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Today is the day I leave for Miss Minnesota week! I am excited and afraid I am forgetting something at the same time. I have double and triple checked my lists, made last minute trips to Mankato, and packed up all 6 of my suitcases. I can hear my mom scurrying around upstairs trying to get everything organized for me. But I am, of course, still laying in my jammies. 

None of what I have done this year would have been possible without the support of my amazing friends, family, and committee, so THANK YOU!

Mother - thank you for coming along to each dress fitting, stretching the budget even when we shouldn't, putting up with me when I'm tired and sassy, and knowing my talent piece by heart so you know exactly when I hit the wrong chord. You had no idea what you were getting yourself into when I said I was going to compete. Thank you for being supportive and loving throughout this entire process.

Dad - thank you for being my financial backer, my silent support, and calming Mom down when she gets too worked up. I know I spent way too much money this year. I am sooo lucky to have you (: 

Ry - even though you are 1,075 miles away, you have still been my rock throughout this year. You give me the tough love I need when I don't want to practice, but know when I need to stop because I'm over thinking it. You keep me updated on current events, and never stop supporting me. 

Jaem - thank you for being my personal shopper, fashion consultant, and person to vent to. Without you, I would probably be the most high strung contestant with weird clothes. You da best.

Joseph, Molly, and April - you three have seen me at my worst and my best. Thank you for sticking by me through everything. I am sorry for constantly talking about pageant things. (: Love you.

My committee - Christy, thank you for going on endless shopping trips with me, texting me notes of encouragement, and never letting me settle. Jen, thank you for always being there even when I need you last minute! Also, thank you for always having all the information I need when I am so scattered I don't know what is going on. Molly - thank you for being you! You have been there for me all year no matter what I need. You are a rockstar and I love you! Thank you for bringing Ellie everywhere so I can get my baby fix often (: 

The Odenbretts - thank you for being my go - to pageant family! I had absolutely no idea what I was getting myself into, and you have helped me learn so much. Sadie, thank you for being a great little sis. We have had so much fun together this year. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MY BABY SISTER QUEEN!

Lauren and Alyssa - I can always count on you two to make me giggle. Thank you for being great sister queens. Good luck this week, Lauren! I AM SO EXCITED!

Rachel - thank you for encouraging me, supporting me, and being there for me every step of the way. There is no one better I can look to in order to be the best titleholder I can be. You have been such a help this year! Love you! 

Sharri - thank you for allowing us to use your studio, being my sponsor, and just being great. You have such a busy schedule and it makes me sad that we never see each other. I am always so grateful for our 'little' chats! Thank you!! 

Brickhouse Fitness - thank you for being a great sponsor and allowing me to use your facilities and teaching me the things I need to know! 

Betty - thank you for all of my last minute trips to your house because I have had a clothing debacle and taking on every gown I have brought to you. You are a rockstar! 

Jacky Arness - thank you for giving me so many tips and words of encouragement. You always checked up on me whenever we saw each other and I loved that you cared so much! Congratulations, Miss North Dakota! I am so excited for you! 

I know I am probably forgetting so many others, but know that if you are reading this, I would not have been able to do so well without you! Thank you all!