Pageant week and the crowning of Miss California's OT!

I am writing this a couple of weeks late but better let than never right? I have to say, it is absolutely true when they tell the honeymoon is over the moment you are crowned. These past few weeks have been such a whirlwind. But more on that later.

During pageant week, I got an average of four hours of sleep per night. It's a miracle my raccoon eyes didn't show up on stage ;] Not to mention, I woke up every single morning to go workout in the gym. I am a fitness freak and one day without breaking a sweat will drive me insane. I also fear getting out of shape and being unable to do my talent. The extra work, and ballet class in my hotel room paid off though. Overall,I had an amazing experience with all the girls throughout rehearsals, BBQ's and pool parties. The memories I made backstage with the girls by my station will stay with me for a lifetime. I felt like I practically lived in the theater, my blanket and booties (warmup slippers) were definitely my best friends that week. Luckily, my loving parents were there for me after every long day and gave me constant support.

Tuesday Night Preliminary- TALENT

At Miss California my talent was Kitri Act One from the ballet Don Quixote. As my introduction goes, "She's spicy, she's spanish. She's flirtatious and playful, but when she's hot she can flutter a fan with the best of them. No this is not the dish on Penelope Cruz. It's all about Kitri, the muse of the impossible dreamer and title character of the ballet Don Quixote." Performing this piece onstage was absolutely one of the most amazing experiences I've had in a while. Kitri is such a fun character to portray and spicy spanish side of her is the cherry on top. My performance went well and I was very happy with it. Although there was an unfortunate event that night.. my mom tripped and fell head first. She bruised her entire leg and her entire eye black and blue. However she did say, "Honey, I fell down. I took away all the slipping and tripping that may possibly occur to you this week." I am still upset that I wasn't able to get photos with my mom and so sad that she had to be in so much pain. But I guess it worked out didn't it?


Wednesday Preliminary - PHYSICAL FITNESS

You wouldn't believe how hard I had to work on my pushup. One month before the pageant I couldn't even do a single pushup. Now, I can do fifteen 90 degree pushups! Definitely something I'm very proud of. In a whole it was an easy going night and I really needed it! A highlight of the evening was definitely the gasps of the crowd when I did my kick. 






Thursday Preliminary - EVENING GOWN/ONSTAGE QUESTION

Final night, final push. This was the most exciting preliminary for me because I did win preliminary evening gown and onstage question :D! More importantly, I was completely in love with my red dress. I though it was incredibly flattering and flowed flawlessly. Walking down the stairs, I really felt like it was my moment and all eyes were on me. Those 30 seconds were so precious because I truly experienced the feeling of being an elegant young woman. Now for onstage question... not my favorite question but I think handled it alright. 

"What do you think of the rising rates of teen suicide?"


"I think it is an unfortunate problem teens are facing today. I think the most important thing is for teens to find someone they can connect too and have mutual understanding. With that, I believe they will be able to think things through."

I remember rushing off of stage after my answer and screaming (softly) and hugging my miss (the amazing Miss Golden Gate, Sara Choi). I told her, "I am done and I am so happy with my performance!" I did receive the preliminary evening gown award and that made my night. 


Boy oh boy.. That night I had so much to do I ended up sleeping at 4 a.m. The worst part is my mom woke me up at 6:45 the next day because I thought we had an early rehearsal. :[ Going downstairs into an empty atrium was not fun. I was pretty angry with my mom for ruining 2 hrs of sleep but before I knew it, I got over it. I remember Cassie (our choreographer and production manager) placing us into new spots for the top ten. At this point, we all had no idea who was in the top ten but she knew. I have to admit, it was a very awkward and strange rehearsal.

Time flies...whether it's a matter of hours or days. Before I knew it our 7 p.m. curtain had arrived. Open production number, then the announcement of top ten teens!! ahhhhhhh! At that very moment, I could feel the adrenaline and anxiety spreading throughout my body. But I prayed and told myself: I already gave it the best I could and it is out of my hands now. Whatever happens, there is a reason. Number 6 to be called.. hmm. Not bad. Off the stage I ran to prepare for talent. I'll do a fast forward. Talent ---> Physical Fitness ---> Evening Gown ---> Onstage Question. I have no idea what possessed me to sing on stage.

Having the time of my life onstage!

"If you could start one single music video in history, which one would it be?"

"All the single ladies, all the single ladies... Sorry I can't really sing but I absolutely love Beyonce."

That was my answer, I even did a little hand dance like the music video. A totally unexpected response, but in the moment I was myself and I was able to show the audience a fun side to me :]

Once again I ran off stage, this time I was really done and so relieved. I was very proud of my performance. I gave my best on stage and the results are now out of my hands.

I couldn't believe it when I was crowned, in the moment I was so emotional that I started crying. It was a very personal moment for me because I felt like all the hard work and obstacles I've been through finally paid off.

It is true what they say, the moment you are crowned your honeymoon is over. I am honored and privileged to be your new Miss California's Outstanding Teen and cannot wait to begin my year of service.