Good afternoon! My goodness we are less than 2 months away from Miss Iowa, EEEEEK! I am so excited!! So much has happened since New York not only in Muscatine, but also across the State! The first weekend in April I was in a fundraising event for Child Serve called the Bubble Ball. It took place in Des Moines, and was a WONDERFUL experience! I met so many kind people and got to strut my stuff on the runway. I was a lion’s tamer... in heels. It was certainly an event to be at! Not only was it entertaining, but it was for such a beautiful cause. I was fortunate enough to meet a family that was directly effected and benefits from Child Serve. This is what makes my job so wonderful. The following week I had my official Miss Muscatine photo shoot. Ben Shirk Photography is amazing. He was such a joy to work with! We attempted to get a few shots of me on a piano, however I happen to be afraid of heights... yes, I am aware that pianos are not very high off the ground, but I was still terrified! We eventually made our way back down to the ground. AMEN! The thing I loved most about Ben was that he was willing to be creative and take chances with my photos. My favorite photo is of me praying... in my Miss Iowa gown! Absolutely stunning. THANK YOU BEN!!! Pictures to come :-) This week I made my way to Pella to speak to their Rotary Club concerning eating disorders. They were all very kind and welcoming! This was my first time speaking to an audience that was not filled with students or those openly struggling with an eating disorder. What an extraordinary gift that I was able to have an opportunity to bring awareness to this community. Not only was I able to share my platform, Indulging in Hope, I was also able to inform them of the Miss America Organization and what it stands for. I explained to them the four points of the crown and that we are the largest provider of scholarships to young women in the world. I had many of the members come talk to me after asking me questions and thanking me for sharing my inspiring story. Knowing I was able to share God’s hope and light is an indescribable feeling. Did I mention I love my job? To top off my week, I then had a fundraiser at Francesca Vitale’s in Muscatine where I raised $250 for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals! It was quite a sight to see me cooking in the kitchen and delivering a tray full of water glasses! I can’t believe I didn’t drop anything!!! I am so grateful for Francesca, Sam, and all of their wonderful staff who made it possible. Also, for all those who came out to support me and the cause. I am truly blessed. Next week I speak at schools in Des Moines AND Muscatine. Let’s not forget about Miss Iowa Orientation next weekend! Woohoo! More to come... Happy Thursday everyone!
Blessings,
Isabella
