An update and a reflect on the the past year.

Last Saturday, I volunteered at Kids Against Hunger in Nisswa with the Miss Brainerd Lakes' Outstanding Teen and Miss Central Lakes' Outstanding Teen contestants. This is a not-for-profit, meal packaging place that sends bags of food to people all over the world who are struggling with hunger. It is composed of white rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables, and fortified nutrients. Each bag of food holds six meals. The food that we packaged that day will be sent to Haiti... We packaged over 5,400 meals!! It feels awesome to know that we helped that many people fill their stomachs and get the nutrients they need for the day.

That same day, I traveled in Lakeville for a private send-off for Miss Minnesota, Siri Freeh. It was a fun event, but it was even more fun seeing people I haven't seen in a while. There were many great laughs that night :) Siri leaves in two days for Vegas. Wish her luck as she starts the grueling week of Miss America!

Since this is the last day of 2012, I thought I'd reflect back on how awesome this year was. I think that it's fair to say that this year has been the greatest year of my life. Three major goals of mine were accomplish as well as many other goals.

In 2012, I was crowned Miss Brainerd Lakes' Outstanding Teen, fulfilling a dream of mine to represent a city a grew up in and grew to love. I have just five days until the next Miss Brainerd Lakes' Outstanding Teen is crowned and it is bittersweet. Time really does fly.

Also in 2012, I was crowned Miss Minnesota's Outstanding Teen. There are absolutely no words to describe how incredible it was to finally have that crown placed on my head. Sometimes I just sit and think about that moment. Everyone should know that if you work your butt off and if you believe you can accomplish anything, then good things will come your way. I thank the Lord everyday that I was given this honor.

In 2012, I competed on the Miss America's Outstanding Teen stage along with 52 other girls. For years, I followed the Minnesota Outstanding Teen that year and her journey to Nationals and yearned for my time on that stage. It was finally awarded to me and I suddenly found myself in the shoes of the Outstanding Teen's before me. It was an awesome thing.

In 2012, I gained friends and I lost friends. I found myself and struggled to get a grip on why people are so mean and vicious. I realized many things, one is that life will work itself out.

My goal for 2013 is to stay true to myself and not try to change and conform to the world around me. I'm going to let go of people who are no longer worth my time and energy. I'm going to cherish every little moment I have a bit more because I'm grateful that I'm here. I am so blessed.

Much love and hopes of a happy new year to all of you,
Bailey
MMOT 2012