Pageant Bootcamp!

Pageant Bootcamp. This combination of words sounds both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. It also sparks images of America's Next Top Model type challenges where beautiful girls in gowns and stilettos must scale walls and flip tires. Thankfully, the "pageant bootcamp" I attended was a little less intense, although just as dramatic (wink).

My New York pageant directors also produce the California and New Hampshire State Pageants. Their headquarters are in LA, so every year, they fly out their titleholders for an eventful weekend. Seriously cool. The idea behind bootcamp is to prepare us for our national competitions while also getting to know our sister queens better.

First time in the Pacific!

oh hey palm trees!

I had never been to California before, so needless to say, I couldn't wait to soak up some west coast sun. We all stayed in a gorgeous beach house on Manhattan Beach that was just steps away from the Pacific. We spent most of our time in that house taking lessons and training, but we did manage to sneak in some beach time as well!

Our first day was photo shoot madness/gloriousness. I had the privilege of working with Gail Bowman. She has an amazing editorial eye that makes every woman look like a Victoria's Secret model. We did a beauty look, a swimsuit shoot, and an editorial look. I can not wait to show everyone my swimsuit photos. Two years ago, if you told me I'd be modeling in a bikini on a California beach, I would have laughed in your face and then reached for another donut. I never thought I would be at the level of fitness or confidence required to do what I did this weekend, but I am just constantly surprising myself. And I love it!

My Miss NY Teen USA and I getting primped :)

Keylee's cooking class!

The fruits, or veggies, of our labor!

This weekend we stuck to a super healthy diet. Now, I love vegetables and lean protein and fruit, but I'm often just eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches because I am both worthless in the kitchen and poor. So, our director Keylee not only prepared some amazing meals for us, but taught us how to make them. There should have been a video camera there when all of the girls were cooking together. I'll just say, thank goodness we have other talents and day jobs.

On Sunday, we were invited to the Santa Anita Racetrack to watch some races as well the announcement of the new Ms. Racing Queen finalists. I grew up by a racetrack, but had never actually been inside one before. We were able to stand right by the finish line and take pictures with the winning horses. Best part of it all, my New York fans expressing their loyalty despite being in California ;)

I was gifted one of the jockey's goggles...and left them in Cali. oops.

I am really bummed that this weekend is over. Of course, it stinks to be heading back to cold weather and bartending shifts, but the thing I'll miss most is having days full of doing things I love. I have a goal for myself. I have a focus and I'm committed to a plan that I will work to make happen. Every day, I feel more and more grateful to be where I am. I am proud to be a part of the K2 Productions family, and I'm so thankful to them for this unforgettable experience.

Best Directors ever! Keylee and Mackenzie!