Previous to that week I had really been struggling with the fact that I was going to have to pass on my title. When you hold a title and spend a year promoting a cause that is close to your heart, you tend to become one with your title. Being Miss Teen Earth United States 2009 was no longer an addition to my life, it has become entirely an aspect of who I am as a person. My reign as Miss Teen Earth United States was certainly the best year of my life and I am so grateful for all the opportunities that I had!
The week was full of fun events. I got to reunite with my old friends as well as make tons of new ones! The week started out with check in and fittings. The top left picture is a group shot from that morning. Then later that day it was time for orientation! The picture on the top right is a group shot before we got on the buses to leave.
We had several activities as well that were centered on giving back to the Earth. First we did a river cleanup at the Colorado River. It was incredible how much trash there was polluting that beautiful river! But with 50 girls we got it cleaned up in less than half an hour! It really goes to show that a little effort can go a long way, especially when you get together with your peers and help out together. We also had a tree planting ceremony at Bull Head City High School in Bull Head City, Arizona. Planting a tree is a great way to give back to nature. Not only that, but it allows you to leave a legacy wherever you plant one. Im so glad that we had these opportunities to help out and make a difference. I know it encouraged all of us to continue working in our communities at home as well.
Then it was time for the actual pageant! Our director Evan Skow surprised us with a beautiful rose ceremony!!! It was literally the most beautiful thing I have ever experienced in my life. I am so grateful and honored to be friends with these amazing girls that I got to share my week with. It moved me to tears to see how much they cared about me. There was so much love on that stage. Thats what pageants really are about. Its about the love, and the relationships, and all the memories that you get to make along your journey and I will NEVER forget any of these beautiful girls! They are some of the greatest girls I have ever met. Truly beautiful on the inside and outside! To all of you - I am so glad that I got to know you! You will be life long friends and I am always here if you need anything!
Then it came time to crown our NEW WINNERS!!! Siria Bojorquez and Danielle Bounds, respectively from left to right. I know I have already told both how proud I am of you but I am going to say it again. I am so proud of you guys and I can't wait to see what you will do with the title! You are both such deserving girls and I really do love you both! Welcome to the family!
Last but certainly not least, we capped off the night with an after party to celebrate a successful week and beautiful new winners. I will always look back on the memories I made with complete admiration. It was honestly the best week of my life and I am so grateful and blessed to have had such an amazing experience.
I love you all!!!
With Love,
Jolie Noelle Schamber
Miss Teen Earth United States 2009
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