I realized this was it. I had just shared 30 years of pageant experience, a life time of adventures, and a story of burn survival…scars and all…willing to be judged.

The lovely women who individually and collectively represent the beauty of pageantry entered the stage wearing their stunning gowns with the top 10 lined up in the front waiting for the countdown. At this point, I can only rely on the wise words my husband shared with me two and a half years earlier when I told him I was considering competing in a pageant. He said, “If they are going to judge you on your scars, don’t do it. If they are going to see you the way I do, then go for it!”

I went for it. And, for the third time in two hours, my name was called last…as the new Mrs. International 2012!

With respect and love,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Crowning Moment

Your new Miss Teen International is…….I can’t even describe how long this pause felt…Caroline Crowley, Miss Teen Alabama International!!! The moment I heard my name, I was immediately in a state of shock. Although I spent countless hours preparing for the competition, I never imagined I would be so honored to win the title of Miss Teen International. After all, I did compete against 38 of the worlds’ most talented and beautiful teens! During our week in Chicago, I spent a majority of my time with my new sisters. Instead of treating each other as competition, we really formed a team! From helping one another zip our dresses to giving one another “pep talks”, I have never been in a more friendly competition! After I won, the most rewarding thing was that every contestant hugged me and seemed genuinely excited for me.

My first photo as Miss Teen International 2012.

As I reminisce on my week in Chicago, I know there are two things I will never forget…feeling the crown on my head for the very first time and the lasting friendships I made, which I will cherish forever!

The sisterhood—Miss Teen International Class of 2012

Caroline Crowley