A Night at the Oscars

Hamline Homecoming game 2011
with HU quarterback, Adam Meyer and Homecoming Chair, Katie Hoemberg

Being a Hamline University Alum, I have been asked to emcee many events that my former roommate, and member of the HU Programming Board, Katie has helped put on. Katie is the Homecoming Chair of the HU Programming board, and also a very close friend of mine. Early on in my year, Katie asked me to emcee the Homecoming Piper Pride Rally along with the half-time antics of the Homecoming game, but just recently I was asked to emcee an event that was rare to Hamline; they were putting on 'A Night at the Oscars.' This was a black tie event, with a catered dinner and a photo wall for the paparazzi. The night consisted of the viewing of the Oscars on a big screen and my job as emcee was to keep the audience entertained on the commercial breaks. I was to do this by asking trivia questions, which would be answered at the conclusion of the night. Each table was its own group and the winner from each table received a mock Oscar along with a gift bag.
Now for those of you that know me, I'm not into watching the award shows such as the Oscars or Grammy's, but this night wasn't just about the show, it was about the friends that were there. Being a recent alum, I still have many friends that attend Hamline and I don't always get a chance to see them. I always enjoy helping Katie out and having a reason to spend time back on campus. It was great that I got to spend my evening catching up with old friends, and I even enjoyed watching the Oscars!

Gavin and I at A Night at the Oscars

Miss Coon Rapids 2012

It is with great pleasure that I announce our newest crowned member of the 2012 Miss Minnesota class, Samantha Phillippi. Sammi and I met last year through the Miss Minnesota program and since then our friendship has only grown. While at Miss Minnesota last year we formed a special bond in our common love for food. While eating lunch at one of our sponsors, Crave in Mall of America, we had coined a new term that would be used by us the rest of the week, 'second seconds'. Second seconds came about when the waiter asked us if we had had enough to eat (at which point Sammi and I had both gone up for thirds), we didn't want to tell him we had thirds so we told him we had second seconds. Living within only a couple miles of each other during the summer Sammi and I became very close, getting together at least once a week. It was so nice to see her compete, as she is a very talented young woman, and even better to see her crowned as a title holder! I cannot wait for another adventurous Miss Minnesota week filled with laughter and second seconds with her by my side.

Natalie Davis for Miss America 2012

Miss Minnesota, Natalie Davis had her send off for Miss America on Saturday, December 17. It was a wonderful send off filled with friends and family to show their support. We got a sneak peak at her wardrobe and talent, along with hearing more about her platform. It was great to see Natalie and some local title holders. We can help Natalie become the next Miss America by voting for her at http://missamerica.org/videocontest/ Vote for her today and everyday, and tune in to ABC on January 14. I must say Natalie is more than prepared to capture the crown of Miss America!

The Season of Giving

"If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another." ~ Tenzin Gyatso

Last Saturday, December 17, Maren and I got to experience peace. As we rang bell for the Salvation Army we got to encounter many individuals that were avid donors of the Salvation Army and also those that have received support from the organization. It was enlightening to see those that would empty their pockets to donate all that they had, and those that could only give a thank you made the experience all the more meaningful. The best part of giving our time was to hear the stories that were shared. A man came up to the kettle and as he emptied the change from his pockets, he looked us in the eyes and gave a serious 'thank you', he continued to tell us how thankful he is for all the Salvation Army does, as his son goes there everyday after school. It always helps you realize what your time really means to others when you get to meet those that are directly affected by what you are doing. The peace that the Salvation Army gives families in need is amazing. I am so glad Maren and I got the opportunity to experience peace this Holiday season.

Got to Have Faith

Wow! What an experience! I am so lucky to have the support that I do, and I cannot thank my friends and family enough.

Saturday night started out with my car breaking down. Luckily I was close to a friend’s house and wasn’t stranded on the side of the road! I spent the night franticly calling people to figure out a ride to the Hopkins Little Theater in the morning. By about 1am I was in tears, contemplating pulling out of the pageant. My brother in-law was gracious enough to awake early, pick me up and drive me there. He even got me there early! And for those of you who know me, that’s quite the accomplishment!

Sunday started out slow, when we arrived the theater was still locked and we had a little bit of down time to get settled in. After a quick contestant meeting, we got things started. We had to learn walking patterns, rehearse talent and prepare for interviews. Before we knew it, it was 1:30pm and interviews were starting for the Teen contestants. After interviews it is all a blur, the rest of the day came so quick!  I can honestly say this was the fastest pageant I have ever been a part of! Before I even had time to think, we were all on stage waiting for the winner to be announced. Waiting on stage is always a little frightening, but I just remind myself that it is in God’s hands, and He has a plan for us no matter what happens. I was more than honored to be announced your new Miss North Metro 2011. It was an amazing group of five other girls, and I would not have wanted the job of a judge that night!

Being crowned your new Miss North Metro reassured me that God does have a plan for us, and we can’t let obstacles stand in our way. We need only to trust in Him and He will lead the way.