Its finally setting in....

It has been such a great last few weeks and it's finally set in that I am going to compete at Miss USA in April! I am so lucky and I am so grateful every day that I have been given this opportunity.

Last week, I took another trip down to Las Vegas. I drove the 8 hour drive and I am always amazed, my state truly is beautiful. When people think of Nevada, they automatically think of Las Vegas and the desert. As I take that drive, its so much more... with so much history and character. The mountains and the view on the highway can truly take your breath away.

I had the chance to see Miss California USA 2010 be crowned. It was an experience to see another states pageant and how they do things.... There were over 130 girls competing for the Miss title. In the end, Nicole Johnson walked away with the crown. She is beautiful and so sweet! Congrats Nicole!! I also got to meet Crystle Stewert.. She is stunning!

With the holiday season just around the corner I've also been able to do a few appearances. I was able to be a part of something very special. I helped pack some care packages for Nevada troops that will be gone during this special time of year. The first lady, Dawn Gibbons and I went to GE in Minden to add a special touch to the troops packages and to be included in a video message that will be sent over.

This year they over doubled their package needs to over 700. Up from about 300 over the last few years. GE employees themselves are resposible for getting donations of food items, toiletries, reading materials and DVDs. A big thank you to them for all of their efforts and for giving back to those that give everything for us..... <3

I attended the Golden Nuggets Rush Tower grand opening on the 23rd... What a great event that was!! A beautiful tower with amazing restaurants and so much fun! I chatted with the mayor and shared the stage with some beautiful showgirls as he and the owner cut the ribbon, marking the official opening of the tower. I enjoyed meeting everyone there and seeing some familiar faces as well...

On Thanksgiving day, I went to Carson City and volunteered my time with the Carson City Nugget. They do a nice Thanksgiving dinner for the community every year. I served gravy and talked to people, got them water or tea (or extra gravy if thats what they wanted:) So many were so thankful to just have a place to go and feel like they mattered. Some came alone and some came with their family... It was so nice to see that even in hard times, people reach out to one another...... A big thank you to the Carson City Nugget for all they do. I am hoping to return to serve on Christmas day as well....

I spent my Thanksgiving and the weekend with the ones that matter most in my life. I have truly been blessed and I couldnt write a blog long enough that could hold the list of all that I am grateful for. Thank you for all in my life that support me and my endeavors and for those that are just there to listen and lend an ear..... <3
~J