Fall

I don't think that autumn could display more beauty than on the great plains of North Dakota! I love watching the colors morph into shades of gold, red, and orange, mixed with the last remains of green from summer. As much as I love summer, I think I have to say that autumn has to be my favorite season. I love school shopping (it's even better when school doesn't follow). I love seeing little kids on the first day of school. I love the air getting crisper and campfires feeling warmer.

I didn't think that it would be so difficult to not go to school as it has been for me. This is the experience of a lifetime and I would not give it up for anything but I do miss the routine of being a college student. However, I think I'll live! haha

Wow, its been so long since I've blogged! I'm so sorry! We'll let's recap the end of summer and the beginning of fall.

Chokecherry Days in Williston was so much fun! I really enjoyed getting to meet such inspirational students and a teacher who encourages her students so much! I was able to meet Governor Hoeven that day. I was very impressed with our state's leadership.

School started all around North Dakota just a few weeks later. I started working on the Grand Forks School District to kick off my school tour! It will be a great year!

Miss America set the dates for our competition. January 26 is the final night on TLC. Be sure to watch! And so, with such news, started preparations. The Lord has sent me a great friend. Shannon Vodden, from Grand Forks, has been setting up mock interviews for me since mid-August. He is so encouraging to me! I spent a good amount of time with B. Michael Quale in Williston working on Miss America wardrobe. We found everything!! I'm very excited about all the beautiful gowns and costumes that I will be taking to Miss America.

I got very excited when Miss America informed all the contestants that we would be spending 10 days in sunny California. Los Angeles to be exact. This is mostly a "for fun" trip. TLC will be filming a reality show with 5 hours of Miss America-ness to be aired leading up to the final night of competions. We will be gone in November, which is a perfect time to savor the last remains of summer.

Well, I think that's just about it for now. Up next on my schedual is a trip to the Cities to visit with a school that wants me to come and speak at their school. I hope to also be able to spend some time with Jacqueline Johnson, Miss ND 2006. Next week is NDSU's Homecoming week and I will be a keynote speaker at the black tie celebration event!

Yes, God is very good. The year is off and running!

Blessings to all,

Ashley