Maryland Fashion Week

In addition to networking with top local designers, mingling with the models and taking advantage of the pre-show hordourves, I spent some quality time with my beautiful Jr Teen Tiara (and mom, hey Angie!) as we took part in some of this week's Maryland Fashion Week showcases!

The most hilarious part of tonight, our second event of the week, was between designers when the host announced that there were two celebrities from the audience. I pick my head up from reading the program booklet and looked at Tiara with excitement about who was watching the show! WE WERE! Haha. Insert lights and cameras on us here. Another couple of designers later we were lured onto the stage to show 'em why we won the crowns, aka rip the runway.

Photos below are of us walking the red carpet, backstage with featured designer, Afua Sam for Studio D Maxsi and musical guest Carmen.

Girl Scouts of Central Maryland P.A.V.E. Camp, continued

For me, today was about personal growth. A few highlights and things I learned from the campers, counselors and myself...

• As a follow up to my presentations yesterday, I was approached by a few girls who attended the nutrition workshops who said, "you've inspired me to eat healthier." It felt great to know that my message was not only valid but was delivered in a manner that reached them. That alone could have been the end of my day but there was much more to go!
  
• I realized that I cannot out-hoola-hoop a pre teen or teen, and I'm ok with that!
  
• On a similar note, no one believes I am in fact 26 years old. Remember to keep identification handy for proof purposes.


• So many of the older campers said they looked forward to turning 14 when they could become counselors and give back to the program they benefited from. Volunteering truly is one of those gifts that continues to inspire!


• I was asked by several of the campers whether or not I would attend next year's camp. When I responded by saying I would come just as "Miss Nicole" and not "Miss Maryland," they were just as thrilled. Although the title is what essentially got me in the door with the Girl Scouts this first time around, a genuine enthusiasm and desire to open yourself up to new challenges is a much bigger prerequisite to being a part of their world.


• There is great confidence and courage to be gained from overcoming fears-- I climbed to the top of a rockwall today. I know Jacob recorded it on his i-phone...I am anxiously Google-ing myself and waiting for a youtube video to come up in the search results!

Photos below are of me with the Howard County Fire Department, at the top of the rock wall and two of my fave counselors (aka Bright Nite).

Girl Scouts of Central Maryland P.A.V.E. Camp

I have a renewed respect for teachers, administrators, or anyone else involved in youth education. Shaping the minds of today's youth is not only one of the most significant roles in society, it's one of the most challenging. After a day at the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland's P.A.V.E. Camp at Camp Ilchester in Ellicott City, I am absolutely exhausted! And never mind the fact I spent the day in wedge-heeled sandals (poor planning on my part), I was entrusted with over 100 children throughout the day, all under the age of 11 for 2 Health/Nutrition workshops!

In typical business-school fashion, I broke the children's groups into three teams. Among their objectives were to come up with a creative, health and nutrition inspired team name. I loved "Ants on a Log," and "The Carrot Clan!" From there, they shared their favorite activites, sports and hobbies which transitioned into a discussion about fueling their bodies for everything they were involved in. Insert a brief discussion about the Food Pyramid here and then let the games begin!

I'm a huge Rachel Ray fan and one of her recurring hosts is the editor of Men's Health who also happens to be the author of a series of books entitled, "Eat this, Not that." So my activity was loosely inspired by his revealing tips and surprising choices when dining out.

Lessons learned included: be aware of portion sizes (Breakfast at Panera for instance: a chocolate chip 'muffie' won out over a reduced fat blueberry muffin because of size and sugar content), and when given the choice, go grilled over fried (Battle mini sliders v. crispy chicken salad at a fast food giant was a hard sell as they were convinced salads are always the healthier option), etc, etc. Not only were they able to think through these hard decisions, they took little issue with sharing their ideas with the rest of the group. You couldn't draaaaag me in front of the class at "show and tell" when I was growing up-- my parents will attest to this. In fact, I believe I went home crying mid day circa 1989.

In any event, I was happy to join several other groups of volunteers including the Young Rembrandts, Howard County Police Department as well as a fun bunch from an old client of mine, T. Rowe Price. Seeing them on site reminded me on the annual service days we had at KPMG except everyone went to the same event and it typically involved rebuilding homes in downtown Baltimore. Not that I didn't enjoy wearing a face mask or tool belt all day, but well... I'm self admittedly the worse DIY-er this side of the city!

And one of the highlights of my day came at the end of camp when I took part in a Q&A with tens of teens.

Teen: Do you ride around the state in a limo?
Miss Maryland US: If you're referring to the black vehicle outside, it's a
Civic! But seriously, no limo. Although! My dad has volunteered to drive me to a
few events!

Teen: How important is school in being Miss Maryland?
Miss Maryland US: School is very important, in fact I always remind myself
I am a student first, Miss Maryland second. I think getting
an advanced degree set me apart from the other contestants!

Teen: Are you a supermodel?
Miss Maryland US: No, but my friend Courtney is!

Looking forward to Day Two, tomorrow-- stay tuned! Photos below are of me and the officers from the HCPD, Nicole from the Young Rembrandts, the T. Rowe'ers, and the executive team at GSCM!

I Got Heart

Please join me and friend Tip Fallon, Director, for a fundraiser to support his non-profit.

Date: Monday, August 3, 2009
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Olazzo in Downtown Silver Spring
Street: 8235 George Ave
City/Town: Silver Spring, MD

I Got Heart aims to empower teens who have overcome considerable life challenges. For more information about the event and the organization, please visit their website: http://www.igotheartonline.org/

Hope to see you there!

Meeting with GSCM

Growing up, I never even considered being a girl scout. My sister and brother went off to camp every summer, and I foregoed kayaking and getting my boating license for learning about the stock market and other related topics from my dad. True story-- my dad traded often I remember. Since he worked the night shift at Hopkins, he 'hired' me to take notes about how his stocks were faring throughout the day. And so began my interest in business.

I digress.

Back to the girl scouts, because it's not just about tagalongs and thin mints any more. These are young girls actively involved in their community, gaining confidence and taking part in activities that are sure to create lifelong friendship and memories-- sounds similar to pageantry don't you think? I didn't doubt then, that the they would warmly receive the message I had to share about my platform, No Body's Perfect. This week, I met with the Directors of the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland at their headquarters in Baltimore to plan the presentations I would be making at PAVE Camp.

PAVE (Project Anti Violence Education) is a peer led camp that brings to light some of the most challenging issues that young people face today-- this years topics include healthy eating (by yours truly), gangs and substance abuse. A "Don't be mean, Go Green," theme is surely in line with the nation's increasing focus on the Earth and our impact on it. Even one of the final questions at Miss United States was geared toward that contestants role, if any, in being more environmentally responsible.

These two presentations and a final appearance at their carnival is just the beginning of an exciting relationship! For more information visit their community outreach site: http://www.gscm.org/communityoutreach.html

Miss United States 2009 Pageant RECAP

I can't possibly do my time in Vegas justice, which might be why it's taken me a week to get this post up. What I should have done was taken notes along the way, write little reflections-- would have been a great way to fill the hours I woke up in the middle of the night and couldn't get to sleep. I'd say it took me the entire week to adjust to the 3 hour time difference.

DAY ONE: I shouldn't actually count the day of travel but it was so terrible I couldn't not share the details. Surprise! Tiara (Miss Jr Teen Maryland US) and Mrs. Smith were on my flight. They did the smart thing and checked in everything. By the time I had boarded the flight, my arm was so weakened by the weight of the gowns I had carried on I figured I'd pass out on the plane. On any other day that may have been true, but today just happened to be the most turbulent ride I'd ever taken. Within 30 minutes I had my handy white paper baggy in hand and made a b-line to the lavatory. Too much information, I know.

DAY TWO: "Be You," was exactly what I needed to hear when I arrived. It was a message that was relayed by all the 2008 queens at orientation. After months of preparation, what more could I do but be myself, try my best.

DAYS THREE to FIVE: And for the rest of the year, Ricky Martin's Cup of Life will never sound the same. Hours upon hours of dance and stage practice can pretty much ruin a song, any song. Ole ole ole!

Other than Ball Gowns and Bowling Shoes, the Fashion show and impromptu runs to the mall with Joy, the rest of the week was much of the same: gym, coffee, rehearsals, lunch, more rehearsals, and sleep. Repeat. Special thanks to my NPD classmate Alissa and her company KMS California for their glorious hair refresher spray that kept my locks in order during the hustle and bustle of the week!

DAY SIX: After morning interviews and Semis I felt great and so did the entire Maryland delegation!

DAY SEVEN: Em, Tiara and Radiah (yes, I owe you $300 haha)-- I do not know what I would have done without you. There's a bit of sacredness when it comes to the sisterhood we've grown to have and I am so proud of each of you. Thank you for raising me up when my spirits were low.

I was bummed. On the other hand, there was comfort in the idea that win or lose, I pursued a dream I thought might never have happened in the first place-- I would still be Miss Maryland United States and well, that's a huge honor in and of itself. Congrats to AZ, GA, KY, NC, SC and WV for making Top 6!

Celebratory sushi dinner at Koji-- a perfect way to wrap up a rollercoaster of a week!

To the USO class of 2009, thank you for giving me more things to aspire to-- we have all been blessed with a unique opportunity to serve our states, keep in touch. XOXO

Miss United States 2009 Pageant in Pictures

Where do I begin?! For now I'll post my favorite pictures and recap the week after I get a good night's sleep!

Photos from Baysox v. Reading by Bo Zhang

Miss Maryland + Bo Zhang productions, take two. I just love his work! ENJOY.

Photos are of me at the stadium before game time, signing autographs with "Louie" in the background, my killer fast ball, me for the Maryland Lottery and chatting with my new bff Alyssa!

Baltimore Farmer's Market

It's the little things that make summers in Baltimore well, summers in Baltimore-- cool, eclectic and just downright entertaining. Lone guitarists making money for their cross country trips, Migue's famed mini donuts (plus cinnamon, and powdered sugar, oh and don't forget the chocolate sauce) for breakfast and a partner in culinary crime (Hey Stephanie!) to help me navigate through one of my now favorite ways to spend a Sunday-- the Farmer's Market.

Ran into Children's Guild teacher Brian who recognized me sans sash and crown. He biked all the way downtown from Perry Hall-- that's 30 miles back and forth! Wow.

So anyway, I saw Giada DiLaurentiis make goat cheese stuffed squash blossoms a couple weeks ago on the FoodNetwork. She's basically my food idol, well her and Rachel Ray. Edible flowers aren't standard fare at my local Giant so I knew this would be a perfect place to track them down. A half an hour I had my small carton of green squash blossoms in one hand (hello Monday dinner) and a piping hot vegatarin samosa in the other.

Heaven oh heaven.

Til next Sunday!

Bowie Baysox vs. Reading Phillies

If last week's model call for Maryland Fashion Week wasn't 2 miles away from Prince George's Stadium I might never have known where Baysox stadium was! The largest AA stadium in the U.S. seemed intimate enough to chat with your row mates or even approach the home team in their dug out. (Thanks for the autographs guys!).

Thanks to Lauren and her staff for entrusting me with the first pitch of the night. SUCCESS-- not quite ready for the big leagues but I definitely made it over the plate. I think it was just the goodluck they needed to score a 0-2 win over the Phillies that night!

I also participated in the in-field recognition of a group of middle schoolers who vowed to say no to drugs as part of the stadiums "Keep a Clear Mind" campaign and hung out with an energetic little league team "the Nationals" from Pasadena. All in all a great time in Bowie!

Photos from Bo Zhang to come.

Children's Guild Annual Report

When you think Annual Report you think numbers, auditors, blah blah blah. But not at the Children's Guild! This year's theme-- the circus. Less the grand buffet style dinner you'd think you'd stepped into an Off Broadway theatre house or Barnum and Bailey stage... complete with tight rope walkers, a bearded lady, a man on stilts, you just had to be there! The auditorium had been completely transformed.

The self-proclaimed "Greatest Show on Earth," was just that-- fun-filled, inspiring and a chance to spot light the successes of today's youth as well as those who are courageously shaping their minds. I first met Dr. Ross, President, Director and Monday night's Master of Ceremonies when I attended the premier of my first Public Service Announcement the evening after I won my title. Little did we know that it would be the start of a great friendship and year long collaboration.

It is no wonder the students who enter the doors of the Guild are changed by the education and attention they receive-- I know I was just having spent a few hours there. I broke into a tiny tear fest when one of the students Chardonnay Cary sang her version of "At Last," accompanied by one of the Guild's music teachers, former accompaniest to the famed Billie Holiday. Chardonnay will be back to attending regular public school for her senior year next year. Congratulations! For more information on the Guild, please visit their website-- http://www.childrensguild.org/. And please let me know if you are interested in attending another benefit in September to support them.

Thank you to both Susannah Dowell and Tya Anthony who took photographs of the event-- their photos to come.

As for my own snaps-- here are a few... one of the first song numbers, Dr. Ross and Chardonnay.

Friends of Villa Maria Golf Classic

The first event of a double appearance day this past Monday was attending the Friends of Villa Maria Golf Classic at the Towson Golf and Country Club. At this rate, I should really make an effort to learn to play golf this year!

One of the first questions I heard from one of the teams of sponsors was "What is Miss Maryland doing here!" And not that they weren't excited, but it's easy to miss the connection if you don't know me personally. As someone who attended Catholic school from K-12 and is currently attending a Jesuit university for my MBA, service has consistently been a foundation of my education. Not only that, I remember volunteering at Stella Maris and Villa Maria as a high school student at Mercy. So there I was-- happy to again be partnering with the Catholic Charities of Maryland for this event and for other opportunities throughout the year.

Villa Maria focuses on providing health and education services to children and families with special needs. It being the 24th annual event is really testament to the faith and continued committment of the organization to serve this segment of our community. For more information, please visit their website-- http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/children/villa-maria-continuum.html

For what was expected to be a fairly rainy day, the weather held off and we were blessed with a sunny afternoon!

The photos below are of me and a great team of volunteers and me in the middle of the caravan of golf carts!

NFRC 5K for Families

One of my faaavorite 'pageant' questions is what are three words that best describe you-- for me, resilient comes to mind. And I think it's only fitting that one of the first organizations I contacted to help was the National Family Resiliency Center. What they have done in terms of education and family wellness is extraordinary. And to help support their work, I was joined by over 100 partipants in their annual 5K for Families and 1mile fun walk early Saturday morning.

Introduced as a 'celebrity' by Executive Director, Risa was a bit of an overstatement but I'll take it! I shared a few words about my own journey-- I have just been so priveledged to speak on behalf of great causes within the community in the past month of my reign.

Photos of the beautiful morning in Ellicott City at the Meadowbrook Park are by a great sponsor and photographer, April Sims. Please visit the event page at: http://www.pictage.com/671530

McDonald's LPGA Championship

Nevermind the mid-day rain, it was a great day for golf! Watching from the love seat in my living room is absolutely nothing in comparison to watching the sport live. From young golfers and their parents (STAY IN SCHOOL!) to veteran fans of the LPGA, thank you to the great crowd who showed me the ropes at my first professional golf tournament. And greetings to Sally, Jackie, Jim for making it all happen and welcoming me to the city of Havre de Grace. Congratulations to Anna Nordqvist who won this week's tournament!

And I think Bo and I are officially even in terms of bad weather photo shoots-- thanks for making the trip to lovely Bulle Rock!

Not to mention, I think I am on a streak of celebrity sightings at my appearances; the highlight of my afternoon-- meeting the number one ranked women's golfer in the world, Lorena Ochoa. And I definitely tip toed my way onto the set of the Golf Channel's set. :)

Photos below are of me on set with the Golf Channel crew and Lorena. For more photos of the event, please visit Bo's great site: http://www.printroom.com/ViewGallery.asp?userid=boandbro&gallery_id=1598922

Caring Communities, Continued...

I was so happy to witness the planning process for one of the most memorable occassions in a couples' life! I don't remember ever being at the Pier 5 hotel but I imagine it to be a great venue for a wedding-- intimate, modern and steps away from the Baltimore waterfront.

And aside from catching up with soon-to-be brides and friends Kayra and Candace (so great to see both of you!) the best part of the experience at today's Brides and Grooms Expo was that the proceeds benefit Caring Communities. Directors of the organization, Mona and Jay Freedman exuded both an entrepreneurial and warm spirit that made for a lovely event. Thank you to the Milestone Media staff for all of their efforts.

Photos below are of me and the MM staff, Mona as well as my sweet souvenier, a chocolate pop with my edible photo courtesy of yourfaceonchocolates.com

Caring Communities

I will be attending the Charm City Brides and Grooms Expo tomorrow at the Pier 5 Hotel in Baltimore to support Caring Communities. This non-profit provides support, education and other resources to enhance the quality of life of families who have children with disabilities.

For more information about the organization and how you can help, please visit their homepage-- http://caringcommunities.org/

Thank you to Jay and his staff and Brides and Grooms for the great press release and statement on the event homepage-- http://bridesandgroomsexpo.com/

Happy Helpers Carnival at Sarah's House

As a volunteer organization, Happy Helpers for the Homeless has served Maryland communities since 1993 organizing special events and distributing meals and educational resources to homeless women and children. I haven't been to a children's birthday in a while but I imagine it resembles today's back yard carnival at Sarah's House, a homeless shelter in Fort Meade. Note to self: children like treats. America's Miss Maryland, Caroline Kuhlman brought a crown case full of blow pops. She was an instant sensation, until Miss Bobby dished individual ice cream cups that is!

Although I was initially designated to hand out favors, I got roped into a t-shirt making session, welcomed a guest appearance by Sponge Bob Square Pants himself, was the subject for some serious face art (or in my case body art-- please note my sweet half sleeve flower in the photos below) and stained glass painting. One of the girls, Rebecca sent me home with my own souvenier-- a rainbow colored dolphin for my window, adorable.

A high energy and fulfilling time-- and for anyone available to volunteer this Sunday, join Happy Helpers at the Special Olympics!

Photos below are of adorable Paige who couldn't attend the carnival, Caroline and Rebecca, the kids and Sponge Bob and Caroline and me.

Funkshon Designer Showcase

One of my favorite restaurants and lounges, Red Maple in Mount Vernon served as a vibrant backdrop to Funkshon. The narrow space and up against the wall seating formed a natural stage for a runway show. The fashion soiree and designer showcase featured pieces from the semi-finalists to the Sew Me What You Got competition sponsored by Ikea and Fashion Icons. And lucky me scored a front row seat.

The unique designs resembled nothing like the immediately recognizable home furnishings sold by the Scandinavian furniture and accessories giant. I was partial to the styles that were more feminine-- hot pink piping brought a light grey and white floral print to life while a black and white asymmetrical dress was softened by a wave of petals that formed its skirt. Designers, whoever you are, call me!

Big fan of Magnami Style & Co that also introduced a new collection-- a prelude to the fall season, Paco paired copper tones with shades of turquoise. A man after my own heart, his high-waisted, plumeting necklines and loose skirts are easy yet sophisticated.

Photos below are of me and Managing Editor of Iconography Magazine Ty, MUA extraordinaire Bethany, my fave pieces and 92Q's Konan.

Lia Sophia Party

Join me for a light dinner, drinks and designer jewelry!

An official sponsor, Lia Sophia, will be hosting a jewelry party in my honor at which they will be presenting me with a generous gift and introducing their new line-- please let me know if you are interested in attending the event.

The link below is for the Spring/Summer 2009 collection:
http://www.liasophia.com/sites/carmel/page-catalog?CatID=28&TotalPages=69&PageNum=1

Date and venue to be determined based on RSVP. Thank you for your support!

Children's Mental Health Awareness Week, Continued

While I wasn't technically making an 'appearance' and was attending the last night's event at the Children's Guild to support the premiere of the public service announcement I was in, I couldn't help but be inspired by the work these organizations have done to promote awareness of children's mental health--something that impacts 20% of our youth. Thank you to Dr. Ross, President and CEO of the Guild and Chris DeVore of the Maryland Coalition (aka my biggest Miss Maryland U.S. supporter!)-- I look forward to collaborating with you both throughout the year.

And Mrs. Phelps! My knowledge of who she was was limited to what I saw on NBC during the Beijing games-- proud mother of an Olympic superstar. To see her in another light, as an educator (she is a principal at a Maryland school) and advocate is testament to the many hats all mothers wear. It is in fact the hardest job out there. I'm sure Michael is getting her an awesome Mother's Day present! [PLUG: You can also meet Mrs. Phelps on Saturday at her book signing at Barnes&Noble in Ellicott City. The address is 4300 Montgomery Road and runs from 2-3:30 that afternoon.] Mrs. O'Malley is scheduled to appear at a separate event but she sent me a citation from the Governor in her place-- going up in my office!

Photos below are of me and Mrs. Phelps, the directors at Producers Video, one of my adorable co-stars Kyle, and Chris...