Mrs Southern California 2011 Shana Smith

ONLY Two Weeks - Families of the Fallen Donations still needed!

2011-12-30T07:02:00.000-08:00

Here She is... Miss America!

I can't believe that in just 2 weeks I will be on an American Airlines plane bound for Las Vegas and Project Gratitude. Last year this was one of my FAVORITE Got Your Back Network events. Meeting 11 new families, 30 new people and sharing one of my favorite pastimes (PAGEANTS!) with a new group. I couldn't be more proud of all of our hard work getting this event together.

Our young ladies after making sashes at the first Project Gratitude event in 2009

Two of our beautiful little Princesses at last years event

We are still seeking donations for our gift bags for each young lady and their moms. Please open your heart and your wallet for your year end donations and give back to families that have given so much.

I want to thank all those that have graciously donated thus far:

American Airlines

Got Your Back Network

Warrior Gateway
The Miss America Organization

Venetian

The Bachelor

Military Princess Apparel

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Sharlene Hawkes

Total Womans Gym

TroopSwap.com

YOU make the clothes... not the other way around

2011-11-29T10:31:00.000-08:00

Over the last week – as I have been thinning my closet, moving my summer into boxes and replacing with my winter (even though it’s 80 degrees here!) and selling my pageant wardrobe I realized something so important – almost my ENTIRE pageant wardrobe (including all appearances last year) were in clothing borrowed or purchased second hand!! I can’t remember the last time I purchased a gown at full price for anything – I prefer it that way.

As a mom, a lover of pageants AND a working wife I realize how important it is to be frugal. I am NOT the pageant contestant that has infinite resources to shop and buy only the best – I wish I could but it’s not who I am. I have repeatedly heard throughout the years how much certain contestants spend on their wardrobe HOWEVER some that have spent the most STILL have not won. Spending $15000 for a wardrobe is beyond me – that’s a small car or a start of a down payment for a home! Yes, at times I feel far to rational when thinking this way BUT I feel the same when I see STATE entry fees that are almost $1000! I understand that it’s a business and people pay that but I DO NOT understand how... especially if you have to have the best AND win then need to turn around and shop for Nationals. Just saying... NO WAY!

Through all of this cleaning, mainstreaming and simplifying, I have realized how much I LOVE shopping at thrift stores, consignment stores and discount stores – to the point that Krystina LOVES it too. The thrill I got from buying a royal blue St John’s knit suit for $9.50 at Salvation Army or borrowing the gown I won in is worth more than I can articulate. For me it’s about teaching my daughter that a person makes the clothes, not the other way around. She can rock whatever she wears because she is AMAZING, not because her outfit cost more than feeding a family of 6. It is also proof that you do not need a wardrobe costing thousands of dollars, but a wardrobe that makes you feel like a million bucks!

Because I know how frustrating it can be to just dig through RANDOM thrift stores I will list my FAVORITE places to shop:

Salvation Army in Orange (on Tustin)

Goodwill (EVERYWHERE!)

Portabello Road in Lake Forest (on El Toro Road – all proceeds benefit Laura’s House Domestic Violence)

Happy Shopping!

Because I know how frustrating it can be to just dig through RANDOM thrift stores I will list my FAVORITE places to shop:

Salvation Army in Orange (on Tustin)

Goodwill (EVERYWHERE!)

Portabello Road in Lake Forest (on El Toro Road – all proceeds benefit Laura’s House Domestic Violence)

2011-11-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

I am beyond thankful this year - I am thankful for more things than I can possibly list BUT here are a few quick ones

I am thankful for my friends - new and old

Each of you hold memories that I NEVER want to lose.

I am thankful for my husband and my daughter - every day I get to spend as the wife and mommy make it all worth it.

I am thankful that Grant came home safe and sound from deployment - It was a long year full of worry and uncertainty.

I am thankful for our military and their families - for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

This year as I sit at the table looking at my crazy family surrounding it - I will thank my lucky stars for each person sitting there, for each person missing... and all those I love.

Inspired and Ready

2011-11-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

Being a pageant girl has always been wonderful – yes, losing stinks but with every loss I have been able to reflect and see what I could have tweaked to do better. Sometimes I watch the video and see that my shoulders were rounded or maybe my on stage answer needed some finesse. I will admit I typically watch myself and the top 5 only because that is where I learn. I realize that I am harder on myself than anyone else could be. As of late, though, I have watched my performance and not seen a ‘lack’, and have lost the inspiration and drive to win that I once had. This last year HAS been taxing on me and my family and a much needed break was in the cards.

Last Thursday my husband and I left for an amazing 5 days in New York City. A time alone to just be us after being apart for so long – we even realized that we were spending the anniversary of our first date at Serendipity. Looking back on where we have been individually and as a couple, then where we are now and how many wonderful things are in store for our future just makes me smile.

We chose to walk just about everywhere – several hundred blocks a day. I was so inspired walking through the city – In Washington Square Park there was a man in his mid-30’s that had rolled a full size piano out and was playing it. There were street performers everywhere – some of the most amazing voices that may never be discovered were singing in Central Park. I was so inspired to finish my book, inspired to finish college, inspired to just be a better version of me. There was a certain sense of clarity that I found – realizing that not everything in life is cut and dry, that I can be a little more grey area, and that I need to bring it down a notch and not always be so wound up. I have come to believe that I must be an East Coast girl at heart – I am in love with Virginia, with DC and with NYC. I love the colors, the energy, the people... not so much the cost of living but hey that’s what a good job is for.

We visited the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the 9/11 Memorial all in one day... a start to our country for so many, their lives changed walking through the buildings at Ellis Island and then ending the day on hallowed ground from an event that forever changed the history of our country and the lives of everyone in it. Standing in both places was humbling, reminding me that the world is so much bigger than I remember. Standing at the base of the Statue of Liberty and looking up – the symbol of so much for our country. We stood at the top of the Empire State Building looking out at the peace and serenity of the world – not a care could reach that high. As busy as our trip was – it was the most relaxing and clarifing one I have taken in so long.

I am thankful for the opportunity to have had this trip with Grant, to be able to open my mind to a life outside of my bubble – I am thankful for my daughter that cried (ok we both cried) when I left because she and I haven’t been apart since before daddy left for Iraq. I am thankful for my mother in law that was able to watch Krystina for us while we were gone and for the relationship that the two of them have... and I am thankful for my life and all those in it!!!

Now for a fun filled weekend judging for the National American Miss Pageant... 4th year and I LOVE IT!

Congratulations to the 2012 Titleholders!

2011-11-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

Although I missed crowning the new girls I am honored to be a part of the Titleholder Family - I have heard nothing but wonderful things about the new 2012 Long Beach and Southern California Cities Titleholders. They are an amazing group of women and young girls. Many of them I have met previously and know they will be WONDERFUL titleholders.

Have a fantastic year... I look forward to watching you all represent your titles with grace!

Thankful for blessings

2011-11-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

In reality, serendipity accounts for one percent of the blessings we receive in life, work and love. The other 99 percent is due to our efforts. Every so often in life there are amazing blessings that present themselves. I have been blessed to model, to travel, to be independent, to have great jobs and now to have my family. I am amazed every day when I look back at the last 32 years of my life, I have come so far and been blessed with so much yet I try not to take it for granted. In the summer of 2002 I was homeless, I was a victim of domestic violence having been beated by my husband for 3 years, I thought my life was over... Here I am 9 years later, happily married to an amazing man, the mommy to the perfect little girl... a homeowner and and advocate for survivors of domestic violence and for the families of our fallen military. I am blessed, truly.

Peter McWilliams

Last night Hubby and I were lying in bed discussing the fact that this weekend 5 years ago we were headed out on our first date, we have had so many wonderful blessings since then. Here we are heading to New York happily married parents, after a safe deployment. Each night we say prayers and thank God for our blessings, for each other and our future.

Take time to count your blessings... its amazing what you see when you simply look.

Giving Thanks for Beliefs

2011-11-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my freedom to have my own beliefs. No matter what they are or how they differ I am thankful that I have a firm set of beliefs that I live my life by. My husband and I have differing political beliefs however Krystina will be raised to find her own beliefs on things. Whether that is politically, religiously or anything in between... We will always urge her to follow her heart and make her own mind up.

Whether she chooses Republican, Democrat or Independent... Morman, Protestant, Catholic or Spiritual... or Sexual Orientation will all be decisions that she will make as she gets older. We will support her just as our parents supported us.
Yesterday she came home to tell me WHY the Pilgrims ended up on the boats... the freedom to practice their own religious beliefs. I am glad that I am still thankful for my ancestor’s trip across the Atlantic to provide me the options hundreds of years later.

Thankful for: My Pageant Family

2011-11-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for my pageant family! Pageants are not all about competition and cattiness – Most successful pageant girls are so much more than a title. I am a mom, a wife, an employee, an author and a community activist – my title is just a small part of who I am. I am thankful for other likeminded women and young ladies I have met.

This past year I have held a title that came with 7 sister titleholders; Sydney and Isabell, Rykiah and Lauren, Monique and Nicole and Katy. I am thankful for each of them. I learned so much and will never forget the amazing memories that came with this year. I am sad to see it over this weekend! These ladies and (Sydney and Isabelle’s moms) taught me about family in a different way, taught me about acceptance and understanding. They were all there for me every day, every month and every appearance with smiles, hugs and embraced Krystina and I with our deployment. I can’t express to them how much they each mean to me – they are an extension of my family and my life.

Sydney and Isabelle- You both have the world in front of you. Something tells me that nothing will stand in your way because I know you will accomplish all you want. I hope to see you both soon, you’re always welcomed to come play!

Rykiah- girl you have shoes to die for! I have loved watching you grow this year and lose your braces. I can't wait to see you on a National stage!

Lauren- kick butt in school! You are beautiful and intelligent and seriously have dresses... I am jealous. I look forward to watching your college years via Facebook!

Monique- what can I say! You have changed and grown so much from the girl who won in her prom gown (I mean good grief Benizo!!). Your smile is infectious, your drive is unwavering... Stay true to yourself always!

Nicole- ahhh my fashionista!. Thank you for being you, your friendship and my Miss! Shopping soon???

Mo and Nicole- I will NEVER forget Pride or the horse drawn carriages!! Best of luck at CA USA, I will be there cheering you guys on!

Katy- Fit Chef! We started our year standing together, our daughters as our escorts and winning!! Thank you for everything! This year was memorable to say the least!

Jeannette & Lorraine- thank you for sharing your daughters and so graciously helping with mine. You have both raised the most wonderful, loving, compassionate and genuine little girls.

Justin & Ralph – Justin you are simply amazing! You are the Chief Inspiration Officer, a man that I admire so greatly for ALL you continue to do in the community. Someday I hope to be able to live my dream as you do. Ralph you show what love is, what support is and what life is really about. Thank you for your smiles and hugs! Thank you to both of you for embracing us like you did. You teach how to lead our community by example. I admire you both so much.

There is not likely to ever be a year in my life that was as eye opening or special – in part to my pageant family. When asked the BEST part of my year – simply put it’s the Sisterhood and Director!

Today I am thankful for...

2011-11-05T07:46:00.000-07:00

My family!

Yes, they are frustrating and we argue but I love them all. Between a brother, sisters, nieces and nephews as well as my parents and Grandparents... Aunts and Uncles. Oh yes there are a lot of us. I am thankful for them. We may not see eachother often but they are still my family... the FUN in dysFUNctional!

I am thankful that my Grandmother is only 35 minutes from me, that she and I have the closeness that we do and I am thankful that Krystina gets the opportunity to know her Great Grandma as I never did.

Never take your family for granted because one day... they won't be there anymore.

Friday - Thankfulness

2011-11-05T07:43:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for my job at Apria Healthcare. When the economy tanked in 2008 -2009 I was laid off 3 times by companies that had to merge or close their doors. It was so frustrating to be constantly job hunting as I had NEVER done that before. When I was brought in as a temp for my company, I prayed to get hired on... and 6 months later I was and am still there.
When we bought our home this year... I was increasiningly thankful for the fact that we could do this and I can help provide for our family in that way.

Giving Thanks -

2011-11-03T08:52:00.000-07:00

You can always tell a real friend: when you've made a fool of yourself he doesn't feel you've done a permanent job.

Laurence J. Peter

Starting off each morning thinking about what I am thankful for is such a treat - so much so I may have to implement it at home to start our days off right.

I am thankful for my friends - whether it's been a month or 20 years!

My life has been a series of interesting roller coasters – a lot of downs with each up. I am thankful for those that have stood beside me through mulitple moves, High School (a chore in itself), an abusive marriage, divorce, miscarriage, infertility, adoption and deployment. Friends that I have been able to call at a moments notice when things go upside down and know that they would be there in a heartbeat. Its funny to look back at memories with each, moments in my life where I didn't realize how much I needed you but you were there, moments that we now can laugh at... knowing we made it through together.

Here is my promise to you:

I will send you a party hat for pity parties and be there to celebrate (even if only on the phone); I will cheer you on when you need it or sit in silence when that is needed to, I will participate in life even when I don’t agree with their decisions all because I know that you would for me.

Whether its a secret belly button piercing or broken hearts, concerts or shared mommy dates, and sometimes it's just simply sharing life I am thankful for each person that I call a friend.

30 Days of Thanksgiving - Day 2

2011-11-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for my daughter.

I met Krystina when she was an 8 month old chubby faced baby – I fell in love that day. Every time I saw her I fell more and more in love – every kiss and hug and giggle. I wanted her to be mine, not the neighbors. Just one year later I was in a Social Workers voicemail asking what I needed to do to adopt her, I was single and 26 while she was now in foster care and 20 months. Just 10 months later she was sitting in my arms on our couch babbling about nothing and giggling.

Life throws curves and things change but my love for her and my effort to get her never faltered. She saved me from myself and I love the settled down me; The person that gets to snuggle and cuddle, watch Phineus and Ferb and bake cupcakes. The mommy that gets to be silly and giggle and just be mommy! We LOVE to celebrate her Gotcha Day and Adoption Day each year - these are the days that made us a family.

She is my Diva... and I love every sassy bit of her.

OUR wedding day 9/15/2007

Seaworld 2010

November is a thankful month!

2011-11-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

I love November - it's the real start of Fall to me. Its the month that things get cooler, the weather FEELS like fall and the countdown to Christmas becomes REAL. I am looking forward to fall decorations, turkey, family and BLACK FRIDAY!!

This November also brings 2 things -

1 - A 30 day list of what I am thankful fo

2 - Long Beach and Southern California Citites Pageant

Every day this month I will list something that I am thankful for - Serious or silly there are so many things in life that I could not be happier and more appreciative of.

#1 - I am thankful for the return of my husband. Being apart for 15 months and listening to him talk about running missions, IEDs and just being generally lonely was so hard. He has been my best friend since the day we met - The one that I turn to when all is breaking loose around me and I don't know what I would have done had I lost him. This will be a Thanksgiving to thank my lucky stars.

The Long Beach and Southern California Citites Pageant is on November 13th- Entry is open for

Little Miss (Ages 6-10)

Teen (13-18)

Miss (19-26)

Mrs (21 and up)

Along with the title come some pretty great prizes INCLUDING a $3000 appearance contract!! If you are interested in this wonderful opportunity please go to the Long Beach/ Southern California Cities Pageant and enter!!

Project Gratitude with the Got Your Back Network

2011-10-18T09:47:00.000-07:00

Last year I attended and volunteered with Project Gratitude in Las Vegas - WHAT A WEEKEND! I met some of the more wonderful women and children, formed friendships that will last a lifetime and my passion for helping families of our fallen multiplied! I am grateful for the opportunity to volunteer with Got Your Back and the events we have done. This year - lets kick it up a notch!!

Las Vegas, NV October 18, 2011 – Twenty-five bereaved widows and daughters of fallen military members will be attending the Miss America Finals on January 14 with The Got Your Back Network courtesy of an initiative called Project Gratitude. This will be the Third Annual Project Gratitude Event.

The ladies will travel from around the country courtesy of American Airlines to take part in pageant festivities at Planet Hollywood and a number of special events planned specifically for the families.

The event was the idea of Sharlene Hawkes, ‘Remember My Service’ president and a former Miss America. With the assistance of Darci Hansen, Founder/Editor-In-Chief of Elan Woman magazine, the friends created ‘Project Gratitude.’

“This is all about remembering the great service and ultimately, the great sacrifice that so many families make to preserve our way of life, and defend our liberties. Giving these women a royal weekend is the very least we can do for America’s greatest treasures and I am so thrilled that we are continuing this tradition.” said Hawkes.

The Project Gratitude organizers reached out to Got Your Back Network knowing our military survivors would benefit from a weekend of bonding and sharing a healthy, fun experience. The Got Your Back Network was founded in January 2009 by former Bachelor star and Dr. Andy Baldwin, a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy. Executive Director of Got Your Back Network, Kathleen Gagg will spearhead this year’s event.

The Got Your Back Network is currently seeking donations for a special gift bag given to each mother and daughter upon their arrival in Las Vegas. Please contact Shana@GotYourBackNetwork.org with donations.

Seal Beach Shooting

2011-10-13T09:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday in the sleepy town of Seal Beach, CA 8 people were shot and 1 additional injured by a lone gunman in a small salon. This is the largest mass killing in Orange County's history.

On October 10 I mentioned a statistic about homicides due to domestic violence - sadly here is a direct corolation. The gunman walked into the salon and shot his wife, presumably linked to the ongoing divorce and custody case they were involved in since 2007. Sadly, 8 other people were involved and several others lives were changed forever.

Orange County Register

Please pray for these families.

Domestic Violence Fact #11 - Your son

2011-10-12T06:31:00.000-07:00

75% of boys who are present when their mothers are beaten were later identified as having demonstrable behavior problems

There is a special connection between a son and his mother. It is seen time and time again - boys are very protective of them.

Maker of Memories

Domestic Violence Fact #10 - Children do see

2011-10-11T06:29:00.000-07:00

3.3 million children witness domestic violence each year in the US.

Everyone seems to thinks that children don't hear, that they don't know whats going on... sadly that isn't true. Children see/hear and feel MUCH more than we give them credit for.

Maker of Memories

Domestic Violence Fact #9 - Homicides per year associated with DV?

2011-10-10T06:50:00.000-07:00

According to the FBI, every day four women die in this country as a result of domestic violence. That's approximately 1,400 women a year.

Women in Distress

Dometic Violence Fact #8 - TWO to FOUR million women of all races

2011-10-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

There are 572,000 reports of domestic violence that are officially reported to federal officials each year; however, the most conservative estimates indicate two to four million women of all races and classes are battered each year. And at least 170,000 of those violent incidents are serious enough to require hospitalization, emergency room care or a doctor's attention.

Women In Distress

Domestic Violence Fact #7 - How many days a year of paid work lost

2011-10-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

Domestic violence victims lose nearly 8 million days of paid work per year in the US alone—the equivalent of 32,000 full-time jobs.

In this economy this truly amazes me!!

Domestic Violence Statistics

Domestic Violence Fact #6

2011-10-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.

Domestic Violence Statistics

Domestic Violence Fact #5 - Think it doesn't affect you directly?

2011-10-06T06:29:00.000-07:00

The health-related costs of intimate partner violence exceed $5.8 billion each year. Of that amount, nearly $4.1 billion are for direct medical and mental health care services, and nearly $1.8 billion are for the indirect costs of lost productivity or wages.

(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Costs of Intimate Partner Violence Against Women in the United States, April 2003.)

Domestic Violence Resource Center

Domestic Violence Fact # 4

2011-10-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

On average, more than three women and one man are murdered by their intimate partners in this country every day.
Intimate partner includes girlfriend/boyfriend, marriage, same sex relationships; any person to whom you have an intimate relationship with.

Domestic Violence Resource Center

Domestic Violence Fact #3

2011-10-04T06:07:00.000-07:00

National Coalistion Against Domestic ViolenceAlmost one-third of female homicide victims that are reported in police records are killed by an intimate partner.

Domestic Violence Fact #2

2011-10-03T06:27:00.000-07:00

The Department of Justice consistently finds that girls between ages 16 and 24 experience the highest rate of intimate partner violence.

Watch your children and your childrens friends and be aware - these are hard times for kids to really see whats going on outside of hormones and the WANT of a boyfriend or girlfriend

Clothesline Project - Teen Dating Violence

Domestic Violence Fact #1

2011-10-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

"One in four American women reports being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in her life."

This one usually hits me in a room of people - just look around at the ladies to your left and right knowing that 1 in every 4 of them is a victim or a survivor.

Domestic Violence Resource Center

The facts and statistics that I reference will include the source to ensure accuracy!

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

2011-10-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Today marks the first day of October which is ALSO Domestic Violence Awareness month. Although my passion and platform focus changed this is still a cause that is close to my heart. It is an issue that is still taboo in so many circles, still one that causes many great shame yet still a HUGE problem in our society. Over the next 31 days I will be putting up facts about domestic violence, some you may know and others that may knock your socks off.

Remember if you are being abused that you are never alone - there is ALWAYS someone there to help. I can provide referrals if you are in need - takesfromasurvivor@yahoo.com

My shirt from the Clothesline Project 2009

Angels Baseball

2011-09-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

I am finally able to put up some pictures from recent events and appearances.

Thank you to Service Nation, Bank of America, the Anaheim Angels and The Got Your Back Network for this perfect evening with some AWESOME families!!

The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer - Pictures

2011-09-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

What an unbelievable weekend! To finish this walk again is a blessing in itself. I feel relieved and honored to have walked for so many inspiring women. Thank you to each of my donors, without you this walk would not have been possible. Enjoy a few pictures from walk weekend.

Check in at the Fess Parker in BEAUTIFUL Santa Barbara

Opening Ceremonies - Here we go

ALL DONE Day 1 -

These guys are at every cheer spot for their girlfriends - we HAD to get a picture

4th year together... this team is counting down for Krystina to walk

Thank you to those that donated (your pink ribbon is on my pack) and to those I was honored to walk for (Your Pink Ribbon is on my shirt!)

You could be the next Mrs Southern California Cities!

2011-09-22T08:24:00.000-07:00

On November 13 the 2012 Mrs Southern California Cities will be crowned! I can not say enough wonderful things about this title, the director Justin Rudd or the C.A.T. organization. This has been an amazing year. If you are interested in competing in any of the 4 age cateragories: Little Miss, Teen, Miss or Mrs please apply here. You won't be sorry.

My Crowning moment!

Since the moment I was crowned we have been making appearances and helping out at so many different places around Long Beach and Belmont Shores. I have also made appearances with my own platform, Helping the Families of our Fallen.

Sister titleholders at the Long Beach Losers finale

Miss America with the Got Your Back Network

Col Sutherland - Assistant to the Joint Chief of Staff

Speaking at the Fullerton Rotary

Speaking at the Mercury Insurance Open

Beach CleanUp in Belmont Shores

With my family at a beach cleanup

Sister titleholders

Speaking at the September 11 Candlelight Vigil

Bulldog Beauty Pageant

The day I did it...

2011-09-15T11:59:00.000-07:00

4 years ago today I married my best friend and biggest supporter, Mr Southern California. haha. Usually I am SSG Smiths wife, but today and on my blog he gets to be Mrs Southern California's husband.

After everything I had been through when I met Grant, I had no designs on it being more than just dinner. I thought that after he got to know me, and my pending motherhood, he would be gone... like any normal guy. On our first date I found out that he was anything BUT a normal guy. We didn't kiss, we talked... and talked... and talked. On our second date he brought me a box of my favorite candy instead of flowers. He and I enjoyed another dinner...where he had salad and I had a HUGE messy hamburger and we talked and talked and talked.

He made me fill out a girlfriend application, he actually sat on my couch after 2 weeks and asked me to be his girlfriend. Then he embraced my motherhood and new daughter, he supported me through the adoption, then he asked me to be his wife on the ONE day in a year I wouldn't have imagined. As we stood there on our wedding day, giggling and smiling, so in love... I was full of amazement and disbelief that this man loved me. That this man would spend his life with me.

Now after 15 months apart, 8000 miles and several time zones we are spending our 4th anniversary together. I am so excited for tonight, tomorrow and the rest of our lives together. Knowing that he is here for better or for worse, that we both took vows that mean the world to us makes me the happiest woman in the world.

A souvenir from the night we fell in love! Dave & Busters SkeeBall

September 15, 2007

My little princess

Last years anniversary date

My family... all together

His arms is where I belong - I love you!!

September 11

2011-09-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

On September 11 I was asked to speak at the Long BeachWorld Trade Center. I spoke to a group of people about being thankful and never forgetting those that lost their lives in the tower and on the planes 10 years ago, those lost in the wars on terror and I spoke about my own thankfulness and respect of our military and the families that support them.

God Bless the USA

I am the wife of Army SSG Grant Smith

with Long Beach's finest

Thank you to Bank of America, ServiceNation and the Anaheim Angels!

2011-09-13T18:11:00.000-07:00

On Friday September 9 the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (seriously, this should just be the Anaheim Angels!) honored the military with Military Appreciation night. I was blessed and priviledged to attend with a group of women and families that are now an extension of my own. I attended with 6 families with the Got Your Back Network.

We had a great time and one of our family members Andrew, a 10 year old young man, was asked to be onb the field as an honorary batboy! My husband was so jealous. A great time was had by all... thank you ladies and kids for sharing your Friday with me and my family!!

Grant and I on the field

Some of the widows ready to go out on the field

Krystina and I in our seats

mroe families

Diana and her daughter, Cindy and her son (our batboy!) and Vanessa

Krystina and I on the field

Walking the track

Enjoying the game

Light it up Angels!

My thoughts - 9/11/2001

2011-09-12T07:44:00.001-07:00

I sat in my chair yesterday morning listening to the names of those killed in the towers read. Face after face saying good bye to their loved ones, little boys reading the names of their father they never met. I was heartbroken. Then I started to think of the children I know who lost their fathers in Iraq or Afghanistan, fathers they never met or don’t remember.

In September 2001 I was living in San Diego, had just left my job at an interior decorating company and was starting a new job on September 15. I had been on a 10 day trip to Cozumel, Mexico, returning home on September 10, 2001. On September 9th we discussed extending our trip but decided not to, I don’t remember why. AS soon as I landed at the Houston, Tx airport I called my sister to find out if my 1st niece had been born, yep on September 6! I was so excited to go see her the next day. We got home around midnight and crashed – I wasn’t feeling well and was exhausted but so excited for the next day.

On September 11 I woke up around 9:30 and stumbled into the living room. The TV was already on and I just stared. I had, admittedly, no clue where the Twin Towers or the World Trade Center was... but surely not in the United States. I couldn’t imagine or believe that the horrors I was seeing were happening in my country. Then I saw the 2nd plane hit, and I realized with most of America that it was no accident and that we were being attacked. Fear set in because I lived 30 minutes from the San Diego airport and about 5 from a Marine base... what if we were next?

I wanted to be glued to my television but I had a little girl that needed to meet her Aunt Shana. Her life was changed and she didn’t even know it. She would never know the ease of flying without getting almost fully undressed to do so, she would be forever inundated with colored threat conditions and her first 10 years would be filled with war. She would know words like Allah, Terrorist, Jihad and live through Operation Iraqi Freedom, Endurance and New Dawn. She would soon be a Veterans daughter.

10 years later I am a mother, my daughter born in 2004. Her life, too has been filled with war and being a Veterans daughter. I am married to a Soldier that was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom I & II and Operation New Dawn. Gone are the days it takes 5 minutes to get through airport security, now you need to plan 45 minutes and methodically pack your carryon to avoid tweezers. Now we are all racially profiled and treated as terrorists.

Last night I stood on the steps of the Long Beach World Trade Center speaking to a group, thanking them for being there to pay respects to those lost on 9/11/01 and in the wars since. Reflecting on my own journey the past 10 years and the people who have come in and out of my life. Maybe with the healing that the 9/11 Memorial brought healing to many in other avenues of their life – only time will tell.

Our world has changed and evolved – Where were you on the September day??

Angels vs Yankees - Invitation to the Families of our Fallen

2011-08-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. The New York Yankees

September 9, 2011 5:00PM

Along with Service Nation and Bank of America

Please join the Got Your Back Network

for the National Day of Remembrance

while watching America’s favorite pastime!

Angel Stadium

2000 East Gene Autry Way

Anaheim, CA 92806-6143

Please RSVP to

Shana@Gotyourbacknetwork.org

As Soon As Possible

Premier Bridal Show

2011-08-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was able to model in the Premier Bridal Expo in Brea, CA. I want to thank Tracy of Flawless Wedding and Events, Marry Me Bridal, Alan iFoto, Studio 5150 and EyeCandy makeup for such a wonderful time. The girls were wonderful and a good time was had by all!

Here are a few Sneak Peek pictures from Alan

147 Monthly Beach Clean up in Belmont Shores

2011-08-22T08:50:00.000-07:00

What a great weekend! We were able to attend the first FULL family beach cleanup. I was so excited to have both Grant and Krystina there cleaning the beach and having fun. Here are some fun pictures from the morning!

Mr Southern Califonia's first appearance!

helping a little beach clean up helper

with my sister titleholders Miss and Miss Teen Long Beach - along with Miss California US International and
Miss Teen United States Fire

Full family picture!

I am the 2011 GirlExtraordinaire!

2011-08-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have been honored to be selected at the 2011 Girl ExtraOrdinaire by GirlExtraordinaire. Please visit them at http://www.shopgirleo.com/! I have so many tanks, t's and hoodies from them that I absolutely LOVE!

Shana Smith 2011 Girl ExtraOrdinaire

Reflection

2011-08-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

With Grants deployment coming to an end - well actually technically over but with him coming home this week - I have had a lot of time to actually reflect on the last year. The worry every night that my best friend may not make it home, the prayers for a safe daddy and daddy's army friends and a world changing around me in ways that I never imagined. There were friends that were very unlikely that stood by my side and were there for every tear and friends that I expected to be there that chose not to be or couldnt (no judgement here) all the while my main priority was Krystina and Grant. I stopped watching the news because with any 'issue' in Iraq my heart sank and found myself a total insomniac and more religious that I had ever imagined (Grant always says there arent Atheists in fox holes). My life, wasn't mine any more. This PSO and one weekend a month Army Wife was now simply an Army Wife.
Nothing good came out of Iraq - that was my feeling going into this deployment. Many times before he actually had his boots in the sand I worried that each phone call would be my last. I have every voicemail of 2010 and 2011 saved on my phone Not many since he deployed... I may have missed 3 calls in a year. I am not a fatalist - but rather felt that I would lose my best friend because in my terms my life was perfect.
The past year I have met several widows and their children that lost their husbands in the same country that mine was in - I looked at them with so much admiration and fear. They knew what my life was like at that moment and I couldn't imagine theirs. I couldn't imagine knowing that Grant would never call again, or their pain and sadness. I have learned since that this group of families will always hold a part of my heart and are welcome in our home on ANY trip to California they have. They have shown me a strength that is beyond comprehension.
Tonight I am sitting here thinking about the 31 American's that lost their lives in Afghanistan this weekend - it brought me back to Jared Landaker. Jared and I went to high school together he was just a year behind me. Sweet guy, super cute (although shorter than me)... anyhow I remember when I found out he had been killed in a helicopter crash in Iraq. Or small town didn't have much military in it so it was so shocking to me. It knocked me back a bit, closer to home than I had imagined. I have had more friends deploy than I can count and the thought of any of them being hurt never seemed to enter my mind. Jared made it real. I have saved this article about Jared's final flight home. Every time I read it it brings tears to my eyes - as always my prayers are with the Landakers and all of the families that lost loved ones in this war.

Diary Of A Last and Final Flight Home

February 17, 2007,

0350

I was at curbside at 24th and M, Washington DC . 16 Degrees with a light breeze. Going home after my second week of freezing temps to my warm home in SoCal. Take a walk on the beach, ride a horse, climb a mountain and get back to living. I'm tired of the cold.

0425

paying the taxi fare at Dulles in front of the United Airlines counter, still cold.

0450

engaged the self-serve ticker machine and it delivers my ticket, baggage tag and boarding pass. Hmmm, that Marine over there is all dressed up in his dress blues a bit early this morning... "Good Morning Captain, you're looking sharp." He says, "Thank you, sir."

Pass Security and to my gate for a decaf coffee and 5 hours sleep. A quick check of the flight status monitor and UA Flt 211 is on time. I'm up front, so how bad can that be? Hmmm, there's that same Marine. He must be heading to Pendleton to see his lady at LAX for the long weekend, all dressed up like that. Or maybe not. I dunno.

The speaker system announces "Attention in the boarding area, we'll begin boarding in 10 minutes, we have some additional duties to attend to this morning, but we'll have you out of here on time."

The Marine Captain has now been joined by five others. BINGO, I get it, he's not visiting his lady, he's an official escort. I remember doing that once, CACO duty. I still remember the names of the victim and family, The Bruno Family in Mojave - all of them, wows, that was 24 years ago.

On board, 0600:

"Good morning folks, this is the Captain. This morning we've been attending to some additional duties, and I apologize for being 10 minutes late for push back, but I believe we'll be early into LAX. This morning it is my sad pleasure to announce that 1st LT Jared Landaker, USMC will be flying with us to his Big Bear home in Southern California. Jared lost his life over the skies of Iraq earlier this month, and today we have the honor of returning him home along with his mother, father and brother . Please join me in making the journey comfortable for the Landaker family and their uniformed escort. Now sit back and enjoy your ride. We're not expecting any turbulence until we reach the Rocky Mountain area, but we'll do what we can to ensure a smooth ride. For those interested, you can listen in to our progress on Channel 9."

Click Channel 9: "Good morning UA 211. You are cleared to taxi, takeoff and cleared to LAX as filed."

4 hours and 35 minutes later over Big Bear MT, the AB320 makes a left roll, a steep bank and then one to the right-Nice touch. Nice tribute. Five minutes out from landing, the Captain comes on the speaker: "Ladies and Gents, after landing I'm leaving the fasten seatbelt sign on, and I ask everyone to please yield to the Landaker family. Please remain seated until all members of the family have departed the aircraft. Thank you for your patience. We are 20 minutes early."

On roll out, I notice red lights, emergency vehicles approaching. We're being escorted directly to our gate, no waiting, not even a pause. Out the left window, a dozen Marines in full dress blues. A true class act by everyone, down to a person. Way to go United Airlines for doing things RIGHT, Air Traffic Control for getting the message, and to all security personnel for your display of brotherhood.

When the family departed the aircraft everyone sat silent, then I heard a lady say,"God Bless you and your family, and thank you." Then a somber round of applause. The Captain read a prepared note from Mrs. Landaker to the effect, "Thank you all for your patience and heartfelt concern for us and our son. We sincerely appreciate the sentiment. It's good to have Jared home."

After departing the a/c I found myself along with 30 others from our flight looking out the lobby window back at the plane. Not a dry eye. It was one of the most emotional moments I've ever experienced. We all stood there silently, and watched as Jared was taken by his honor guard to an awaiting hearse. Then the motorcade slowly made it's way off the ramp.

I realized I had finally seen the silent majority. It is deep within us all. Black, Brown, White, Yellow, Red, Purple, we're all children, parents, brothers, sisters, etc - we are an American family.

Official Report: February 7, 2007, Anbar Province, Iraq .. 1st LT Jared Landaker United States Marine Corps, from Big Bear California, gave his live in service to his country. Fatally wounded when his CH-46 helicopter was shot down by enemy fire. Jared and his crew all perished. His life was the ultimate sacrifice of a grateful military family and nation.

His death occurred at the same time as Anna Nicole Smith, a drug using person with a 7th grade education of no pedigree who dominated our news for two weeks while Jared became a number on CNN. And most unfortunately, Jared's death underscores a fact that we are a military at war, not a nation at war. It has been said that Marines are at war. America is at the mall.

1st LT Landaker, a man I came to know in the sky's over America on 17 February 2007, from me to you, aviator to aviator, I am unbelievably humbled. It was my high honor to share your last flight. God bless you.

Semper Fi

iKids/iTeen Day Camp NEXT WEEK!

2011-08-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

iKIDS & iTEEN

Technology Summer Camp

August 9-11 9:00 to 12:00

Army Lodging Office B1151
Camp Parks, Dublin

Join iKIDS and iTEEN teams as we learn how to create our own online magazine for Military Kids! We will make Facebook pages, YouTube videos and widgets for our online blog

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Everyone will get a chance to learn in this fun, hands on technology camp! We will event go on a field trip to the Intel Museum in San Jose to learn more about technology!

To register call PRFTA CYSS

925 875 4388

FREE to ALL MILITARY KIDS AT PFTA and MOFFETT FIELD

Mercury Insurance Open

2011-08-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

Last night I was honored to speak for the Got Your Back Network at the Mercury Insurance Open. The La Costa Resort was beautiful and a very gracious host to this event. I know nothing about tennis but was able to learn more about why my husband and his family love it. The hometown girls were WONDERFUL!

To introduce an organization that I honor and respect so much was amazing – especially in front of a few hundred people including many of our active military and wounded warriors. I was also very humbled to be introducing a woman that I consider a friend, Michelle Ryan, who lost her husband Capt Tim Ryan in Iraq on May 19, 2003. With each event I am reminded why the Got Your Back Network has become a large part of my life and why I feel so called to be a part of it.

Talking about why Dr Andy Baldwin founded the Got Your Back Network

Introducing Michelle Ryan

Michelle talking about her husband Capt Timothy Ryan and GYBN

Thank you to the wonderful people at the Mercury Insurance Open for inviting us and allowing Michelle and I to talk about Got Your Back -

Thank you San Diego Padres!

2011-07-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

Last night was fabulous! Thank you to the San Diego Padres, Sara Nelson and Sarah Bennett for all of their help organizing this fun event for the families of the fallen. The families were able to watch batting practice on the field, snack on ballpark dinners with hotdogs and soda's... and watch a great game in AMAZING seats!

Diana, Michelle, Ali and I enjoying some FriarFood!

The group on the field

My new GYB Tank

The kids meeting some players

Signing ballcaps

Next up.... The Mercury Insurance Tennis Open at the La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbadon August 1! Please join us for Military Appreciation night and support the families that support and defend our freedom.

Take me out....

2011-07-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

I can’t begin to tell you how excited I am for tonight! Tonight is the Got Your Back Network Night with The Padres! We have 9 families going – that’s 23 awesome people to enjoy America’s Pastime with! We will be gracing the field at Petco Park with our presence while watching a little batting practice - meeting some of the San Diego Padres. Then HOPE to see the Padres clean the field with the Az Diamondbacks!
I will surely post pictures soon!

If you haven’t gone on the Got Your Back Network site and done some shopping PLEASE do – all proceeds go right back into helping the families of our fallen military.

$10.00 +$3.00 shipping

"Honoring those who serve and their families
We will never forget"
Cobra Light with Dog Tag $20.00 +$4.00 shipping

Cobra with Dog Tag $20.00 +$4.00 shipping

Got Your Back Network Pin $4.00 + $1.50 shipping

Available in Adult sizes $14.00 + $3.00 shipping

One size fits all $17.00 +$3.00 shipping

Support the families of the fallen!

2011-07-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

The Got Your Back Network is now selling these AWESOME 550 cord bracelets!

Shop Got Your Back Network

$10 (thinner band)

$20 with the dogtag

$20 - No Dogtag (thicker band)

$20

A Night With the Padres for Surviving Spouses and their families!

2011-07-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

We have just a few spots left! Please RSVP as soon as possible as we are looking forward to having a great group and a lot of fun!

A night full of hotdogs

A night full of fun

Join the Got Your Back Network to celebrate and

Hit a home run!

Come enjoy an evening Padres experience and

cheer on the San Diego Padres as they play the

Arizona Diamondbacks

Don’t forget your ball or your glove…

you never know just who you may meet!

July 26, 2011 at 4:00PM

PetcoPark

19 Tony Gwynn Drive

San Diego, CA 92101

Please RSVP to

Shana@Gotyourbacknetwork.org

By JULY 18

Widows of Fallen Soldiers and “Got Your Back Network” participate in the ZOOMA run in Colorado Springs, on Sunday, July 17th

2011-07-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

“Got Your Back Network” (GYBN), , is the primary charity of the ZOOMA run event in Colorado Springs, CO on July 17th, 2011. Executives from ZOOMA expect to have thousands of runners participating in the event on Sunday. Among the runners will be several widows of fallen soldiers who will be participating in the event.

GYBN is reaching out to runners, military organizations, NGOs and defense companies to ask people to register to participate at the ZOOMA run event in Colorado Springs, CO on July 16 and 17th, 2011. You can register at www.gotyourbacknetwork.org by clicking on the ZOOMA icon. On June 16th there is pre-race registration, race packet pickup and marketplace expo at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort. The running event is on Sunday, July 17th with running distances of 10 K and a half marathon. The ZOOMA after-party expo will be held at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort after the runs. Please check the www.zoomarun.com website for more information.

If you have any questions please contact Roy Baldwin at rebaldwin1@verizon.net or calling me at 717-305-0159.

Selling my pageant wardrobe -

2011-07-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

With our pending move and my extensive clothes I feel that I need to simplify - in the words of my husband, "How many gowns and bathing suits does one woman need?!" My response has always been that I can't have too many but in looking around, thats not accurate. A portion of all sales will go towards the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer this year.

All items available can be purchased via paypal and shipped - Please make a reasonable offer

Contact me at: shanaksmith@yahoo.com (same address for paypal)

Please CLICK HERE

Sherry Hill Sequined Gown
Several swimsuits
Pink Boucle Suit
Several appearance dresses/gowns

The First Tee - Golf Introduction/Life Skill Program

2011-07-05T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here's information about a great opportunity for children of Reservists, National Guard and All Service Branches with an innovative program offered in San Jose and Bay Area.

The First Tee Military Affiliate Program is a Nationwide Free Life Skills and Golf Introduction Program for Children of National Guardsmen and Reservists that offers a proven program that improves confidence and leadership skills.

WHAT IS THE FIRST TEE?

Since 1997, The First Tee has introduced the game of golf and its values to more than 3.5 million participants in 50 states, four international locations and in more than 3,400 elementary schools. Additionally, over 7,800 volunteers, including PGA and LPGA teaching professionals, are engaged in mentoring and coaching participants. The First Tee's focus is to impact the lives of young people by creating fun, golf-related opportunities to learn valuable life skills that can be applied on and off the golf course.

For more information/to visit website.

Parents:

Are you looking for a no cost way to expand your child's experience?

Would you like to involve your child in a proven program that improves confidence and leadership skills that will carry over into his or her daily life?

Would you like your child to learn the lifetime game of golf from trained coaches?

Would you like your child to have a fun diversionary activity at a nearby golf course?

HOW DOES MY CHILD GET INVOLVED?

Complete the requested information on the Military Affiliate Program brochure

San Jose (Moffett/South Bay area)

Rancho del Puerto Golf Course

1649 Hermocilla Way

San Jose, CA 95116

POC- George Maxe - george@thefirstteesanjose.org

408-288-2937

There are participating Golf Courses (First Tee Chapters) in San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, Antioch, Concord, Fresno, Modesto, Pleasanton, Salinas and Stockton (as well as a number in SoCal)

Blue Star is officially down

2011-06-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

Last week I officially took my Blue Star down - the day my husband landed safely on US soil. Since many people ask me what the Blue Star is, here ya go:

The Blue Star Service Banner was designed and patented in 1917 by World War I Army Capt. Robert L. Queissner of the 5th Ohio Infantry who had two sons serving on the front line. It quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in the service.

On Sept. 24, 1917, an Ohio congressman read the following into the Congressional Record: “…The mayor of Cleveland, the Chamber of Commerce and the governor of Ohio have adopted this service flag. The world should know of those who give so much for liberty. The dearest thing in all the world to a father and mother - their children.”

Today Blue Star Service Banners are displayed by families who have a loved one serving in the armed forces including the National Guard and Reserves of all military departments. The banner displayed in the front window of a home shows a family’s pride in their loved one serving in the military, and reminds others that preserving America’s freedom demands much. It can also be displayed by businesses and organizations as well.

Homecoming was amazing, there were hugs and tears for my soldier and many others there that I both knew and didn't know. We have added to our family with new brothers!

Here are some pictures of our homecoming:

Krystina hugging her daddy - First hug off of the bus

Right where I belong!

Welcome Home 422nd MP Company

Final Formation -

Lets go home daddy -

Army Reserve Youth Encampment School Break Camp, Spokane, WA

2011-06-16T06:24:00.000-07:00

***For Families in the Spokane, Washington area.****

Army Reserve youth ages 7-17 are invited to attend an Army Reserve Youth Encampment (see attached flyer) on Saturday, June 18, 2011. To register go to: www.arfp.org - Quick Links - Conference Registration - Army Reserve Youth Encampment School Break Camp, Spokane, WA, June 18, 2011

Drop off and pick up will be at the Reserve Center (Bldg 4400) at Fairchild AFB.

Event starts at 8:00 am and ends at 6:00 pm for youth ages 7-13; ends at 8:00 pm for youth ages 14-17.

Lunch and dinner will be provided.

The camp will be a day camp, beginning with Army Reserve youth assembling at the Reserve Center at Fairchild AFB (Spokane), Washington. After introductions, youth will be divided into age groups: 7-10, 11-13, 14-17.

Youth will be presented with preliminary curriculum focused on resiliency.

Youth will then travel via chartered bus to the Spokane House Fur Trade Encampment. The Spokane House has an Interpretive Centre and Fur Trade Encampment day that includes living history portrayals and demonstrations/presentations on Native American culture, history, and lifestyle. Fur traders became skilled in adapting to the challenges of life (nature) and CYSS staff will use this as a springboard into mini lessons centered on being self reliant and resilient. Box lunches will be delivered on site and eaten in the picnic area. After the afternoon demonstrations/presentations at the Fur Trade Encampment, youth will return to the Reserve Center and have follow-up discussions and dinner (pizza).

The older teens (14-17) will stay for an evening of additional curriculum centered on teen emotion trauma/suicide prevention (6:00-8:00 pm).

The day's activities will enable the youth an opportunity to succeed as individuals. The Youth will be able to build new skills and new relationships with other Youth in the Spokane area while also being able to enjoy new experiences in a safe, controlled, and supervised setting with experienced and trained CYSS staff.

Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center Torch Run & Profiles of Courage Gala

2011-06-12T18:44:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh! There are no words to express the gratitude I feel for being asked as a celebrity at the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center Torch Run! The true celebrities there were each of the more than 200 runners that participated! There were children running, being carried by parents and pushed in both strollers and wheelchairs. I had several of them autograph MY shirt as they were the ones that inspire me. There was even a beautiful little girl, Eliana, that was 2 years old. She was dancing and smiling and was enamored by my crown so much so that I let her 'run' with it! She was AMAZING!

After the Torch Run, Mrs Long Beach Katy Clark and myself attended the Profiles of Courage Gala benefitting the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center. Katy was the emcee of the event and did a fantastic job. I met the most wonderful people there including Amanda M. Termuhlen, MD who was so gracious in explaining all the new things that are going on with the expansion of the Cancer Center.

Thank you to Cheryl Ross and the Jonathan Jaques Cancer Center for inviting me to be part of the extraordinary day. I look forward to visiting the center and volunteering again next year!

with Debra Wilson from MadTV

Signing autographs with Miss Long Beach and Mrs Long Beach

My date Katy, Mrs Long Beach and Fit Chef Katy

Ronald McDonald Special Needs Camp *SPACES LEFT

2011-06-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

If you are a military family with a special needs child:

There is a Special Needs Camp for Military Youth is summer in Northern CA/Reno area. It is open to all branches (DoD included) and to special needs youth that live in any state. There is a travel reimbursement and a care-giver can accompany a camper if necessary. This camp is a partnership between CA-OMK and Ronald McDonald House. There are many spaces available- hopefully you can get this out to Families with special needs children. Below are some further details on travel reimbursement. Attached is the flyer for the camp.

For additional info and application:

Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake

Questions regarding camp go to:

Crystal O'Hara

State 4-H Military Program Representative 4-H Youth Development Program University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources

(530) 757-8968 office

(530) 754-8541 fax

crohara@ucdavis.eduV/R,

Northwoods Memorial & Gratitude Wall - Irvine, CA

2011-06-07T10:33:00.000-07:00

Krystina and I love to frequest Northwood Park in our hometown, the kids have called it 'Castle Park' forever as there is a fortress built around the play structures. Each year on Veterans and Memorial Days there have always been rows and rows of crosses placed into the grassy area to honor those that have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan however in November 2010 these crosses were replaced with beautiful granite walls.

This year we went on Memorial Day to honor the fallen, husbands, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and sons and daughters. The ceremony was unbelievable, the community support was unwavering.. I was simply in awe of the whole thing!

The Northwoods Memorial and Gratitude Wall is the nation's first memorial listing the names of all the fallen American service members in Afghanistan and Iraq was formally dedicated and opened to the public on November 14, 2010.

Since 2003, a simple memorial for the country’s military fallen in Afghanistan and Iraq was set up in the Southern California city of Irvine by members of the community on the week before Memorial Day and then removed the week after Independence Day. For years the community and visitors from all over the country have come to share in the fellowship at the site of the Northwood Gratitude and Honor Memorial.

This expression of gratitude and honor, born from simple materials and community initiative, was approved on Dec. 8th, 2009 by the Irvine City Council to become a permanent monument to the heroes that gave their all to the United States of America.

The names of every service member who has died in Afghanistan and Iraq had been displayed on the wooden posts of the temporary memorial. Now their names are engraved in granite in a permanent memorial, to assure that future generations of Americans will remember and honor them with gratitude as we do today.

As of 5/19/2011 there are 6,168 names engraved in the Northwood Gratitude and Honor Memorial. The time period covered is October 1, 2001 through April 4, 2011. Additional names will be engraved periodically during the year.

If you would like to receive a rubbing(tracing) of your loved one's name, please complete the form on this page, or send an email to us at info@NorthwoodMemorial.com with your hero's full name and KIA date along with your mail address, telephone number and a note saying if you need more than one rubbing. Please allow at least four weeks for your request to be filled by a volunteer.

Please join us in remembering these heroes. Your donation of $40 will defray the cost of a hero's name being engraved in a granite panel of the new memorial.

Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center Torch Run

2011-06-06T15:03:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, June 11, I am honored to be part of the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center Torch Run with Miss Long Beach and Mrs. Long Beach! Please join these inspirational children who celebrate each year won in the fight against serious illness. It will be a day you remember for a lifetime.

Over 300 children with cancer or a rare blood disorder will participate in an Olympic-style relay race run in front of over 1,000 cheering spectators. The Torch Run will take place at Shoreline Aquatic Park on Shoreline Drive, next to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.

For information on how YOU can make a difference please call 562.933.8600: Every dollar of your of your sponsorship benefits the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center at Miller Children's Hospital Long Beach which provides comprehensive treatment and research for children and their families who are fighting cancer or a serious blood disorder.

Memorial Day

2011-06-01T01:16:00.000-07:00

Flag aboard the USS Midway

As an American we should take moments each day to honor and thank our military, on Memorial Day we should take moments to honor those that paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. The same freedoms that so many take for granted.

This Memorial Day weekend was one of pride, inspiration and humility. I am proud to be an American, proud to be the wife of a US Soldier, I am inspired daily by our brave men and women in uniform, I am inspired by the families that carry on at home whether their service member is deployed or has fought their last battle on earth and I am humbled to have so many friends that walk each day with the pride of a nation walking behind them.

Saturday I was part of a day aboard the USS Midway. As both a Board Member and Volunteer with the Got Your Back Network I was excited to spend day of fun with 6 families of our fallen military. I was honored to speak to each before the event and more so to get to know each at the event. From watching the group in flight simulators going upside down (and secretly waiting for someone to get sick), to rocking out watching Kenny Loggins... it was a priceless night.

Monday Krystina and I went over to the Northwood Memorial and Gratitude Wall in Irvine. If you have never visited this wall you must. To honor the American service men and women who have died in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq through the construction and maintenance of a permanent memorial bearing their names. I spent the morning photographing the names of the husbands I knew through their wives. Husbands I had learned more about in talking to their wives than I knew about husbands that were still with us. Then we went back for the 6pm Memorial... touching. I was asked to read 10 names, 10 names of service members that had been killed since October 2010. There were far too many of us in line, reading 10 at a time. Upon finishing I went to light candles in their honor, I met a Gold Star Wife. I couldn't help but hug this woman more tightly that you do a random stranger because she wasn't random. She was a woman who's husband was taken for her for my freedom. He was taken from her in the country, on the soil that my husband boots currently walk in. We spoke briefly afterwards and all I could say was thank you. I was humbled.

Please remember our military, their families and their sacrifice each day.

Nominate your Hometown Hero!

2011-05-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

Know someone who deserves to be honored as a Hometown Hero? An active-duty or retired service member or supportive spouse? A firefighter, police officer, or first responder? Your child’s teacher? A child that is making a difference?

These guests will be honored during a special celebration on the Heineken Grandstand Stage by KyXy’s Sam Bass and U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander and humanitarian, Dr. Andy Baldwin with Got Your Back Network – a nonprofit organization providing assistance to families of fallen soldiers. Take part in a special salute, lead by Andy Baldwin, to those who have served our country as well as civilian servants, family members, Fireman, Police, etc. End the evening with a performance by REO Speedwagon with the Navy Band Southwest and Fireworks!

Click HERE to submit your nomination.

For more details, visit San Diego Fair

A great Long Beach weekend

2011-05-24T10:23:00.000-07:00

I love being Mrs Southern California! I love being able to teach my daughter about life, understanding and equality. This weekend we served dinner to the homeless, cleaned the beach and I partcipated in the Long Beach Pride Parade. I am very grateful to have this opportunity!

Krystina and I, along with Justin Rudd and several other C.A.T. Volunteers served dinner at the LB Rescue Mission

Friday night at the Long Beach Rescue Mission

Bright and early the Long Beach and Southern California titleholders were at the Beach Cleanup in Belmont Shores

Rykiah and I passing out bags and gloves

Krystina was SO proud of her bag of trash!

Sunday was the Long Beach Pride Parade

An estimated 75000 people in attendance and over 200 parade entries to support love and equality

The San Diego Padres and Got Your Back Network!

2011-05-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to see some baseball!? The San Diego Padres are inviting families of our fallen to come out and enjoy a baseball game at Petco Park in San Diego. We are still planning and would like to have as many families as possible attend. All games are during the week at 7:05 and we currently have dates the end of May and in June.

If you are a surviving spouse and would like to join us please email me at shanaksmith@yahoo.com

Detroit Mission Stars invites you to a Day at the Zoo

2011-05-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

DETROIT MISSION STARS – Nat’l Kidney Foundation Walk at the Detroit Zoo

Sunday, May 15 7:30 am (Front Gate)

DMS would like to invite families of our fallen to join them for the annual Walk at the Detroit Zoo as the first of many events to honor these families.

The zoo event will have lots of activities, freebies, and it is a great time of the year to see the animals! We plan on also coordinating a club picnic area for afternoon where we can bring a dish to pass, or you can brown bag a lunch, but they do have lots of additional BBQ choices, etc. for this event! (More on that to follow). You are welcome to stay at the zoo for as long as you wish!

The Detroit Mission Stars Roller Hockey Program has been in existence since 1995 as an upstanding organization with all in-line sanctioning bodies. This Club has endured success from its embryonic years to the current status of Pro level competition. As an organization, the Mission Stars have always taken pride in developing their young athletes to be dedicated, hard working and successful, both on and off the rink. At the same time demonstrating sportsmanship and a solid moral competitiveness. As role models, they have displayed mature judgment and have represented the organization with Respect, Dignity and Pride in All Competitions

If you are interested in attending please email me

shanaksmith@yahoo.com

for further information.

Please join us at the Ritz-Carlton, Washington DC

2011-05-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

IF you are a military widow, we would like to cordially invite you to be our VIP Guest at Our Third Annual Martinis and Makeover Event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 18, 2011 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at Degrees Bar located inside the Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, 3100 South Street N.W., Washington D.C., which is in the heart of the district's most fashionable neighborhood. Got Your Back Network is rolling out the Red Carpet for the Widows of our fallen servicemen.

Please email Kathleen : kathleen@gotyourbacknetwork.org

Kenny Loggins Memorial Day weekend!

2011-04-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you are a spouse of our fallen please reach out to me at shanaksmith@yahoo.com for VIP tickets.

AMERICAN FREEDOM FOUNDATION PARTNERS WITH GOT YOUR BACK NETWORK

FOR AMERICAN FREEDOM FESTIVAL SAN DIEGO

LCDR ANDREW BALDWIN’S GOT YOUR BACK NETWORK WILL HONOR

MILITARY FAMILIES OF THE FALLEN AT ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

SAN DIEGO, CA – The American Freedom Foundation announces a new partnership with LCDR Andrew Baldwin’s Got Your Back Network at the 2ND annual American Freedom Festival San Diego presented by SKYDEX to be held on May 28 at 7:30 p.m. aboard the USS Midway Museum. The annual fundraising event features Grammy award winning singer/songwriter Kenny Loggins with special guest, the U.S. Army’s own, Rena Marie Cunningham. In support of their mission, AFF and Got Your Back Network will recognize and acknowledge 10 families who have lost loved ones while serving our country. A very special ceremony is planned to take place during the evening.

For more information, please call (619) 398-8241 www.midway.org/freedom or www.americanfreedomfoundation.org

It's the journey

2011-04-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

It's the journey!

Now that my husband is headed back to Iraq and our 2 weeks of R&R is over I can get back to my neglected blog. The 17 days was amazing… after 9 months of waiting for him to be here he was. It was a perfect 2 weeks full of pageants, speaking, Disneyland, the Angels, Family pictures and alone time… we crammed a lot in there!

First of all congratulations to the 2011 Mrs California United States Christy Van Der Westhuisen. Christy is a former Miss and Mrs. Long Beach. I hope that she has an amazing year and kicks butt at Mrs. United States in July!

I made Top 10, winning was not my destiny. This year was a learning experience to say the least. Working full time, keeping up with Krystina’s extracurricular activities, trying to get pageant ready and competing with a deployed husband is truly an adventure. This year I have learned so much about myself, my reasons for competing and my dreams. I am blessed … how many happily married women get a year to themselves to learn about life while still being a great wife and mother.

I have learned that life is all what WE choose it to be. I have always said, “It is what it is” but my husband pointed out that it is what YOU make of it. So each day I will MAKE it a great day, a day to be proud of and to accomplish something big or small. This past year I have learned that I need to jump at each opportunity with the same tenacity as I did adoption and marriage. I can not sit and think things will happen… you can’t win the lottery if you don’t play!

I have always competed for everyone else, not me. Competed to prove that I am something… someone. This past year I have learned that I wanted to compete for me as me… no pageant patty stuff here. So I did. I stood there on stage competing as Shana Smith, the silly mom that wiggles her ears to make her daughter laugh, who lets her 7 year old cover her in makeup and jewels to dance around the house listening to Cyndi Lauper, a woman who wears her husbands dog tags, sleeps in his clothes and carries her phone everywhere just in case… a woman that believes giving to others is infinitely more important than receiving. I love community service, not because of pageants but because it’s important to give to others. I love walking in and raising money for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, volunteering at events to save music in schools, domestic violence, child abuse and my platform of saluting the families of our fallen. Service to others is the rent we pay for our room on Earth – Mohammed Ali

Sometimes we learn more in losses than in wins. Yes, I wanted to win after 2 years at 1st Runner Up but I am proud of my Top 10 finish. I am glad that I lost as just being me more than winning by pretending to be someone I am not. I am not sure when, where or if I will compete again… maybe I have learned what I needed to. It’s never been about the crown but about the journey instead. I have so many dreams that I will be acting on. I am looking forward to finishing my book, becoming a New York Times Best Selling Author. I look forward to my husband’s deployment being over this time and having our lives back to our version of normal. I am looking forward to purchasing our first home, adopting our second child and just being the Smith’s.

The crown that means the most...

I am thankful to each woman that competed. It was a wonderful weekend; Janice always holds a great pageant.

Pageant Weekend!

2011-04-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the Mrs. California United States pageant! It's the Superbowl of my year... the thing that I have been working towards. This year has been quite different as I have been going at this as a geographically single mom with my husband in Iraq. Instead of the stress of shoes and wardrobe I have been worrying about email lags and IED's, how Krystina is adjusting to life as an Army kid having no local friends that can understand. I am blessed beyond believe and have found this experience to be incredibly eye opening and wonderful.

After 2 years of being 1st Runner Up to some AMAZING Queens, I am ready for my turn in the spotlight and to represent the Golden State at the 25th Anniversary Mrs United States Pageant. I have been blessed to have the past 2 Mrs CA as wonderful friends... This title leaves BIG shoes to fill (well Libby has some tiny feet).

I want to thank everyone for their support this past year... whether it be through calls and advice dealing with our first Iraq Deployment or reminders to get eyelashes for the pageant I am grateful.

Lisa - Your an unbelievable mother and friend. Thank you for being an example of following your heart!

Libby - What can I say to the girl that proved me wrong. Thank you for calling me and just being there. This year wouldn't be the same without your signature phrase and laugh. I can't thank you enough - never a hasbeen but always a former!

Krystina - While you don't fully understand this yet... I wouldn't be making it through this deployment without you. You blatant refusal to use contractions, even in reading has made me laugh on more occasions that you know. You are my sanity and Wii dancer... my reason for getting up and heading out the door each morning. God blessed our life with you. I love you my little bug!
Grant - Ahh baby! For the past 4 1/2 years you have shown me life through a new set of glasses. You have taught me that it's not about proving my worth to others but by being myself that matters. You have shown me what love can be and that a life of happiness and love, my happily ever after doesn't just happen in books. Being your Army Wife has made me the happiest woman. Each day I wake up and smile - 7900 miles in distance but ZERO in heart. I love you today, tomorrow and always. Thank you for being mine.
To everyone in my life - family and friends - pageants are a group effort, deployment is a group effort and life is a group effort. Thank you for being my village!

Please don't forget to get those last minute votes in for People's Choice!

Each year Mrs California United States has a People's Choice winner. Last year the winner got more than $500, half of the money raised by the votes (The other half goes to the Pageant's platform of Lung Cancer Awareness). As my chosen charity, Got Your Back Network, will receive the winning portion if I am to win.

Got Your Back is an organization that assists the families of our fallen military. Our goal is to provide the children of our country's fallen soldiers the opportunity to intimately interact with our country's most talented leaders. Through diverse coordinated events along with one on one interactions with corporate executives, politicians, professional athletes, and entertainers, Got Your Back Network provides the avenue for the children of the fallen to learn and be inspired by the most successful leaders of our generation. We also link surviving spouses together for much needed support and understanding amongst eachother.

There are appx 3000 military widows from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan - Help me support the families of our fallen military through the Got Your Back Network by voting for me as Mrs California's People's Choice!

Being healthy over being skinny

2011-03-31T10:56:00.000-07:00

There is such a push on being healthy these days. I see First Lady Obama on Disney Channel during just about every commercial break talking about the importance of diet and exercise. My daughter and I LOVE to play Wii Just Dance, run with our dogs plus she is in gymnastics and will be starting soccer this summer. However on a recent visit to the doctors we were informed that on “The Chart” she is in the 88% (48” tall and 62lbs, she has gained appx 14lbs in the 4 years we have had her so I am happy!) for her weight. According to her Pediatrician anything OVER 75% is a dangerous area, so we sat in the doctor’s office being counseled on healthy habits. He asked the amount of soda and junk food she consumes, the amount of TV she watches daily and if there is ANY activity in her life.

Here is the thing – I went into menopause at 20 years old and have Hypothyroidism so diet and exercise is a requirement for me to stay fit and healthy - I have to be very diligent in this matter. My weight in numbers is not how I measure my healthy; I measure it by how I feel and how my clothes fit. That being said I hold our daughter to the same standard therefore there are no soda’s in our house, we do have carbonated WATER as a treat, no sweets and we live pretty low carb as a whole because of the weight struggle that I have. Recently my husband informed me of his enormous weight loss thanks to Spin Classes and healthy eating on his base in Iraq. As a family fitness is very important to us, besides I can’t stand to be inside on a day that it isn’t raining.

One problem we have is that her doctor looks at me, I am 5’10 and weigh about 130lbs, and assumes she has the same genes. Weight is a hereditary thing as well as lifestyle – she is adopted (birth father is Hispanic and birth mother is a mix of white and who knows what) and I know that her birth family does have issues with obesity so we are starting at a slight disadvantage. I refuse to talk to her about her weight, she is 6, but I do discuss with her eating healthy and staying active. She is already painfully aware of thin vs. fat and has been called fat by her smaller framed friends. I remind her that eating healthy is all that matters and beyond that she is fine. I will not give my daughter a complex about weight at this age… she will continue to grow taller and older and develop other healthy habits. As much as I appreciate pushing healthy living on children there is a point at which they will start to develop weight complexes especially in our young girls.

How do you stay fit? How do you discuss lifestyle with your children?

Vote for Mrs. California's People's Choice

2011-03-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Each year Mrs California United States has a People's Choice winner. Last year the winner got more than $500, half of the money raised by the votes (The other half goes to the Pageant's platform of Lung Cancer Awareness). As my chosen charity, Got Your Back Network, will receive the winning portion if I am to win.
Got Your Back is an organization that assists the families of our fallen military. Our goal is to provide the children of our country's fallen soldiers the opportunity to intimately interact with our country's most talented leaders. Through diverse coordinated events along with one on one interactions with corporate executives, politicians, professional athletes, and entertainers, Got Your Back Network provides the avenue for the children of the fallen to learn and be inspired by the most successful leaders of our generation. We also link surviving spouses together for much needed support and understanding amongst eachother.
There are appx 3000 military widows from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan - Help me support the families of our fallen military through the Got Your Back Network by voting for me as Mrs California's People's Choice!

Close to home- Too close to home

2011-03-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

This past week was a rough week for my husband. There was a casualty on his base in Iraq – an IED took the life of a brother in arms. As news spread of the casualty they were reminded in a sad way that Iraq is still a war zone. After the stop on communication was lifted, standard operating procedure when there is a casualty or injury, my husband emailed me to tell me that he was ok and that the casualty was not in our unit but on his base. Several days later I got an email from talking about the memorial service and how young this Cpl was, how everyone was concerned for his wife and his children. Please support families like the Hockings through organizations such as The Got Your Back Network, TAPS - Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors , and The Gold Star Wives to name just a few.

Cpl. Brandon Hocking, a 24-year-old soldier from Seattle, died Monday from wounds suffered in a roadside bomb attack in Iraq. He died just 10 days before his scheduled return home.

Brandon leaves behind a loving wife, Havalah Hocking, of Seattle, a 4-year-old son, Sebastian Hocking, and a 3-year-old daughter, Gwen.

This is only one of the 9 brave US military members killed in the past week fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan - Please keep these families in your thoughts.

Proud wife

2011-03-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

It's very rare to see a photo of your husband during a deployment doing what he does best. I got this surprise today when I logged on and wanted to share. My husband is a Military Police officer in Iraq - their mission is to train the Iraqi Soldiers.

Soldiers of 422nd Military Police Company, assigned to 3rd STB, 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, demonstrate the course for the marksmanship competition held at Camp Adder, Iraq. Staff Sgt. Grant Smith fires his weapon, 1st Sgt. Marcus Mitchell acts as the range safety, and Sgt. 1st Class Jason Class Obermuller calls the commands on the speaker. (Photo courtesy of 422nd Military Police Company)

I am very proud of him and can't wait for him to come home.

Support the families of our fallen military

2011-03-20T19:59:00.000-07:00

On Friday the Los Angeles reported that Military and Department of Defense-employed civilian personnel killed in action and in nonhostile circumstances are as follows:

In and around Iraq: 4,442
Afghanistan: 1,398
Other locations: 98

Reading this just breaks my heart. I know several women that have lost their husbands in these wars, I worry about my husband as he is in Iraq and the husbands of my friends as theirs are fighting these wars as well. I recently read that about half of the those men and women killed in war leave behind a spouse and/or chilren. I could not imagine what these families go through in hearing this news and starting a life without that important piece.

In January I was able to participate in Project Gratitude and meet several of these unbelievable wives and their children. We talked about their husbands and fathers, I learned about these men and could see the pride welling in their loved ones eyes. I watched their children play together somehow understanding eachother without talking. Friendships were reaffirmed or created. It was memorable to say the least.

There are several organizations that assist these families. I am on the board for the Got Your Back Network. Got Your Back works to help and support the families of our military heroes. GYBN works to bring some brightness, joy, comfort and encouragement to military families who feel adrift or are facing a difficult time in their lives. We offer military families dealing with the ultimate loss a way to see a brighter day through a variety of special events, activities, mentoring and guidance services.

The objective of GYBN is simple yet vital one. We want to make sure every military family who has suffered the ultimate loss knows that they're not alone.

Please help the families of our fallen http://gotyourbacknetwork.org/

Pageant Weight... whats yours?

2011-03-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

As a pageant girl for as long as I can remember, between beauty pageants and bikini contests I have always heard of and competed at a certain ‘Pageant weight”, as do most contestants. Back in my teens it was easy to keep a certain weight, then I hit started menopause at 19 years old and losing weight became a nightmare. My non competition weight would increase after each competition cycle, I found myself living in ‘mom jeans’ and sweaters to hit my pooch. When I started working with Hawaiian Tropic I had work to maintain a lower weight all the time as we worked all year long and for 4 years I was competing with 18 year olds. I was at the gym 2 times a day plus counted calories religiously… I barely ate to keep around 115-120lbs (I am 5’10). Then my daughter came and I started a new relationship. I gained 40lbs in 6 months and no longer fit into my wedding gown so just 9 weeks before my wedding I started running and crash dieting just so my gown fit. I had always learned how to be thin in a very unhealthy way. Crash diets, diet pills, crazy amounts of cardio to stay thin… well no more.

As a mother I want my daughter to be healthy, to be proud of her curves and her body. When my husband deployed my goal was to get into the best shape of my life and be healthy. I want to have a long and happy life with my family so being lean and doing it the right way is the only way to go.

With the Mrs California United States pageant just a few weeks I have tightened up my healthy eating but not to a starvation place. I have replaced sugary desserts with fruit, Starbucks with GreenTea and Pizza with… grilled chicken. At 5’10 I know what a healthy place is for me and where I am comfortable. I have finally learned that a woman should have curves, that teaching my daughter to be healthy means I have to be healthy as well and that living a healthy lifestyle negates the need for crash dieting. I have embraced my curves, my soft spots and am proud of every wrinkle.

What do you do to get to your competition weight? Do you think it’s an unhealthy weight?

40 Day Challenge

2011-03-11T11:57:00.000-08:00

In life we, as women, tend to think we are Superwomen… which admittedly most of us have to be in our lives. We have husbands, jobs, children, community responsibility in addition to our own needs. I realize how busy life has gotten recently and found a way to recenter life a bit. Krystina and I have chosen to take Justin Rudd’s 40 Day Challenge… it started Wednesday. We were challenged to give up 4 things for 40 days, then an optional category for things like calling friends, coffee dates, working out, enlightenment. I thought long and hard about my 4 items and the optional category because I wanted to make sure that it was worth it and not just giving up something I don’t like (fish or brussel sprouts).

I decided to give up the following 4 things:

Soda

Pizza... Friday Night Pizza Night

Ice Cream

My Skinny Camel Macchiato

My optionals are:

120 minutes more sleep at night
50 squats daily
50 lunges daily
30 minutes of cardio daily
I will clean my closet
I will clean my garage
I will smile more
I will think about my purpose in life daily

Krystina chose to give up her weekly pizza and asparagus (tried to explain that she already hates it, to which she responded that’s why I gave it up so you can’t make me eat it. Love kids!)

She has also agreed to do 80 sit ups every night and 30 push ups. She also wants to smile more and keep her room clean.

I am so excited to have these next 38 days to really refocus life and do it along with my angel makes is so special. With my husband coming home for his mid tour leave in a few weeks this couldn’t have come at a better time.

What are you giving up for the Challenge or Lent?

Zooma Women's Race Series

2011-03-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

ZOOMA Women’s Race Series works with a charity partner in each city. 2011 charities include Team in Training, the world's first, best and largest charity sports training program; Got Your Back Network, a charity that connects with military families who have lost a parent or spouce while serving our country; and Wounded Warrior Project whose purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of injured service members.

Got Your Back will be partnering up for 2 of their upcoming races, Annapolis, Maryland and Denver, Colorado.

About Zooma Women's Race Series:
Imagine a powerful sea of women on the move--encouraging fellow runners and celebrating personal running triumphs. Picture a post-race party and expo all wrapped up in one memorable “after-party expo” where these strong goal-oriented women come together for well-deserved partying and pampering. This is ZOOMA Women’s Race Series presented by New Balance.

ZOOMA Women’s Race Series is an exciting new concept in women’s running that celebrates the power and beauty of all women.

Purpose is to promote women’s and girls’ health and fitness by encouraging them to participate in a challenging and fun running event

Pampering amenities and exciting entertainment with a “girls’ weekend” atmosphere
Inaugural event held in Annapolis, MD on June 1, 2008 attracted over 1,600 runners
ZOOMA welcomes both men and women to participate in all ZOOMA events.
2011 events will be held in Austin, TX, Annapolis, MD, Colorado Springs, CO, and Atlanta, GA

Please help Got Your Back by either volunteering to help at one of these event or by running and raising funds. The event details are as follows:

ZOOMA Annapolis Half Marathon & 10K

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Location: Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
7:00 a.m. half marathon and 10K start time

7:15 a.m. kids fun run start time

Run a fantastic course through historic Annapolis and over the Naval Academy Bridge. Then celebrate with your friends at a fun After-Party Expo in Navy Stadium!

ZOOMA Colorado Half Marathon & 10K

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Cheyenne Mountain Resort, Colorado Springs, CO
Start time: 7:00 a.m.

Run a challenging course through beautiful Colorado Springs, then celebrate in style at an awesome post race party at Cheyenne Mountain Resort!

Got Your Back Network Event - LVN2BWELL

2011-03-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

The LVN2BWELL event in St. Louis combines two of founder Dr. Andy Baldwin's passions; GYBN and health & wellness. The event starts with a kick-off on March 26th and runs for a week. You can learn more at LVN2BWELL. GYBN charity will benefit from funds raised at the kick-off. We are inviting widows of fallen soldiers to the kick-off.

The LVN 2B WELL WEEK came together because of doctors and industry leaders pushing for the POWER of "WE", which meant bringing health & wellness industries together so they can powerfully impact and increase awareness as a force in the community.

This event will promote both Saint Louis, the Midwest and the hundreds of unique and quality health and wellness industries within it. This event gives both tourists and city residents the opportunity to experience "the most innovative" in health, fitness and wellness services, products and activities in packages or more affordable rates.

This is an ambitious goal that we hope will begin to solve the challenges within generations with the hope that living healthy becomes an instrumental part in living life.

Be a part of an initiative that was created to help educate, honor, learn, share, enjoy, and explore the many diverse industries completely devoted to health & wellness.

Be part of a movement that will grow each and every year.

Got Your Back Network

2011-03-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

I have been on the board for the Got Your Back Network for the past year. I love this organization. The goal of Got Your Back is to assist families of our fallen military. Estimates show that there are approximately 3000 widows from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, many of those with children.

In January I helped with Project Gratitude II, an incentive taking 8 widows and their daughters to Las Vegas for the Miss America Pageant. A HUGE THANK YOU to sponsors by American Airlines, The Venetian and Planet Hollywood for their generous asistance in making this a once in a lifetime trip for these families. I feel blessed to have met these women and their children, looking forward to our next meeting.

Military Wives are a supportive group of women, regardless of branch and rank your biggest ally when you need them. I have received so much information, support and understanding from wives, who else knows what it feels like to be afraid, lonely and away from your love more than someone else that has or is experiencing it. Thank you to those amazing women that serve at home while their husbands are not.

Got Your Back Network has the very important mission of providing services to families of fallen soldiers. U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Andy Baldwin (@andybaldwin) founded Got Your Back Network (@GotYourBackNet) with an impressive mix of Board Members and Advisors that share the common goal of providing these children with the opportunity to fulfill their individual dreams.

While we encourage you to donate what you can, Andy also recognizes the power of social media to affect change and spread messages. We kindly ask you to become a fan of the foundation on Facebook, and send a Tweet to your followers about the good work they're doing in our community. With your help, you can inspire connections for corporate sponsorships, individual donations, grants from foundations, business services, and much more… and the only thing you need to do is do what you do best: SHARE.

In September we will be holding Martini's and Makeovers in Laguna Beach at the Ritz Carleton. As more information comes out I will be spreading the word. In the meantime, please help us with our upcoming events by contacting us through the website Got Your Back Network:
Zooma Womens Race Series in Denver and Anapolis
St Louis LVN2BWELL
Martini's & Makeovers DC

Thank you for helping us spread the word and supporting the families of fallen soldiers.

From Fashion Shows to Cookies~

2011-03-08T08:56:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was another crazy busy one!

Saturday was so much fun. Krystina and I woke up for our fun Mommy & Me Donuts and Starbucks morning, then she got to spend a Grammy day while mommy headed to Long Beach.

I spent the morning with Miss Southern California Nicole Dona, Mrs. California US Libby Thomas, former Mrs. California US 2007 Tracie Stafford and former Mrs. International Rebekah Negrete at the annual Children’s Benefit League Fashion Show. I have been blessed that this was my 3rd year participating in this fabulous show. I love being able to help a wonderful charity and get to spend some quality girl time as well. Then Nicole and I were off to the Long Beach Mardi Gras parade where we met up with Mrs Long Beach Katy Boyce, Miss Long Beach Monique Villa, Miss Teen Long Beach Rykiah Parks and Little Miss Long Beach Sidney Newman.

This parade started at the Long Beach Aquarium and went around the bay. We got to ride in the pedi cabs and throw beads to all of the parade goers. Everyone had a great time~ We were also able to bond a bit as sister titleholders.

After that, this mommy was headed to a Girl Scout booth sale with her Daisy daughter to sell some girl scout cookies! So much fun watching our little girls give their best sales pitches to shoppers at Ralphs! I think being a mommy is the most rewarding thing a person can do. I am so glad that I get to be involved as her Troop’s co-leader as well.

Sunday started with some much needed tidying up, my husband is set to be home for a visit from Iraq next month. Then Krystina and I were off to the National Spelling Bee in Long Beach. After 4 hours and 10 rounds the field of 54 participants was narrowed down to 1 5th grade girl winning with the correct spelling of the word ‘colloquial’. All of the spellers should be extremely proud of themselves… I was truly impressed with the caliber of young people we met that day. Afterwards the titleholders, their families and the volunteers headed to Starbucks for some hot drinks and downtime.

I must thank Justin Rudd, Ralph Millero and all of the Long Beach and Southern California titleholders and their families for this wonderful experience. I love being Mrs. Southern California, I love supporting the wonderful causes through C.A.T. and supporting my own platform and causes. Being an advocate for change among victims of domestic violence as well as supporting widows of our fallen has been and will continue to be a passion of mine that I am proud to stand up for. I am looking forward to the next year and all the opportunities it brings.

Pictures to come

Human Options is turning 30! Help me recognize this milestone

2011-03-01T09:29:00.000-08:00

I have been on the council for yHope for over a year. The purpose of yHOPE is to bring together a group of like-minded young professionals interested in making an impact within their community on behalf of Human Options. The main objective for this group is to provide an opportunity for members to enjoy hands-on, family-oriented activities for client families; to engage young people in a networking circle; and to build a long-term relationship with the Human Options organization, family and its mission.

Human Options is an organization based in Irvine that assists families affected by domestic violence.

yHope - yHope is planning a 30th birthday celebration for Human Options, an organization that assists victims of domestic violence. As a survivor I wish I had known places like this existed or I may not have had to sleep in my car when I left.

To attend the celebration or donate, 30th Birthday Celebration

Volunteerism!

2011-02-24T08:03:00.000-08:00

If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere.” Frank A. Clark

As a survivor of domestic violence, the daughter of a survivor... the Niece of a breast cancer survivor and the Granddaughter of an amazing man that died of heart disease, I know that I have a purpose.

My purpose is to help others, to make a difference. You can make a difference today by donating to so many different organizations that help others. You can donate your time or your money... both are equally important.

There are 3 current programs that I am seeking financial donations for however will be looking for physical volunteers shortly!

Avon Walk for Breast Cancer - My 4th year walking for 6 AMAZING women. I am honored each year to spend 2 days walking for a cure to a disease that affects 1 woman every 3 minutes! I walked for 6 amazing women who were my inspiration and my hero:

My Aunt Judy

Marji Barks

Shelley Kehoe

Mrs. Guide

Alma Brown

Nuala Wisdom

To donate to my upcoming walk, 39.3 x 4!

The Got Your Back Network - This organization assists families of fallen service members. As a military wife and a supporter of our troops and their families this is a program that is necessary.

To volunteer or donate to these families or upcoming events, Got Your Back Network

yHope - yHope is planning a 30th birthday celebration for Human Options, an organization that assists victims of domestic violence. As a survivor I wish I had known places like this existed or I may not have had to sleep in my car when I left.

To attend the celebration or donate, 30th Birthday Celebration

Take the time to pay it forward - you can change the world just one person at a time!

LOVE the weekends!

2011-02-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

I LOVE the weekends whether my husband is here or deployed weekends are fabulous (definitely more so when he is home obviously). This weekend was no exception.

*As a sidenote – with the title and all the responsibilities I have had the great pleasure of sharing them all with my daughter. I am blessed that Little Miss So Cal and Little Miss Long Beach have amazing moms that have helped me out in wrangling at events if need be *

Saturday was the monthly Beach Clean-Up in Belmont Shores where we met Misty May-Treanor. She was so sweet and took photos with just about everyone there. She also spoke about the importance of keeping the beach clean and giving back to our communities. We were so glad that it didn’t rain on us and was even nice and sunny. The Beach Clean-Up is the 3rd Saturday of every month rain or shine, meeting on the beach at Granada and Ocean.

From there Krystina and I were off to walk in the 1st Annual Red High Heel Walk for Heart Health Awareness. WOW! There were over 150 there supporting the cause walking a mile down 2nd Street in high heels! There were a few sprinkles on us as we walked but the weather really held out for us. Thank you to LaStrada’s for having a wonderful heart healthy buffet waiting at the end. I have walked the 40 mile Walk for Breast Cancer 3 times without so much as a hot spot on my feet… but I was not so lucky on Saturday. I have 2 pretty sizable blisters from my beautiful red shoes… but the pain of that is much less than a heart attack or losing a loved one.

At this event I was able to meet Julie Winkle, Miss Santa Clarita, whom I had heard so many wonderful things about. She was so sweet and it’s wonderful that we even have a common friend; I am looking forward to pageant weekend and getting to know her better. I was also able to spend some time with Rachel Richards, Miss Minneapolis International. The pageant community brings along with it some wonderful friendships.

Then our amazing SUNDAY! Sunday is usually our cleaning day, or Field Day to our military. Yesterday was a small exception as we cleaned and had other things to do. Krystina wanted a play date, so she got one. One of her Daisy friends had a birthday party so Krystina was off for a few hours. Then she headed to Grammy’s for a sleep over while mommy went the Father Daughter Dance.

The Father Daughter dance was so touching and special for both the dad's and their daughters. Seeing all of the fathers with their little girls was adorable. I will admit when they were slow dancing to Butterfly Kisses I got a little teary eyed thinking about Krystina and her daddy. I was able to share this time with my sister titleholders, Miss Long Beach, Miss Teen Long Beach, Little Miss Long Beach and Little Miss Southern California. Being part of this group of ladies is more than I can ask for.

Krystina and I are both looking forward to this week; between her gymnastics and Daisy meetings and my work and kickboxing classes we will be very busy but with each new week we are one week closer to my husband’s vacation from Iraq. It’s been a long 7 months since we have seen him, so the next 2 months should go by quickly.

Red High Heel Walk

2011-02-18T09:23:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I will be participating in the 1st Red High Heel Walk for Heart Health Awareness! Please join me and the other 2011 titleholders along with Justin Rudd and The C.A.T. to bring awareness for heart health!

My Red High Heels!

Each day, hundreds upon hundreds of Americans sacrifice the comfort of shoes for the style of heels.

For one hour next Saturday, residents in Long Beach — women and men — are being asked to walk down Belmont Shore’s Second Street corridor in heels — not for comfort or style, but for heart health awareness.

“Basically, this is brand new,” said Justin Rudd, founder of the Community Action Team (CAT). “I’ve seen other high heels walks and I know in the U.K. (United Kingdom) they do one for breast cancer (awareness) and they all wear pink high heels. So because this is Heart Health Month and I have been both affected and know people who have been affected by heart health issues, I decided to bring awareness and money to that cause.”

So, come noon on Saturday, Feb. 19, Rudd will be encouraging residents to take to Second Street with him in bright red high heels, ready to walk a mile loop along the businesses in Belmont Shore.

“We’re trying to get men and women of all ages to wear red high heels,” he said. “If they can’t do that, then they are welcome to wear red shoes.”

For each walker in red heels, CAT will donate $10 for local heart health programs — each person in non-heel red shoes will have $5 donated for their walking. CAT will donate up to $5,000 if enough people participate.

The walk will begin at La Strada, 4716 Second St., and loop around to Bay Shore Avenue and back.

“It is a leisure walk along the sidewalk — we’ll be stopping at every pedestrian crossing,” Rudd said.

There will be an after-walk celebration hosted by La Strada, with some food and drink deals.

So far, Rudd said he is optimistic on the response, and that he is hopeful there might even be a few men taking to the streets with him — although finding the right heels has been a challenge.

“I’m going to do my best to walk in the event in red heels,” he said. “I don’t wear heels so I don’t know if it’s doable. Friends who are girls have told me it’s doable if it’s not a run. I’m hoping I can finish.

“It may be painful, but so are heart attacks. If have a blister for a few days — that’s nothing compared to the danger or the pain associated with some people and their hearts.”

Participants are encouraged to spray paint heels and shoes that are not red — and to accessorize with as much red as possible. The walk is free and will take place at noon on Saturday, Feb. 19. For more information, e-mail Justin@JustinRudd.com.

Father/Daughter Dance

2011-02-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

A Father and his daughter share a special bond, something that is different and special. for the 6th year Justin Rudds C.A.T. will hold it's Father/Daughter Dance.

Krystina and her daddy on their Saturday Skype Hot Cocoa date

The day daddy deployed to Iraq

MORE THAN 50 couples are expected to attend the fifth annual Long Beach Father/Daughter Dance hosted by Justin Rudd and his nonprofit 501c3 Community Action Team (C.A.T.).

The dance will take place Sun., Feb. 20, 2011, from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. at the expansive, carpeted community hall of Bay Shore Church on The Toledo (@ Nieto Ave.) in Belmont Shore. Rudd says more than $1,500 is expected to be raised from ticket sales for C.A.T.

IT WILL BE a special, area-wide, semi-formal evening for fathers and daughters of all ages. The evening was complete with decorations, old-fashioned refreshments, wholesome music, girls in dresses, dads in ties, fathers giving corsages, and daughters learning how a gentleman treats a lady -- all to benefit great environmental, youth and animal welfare programs in our area.

ATTENDEES will enjoy party classics provided by DJ DanaT, and Happy Tails to You is the music and dance contest sponsor. Music will include dance hits like "Livin La Vida Loca", "Hokey Pokey", and "Conga", as well as tunes by Mylie Cyrus and other pre-teen and teen musical sensations.

COUPLES WILL enjoy home-baked goodies from moms, and other delights provided by C.A.T. Couples will also enjoy complimentary prom-styled photos by Lei Wang and Justin Rudd that will be available online from a link on this Web page after the event.

PRIZES will be awarded to winners of various dance contests throughout the night for dads and daughters. Awards are sponsored by Happy Tails to You.

FATHERS AND GRANDFATHERS have an opportunity to take their daughters or granddaughters out for dancing to party classics. There is no age requirement, so young and old are able to enjoy the evening. Girls may also be accompanied by their uncle, guardian or an adult relative.

MOMS ARE invited to spectate in the back of the room at the dance for the last 15 minutes ONLY

Yappy Hour and the Bulldog Beauty Contest

2011-02-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday was the Yappy Hour at the Long Beach Shelter... My husband gave us very strict instructions NOT to come back with anything breathing. Of course this is in response to our last shelter trip that resulted in Roger, our cute pound puppy.
I will admit that I told him that we got a Mastiff puppy... and kept him going through a few emails. haha.

Krystina and I had such a good time and I am very grateful to Little Miss Long Beach's mom Jeanette for helping me with Miss K this weekend.

Then Sunday was the Bulldog Beauty Contest. Now in it's 8th year... it's the LARGEST gathering of bulldogs in the world I believe. What a wonderful event to judge. As the 2011 titleholders we had a tough job of being on the other side of the table judging over 300 dogs from a few months to 16 years old. After a long day and a sunburn all the winners were picked. Another wonderful Haute Dogs event and 4 beautiful winners!

One of the youngest entries

Most Beautiful Bulldog

Best Smile

Valentine's Day Yappy Hour & Card Contest for Abused & Abandoned Shelter Pets

2011-02-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Are you creative with a love of animals?

HAUTE DOGS and Justin Rudd! are sponsoring the 2nd annual handmade Valentine's card contest for Long Beach-area students (K-12) to create loveable Valentine's cards for the 200+ dogs and cats housed at the Long Beach Animal Care Services shelter. More than 500 cards were submitted last year. Click for photos.

CARDS from adults are encouraged, too, but will not be judged in the contest. Rudd says, "There are hundreds of dogs and cats in our city who are looking for love and affection while waiting for forever homes. Let's show them our love this season. We encourage classrooms, scout groups, church youth groups, and other organizations to create cards for the animals." Cards should be mailed or hand-delivered to Long Beach Animal Care Services, 7700 E. Spring St. (MAP) Long Beach, CA 90808, on or before 2:30 p.m. on Sat., Feb. 12. Students should place their name, grade level, teacher's name and school name on the very back of the card. Cards will not be returned.
TOP PRIZE: The student who crates the winning card will receive a pizza party for their friends, classroom or group (up to 30 people). Judging will take into consideration the grade level of the student, and will be based on creativity, originality, and first impression. The folded cards should not exceed 5x7, and should not include any particular animal’s name. Volunteers will randomly assign a card to an animal’s kennel. The goal is to get at least one card per animal that will be attached to each pet's kennel through the Valentine's Day weekend. In addition to the regular shelter hours, the public is invited to come view the cards and their creators, spend time with the animals and "fall in love" during a special Yappy Hour from 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Sat., Feb. 12), where punch and cookies will be served to human guests, soft love songs will be playing, the shelter animals will receive special Valentine's goodies, and awards will be announced for the best Valentine's cards. The Yappy Hour will surely allow visitors to find a 4-legged sweetheart to love. Regular hours are Wed. thru Fri. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sat. thru Sun. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The shelter is closed Mon. and Tues.
Direct any questions to Justin@JustinRudd.com. Visit http://longbeach.gov/acs

Bulldog Beauty Contest

2011-02-10T15:37:00.000-08:00

I LOVE pageants and I LOVE animals... this pageant takes both my loves and rolls them up into a beautiful and slobbery event!

Please join me Sunday February 13 as I help judge the 2011 Bulldog Beauty Contest!

THE BULLDOG BEAUTY CONTEST will be the main event at this year's Haute Dog Pageants produced by beauty pageant and bulldog enthusiast Justin Rudd. In addition to the Bulldog and French Bulldog contests, Rudd will include pageants for Pugs and Senior Dogs (all breeds/mixes, ages 10 & older). Contestants ranging in age from four months to 17 years are expected to again travel to Long Beach, from as far as northern California, Las Vegas, and Arizona, to compete for the coveted 2011 titles.

The quadrupeds will parade down a grassy runway that included a 100-ft. red carpet runway, flanked by hundreds of gawkers and a panel of real-life beauty queen judges. Judging was based on charm, first impression, face, figure and personality.

The Haute Dog Pageants are a fundraiser for Rudd's nonprofit 501c3 Community Action Team (C.A.T.) of which "Haute Dogs" and "Operation Santa Paws" are a part. Each dog in the contest donates a fee and several thousand dollars was raised from entry fees, front-row seating rentals along the runway and vendors space rentals.

Leave plenty of time for parking - more than 1,000 spectators are expected again this year

Teen Girl Raped on Her Way To School - Tustin, CA

2011-02-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

Police need the public's help finding her attacker.

Sketch

TUSTIN (KTLA) -- Police in Tustin are looking for a man who sexually assaulted a teenage girl on her way to school.

The assault happened just after 7 a.m. on Monday near the intersection of Red Hill Avenue and Mitchell Street.

Police say the suspect kidnapped the girl at gunpoint, and forced her to walk to a nearby vehicle, where he sexually assaulted her.

The vehicle is described as a black pick-up truck.

The suspect is a Hispanic male about 25 to 35 years old, with a muscular build, short brown hair and a mustache. He may have a scar or mark under his right eye.

He was wearing a black leather jacket and had a black handgun.

Human Options Announces New Chair and Board Members

2011-01-27T13:55:00.000-08:00

Irvine, Calif. – Human Options recently announced Kate Duchene as the organization’s 2011 Board Chair. Scharrell Jackson, James McDonald and Kelly Paul have joined the Board of Directors.

Since joining Resources Global Professionals in 1999, Kate Duchene has helped build and oversee the multinational professional services firm’s infrastructure, processes and talent base. Under her executive leadership, Resources has continued to thrive since going public in December 2000 and has expanded its operations to serve a diverse global client base of more than 2,200 companies, including more than half of the Fortune Global 100. Kate has served on Human Options Board of Directors since 2001 and she is also a member of the North Tustin chapter of National Charity League.

Scharrell Jackson is the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer of Squar Milner where she teaches a Leadership Training Program. Talley Jackson also serves on the Board of Directors for Working Wardrobes and Girls Inc. and is a mentor to underprivileged women and youth.

James McDonald is managing partner of the Irvine office of the national labor and employment law firm of Fisher & Phillips LLP. He co-founded the office in 1990 and it has since grown to become the largest labor and employment law firm in Orange County. He just completed more than 13 years on the Board of Directors of the Irvine Chamber of Commerce during which time he served a term as Chair of the Board and as general counsel to the chamber.

Kelly Paul has been a volunteer for Human Options for over three years. She has served on the Serious Fun and Fall Luncheon committees and is a founding member of the yHOPE council. Kelly has recently begun a new career founding, Om My Soul, a yoga studio filled with spirit.

For 30 years Human Options has been working to stop the cycle of domestic violence. The organization’s vision is a community in which every woman and every child is safe in their own home every single day. Last year Human Options served more than 20,000 individuals in various programs proven in independent studies to be highly effective at changing and saving lives. The organization provides a full continuum of services to stop the violence – from prevention and early intervention programs to emergency shelter and long-term transitional housing and follow up support. Visit www.humanoptions.org or call 949.737.5242 for more information.

For further information call 949.737.5242 or visit www.humanoptions.org.

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

2011-01-19T11:16:00.001-08:00

Did you know that 40% of teenage girls 14-17 report knowing someone their age that has been hit or beaten by a boyfriend? DO you want to get involved in your community?

Please visit

www.loveisnotabuse.org

www.thatsnotcool.com/tools

www.thatsnotcool.com

Project Gratitude and Miss America

2011-01-17T08:12:00.000-08:00

The GYBN and Volunteers

What an amazing weekend. I am humbled and inspired by each of the families that I met. I came home yesterday thinking about the weekend and all of the memories that I will carry with me forever… I also thought about the new ‘family’ that was created. From watching the kids play, the helicopter trip, sash making, Miss America and then the after party I can’t pick anything that stands out more. Well that’s not entirely true losing my earring in the toilet or my pride at not throwing up on the helicopter are two giggle worthy events… but so is watching the girls make their own sashes and get their hair done, using the wrong knife for dinner along with another mom, and sitting on the couch talking about kids and a baby on the way. I can not thank these women and their children enough for allowing me to be part of this.

Kathleen, Toni Russell and I with the gift bags

The gift bags....

Military Princess Apparel

Thank you Crown Chic for donating these beautiful necklaces

Thank you to Military Princess Apparel - Girl ExtraOrdinaire

Thank you to Opportunity Cost Exchange

Ali Koppel and I at the Venetian

Sundance Helicopters gave us all a ride over the strip

With Col. Sutherland, Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at Miss America

Thank you to our Project Gratitude Sponsors

2011-01-12T08:12:00.000-08:00

Got Your Back Founder Andy Baldwin & Executive Director Kathleen Gagg with some of last years participants

Some of the girls modeling their handmade sashes before last years pageant

Thank you to our Project Gratitude sponsors!

Twenty bereaved widows and daughters of fallen military members will attend the Miss America Finals this weekend courtesy of an initiative called Project Gratitude. This will be the Second Annual Project Gratitude Event.

The ladies will travel from around the country courtesy of American Airlines to take part in pageant festivities at Planet Hollywood as well the Venetian and a number of special events planned specifically for the women.

The event was the idea of Sharlene Hawkes, ‘Remember My Service’ president and a former Miss America. With the assistance of Darci Hansen, Founder/Editor-In-Chief of Elan Woman magazine, the friends created ‘Project Gratitude.’

“This is all about remembering the great service and ultimately, the great sacrifice that so many families make to preserve our way of life, and defend our liberties. Giving these women a royal weekend is the very least we can do for America’s greatest treasures and I am so thrilled that we are continuing this tradition.” said Hawkes.

The Project Gratitude organizers reached out to Got Your Back Network knowing our military survivors would benefit from a weekend of bonding and sharing a healthy, fun experience. We are so incredibly humbled and appreciative of all our sponsors for this years event.

Thank you to the following:

Miss America Organization
American Airlines
Sands Las Vegas Foundation
The Venetian
The Palazzo
Planet Hollywood
CLS Las Vegas
Zedena Designs
Sundance Helicopters
Value City Furniture
Blue Man Group
Military Princess Apparel
Starbucks Coffee
OCTan2U
Crown Chic Boutique
Lulu Lemon
Opportunity Cost Exchange
Jade Phoenix

Governor and First Lady Service Awards

2011-01-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

This year I am honored to be nominated for the Governor and First Lady Service Award for the state of California. The Governor and First Lady values the significant contributions volunteers make in California communities and encourages more people to serve. Recognizing and honoring volunteers sets a standard for leadership, service, encourages a sustained commitment to civic participation, and inspires others to make service a central part of their lives.
I did not know this award existed until I was told that I had been nominated. I have always served others as a life choice not for the recognition. I am so excited to be attending the luncheon this weekend with many other nominees, many from the pageant community.
Pageantry is a wonderful way to cheer eachother on, to build eachother up and to delight in each victory. My titles have enabled me to reach more people and broaden my platform of domestic violence awareness and education. I am grateful for the doors it has opened and the individuals that I have met.

I will be posting pictures after the event. Thank you to those that nominated me, I am truly humbled.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-03T23:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2011! I have been writing this blog since 2008… I can’t believe it. Over the past 2 weeks I have looked back and seen all of the amazing opportunities that I have had, the wonderful events that I have attended and been able to read about what I have done. WOW. I have been busy. In all the reading, and looking at pictures I wanted to take a moment to look back at the past year; the ups and downs of life, the people that I have met and the things that I have been blessed to be a part of.

My passion has been helping victims and survivors of domestic violence for the past several years. In 2010 I served on boards, was responsible for being the chairperson of a fundraiser and speaking to the public on the dangers of domestic violence. I started a separate blog about my life after abuse, my no holds barred thinking and how I deal with things… that has been the best therapy for me. The last year has brought me a step closer to where I want to be, to the career of my dreams.

January – Just like every other person on the planet I made my New Years Resolutions –

1. Spend more time with family and friends

2. Start my career

3. Prepare for and survive deployment

4. Get organized

5. GYM, GYM, GYM!

6. WIN THE CROWN!

7. Continue being a good mother and wife

I am happy to say that I did pretty well this year with these goals, however the ones that are not finished are being added to this year! My 2010 was pretty busy but here are the high points

February – I was asked to be a speaker at the 8th Annual Hearts in Action event for FACES. I was the first survivor of domestic violence they had on their panel and I was so honored to be part of it. I was also appointed as the Secretary for the Got Your Back Network. GYBN assists families of fallen service members. What an amazing organization that helps so many.

Hearts in Action Panel

March – In March my daughter and I did a fun mommy/daughter photoshoot that brought out some of my favorite photos of both of us. We had such a wonderful time just being us and having fun!

April – Our deployment story started as my husband left for training for his 2nd deployment with the US Army to Iraq. In April I was able to visit Millers Children’s Hospital in Long Beach and make each little girl there a princess! Many of my fellow queens donated their tiaras for this day and each little girl was simply BEAUTIFUL! I look forward to going there again!

May - The 2010 Mrs. California United States Pageant! I was so honored to be the 1st Runner up, winner of the Civic Award and Mrs. Photogenic! What a wonderful weekend… I met many wonderful ladies and forged new, lifelong friendships! May also brought the Army family day that Krystina and I attended with my husband. Being able to be a family and meet others preparing for the same thing was ideal. I was appointed the Secretary to the Board for FACES as well. We had our first Texas Hold’em event in May to raise money to help families going through divorce and family violence.

422nd MP Co Family Day

June – We had our two week break with daddy… Disneyland, an Angels game and a lot of family time was had. I couldn’t have asked for more!

July – Happy 4th of July! This year we celebrated by saying “See ya later” to my husband for his 13 month deployment. I also celebrated my 31st birthday and my grandmothers 81st among my wonderful family! I also was asked to be a special guest model at the San Diego Bridal show and hold a fundraiser to raise awareness for FACES.

50 years apart... almost to the day! Love celebrating with my gram!

September – What a month! Krystina started 1st grade, I completed my 3rd Avon Walk for Breast Cancer! 39.3 miles walked for 6 inspiring women! Volunteered for Project Playhouse and spoke at the Fullerton Rotary! The month flew by!

End of Day 1 -26.2 miles

AlLL 39.3 done!

October – Is both domestic violence and breast cancer awareness months. I spent most of the month doing events for both causes. I was able to help raise money for both and volunteer at several events. October was also the Crime Survivors Annual 5k! WOW. Patricia, the founder, asked me to release a dove in honor of my survival. I can’t put into words how I felt letting go of that bird. I will forever be grateful to her for this opportunity! I was also able to attend a taping of the Ellen Degeneres show with Michelle Obama and Jill Biden. UNBELIEVABLE!

Crime Survivors with inspiring women

November – I WON! On November 7 I won the Mrs. Southern California title! I couldn’t be more excited. Krystina and I attended 2 Veterans Day parades to honor or service members. Then came our first beach cleanup, the Long Beach Losers finals and feeding the homeless for Thanksgiving. We have SO much to be thankful for this year.

December – The Belmont Shores Christmas parade with my sister queens started the month off right! Then we welcomed Roger, our new pound puppy! Thank you to Operation Santa Paws and Justin Rudd we adopted a new family member, Roger the 8 month old puppy! With my family and friends we also celebrated a very merry Christmas and we are now ½ way through our deployment!

What a year 2010 was. I can’t begin to tell you how much I am looking forward to 2011! The best thing about being a titleholder has been sharing it all with my family. My mom has been there since my first pageant in 1988, my mother in law has made 2 of my evening gowns, watched Krystina and been there with her support since my first Mrs pageant in 2008. My wonderful husband has stood by my side, listened to conversations about butt glue, boob pads, dieting and exercise. He has held me as I cried and calmed my stressed out nerves. I am grateful each day for his support. Then there is my angel! At 6 years old my daughter understands donating and giving back, she understands that there are others that don’t have the things that she does and that people need help. My husband and I are blessed to have found each other and to have our daughter, we both know this. I want them all to know how thankful I am to have each of them through this. A queen is only as good as those surrounding her and my family and friends are the best!

Looking forward to 2011!

Operation Santa Paws

2010-12-20T13:50:00.000-08:00

Saturday was the annual Operation Santa Paws event. Justin Rudd's organization has been collecting toys and treats for shelter dogs and cats at various locations nationwide. Here in Southern California he visited 4 seperate shelters, 3 in the Long Beach area and 1 in Santa Ana. I was able to visit the Seal Beach Animal Care Center and the Animal Shelter on The City Drive in Orange. It was eye opening to say the least.

I never realized how many animals are currently in shelters, needing homes and love. This event was so touching to me that we came home with a new dog from the Seal Beach Animal Care Center. Roger is the new addition to our family - he got his Santa Paws wish of a new home for Christmas.

Please think about all of these dogs when you are looking for a pet. Remember they are forever companions, not seasonal.

Meet Roger... our new addition

Mrs Southern California fell in love... instantly!

With my little angel after a long day of doggies!

Project Gratitude needs your help...

2010-12-15T11:40:00.000-08:00

I am confident that you understand the high price of freedom. Unfortunately, there are many that forget, especially as time passes and events are forgotten. The number of Operations Iraq Freedom and Enduring Freedom casualties, as confirmed by the United States Central Command, is 5308 which many of which have left behind widows and children. On January 13th, twenty bereaved widows and daughters of fallen military members will attend the Miss America Finals weekend in Vegas, courtesy of an initiative called Project Gratitude. This will be the Second Annual Project Gratitude Event.

The Got Your Back Network is a 501(c) (3) foundation committed to returning the salute to the families of our fallen. The mission of Got Your Back Network is to provide the children of our country's fallen soldiers the opportunity to intimately interact with our country's most talented leaders. Through diverse coordinated events, Got Your Back Network provides the avenue for the children of the fallen to learn and be inspired by the most successful leaders of our generation. Our vision is to give comfort, inspire, motivate and educate the children of our most brave. Combined together, families will be armed with the tools necessary to achieve their highest potential.

The Got Your Back Network was founded by U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Andy Baldwin. Along with our other Board Members, GYBN represents an impressive mix of individual talents and professional backgrounds enabling them to provide governance of the highest quality. We also understand the necessity of providing the children with the opportunity to fulfill their individual dreams.

Please join the Got Your Back Network and Project Gratitude in returning the salute to our fallen at our upcoming event. We are currently seeking donations for a gift bag given to each young lady and their mother to commemorate this weekend. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Donate / Lend a gown for Project Gratitude

2010-12-03T15:37:00.000-08:00

On January 13th, twenty bereaved widows and daughters of fallen military members will attend the Miss America Finals weekend in Vegas, courtesy of an initiative called Project Gratitude. This will be the Second Annual Project Gratitude Event.

After a day of pampering each of our amazing young ladies and their mothers will be in need of a dress to wear for the finals of the Miss America pageant. What better way to show up in style than to be wearing a beautiful dress to compliment their look.

Please join the Got Your Back Network and Project Gratitude in returning the salute to our fallen for our upcoming event by donating or lending a gown for them to wear.

Thank you for your kindness and consideration.

Pay It Forward

2010-11-30T13:54:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had someone do something nice for you? Did you, in turn, do something nice for someone else? When I left my abuser I relied on the kindness of another to help me get back on my feet. This individual gave me a roof over my head, food in my mouth and a safety that I hadn't felt in years. There was no expectation in return, but that kindness has led me to where I am now. I am eternally grateful.

Today I ran across this Pay It Forward movement on a friends blog and thought it was a great idea. Lets try to make this season about others more than ourselves. Lets give back to our community, to people that may need just a little smile to brighten their day.

Lets see how many people are willing to do this. If you do, please post in the comment what you did. I would love to hear if something changed you or if somebody appreciated your random act of kindness.

David's 2nd Annual

Pay It Forward Day

December 1st, 2010

‘Tis the Season! A random act of kindness goes a long way so…

What can you do?

ON DEC. 1st...

• Pay for someone’s cup of coffee…

• Buy someone some groceries…
• Get the next person’s gas…
• Help someone out…
• Donate something…
• Be creative!!!

When you do something for someone there’s a good chance they’ll do something for someone else. If not, at least you’ve done a good deed for someone.

So on December 1st share some kindness and spread some joy! It can be as little as a few dollars or as much as you want. No one needs to know!

Join me, won’t you?

(I'm trying to make this a national event so spread the word. Maybe one day it'll be a nationally recognized day!)

Thanksgiving 2010... Giving Thanks

2010-11-27T20:35:00.000-08:00

First of all... I am thankful for many things in my life. I have a wonderful husband, I am a mommy, I have a great family. I am thankful to live in this country and for my home, job... the amazing people in my life. I am thankful for much more but those are my key points. I always count my blessings, just not for the holidays.
I also want to thank my beautiful daughter for her amazing idea of feeding the homeless for Thanksgiving. She has mentioned in in the past but it hasn't been possible. For those of you with children you know how much a lack of child filter can be a problem so we spent the drive talking about what it meant to be homeless. How these people didn't have a home, or clothes... some hadn't showered or eaten in days. She told me that they had come across "rough times" and that they needed help. She was so full of information on the subject. When we got to the beach, bright at early at 6:45 Thursday morning she was ready to dive in. Along with about 100 volunteers, we fed several hundred people that morning. Krystina went between Grammy and handing out drinks to me and handing out silverware and napkins. The pride I had in my daughter was no measure to the pride she had in her own accomplishment. She was so happy to be there and feel like she was making a difference. My normally shy daughter was so outgoing that day, talking to everyone. I was amazed. This was an awesome experience for all of us.

We spent the rest of the day discussing our morning and when we were going to do it again. She was so excited to Skype with daddy and tell him all about our day. Krystina also informed him that this would be our new Thanksgiving morning family tradition. Thank you to Send Me A Penny and Anthony Perez for having such a great organization that allows people of ALL ages to help out.

I hope everyone had a great day!

Send Me a Penny...

2010-11-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving has always been a family day for us. A holiday that I absolutely loved and looked forward to… sometimes even more than Christmas.

Growing up my dad started the flight of the turkey.. this has since turned into one of my favorite family traditions… one I miss so much every year. The entire day was filled with family and cooking… I ALWAYS got stuck with potato peeling (I hate potatoes!), then there would be football, parades and a LOT of eating... followed by more eating and PIE. At the table we would always talk about what we were thankful for. I moved out almost 14 years ago but made it back for holidays up until recently.

Since we have been married, Grant and I have done the same thing with Krystina and his family. We have said grace and one thing we are each thankful for. This year I am thankful for so much more than I had ever imagined. However with that being said, this year is going to be a little different. With my husband being deployed and my family all living out of state my mother in law and I decided that we would just make the whole day a little different. Every year Grant and I have discussed feeding the homeless on Thanksgiving however most soup kitchen require kids to be 14 or older. I met Anthony Perez at the Long Beach Veterans Day parade and his organization Send me a Penny feeds the homeless. Upon speaking to him I found out that Krystina can come and help so this year we will be spending our Thanksgiving feeding the homeless.

Krystina is super excited to help out and feed people. She actually took a few moments and spoke to Anthony at the parade and he explained to her that there are a lot of people without homes or food. He also told her that a lot of them are veterans. In addition, a large percentage of homeless women are victims of domestic violence. What a wonderful way to teach our daughter about service, about being thankful and possibly turn this into an annual event for the family.

If you would like to join us please do. We will be meeting at 7am in Venice at The Basketball counts 1800 Ocean Front Walk. Please bring some item of thanksgiving food to help.

Thank you!!

First official appearance - Long Beach Losers finale and awards!

2010-11-19T11:58:00.000-08:00

Last night was our first official appearance as the 2011 Long Beach and Southern California Court. First I have to say that I am beyond excited to get to know each of the girls. This year will be amazing! A sisterhood that I am so proud to be a part of now. I will always have such a soft spot for my first win. haha.

Our appearance was the awards ceremony for the Long Beach Losers. This was a 13-week program in which people did a weekly weigh in, worked out and dieted. It was so inspirational to listen to each persons story. One woman has lost over 70lbs since she started, teams that had lost in excess of 200lbs... it was unbelievable. We also got to mingle with the crowd and I was able to talk to several people, and beautiful little girls.

Saturday will be the 30-minute beach cleanup in Belmont Shores - please join us and help keep our oceans and beaches clean.

With the winning team, Team Puka

Justin Rudd talking about upcoming events

L -R : Katy Boyce, Mrs Long Beach, Monique Villa, Miss Long Beach,
Nicole Dona, Miss So Cal and Rykiah Park, Miss Teen Long Beach