tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58930492713881125012024-03-20T21:41:58.029-07:00525,600 Minutes of a Truly Blessed YearKimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-76331228541660994732013-08-06T17:53:00.001-07:002013-08-06T17:53:21.103-07:00Miss Kool-Aid Days, Signing Off<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1097996_633804663304748_3617598_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
When I started this blog, I thought the title would be cute: "525,600 minutes of a truly blessed year." Holding a title in the Miss America Organization really does provide for a blessed year; yet, I had no idea how true the title would ring a year later.<br />
Titleholders generally get a say in how much or how little they do with their title. As Miss Heartland, I didn't do much. As Miss Kool-Aid Days, I did nearly as much as I could - at least one appearance every weekend since New Years Eve. <br />
The one lesson this really drove home was that you get out of something what you put into it. <br />
When I began this last pageant season, I developed a new platform. I adopted the platform of hearing loss prevention because I lost the hearing in my left ear when I was 14. One of the biggest points I wanted to get across during my year was how hearing loss affects those who go through it.<br />
My hearing loss really affected my social life. I couldn't hear or understand what was going on and after awhile, I stopped trying to figure it out. It was clear to me I didn't fit in anymore and I was tired of trying, and failing to communicate well enough to do so. <br />
I thought the Miss America Organization would give me the perfect opportunity to not only inform people about warning signs and precautions they could take, but about how difficult it is for people who suffer from hearing loss. <br />
In the 7 years I have lived with hearing loss, I never admitted to myself that I hadn't quite overcome the social struggles that accompanied it. It became very clear that I had a lot to overcome as I got out into the community to do all of my community service. Each time I did an appearance, I felt myself open up a little more and grow a little more confident after speaking with many individuals and helping out those who need assistance. <br />
Not only do I feel eternally grateful that my year as Miss Kool-Aid helped me to regain my confidence and learn how to put myself out there, but the year also helped me find my love for volunteering. Before I started making appearances as Miss Kool-Aid Days, I didn't do much community service and I had no idea how much I loved it. Now I can't imagine my life without regular community service. With or without a new title this year, I plan to continue volunteering at various events that I find, but I also plan to begin regularly volunteering for a few organizations. I will certainly continue my work with hearing loss groups (and I hope to pick up a small bit of signing expertise), but I am also looking at working with the Special Olympics or the Munroe Meyer Institute as often as possible.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/988268_633805489971332_2031903081_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
It's strange to think that giving up my title of Miss Heartland a year ago didn't phase me, yet giving up my title as Miss Kool-Aid Days literally left me in tears more than I care to admit. I spent a lot of the weekend thinking I wasn't ready to pass on my title yet. By the time I chatted with all of the 2013 contestants Saturday morning, I felt myself becoming excited to pass on my title. I knew any one of the girls would do an excellent job carrying on the Miss Kool-Aid Days title.<br />
Yet, the tears still kept hitting, and at random times. On one instance, a board member asked if they could call me Miss Kool-Aid Days one last time, at another I was getting ready to take my final walk, and at yet another I wanted to thank the pageant people in attendance and the people of Hastings for all they have done.<br />
I later realized there were two reasons I felt such a need to cry. For one thing, I have literally put myself into being Miss Kool-Aid Days and grown so much from it, that I felt a bit of a hole knowing that everything I worked so hard for was coming to an end. With a little time to think and a chat with a dear friend, I came to realize that I did put a huge chunk of myself into the title of Miss Kool-Aid Days but that I did everything I could and gained everything I could from the title; I came to realize that it was someone else's turn to learn and grow from the experience of being Miss Kool-Aid Days. I also realized that, while there is a part of me that feels like it is missing because I put it into being Miss Kool-Aid Days, it will quickly be filled with student teaching and all of the adventures that are yet to come my way, including all the community service I plan to partake in.<br />
I also couldn't help but cry because I don't think I can possibly thank my family, friends, pageant family, and the city of Hastings enough for all they have done for me. I think there are many people who will never know how much of a difference they made in my life, and unfortunately, I think there are many people who never will know. <br />
To anyone who reads this who has been a part of my journey as Miss Kool-Aid Days - thank you! Please don't ever hesitate to let me know if there is anything I can do to help you!<br />
To the new Miss Kool-Aid Days, Jessica Littlejohn, I first want to express the pride I felt in crowning you as my successor. You want so badly to be Miss Kool-Aid Days and you carry so much excitement about the title, that I know you will put your heart and soul into the pageant. It has been my pleasure to watch you grow through this pageant system and I know there is growth to come for you as Miss Kool-Aid Days. I wish you the growth and the joy that came through my experiences as Miss Kool-Aid Days. I know you will make Kool-Aid Days and the city of Hastings proud.<br /> To all of the contestants, thank you for making me feel so much better about giving up my title and thank you for letting me hang out with you all day. You are all amazing and I am so happy to know that I will see you again throughout pageant season. You all have so much to be proud of!<br />
I couldn't have been more honored to be your first Miss Kool-Aid Days and to represent one of the most amazing cities I have been in. <br />
Humbly yours,<br /> Kimberly Brennan<br /> Miss Kool-Aid Days 2013<br />
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="800" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1012428_186103568244764_1150686519_n.jpg" style="height: 545px; width: 363px;" width="533" /><br />
Courtesy of Studio B Photography<br />
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-3649806694395436122013-08-04T20:32:00.000-07:002013-08-04T20:32:17.492-07:00Home Away from Home<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1146706_633800389971842_1201858667_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
As soon as I pull onto High 34, I know I am at home. Not my home, but Hastings. I sincerely have fallen in love with the town in the year I have gotten to represent them and it felt a little bittersweet driving on the road one last time as Miss Kool-Aid Days this past Friday. <br />
In fact, I have fallen so in love with the town and been to visit often enough, that they don't even make me stay at a hotel anymore, they provide me with an apartment at the house of one of the board members.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/971902_633800483305166_1840226899_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/994882_633800743305140_959378850_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Practicing being a princess!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
It felt like it was only natural that my last appearance would be in my home away from home, just as my first appearance was. When they asked if I would take part in the local First Friday tradition in Hastings, I was eager to agree. The appearance would require me to speak about baton twirling and pageants, including my year as Miss Kool-Aid Days at an event called Juxtaposition. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1004848_633800573305157_2108974094_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
I have to admit, it isn't often I have to give a twenty minute speech and I was a little nervous. Despite my nerves, I outlined what I wanted to discuss. While I did want to talk about baton twirling and pageantry, two things that have largely impacted my life, I also wanted to make sure the people of Hastings knew how incredible this journey was and how much they helped me. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/995936_633800539971827_1433886606_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1011735_633800556638492_225757513_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1014398_633800653305149_303885951_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Overall I think the speech went really well. It was great to share my story and extend my gratitude to the people of Hastings for all they have done to help me in my Miss Kool-Aid Days journey. I even got to learn a basic clogging step when my co-presenter gave her speech!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/970471_633800609971820_208286985_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
I am incredibly grateful to Russanne Erickson and the Hastings Museum for having me and for making me feel so at home!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/12580_633800676638480_477149915_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With Russanne (Left) and Megan (Right)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/999428_633800686638479_686348223_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With Megan - she did an amazing job speaking!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One thing that made this trip even more special for me was that my mom was able to go with me. My mom hasn't been able to make it out for any of my appearances in Hastings, so it was a pleasure to show her around my second home. We got to walk around the First Friday activities and I got to show her the building where Edwin Perkins manufactured Kool-Aid!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/994253_633804566638091_63834299_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/535749_633804583304756_715741145_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/970829_633800463305168_2008293452_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
While we were out, my mom wanted to get some pictures with the statues they have around Hastings. We took my sash with for pictures, but I didn't wear it. While we walked down the street and I had my sash rolled up in my hand, we noticed a little girl stop in the middle of the street, get a huge grin on her face, and run up to give me a hug. It was so sweet! We stayed and chatted for a little bit and I found out the girl is 4 tests away from being a black belt - how incredible! It truly was an honor to meet her and I am so happy she agreed to take a picture with me!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/970662_633804563304758_1744283748_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/521933_633804653304749_1993764114_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Even though I am no longer Miss Kool-Aid Days, I will definitely visit again! I've said it a million times this weekend, but I will gladly say it again, I am so thankful Hastings took me in as they did and helped me so much in my journey!</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-80371440549322572112013-08-04T13:42:00.000-07:002013-08-04T13:42:13.088-07:00La Vista Dinosaurs Who would have guessed that dinosaurs migrate through the La Vista area and lay Dinosaur eggs each year? I certainly didn't know until I was invited to help kids hunt the eggs on July 18th. I learned that La Vista sees Watermelosaurus', Canteloposaurus', and Tootsie-Rollosaurus'!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1003317_626106947407853_419276990_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Before we went out to hunt, some of the volunteers shared corny dinosaur jokes and I got to read a book about dinosaurs! The kids unfortunately didn't find much humor in the dinosaur jokes and they were eager to go hunting, so we started the hunting pretty quickly!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/60716_626106914074523_1138205396_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
The kids started finding eggs almost immediately, but the strange thing was, they looked an awful lot like watermelons, cantaloupes, and Easter eggs filled with tootsie rolls!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1069124_626107144074500_738679533_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
We went back with the kids and cut into the eggs. They were absolutely delicious! I personally enjoyed the Canteloposaurus eggs the best, but the kids really seemed to enjoy the Watermolosaurus and the Tootsie-Rollosaurus eggs the best!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1338_626107164074498_1159420747_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This was one of the most unique and fun events that I did all year and I want to thank the La Vista Recreation Department for allowing me to become a dinosaur egg hunter!</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-35299275217507911892013-08-04T13:27:00.002-07:002013-08-04T13:27:31.589-07:00Light the Night I think I have avoided writing blogs for my last 4 appearances because I have been in denial about the fact that my time as Miss Kool-Aid Days was very quickly coming to an end. Now that my time is up, I feel I should share a little bit about my last few appearances and my last night as Miss Kool-Aid Days - which means there will be a fairly quick succession documenting my last few weeks representing the "Koolest" title in the state.<br />
July 13th I was able to attend the Omaha Owl Ride, a nighttime bike ride benefiting the Meyer Foundation for Disabilities. I was really excited to attend the ride as some of my fondest memories of volunteering have been at events for the Special Olympics and hearing loss groups. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1012357_624293964255818_1168373036_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With the director of the Munroe Meyer Institute</div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I started my evening by helping with registration. It was great because I got to see people who dressed up and I got to see bikes that people decorated. The walk had a theme of Light the Night, so riders dressed in bright clothes and decorated themselves and their bikes with lights. It was great to see people getting into it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1001860_624293830922498_1056698512_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Light up Mohawks!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I also got to meet a young woman who works at the Munroe Meyer Institute. While I thought I knew exactly what the Institute was, I was wrong. The institute does not simply work with individuals who have disabilities, but they also do research and provide services for families who are dealing with special needs that they might need to learn about. As I consider the institute after passing on my title, I think it is one that I would love to volunteer at on a regular basis!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/971530_623841447634403_32746812_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With my fellow volunteers :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After spending time with the lovely ladies pictured above, I had the opportunity to go to the stage, talk a little bit about my title and the Kool-Aid Days festival, and help judge a bike decorating contest! I never in my wildest dreams would have imagined that Miss Kool-Aid Days would provide an opportunity for me to judge a bike contest, but I'm glad it did. It was awesome to see the different bikes that people had decorated - some had simple lights on the bike, some took it farther and integrated lights in their clothing, and one guy even got lights that projected a lane on the ground! The winning entry though was a set of friends who went all out, decorating their bikes and dressing up as Owls!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lH6rkavte-_au5dkviGec2OUmgG6yoZ5UOgYYvVZahkL0nTepK5X_jvs9svtUtTcaKjsesGi7cj6l1kOTceqEXsVahILbCe4izZ9qtT-yhlX5AFSZBxILR_kOnM1AvPmKnjSlpkF_uE/s1600/100_3392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lH6rkavte-_au5dkviGec2OUmgG6yoZ5UOgYYvVZahkL0nTepK5X_jvs9svtUtTcaKjsesGi7cj6l1kOTceqEXsVahILbCe4izZ9qtT-yhlX5AFSZBxILR_kOnM1AvPmKnjSlpkF_uE/s320/100_3392.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/970420_624293894255825_1378874777_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Before I finished up my duties for the evening, I watched the start of the ride. I'm so happy I stayed to do so, because I learned about the leaders of the ride. The ride was led by a group of tandem bikes housing one rider and one individual with a disability. It seemed so appropriate that those who were being supported by the ride, and probably those most likely to enjoy it, got to lead it. I was fortunate enough to meet one of the young riders who was incredibly sweet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/935829_624294034255811_953043017_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am so thankful I was able to attend the event and learn about the Meyer Foundation and the Munroe Meyer Institute! I sincerely hope to work with them in the future!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-56958737592202051172013-06-30T16:52:00.000-07:002013-06-30T16:52:45.215-07:00Moo at the Zoo<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1044159_618382351513646_431344302_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hanging out at the zoo!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1044438_618382381513643_1784905050_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Today I finally was able to jump back into my role as Miss Kool-Aid Days when I made an appearance at the Moo at the Zoo Dairy Month event here in Omaha. It felt amazing to resume my duties as Miss Kool-Aid Days - I didn't realize how much I missed all of the volunteering and meeting new people that happens at appearances!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVybeDFuCPT246QYTJjA3FKWZPkyuAJDuu9eE00NZrbgn5AzZTe9Ul_FqGiyLhtOkxvzgGIp8mkIosGfCsh-6vfSBnVKeOvpDKDlSTIGeyvylJSbMoqNDD6jtfPnernWqsNIJkVIipvK0/s1600/100_3158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVybeDFuCPT246QYTJjA3FKWZPkyuAJDuu9eE00NZrbgn5AzZTe9Ul_FqGiyLhtOkxvzgGIp8mkIosGfCsh-6vfSBnVKeOvpDKDlSTIGeyvylJSbMoqNDD6jtfPnernWqsNIJkVIipvK0/s320/100_3158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With the Dairy Princess Runner Up</div>
<br />
I couldn't have picked a better event or occasion to start with either - I didn't feel right living in Nebraska and not doing something to celebrate Dairy Month! <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1000381_618348224850392_2032027413_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
I arrived at the zoo a little before 9 to find my spot and prepare. One of the zoo workers, Rachell, suggested starting at the pig races. A little hesitant, wondering if they had real pigs or what, I followed Rachell and agreed to start at the pig race station. She showed me how to turn on the electric pigs, set them up, and let them hustle to the end of the small track we had set up. It didn't take long before I put this knowledge to use and had kids start racing. They picked their favorite pig and cheered it on as it moved down the track. Then, the winners got an animal hat and the other participants got suckers. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1000381_618348211517060_28703459_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1000381_618348211517060_28703459_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It was really fun when the kids got into it, squatting down to eye level to cheer on the pig of their choice as it raced to victory. The kids really did have a great time with it and it was fun to see their excitement.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1467_618382338180314_1928710140_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Racing!</div>
Of course the zoo didn't just stop at the pig races, they also provided a bean bag toss and a game of Plinko for kids to play. When the kids weren't playing, there was a DJ to listen to, face painting, and cattle to look at and feed. The Dairy Council was even handing out coloring sheets, milk mustache stickers, and other information about dairy!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1000381_618348218183726_415875279_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bean Bag Toss</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/944440_618382324846982_1171908335_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Plinko!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/1001757_618382411513640_1455582685_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Face Painting</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/1012751_618382438180304_2143164749_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Penguin face paint</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1000381_618348231517058_1010860431_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Life size tic-tac-toe</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1016152_618382441513637_2096451309_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Music</div>
Leave it to the zoo to provide a fun day that is still educational. Within the park, I found a table educating visitors about bees. They explained that without bees, we wouldn't have the food cows eat, and without the food cows eat, we wouldn't have cows. It was really interesting to see the effects of the extinction of bees and to learn while we got to enjoy all of the fun activities.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAVXTd65Ch7innNOgNwE1EKo6L_g98e9o7Lz6BrzrkxDYkq20nc5In_rlp5-AXv4pTZMdiKoIhNCICaah0P_kZpheRrfXSrCMHC6HqxpJVVoEXJG_XRDLJn4Rhf7yaGFoFTQpfZqeQfE/s1600/100_3154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAVXTd65Ch7innNOgNwE1EKo6L_g98e9o7Lz6BrzrkxDYkq20nc5In_rlp5-AXv4pTZMdiKoIhNCICaah0P_kZpheRrfXSrCMHC6HqxpJVVoEXJG_XRDLJn4Rhf7yaGFoFTQpfZqeQfE/s320/100_3154.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I am so thankful they had me come out to help with the event at the zoo. I had a fabulous time!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1016156_618382491513632_1380722161_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fellow volunteers and new friends!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/1017370_618382518180296_506747653_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dairy Princess Runner Up!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFgz7qRaLgHhFVnQ0Y9YfxbO8RfxjHRqp_PmaW829rD1c3iR_0F9-1Ou2IvKR1KPFBrJniXv6eFeJBgORd7kkg8h3EFkHKW4iZq_TfHTCFCJzIEU5lzL3-WW2Tx98ZEOzHZb50hPVYSQ/s1600/100_3160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFgz7qRaLgHhFVnQ0Y9YfxbO8RfxjHRqp_PmaW829rD1c3iR_0F9-1Ou2IvKR1KPFBrJniXv6eFeJBgORd7kkg8h3EFkHKW4iZq_TfHTCFCJzIEU5lzL3-WW2Tx98ZEOzHZb50hPVYSQ/s320/100_3160.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I even got to "milk a cow!"</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-86502633966842410052013-06-27T13:57:00.001-07:002013-06-27T13:57:46.773-07:00Still Excited to be your Miss Kool-Aid Days Wow - I cannot believe the adventure I was blessed to experience representing Miss Kool-Aid Days at the Miss Nebraska Pageant! <br />
It all began early the morning of June 2nd when my Mom and I began our trek out to North Platte Nebraska to catch up with my sister queens and attend the opening ceremonies. After greetings and much chit chat, contestants, board members, volunteers, and family members met at the mall where we faced our first challenge - introducing ourselves, our wonderful little sisters, hostesses, host families, and our parents in front of the crowd in the middle of the mall. Not only did I get to see my amazing little sisters again, but I couldn't wait to see my host family again! We barely got time to catch up before we were directed to the autograph signing area to begin our work for the afternoon. As I got set up, I was excited to be snagged for the first TV interview of the week and talk about the excitement that is the beginning of Miss Nebraska week.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/580531_252298881579189_179022435_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hard at Work!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/994294_10152969966345657_248039061_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With Evelyn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="235" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/969058_10200097857712116_636399912_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stepperettes</div>
We barely had any time before we jumped into work for the week as we began rehearsals Sunday night. After only one rehearsal not only could I tell that the week would be unbelievably fun with the greatest group of girls possible, but we finished learning a huge chunk of the opening number dance with our amazing choreographer (Kathy) and our wonderful producer (Brittany)! <br />
The first night at Miss Nebraska was certainly an indication of how the rest of the week would go. Monday we jumped right back in with rehearsals, finishing the opening number and getting to work on the little sisters dance before we were treated to a picnic sponsored by KFC. It was great getting to hang out with my sister queens Mindy, Rachel, and Chrissy and we even got a little on-stage question practice. We had to tell the audience what one food we would eat if we were stuck on a deserted island. My answer? Kool-Aid, of course! Just kidding - I already get plenty of Kool-Aid! My guilty pleasure is actually pasta - I love all the different kinds and I wouldn't have to worry about any stains.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/9903_10151626359263550_1736189779_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
KFC Host Family Picnic!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="173" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/936388_10151397584730951_1199393717_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Miss Nebraska Class of 2013!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="213" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/1001852_10200097865752317_535523260_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the Carousel - I love these girls!</div>
Monday night was talent practice and boy was it intimidating. These were seriously some of the most talented young women I have ever had the pleasure of knowing!<br />
I got back to my house that night and the emotions really hit me. Not only were the emotions strong thanks to the experience of being at Miss Nebraska, but upon arriving home I saw an email from my director about my last appearance as Miss Kool-Aid Days. I have had such an amazing year as Miss Kool-Aid Days that it honestly makes me incredibly sad to think that it is almost over. Wiping my tears as I walked into my room I was faced with a beautiful silver jewelry box and a card from my mom. The card explained that the jewelry box described me and went on to discuss how each bead of a charm bracelet depicted an aspect of my Miss Nebraska journey and the support of my family. I'm so sentimental I was a balling mess. It was one of the first of many times I couldn't help but feel awed by how lucky I am to have the most amazing family, friends, and opportunities!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1495_606213046063910_134232758_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/383558_606212979397250_415700948_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/424650_606213019397246_927847500_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/960128_606213069397241_1477985842_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
Tuesday was a great day with our little sisters, but it was also the tough day at Miss Nebraska. It was the day I really started thinking about how amazing all of my sister queens are and I started feeling inadequate. I am so incredibly thankful I had a fellow pageant sister to go through the experience with though. It was nice to have someone who understood, but we both started feeling better after Jay and Amy chatted with the group about judging and after we had a chance to remember how much we could bring to the table as Miss Nebraska if given the opportunity. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/9377_10152956760535657_118222782_n.jpg" width="180" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Signing Autographs!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="180" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/954871_10153001505320657_1727745323_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pictures with my little sister!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/935512_10152956748135657_51951467_n.jpg" width="180" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoying Frosties and Kool-Aid!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/944380_10151633856718550_109995532_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photobomb success!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/944970_10151633856083550_917685977_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of my favorite pictures from the week!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/994439_10151633857308550_2116292074_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Playing Ninja - I am so thankful Mindy introduced this game to us!</div>
<br />
Wednesday was a big day. We started first thing with the judges as interview began. After waiting awhile (I was number 14 after all), I finally got to meet the panel of judges. While I was looking forward to talking about my year as Miss Kool-Aid Days, they had a much more challenging conversation in store. I didn't think it was a bad interview, but I certainly didn't think it was wonderful. I didn't have much time to dwell on it though, because we were rushed off to the Rotary Luncheon once I arrived back at the dressing room. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/954613_10151397587385951_1574229920_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My rock and best friend for the week!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="235" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/941947_10200097880792693_1005490416_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ready for interview - what a good looking group!</div>
The Rotary luncheon is one of the best meals all week, not only for the food, but for the conversation as well. I had the pleasure of sitting with some extremely kind men as well as our state directors. We chatted about the Great State of Nebraska and about our personal lives until the program began. During the program, they do a raffle ticket drawing. They called out the numbers; as I listened, I barely noticed a ticket slide in front of me until the man next to me called out "We have a winner here!" I looked around in confusion before I realized he was talking about me! The emcee came over with a deck of cards and asked me to pick one. After picking a card, I asked what card I was looking for. I glanced at my king of hearts as he stated they were looking for the ace of spades. "I have it!" I proclaimed...before having to admit I was only joking. The kind man sitting beside me did win $5 and we got to have a pleasant conversation afterwards. It was a really great way to relax before the first night of competition!<br />
Wednesday night was the first night of preliminary competition. I started the evening with the opening number and introducing my little sisters. I was excited for the once in a lifetime introduction: "Hello and welcome! I am Kimberly Brennan, your Miss Kool-Aid Days. I am proud to present the 'Kool-est' little sisters Miss Nebraska has to offer, Evelyn and McKinley!" To which they responded "Oh Yeah!" They really had fun with it and so did I!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/601053_10152954758515657_509772030_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Opening Number!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/251002_10201438310942488_423839548_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
It was quickly on to the swimsuit competition. Normally I could take or leave this portion of competition, but this year I was really excited after a focus on healthy eating and getting my workouts in. I felt great in my swimsuit and I really enjoyed strutting my stuff on stage!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/969240_10152954757815657_500158477_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Girl look at that body..."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/984024_10152954757700657_998492681_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"...I work out!"</div>
The part of competition I had most been looking forward to, however, was evening wear. Walking out in my simple, form fitting, red dress truly made me feel like I finally had my "princess" moment. I even noticed a collective "oh" as I walked out in my gown which was thrilling. I would have gladly stayed onstage an extra 10 minutes just to show off the beauty of the gown!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/969121_10152954755460657_37127159_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/935732_10152954755385657_358841981_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/292589_253955068080237_1214122255_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="213" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/397418_10151627776204717_2142149290_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Visitation at the end of the night is almost always one of my favorite parts of the evening, especially on preliminary night number 1 - we actually get to see family again! This year I was honored to hear incredible compliments about how much I had grown in a year, how poised, confident, and sincere I looked onstage, and how much people enjoyed watching me. I was honored to even receive praise from volunteers and board members alike about how well I had done. One person even told me that they would love to be friends with me, simply because I looked like a fun, genuine individual onstage. This was perhaps one of the most touching parts of the week. After losing the hearing in my left ear at 14, I really shut myself off from the world and had trouble interacting. I never really exuded confidence or allowed myself to be natural and have fun onstage. Being Miss Kool-Aid Days, putting in all of the community service that I have, and plunging into my platform really gave me the confidence that I needed and the poise that I displayed on stage.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/184397_10152910745485188_528435302_n.jpg" width="238" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Olivia - one of the sweetest little sisters!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/379770_607171312634750_111330213_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With my greatest supporter!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/292669_10151637051647801_1846329174_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Emily has been a huge inspiration from my experiences. She is a CMN Miracle Child and a Miss Nebraska Little Sister!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/941561_10152969966215657_309886063_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With Evelyn!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/992965_538260372877488_900372568_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My baby niece!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1003817_538260249544167_1488379322_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A huge part of my pageant inspiration :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/1014259_538260206210838_823042894_n.jpg" width="240" /> <img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/6518_538260142877511_505666981_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The AMAZING Miss Nebraska Directors!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Thursday proved to be a rough one. No matter how many times I had nailed my talent (or even close to nailed my talent) on stage and off previously, it just would not go how it was supposed to on stage. I felt like I had done so well on Wednesday that the whole outcome of the week depended on my ability to pull off my talent on Thursday. After a long afternoon of rehearsals, I went back home, cried for a few minutes, then got over it and began practicing my talent in the street. Once I finally got over the stress of the week and the fear of messing up, I nailed every last move in the very first talent I ran at the house! I didn't give up though, I practiced for about 20 more minutes before heading inside to clean up and have a quick dinner before shooting back over to the school. <br />
My first area of competition for the night was onstage question. While many contestants stress over onstage question, I really like it. Earlier in the week I was getting ready for interview and I thought I would be asked about health care for sure. It never came up in my interview, so I didn't worry about it. Lo and behold, when I drew a question from the fishbowl, it was about health care! I seriously think I have someone watching out for me.<br />
I even managed to nail my routine that night! After hitting everything, I ran off stage and jumped on my dear sister queen Jessica Littlejohn celebrating a great performance, I hugged Hans (our emcee) and then repeated the exciting celebration when I reached our production manager and my amazing sister queen Jessica White on the other side! This was definitely another favorite memory from the week!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/600429_10201313993190466_1543287806_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/942763_10201313992950460_189415498_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Visitation Pictures:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1005951_538259972877528_493999993_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With the amazing directors of Sue's Stepperettes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/6203_538259776210881_310417267_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another one of my biggest supporters</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I cannot believe how lucky I am!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1044350_538259199544272_289185729_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With the lovely Kayla Batt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1044855_538259152877610_1463633008_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With the incredible Jessica White!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
After a week of hard work with the competition, we got a break on Friday. Our first major activity for the day was the Children's Museum. The museum was absolutely amazing. I was able to see my family, race cars with a little boy, learn a song on piano with a little girl, help some kids with crafts, get treated by some amazing "doctors," and have an amazing time with my sister queens. I also got to talk with the director and some of the staff about what we can do better to improve the upcoming generations. At one point, the staff even complimented me saying I would be great working with kids. I love hearing those kinds of compliments because it is what I plan to do with my life!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/1016638_10200469172185089_1805328236_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1044371_538258866210972_926052876_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
Next up was the parade. I was lucky enough to ride with Miss Douglas County's Outstanding Teen Cari Wadman and my good friend and sister queen Charissa Hauge. As Miss Kool-Aid Days, I got to have the Kool-Aid Man walk in the parade with me as everyone handed out free Kool-Aid; We only had one problem - Charissa is scared of mascots! I am so proud of my girl though, she rode in the parade, on the same side as Kool-Aid Man and didn't have any problems! <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/945876_10151400656260951_1466597693_n.jpg" width="320" /><br />
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="302" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/941117_410584715724103_2019606902_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Shortly after finishing the parade, it was time for the garden party. I wasn't sure what I thought of the idea of having a garden party Friday night, but it ended up being perfect! Not only did I get to spend time with my family, but it was fun getting to see how creative everyone had been with their bags (and umbrellas for the teens). We even got to hear some phenomenal singing!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/993451_10201317893007959_609661062_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All of the girls!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/8650_10201317889087861_2106112817_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love the flapper idea!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="242" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/944548_10201491630842863_1079759899_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stepperettes!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/602968_10201491630202847_1076787462_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Get us together at a Miss Nebraska party and we...talk about baton :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/993393_10151400656480951_474495954_n.jpg" width="270" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love love love these ladies! Mindy is seriously one of the kindest, funniest people I have ever met!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/1044394_538258052877720_2084132919_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful!</div>
<br />
Saturday marked our last day at Miss Nebraska. We began the day with the Children's Miracle Network golf fundraiser. We weren't able to get enough golf carts for all of us, so Charissa Hauge, Jessica White, Morgan Yost, and I stuffed ourselves into a small golf cart to roam the (mostly) unknown golf course. It may have been one of the best 20 minute periods of time I have spent at Miss Nebraska. Charissa drove us up and down hills, around golf carts, and through the greens (for the most part) without actually losing anyone (although we came close)! After quite the adventure, we made it back just in time to catch our rides and get ready for the teen pageant in the afternoon. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/1010602_10151410573780951_612243407_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/1012101_10151410573765951_1276839309_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
This year's teen contestants were incredibly talented and had really tough competition. I am sure the new Miss Nebraska's Outstanding Teen, Samantha Washington will do an excellent job serving the state of Nebraska!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="http://missnebraska.org/IMG_0844.jpg" width="256" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo from the Miss Nebraska website compliments of Don Milroy Photography!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
At the final night of competition they began by announcing the top 8. I am incredibly proud of all of my sister queens, especially the girls who made top 8. While I did not make top 8, I was amazingly honored to receive the non-finalist talent award - I guess my interview went better than I thought!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1002739_10201335798255579_113428128_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/601924_10152970025860657_582464977_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so proud to say I have gotten to share some amazing memories with this phenomenal Miss Nebraska!<br />
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/6306_10152969996575657_1968810574_n.jpg" width="320" /><br />
The incredible Top 8!</div>
Without any pressing responsibilities for the rest of the night, I had the opportunity to help the amazing 8 girls who were a step closer to their dream have the smoothest night of competition possible. I jumped right into helping my table mate Kiya and my good friend Charissa right away and I did what I could the rest of the night. <br />
I was doing really well with everything until one of our incredible hostesses hugged me and, nearly in tears, told me "You have character." It was one of the most touching compliments I have ever received. Earlier in the week, I ran into the reporter from the newspaper who asked me how you cope with the fact that you don't win when it happens, assuming everyone comes there to win, whether they are intensely seeking the win or not. I never really got to answer her question, but that's how I cope. I help out those around me, I remind myself that I have so much to offer the world, whether that is as Miss Kool-Aid Days, Aunt 'Ti,' or Miss Brennan, and I remember that only one of us are meant to fill the shoes of Miss Nebraska and that God has chosen that path for one girl for a reason. Honestly, having character means more to me than any crown.<br />
I am proud of all of the girls for competing at Miss Nebraska. They accomplished so much, set amazing examples, and made the week a truly unforgettable one. I am proud of JaCee and excited to see her amazing journey as Miss Nebraska. I know she will make Nebraska proud.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="http://missnebraska.org/IMG_1008.jpg" width="256" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo courtesy of Don Milroy Photography - what an incredible moment!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
There are far too many people to thank for making my week at Miss Nebraska a success, but I would like to focus on a few real quick. I want to thank my mother for all of her hard work and her support to get me to this point; my directors and the Kool-Aid Days festival for giving me the opportunity not only to compete, but to grow so much; the Miss Nebraska Board, without whom the pageant wouldn't have been possible; my amazing sister queens; our wonderful little sisters; my host family, Diane and Kirk Livingston; our hostesses, especially my personal hostess, Lynda; my always helpful and positive table mate Kiya; my brother and sister and their families for taking time to come see me compete; Bob, Sue, and Tami Foehlinger for their constant support (along with the Stepperette family that made the trek to the pageant); my boyfriend for being there in some of my best and some of my most difficult times and his family for traveling to Miss Nebraska to watch me; and to a few of the sister queens I spent most of my time with for sharing some of my fondest memories from the week. There are so many more to thank, but I hope I have reached everyone on a personal level, even if they weren't mentioned!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1012297_538256469544545_171936617_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My wonderful brother and sister-in-law</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/994793_538256929544499_424929991_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Part of my boyfriends family</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1013900_538257099544482_1474081488_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The other part</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/946832_538256872877838_1354764678_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/995660_538257366211122_1131885520_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/988671_538257426211116_906215259_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/992863_538257542877771_1447822334_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="176" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1001309_10201438323462801_383992044_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
At the beginning of the week, I cried at the thought of my last appearance as Miss Kool-Aid Days. At the end of the week, I was able to say that I am still proud and excited to be your Miss Kool-Aid Days. I am currently arranging more appearances so I can go out with a bang as the first ever Miss Kool-Aid Days - here goes nothing!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-61149223693786183122013-06-16T11:55:00.003-07:002013-06-16T11:55:37.725-07:00Signing Miss Kool-Aid Days I cannot believe how much changes in a year. Thinking back to this time last year, I realize that I was nowhere near ready for the Miss Nebraska journey that stood ahead of me. I also realize how much I have grown. I credit my growth to the Miss America Organization and to the deaf community. Ever since I changed my platform to Hearing Loss Prevention, my life has sincerely changed for the better!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/969094_605087892843092_1125287848_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The teenage boys</div>
Considering this, it seems fitting that my Nebraska Hands & Voices fundraiser would be my last appearance before leaving for Miss Nebraska. Considering I have never planned anything big like a fundraiser before, I am incredibly pleased with how the fundraiser went!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/249001_605087489509799_1446468671_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Little Girls</div>
To begin with, I was blessed with some truly incredible teachers this afternoon. Some decided to follow the lesson plans I provided, and some strayed and took things in there own direction - both went fabulously! The teachers not only were comfortable making the lessons their own and rolling with the plan, but they engaged the participants, encouraging them to practice their signing and ask questions. The teachers went above and beyond, adding signs they thought groups would be interested in and getting to know the participants. I was amazed by how natural and phenomenal all of my teachers were!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/603012_605087686176446_642401324_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The adult group with one of the amazing teachers!</div>
I also loved having a group of young girls there ready to learn sign language. They were like small sponges, soaking up the signs and practicing every chance they got! Yet, I also had a group of teenage boys who inspired me. Despite the fact that this was a group of teenage boys who did this as a favor to my nephew and myself, they were extremely engaged and seemingly interested the entire time. I figure if I can get a group of teenage boys interested in learning sign language, I can truly expand my message and teach sign language to just about anyone!<br />
I had so much fun with this fundraiser and I was excited to raise funds for Nebraska Hands & Voices. Now that I have a better idea of what to do and what to expect, I am looking to plan a bigger and better fundraiser in the Fall!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=611857545499460&l=1404071684817195971">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=611857545499460&l=1404071684817195971</a> Here is a video of the little girls signing!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-1209257843249442202013-05-28T11:19:00.004-07:002013-05-28T11:19:49.980-07:00Monday Memories<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/575677_602663799752168_358172764_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With two boys from my work!</div>
Memorial Day brings about thoughts of a day off, sleeping in, warm weather, grilling, and spending time with others for many people. It is also a day of remembrance for America. It is a time when we remember and celebrate the lives of those who have passed before us, especially the brave people who put their lives on the line serving our country. <br />
My memorial day began with waking up at 5:15 in the morning, getting ready, and heading to set up at the Boys Town Memorial Day Run before spending time with my family.<br />
Boys Town hosts the Memorial Day Run to raise money for the Lied Learning and Technology Center to support individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing (as well as those who are blind). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/970769_602664406418774_2044780553_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/970769_602664406418774_2044780553_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><div style="text-align: center;" unselectable="on">
Talk about a wet, dreary day for a run!</div>
The event was incredibly well put together. There was a constant video reel sharing stories and facts about people with hearing loss. Several groups (including gymnasts, dancers, and tae kwon do students) performed as runners waited for or finished up their races. There were also tables set up for different groups.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/954664_602664046418810_902707586_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
I spent most of my day set up at a table passing out Kool-Aid, signing autographs, and sharing information with people about what I have done with my platform of Hearing Loss Prevention and Awareness. I even let a few of the girls try on my crown!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/484745_602668313085050_1967935997_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
When I wasn't at my own table, I spent my time walking around and talking to runners and visiting each of the tables. I got to hang out with clowns, meet the Storm Chasers mascot, and even break boards! <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/379737_602665016418713_1114600235_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/384581_602664623085419_28761716_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is the video of my board breaking!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=602793463072535&l=3243992989491950755">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=602793463072535&l=3243992989491950755</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I even got a keychain!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/941464_602587556426459_2060906230_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
This was a great event raising awareness for hearing loss. It provided the perfect amount of exercise, fun, and information to spread the knowledge to nearly any member of our community!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/984244_602666059751942_1223788319_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/984244_602666059751942_1223788319_n.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hanging out at the finish line!</div>
</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-62750443133575701202013-05-26T19:42:00.001-07:002013-05-26T19:42:22.690-07:00My Top 8 Miss Nebraska is one week away! In one week I get to see all of my sister queens again as we meet in North Platte for Opening Ceremonies; In less than two weeks, we will narrow the contestant pool from 16 to the top 8, 5, and our New Miss Nebraska. In honor, I decided to post about my own Top 8 - 8 of the most memorable events I have done this year (in no particular order ;) ). This has been such an incredible year with so many amazing opportunities that it was extremely difficult to pick just 8 favorites, but some certainly stood out for one reason or another. Enjoy the list!<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2012/11/reason-for-reign.html" target="_blank">Reason for the Reign</a><br />
As a Miss Nebraska Contestant and a teacher, the Children's Miracle Network is an<br /> organization that is very close to my heart. My visit to the Children's Hospital in Omaha<br /> was incredible because I got to spend the afternoon with some of my good friends, but<br /> also because I got to spend time with the children we spend our reign working for. It truly<br /> was inspiring working with the kids and getting to know one special guest, Carly!<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2013/02/dancing-through-decades-and-polar.html" target="_blank">Dancing Through the Decades and Polar Plunging</a><br />
If you want to know true kindness, check out my experience at the Decades Dance hosted <br /> by Metro Regional Program for Students Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing! I have never<br /> been in a group that was more kind, accepting, and fun before. This event constantly<br /> renews my energies in my work with my platform!<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2013/01/every-little-girls-dream.html" target="_blank">Every Little Girl's Dream</a><br />
Nearly every little girl wants to be a princess, but the Princess for a Day fundraiser provided<br /> a unique opportunity to teach little girls what it really means to be a "princess" in terms of<br /> the 4 S's of the Miss America Crown!<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2013/05/truly-special.html" target="_blank">Truly Special</a><br />
The Special Olympics health screenings was probably one of my favorite events. I love <br /> doing volunteer work with the Special Olympics, but this provided an opportunity to<br /> spend time with the athletes and make a difference in their lives - while playing sports and<br /> while doing every day activities!<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2013/03/signing-dr-seuss.html" target="_blank">Signing Dr. Seuss</a><br />
I love to read, but the Social Saturday Reading Event made reading even more exciting<br /> (and accessible) when we read and signed a Dr. Seuss book. I would love to do more<br /> signing sessions at schools so students can get exposure to signing.<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2013/05/kids-carnival.html" target="_blank">Kids Carnival</a><br />
I couldn't imagine a better way to spend a Friday night than hanging out with family and <br /> getting sprayed in the Spray Tank by little kids! This was a unique and fun experience<br /> as Miss Kool-Aid Days!<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2013/02/dancing-through-decades-and-polar.html" target="_blank">Dancing Through the Decade and Polar Plunging</a><br />
I am convinced the Polar Plunge is one of the worst and the best events that I do as a<br /> titleholder! It's a full morning of freezing, but there is no adrenaline rush like running into <br /> ice cold water with many other compassionate individuals waiting to follow your lead!<br />
- <a href="http://kimberlybrennan.blogspot.com/2013/03/flapper-flashback.html" target="_blank">Flapper Flashback</a><br />
One lifelong dream has come true (having the ability to compete for the title of Miss<br /> Nebraska), but this event made it possible to accomplish another dream - going back to<br /> the 1920's! I was incredibly honored to model an original 1920's flapper dress in a fashion<br /> show raising money for the Douglas County Historical Society!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-31217532204759173302013-05-26T19:04:00.001-07:002013-05-26T19:04:27.695-07:00Truly Special<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/248156_601421563209725_650779781_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Kind, sincere, friendly, helpful, inspiring - special. The athletes of the Special Olympics are indeed special, but not because of their disabilities. They are special for their natural ability to put a smile on your face, for their strength in the face of challenges, their acceptance of others, and the pure joy and thankfulness that is evident on their faces.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/942469_601388899879658_47116165_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of the good friends I have met at the Special Olympics!</div>
I always feel honored to attend events for the Special Olympics, but this was the first event where I really got to spend time with a lot of athletes. It was a joy to watch the athletes laugh and chat with their peers but they also showed the volunteers exceptional kindness. I had one man shake my hand vigorously with the biggest smile on his face and another who swore he saw me on TV. The second young man walked up to the table and proclaimed "Yo yo yo, I saw you on TV! You was lookin' fine! I should have voted for you!" It was absolutely priceless.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/983683_601345123217369_1256093338_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My admirer!</div>
<br />
I mostly hung out with the UNL Audiology students who were conducting hearing screenings all day. I met two new friends, Annelise and Nicole, and we spent the day checking athletes in and helping them get around. It was really fun and we all enjoyed seeing the hearing tests that went on throughout the day! The athletes were so excited when they were declared healthy; they were still chatty when they had to get further testing. Those who were diagnosed with a need for hearing aids were offered free hearing aids at one of the audiologist offices near them!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/575663_601318659886682_1518291693_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With Annelise and some of the younger athletes! They were precious!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/936901_601345976550617_758688137_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Getting ready to check for ear wax!</div>
<br />
It was also amazing to see the other stations and meet some of the other volunteers! The first station I visited (besides the hearing one) was the fitness station where athletes were able to work on strength, flexibility, and overall healthy living. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/941618_601421693209712_1427762279_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spinning plates in the fitness room!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/945135_601421639876384_2053627769_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of the athletes trying on my crown in the fitness room!</div>
Next I stopped by the dental area where athletes were able to get their teeth checked and get fitted for a mouth guard they received for free!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/580372_601388719879676_768948993_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With the dental students!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/423928_601388346546380_1158390681_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mouth Guard Fitting</div>
The final room I was able to visit was the vision room. In there, athletes took three different tests for their sight. At the end, they were prescribed the proper glasses (if necessary) which they received before leaving. If they did not need glasses, they were given sunglasses or sports goggles!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/268931_601388559879692_2125070218_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Getting prescriptions filled!</div>
I later found out that athletes visit these four stations because these are areas where the special needs population is underserved. People with special needs struggle to get proper vision, hearing, and dental care and often suffer from difficulties with fitness. I was surprised to hear that the Special Olympics is able to offer these for free for athletes, but it truly goes to show how big of a difference involvement in the Special Olympics can make in an individuals life!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/936355_601345609883987_1328629795_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Athletes from Hastings!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/935702_601345273217354_373056276_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Winner!</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-46993097219874053712013-05-20T10:27:00.000-07:002013-05-20T10:27:31.249-07:00Kids Carnival Sometimes I see an opportunity and I think "That would be a great once in a lifetime opportunity." Recently, I thought it would be a great experience to volunteer to sit in a dunk tank at the Holling Heights School Carnival for my sister, one of the PTA parents.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/309924_599440006741214_906790952_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/309924_599440006741214_906790952_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I arrived early to walk around, talk, help with games, and take pictures before my appearance in the dunk tank. It is always great to meet kids, families, and volunteers at events like this and it was an absolutely beautiful night! I even ran into a young man wearing a Kool-Aid shirt who kindly agreed to take a picture with me. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="960" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/168260_599439823407899_1924358417_n.jpg" style="height: 545px; width: 409px;" width="720" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nebraska - the true windy city!</div>
They also knew the way to my heart - a shaved ice truck! It was a perfect sweet treat on a warm summer night!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/21149_599439916741223_1599935772_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Finally it was time for the dunk tank - although it wasn't a traditional dunk tank. Instead, it was more of a spray tank, which ended up being extremely fun! Whether you are plunging or being sprayed, it is still an adrenaline rush waiting for the water to pour over you while kids continually drill the target with baseballs. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/21318_598866566798558_1932595957_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I took over for the Principal!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/969821_598866610131887_101218570_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Waiting to get sprayed!</div>
The kids made it more fun as they threw, bantered with me, and begged me to splash them with water. I even ended up staying 20 minutes after the carnival ended so the kids could continue to play the dunk tank!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/945641_599436216741593_859734000_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Action Shot!</div>
Overall, I had a fantastic evening and I even got to enjoy time with my sister and my nieces!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/941857_599439966741218_178993530_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My amazing sister!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/971300_599439780074570_2064865683_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My niece (Lily) and her friend!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/942882_599439793407902_1319089821_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My niece Elena!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/971905_599439883407893_166529767_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My rockstar niece Allison!</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-36575064947321278672013-05-15T19:56:00.001-07:002013-05-15T19:56:49.738-07:00Are You Brave? Today I had the extraordinary opportunity to volunteer at the Special Olympics Breakfast of Champions. Last year was my first opportunity to attend the event and I couldn't wait to come back this year!<br />
Rachel Foehlinger and I started the morning out by greeting guests as they arrived for the festivities. I ran into Joseph Sullivan again (my mermaid friend) as well as several athletes that I met last year. It was so exciting to see everyone and catch up with them - it was a great start to the morning!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/525719_597405930277955_1129991011_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
I also got to see one of the families from my work. Their son Nick is one of the athletes, but two of his brothers also joined the family to greet guests with us. I am so proud of them for committing to spend their early morning helping out an organization that has done so much for their brother and their family!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/168219_597405896944625_1173445236_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Once the festivities began, we were welcomed to sit at our own table and enjoy the morning until our next duties. As we sat chatting, one incredibly friendly man approached us, apologizing that we had to sit alone, and inviting us to sit at his table so we wouldn't have to be alone. Upon arriving at the table, the rest of the members of the Omaha Knights of Columbus greeted us happily and began chatting with us. I was extremely touched by their kindness and support!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/417841_597406016944613_1011163460_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
While we sat with the Knights, we had the pleasure of hearing featured speakers, Athlete Eric LoChiano and Creighton University Basketball Coach Greg McDermott. While everyone was excited to see Coach McDermott and he gave a fantastic and heartfelt speech about the wonderful qualities of Omaha and our athletes, Eric really stole the show as he talked to us about the bravery it takes to compete, to work at his job at Panera, and to speak in front of a large room full of people. After inspiring us with his story about the challenges he has taken on, he gave us a challenge of our own - he challenged us to be brave, to reach out, and to support the Special Olympics - an organization that gave him the confidence and the skills to be successful. The speech was met with one of the quickest standing ovations I have ever seen. It was unbelievably touching!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/21166_597405916944623_1309449425_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With Coach McDermott!</div>
After the speeches, Rachel and I walked around collecting donation cards and thanking everyone for coming. It was a phenomenal way to start my day!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-86859941368695969492013-05-14T09:47:00.000-07:002013-05-14T09:47:24.111-07:00Healthy Hearts<div align="center">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/37027_596047237080491_2030439736_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div align="center">
I am forever thankful to Ashley Christensen who always thinks of us for American Heart Association Events!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Even though I leave my house by 6 A.M. each morning during the week, I am not a morning person. I have, however, spent a surprising amount of Saturdays waking up early for community service ( a cause I certainly don't mind waking up to support!) This Saturday was no exception as I was awake, showered, made up, and crowned by the time I left the house at 6:30; I arrived at Miller Landing for the Heart Walk a little before 7.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Upon arrival at 7, I was informed that we would not spend the morning signing autographs as planned, so we actually had no responsibilities until 8. After getting a cup of coffee (mainly to keep my hands warm on a chilly May morning), I walked around, looked at all of the booths set up, and chatted with some of the people. This is one of my favorite parts of events - learning about different organizations and issues within our community. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This morning I was particularly interested in learning about the Go Red For Women group set up in one of the booths. According to the ladies at the booth, heart disease is the number one killer of women in America. They work to educate women about living heart healthy lives in order to save them from falling under that statistic. I think this is a great idea, especially considering the current health of the nation (high rates of obesity, heart disease, etc). They even gave me some healthy recipes and a red dress pin so I can share the information with other women I meet during my reign (it currently sits at the end of my sash)!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/947203_596064870412061_1659842709_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With Hope, one of the young walkers :)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Rachel Foehlinger (Miss Lake McConaughy) arrived a little later and we were able to start warming the kids up for the Children's Walk. It was a lot of fun warming the kids up not only because it was cold out, but also because they were very excited to get moving for the morning (it was quite a refreshing sight)!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="239" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/260275_4869412256070_1756611607_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With the American Heart Association Mascot and some of the kids!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After warming the children up for their walk, we had no further responsibilities until we were asked to perform at 9. We spent the time listening to music and choreographing our routine before we were ushered on to the sloped grass hill in front of the stage to perform our freshly choreographed routine. Despite the wind, grass, and sloped hill, Rachel and I made the most of our performance and had a lot of fun!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="213" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/947061_596143423737539_1342839660_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This past February, I met Joe Sullivan (Ariel) at the Polar Plunge and we took a photo together.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As I was walking around today, I ran into Joe again - minus the wig and coconut bra.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I absolutely love volunteering for the Special Olympics so I was honored to run into Joe again and to find out I would see him again at the Breakfast of Champions.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Finally, we were asked to head to the start of the walk and twirl to gather the attention of the walkers. It was really exciting to get the walkers on the way, and then we got to stand by the road and cheer them on. It was so fun to wave, wish participants a good walk, and see so many friendly faces!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/946832_4869415416149_1620984228_n.jpg" width="239" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ready to Start!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once again, I left my community service event overwhelmed by the love and goodness that is present in our community. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to help others and represent the Miss America Organization!</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-75131005998054889442013-05-14T09:42:00.000-07:002013-05-14T09:42:45.678-07:00Karen Western Last Tuesday I had the opportunity to visit Karen Western Elementary School and speak to all of the students about hearing loss. It was an interesting speaking engagement because Karen Western is the school that houses the deaf and hard of hearing program in the Ralston Public School District. Rather than giving my normal spiel about hearing loss and how to prevent it, I was able to talk to students about what their hearing impaired peers go through and how they can more respectfully communicate with them. <br />
It was also interesting because I spoke with kindergarten, first, and second grades during the first presentation, fifth and sixth during the second, and third and fourth during the last. All of the classes were extremely respectful and had some good questions to ask that really got me thinking about my platform. It reminded me about how much we need to educate people about hearing loss because there are misconceptions about it at every age.<br />
For instance, the main thing we talked about today is communicating with people who have hearing loss. The visual cues become so much more important for a person with hearing loss. They rely heavily on the direct flow of the verbal communication as well as the visual input the speaker provides - lips, body, expression, even sign language sometimes.<br />
It is also important to be aware of your volume and diction when speaking to people with hearing loss. Hearing loss does not simply make sounds quieter, it also makes it sound more jumbled. It becomes important to speak each word clearly and loudly enough, but it won't do you any good to shout, because it will still come out jumbled. Here is an interesting video that demonstrates what hearing loss is like: <a href="http://teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=215539&title=Hearing_Loss_Simulation&vpkey=14141">http://teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=215539&title=Hearing_Loss_Simulation&vpkey=14141</a><br />
I was also able to talk to several of the adults at the school (who work with those who have hearing loss regularly). We discussed the importance of spreading the word about hearing loss, especially in the state of Nebraska. We have plenty of resources available in the Eastern part of the state (with large cities such as Omaha and Lincoln), but it becomes a lot more difficult to have those resources in Western Nebraska where there are more small towns that might have 1 or 2 people with hearing impairment. Having the ability to travel across the state and address this issue would be essential in improving the hearing health of our great state!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-27888715814357825012013-05-07T18:48:00.000-07:002013-05-07T18:48:04.248-07:00Healing through Horses<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="245" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/531986_4788266627480_84488976_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Aleah Peters (Miss Douglas County), Rachel Foehlinger (Miss Lake McConaughy), and I at the Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy Fundraiser - I love spending time with these girls!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
I personally love horseback riding. There is just something about riding through nature on a gentle animal that is refreshing and relaxing. Considering this, it shouldn't be surprising that horses are used for therapy for people with special needs. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/11750_4788267187494_373629152_n.jpg" width="239" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With one of the riders - she was so sweet!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
When we made an appearance at the Blue Jeans and Dreams Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy fundraiser, Aleah Peters, Rachel Foehlinger, and I got to see this in action as several of the kids road their horses in front of those attending the fundraiser - it was incredibly touching to see the kids riding with the biggest smiles across their faces!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/934799_4788267027490_449331367_n.jpg" width="264" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another one of the riders - he was so excited to take a picture with us!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
As a Nebraska girl it was great to get to spend the evening walking around a barn in a plaid shirt and jeans, although it did get a little cold! <br />
Not only did we get to watch the kids ride, but we also got to chat with several of the guests and help with the live auction! While chatting, we got to meet some of the HETRA volunteers and learn more about HETRA. Not only does the organization provide therapeutic riding for individuals with special needs, but they also provide riding for veterans who have returned home from war. Riding a horse closely mimics walking which can help veterans who need to learn how to walk all over again.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="239" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/3634_4788267467501_1957818208_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This man must have been at least 7 feet tall (if not taller)!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
I was so inspired by the work that the organization does and the difference they can make, that I asked about volunteering at the HETRA barn here in Omaha and I look forward to scheduling some work with them this summer!<br />
<a href="http://www.hetra.org/" target="_blank">http://www.hetra.org/</a> Here is the link so you can help too!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-10347874282806845512013-04-27T13:48:00.001-07:002013-04-28T21:38:38.163-07:00Huskers for Hearing<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/397799_590094444342437_1704333928_n.jpg" width="216" /></div>
"You get out of it what you put into it." I've heard this saying often and I wholeheartedly believe it. It defines my view on my Miss Kool-Aid Days reign - I've gotten a lot out of my reign because I have been willing to put a lot in to it. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/431946_590090497676165_850355062_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I thought it was a little cold for shorts, but to each their own!</div>
I really felt this was true last Saturday. I showed up for the Huskers for Hearing 5k and quickly decided I would stay until the race started and then dart out to escape the frosty cold of the morning. As quickly as the thought crossed my mind, it was gone. I was in this for the long, cold morning.<br />
I am so thankful I made that decision. It was absolutely phenomenal to be able to assist people who will be helping others avoid and deal with hearing loss!<br />
The walk was put on by the audiology students at UNL and the funds went to support Hear U - an organization that works to provide hearing aids for children who can't otherwise afford them. The students did a fantastic job and had over 100 participants for their first ever 5k fundraiser!<br />
While at the fundraiser, I got to meet several interesting people and do some fun things! First of all, I met Jolene - a lovely mannequin with the ability to report the decibel level of your iPod and the amount of time you would have to listen for it to affect your hearing. Anything above 80-85decibels is harmful to your hearing and I would be willing to bet a lot of people listen to their music at a louder volume! I would love to take this out on some school visits in the Fall!<br />
I also got to meet a man who reinforced the importance of sharing my story. This man experienced the exact same thing that happened to me and he lost the hearing in one ear due to a virus - the difference is that he knows audiologists who got him on steroids immediately. He talked to me about how difficult it was for him when he couldn't hear at first and about thankful he has been since his hearing has started coming back (under the influence of the steroids). One of the audiologists even added that it is all too common for doctors to insist nothing is wrong and for people to experience more loss because of this. If I can help people learn the warning signs, they can get it taken care of and save their hearing, just like this man did. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/575522_590090611009487_907962214_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The first runner to cross the finish line!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Besides getting to meet all of these wonderful people though, I was also able to do some fun things. I had the opportunity to help with registration, talk on a blow horn, help clean up, and most importantly, cheer on the runners. They came in off a long race and a long stretch, so I was able to stand at the last curve and support them as they finished the race. You haven't seen a truly grateful smile until you've seen the smile of someone who is about to finish a race!<br />
Overall, I was extremely thankful for this experience. I look forward to working with the audiology department and Hear U to make an impact on the issue of hearing loss in the state of Nebraska!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-51278888385617170572013-04-21T17:41:00.000-07:002013-04-21T17:41:17.599-07:00Papillion La Vista High School - For Real! This past Friday I finally made it to Papillion La Vista High School to talk to students about hearing loss before prom! I assumed my visit would be very similar to my visit to Papio South the week before, so I prepared my things in the same way.<br />
When I got to the school, I was able to set up all of my information at a table, but it was in the commons area rather than the lunch room. <br />
Due to the setup, I remained at the table to pass out information, rather than walking around. I was surprised by how many students stopped by to chat with me without me having to pull them over. So many people stopped by to chat in fact, that I actually ran out of Kool-Aid and ear plugs after the first of three lunches!<br />
This meant that I spent the second and third lunches approaching groups of students as they waited to head back to class. I feel that I reached so many students at Papillion La Vista because they were interested and willing to come chat with me, but also because I walked around and engaged a lot of them. At one point, in order to get my message out, I even walked into the center of a rather large group and told them all to listen up. Not only were the students willing to listen, but they even asked a lot of questions! It was great to see students who were so friendly and engaged.<br />
Overall, I would say the visit was a success and I feel so blessed that they were willing to have me come out and talk to the students before prom! I even met a young girl who inspired me. She approached me and without saying anything, looked over my board. I started explaining why I was there and as I finished up, she started to gesture. Excitedly I asked if she knew sign language. Her response confused me at first - she lifted her glove and pointed her palm at me. Then I noticed it read "Day of Silence." This young girl was pledging to remain silent for a day in honor of gay, bi, and transgender people who have come to harm.<br />
Her confidence and passion warmed my heart - it always makes me happy to meet people who are kind and have love in their hearts!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-7117051422091274712013-04-14T13:01:00.001-07:002013-04-14T13:01:42.594-07:00School Visits and Swimming What a week this has been! Friday I was excited to have the opportunity to attend Papillion La Vista High School to speak to students about hearing loss before their prom. <br />
I arrived approximately 10 minutes before the first lunch block was supposed to begin. After signing in, a few ladies helped me set up a table by the cafeteria. I stood back for a few minutes and watched the teens quickly fill the hallways before I decided my best plan of attack was to make my way around to all of the lunch tables in the cafeteria. <br />
I very quickly decided that I really like this approach to high school visits. While it is great to get the practice standing up in front of a group of students in a formal classroom setting to speak to them about hearing loss, setting up a table and visiting over lunch time has a lot of great benefits! Walking around allowed me to address more students than if I had only visited one or two classes. It also allowed me to practice talking to people about my platform more than once and students were very forgiving if I made a mistake. Plus, if I am looking for more of a challenge, lunchtime certainly gave me that added challenge. While all of the students were respectful and kind, they were more in their natural environment rather than their controlled classroom environment where they are forced to behave well.<br />
Overall I was very impressed with the students at the school and I hope that I made as big of an impact on the students as I felt I did.<br />
After visiting with students for an hour and a half, I went to the counselors office to thank them for helping me set up my school visit. I asked to speak with Ms. Isenhart. The counselor sat there for a second before asking "Ms. Isenhart at PLHS?" After a brief second of thinking, I realized that I had just spent the last hour and a half speaking with the students at Papillion La Vista <u><em>South</em></u> High School about hearing loss, rather than the students at Papillion La Vista High School!<br />
For those of you unfamiliar with the area, there is a Papillion La Vista High School that has been around for a long time, and a newer Papillion La Vista South High School that is fairly new.<br />
As embarrassed as I was about the mistake, I was incredibly thankful to counselors at both schools for being so understanding and forgiving! I apologized to and thanked the Papillion La Vista South counselors for letting me visit and apologized profusely to the Papillion La Vista high school counselors, who were kind enough to allow me to reschedule the school visit. <br />
<br />
After this quite memorable appearance, I was able to make another appearance on Saturday. Saturday afternoon I was honored to join MRP for a swimming outing. I arrived at Montclair community center expecting to mostly just walk around and supervise. I did wear a swimsuit just in case though. It's a good thing too, because I ended up spending nearly the entire time in the pool with the kids. I had the most wonderful time playing with the kids! We were able to play catch and volleyball and move around the pool as we went. I have to admit, my poor sports skills sent the kids chasing the ball quite a bit, but they were incredibly good sports about it! <br />
At one point while waiting for the ball though, I felt water splashing consistently across my back. I turned around to find my friend Jorge from past events splashing me! I realized at this point how thankful I am to be a part of an organization that I believe in so strongly. When I joined the group, I never thought I would make such strong connections with the kids in the program, but they have truly made my year as Miss Kool-Aid Days a wonderful one and it makes me so happy knowing I get to join them once a month and have fun!<br />
I had a great time and I could tell the kids were enjoying themselves immensely as well! It was so nice to sneak away from this persistent winter momentarily and enjoy something so fun and relaxing! <br />
After this exciting afternoon, I had to run off to one last event for the weekend! Each year Sue's Stepperette's hosts a spaghetti dinner and auction to raise money for props and our trip to worlds. It was quite the event this year and I was so happy that I was able to spend it enjoying the company of great family and friends!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-65625256898893192792013-04-04T07:01:00.000-07:002013-04-04T07:01:24.373-07:00Expiring Earbuds<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/425814_580721075279774_1040968779_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This morning I had the pleasure of setting up a table in Ralston High School and speaking to students as they came in about hearing loss prevention. Considering 1 in 5 teens have hearing loss and that number is rising thanks to more loud noise and earbuds, I thought I needed to get to the teens before they were exposed to the high decibel music at prom!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I prepared a board with valuable information, printed handouts, and brought along earplugs and Kool-Aid singles to hand out. Some kids approached simply because they were interested, some I had to coax into stopping by, and some stopped by for the free Kool-Aid.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Kool-Aid ended up being extremely helpful in pulling kids in and every kid who wanted the Kool-Aid agreed to stick around and listen to what I had to say in order to earn Kool-Aid!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I felt like I reached a lot of kids who admitted that they listened to loud music, and although they knew the dangers, they didn't think it would happen to them. I feel it is essential for me to personally get out and speak to teens because I was just like them when it happened to me - and I couldn't do anything to prevent it. But they can. By gaining knowledge about hearing loss and taking steps to avoid it, people can save their own hearing and the social connections that would become strained through hearing loss.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I was even excited to have students ask if they could take ear plugs for loud environments such as shop class - it's always good to see students take my message seriously!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The one bad part of the visit - it really hit me how many teens wear earbuds! In my work as Miss Kool-Aid Days (and potentially Miss Nebraska or Miss America), I fully expect to get pressure from companies that produce earbuds; they are not going to like the fact that I am pushing students to give up earbuds and use headphones instead. They can be upset though because it is for the good of those who listen to music and I will continue to push on to prevent noise induced hearing loss!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I want to thank Mr. Smith for allowing me to visit; it was wonderful to talk to these kids at a time when this topic is especially relevant in the student's lives.</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-2962780127650995992013-03-28T20:39:00.000-07:002013-03-28T20:39:25.505-07:00Flapper Flashback Ever since I was little, I have dreamed of being in a fashion show. While a few opportunities have presented themselves, none have worked out - until this weekend at least! <br />
This last weekend I was able to attend the Glamour and Glitz Historical Fashion Show for the Douglas County Historical Society. The fashion show is put on mostly to raise money to help the Douglas County Historical Society raise funds that can help preserve important history of Douglas County, but it also allows Sue McLain, owner of Yesterday's Lady in Beatrice, to show off the historical gowns she has collected over the years. It is also a great time to recognize one important and influential woman from the community for her work to strengthen our community.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcXB4dXfED6XF32E9YT_YC_0KXw_1D8yiqADEIzHbvU_So6RcQoutKB4oNcTjI51Soi5Lv9Gr1z0pw6asyMm5I7pVUO3OvyGKeOqg3shF7wFJJDcUdu-RPIGb8O-Tqnbhu3wU5T5e_kk/s1600/527851_10151305639181218_234895184_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcXB4dXfED6XF32E9YT_YC_0KXw_1D8yiqADEIzHbvU_So6RcQoutKB4oNcTjI51Soi5Lv9Gr1z0pw6asyMm5I7pVUO3OvyGKeOqg3shF7wFJJDcUdu-RPIGb8O-Tqnbhu3wU5T5e_kk/s320/527851_10151305639181218_234895184_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
My role at the show this year was to model in the fashion show and I was so excited for this! After fittings Friday night, it was decided that I would model an original 1920's flapper dress and a ball gown from the 1940's. I have always had a bit of a fascination with the clothing of the 1920's so I was beyond excited to wear the flapper dress!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQo_zKLVjNgipTQ1x9ZVVlmH45fO9Zh7qPO4tUnnU29lmSNjguVTlIj8b2FMdV4VfD6iHiK8QyShrmqT_3GSz4-_PKFokt8G-bnzvGnD1FtDQnZxsjJmQTJsWs0nH2cyLnZOXTHwJNGBc/s1600/20130323_110421.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQo_zKLVjNgipTQ1x9ZVVlmH45fO9Zh7qPO4tUnnU29lmSNjguVTlIj8b2FMdV4VfD6iHiK8QyShrmqT_3GSz4-_PKFokt8G-bnzvGnD1FtDQnZxsjJmQTJsWs0nH2cyLnZOXTHwJNGBc/s320/20130323_110421.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Getting my hair done!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRZA84t32qw2LzyQG3j6JdpRuMv3AZSRfAle6bXKDzy72WZUVebpIZGwy7iRVobJsTqOPXd8qzV7NYmOryXGkR1PJZwHGvWSLscb8HBbOdNdyO9EIg2Gh7uXIEzq4nKRpT8edsd7Cy-4/s1600/20130323_121109.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRZA84t32qw2LzyQG3j6JdpRuMv3AZSRfAle6bXKDzy72WZUVebpIZGwy7iRVobJsTqOPXd8qzV7NYmOryXGkR1PJZwHGvWSLscb8HBbOdNdyO9EIg2Gh7uXIEzq4nKRpT8edsd7Cy-4/s320/20130323_121109.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Caitlyn - a fellow model!</div>
<br />
When I got there Saturday morning, I had quite a bit of time to hang out with the other models while we waited for hair and makeup. They were so fun to get to know and I was honored to meet them! It was also amazing to see the transformation that each girl went through, changing from a normal girl in 2013 to a fabulously dressed woman from history. The assistants really did a fabulous job taking us back in time by changing our hair and doing our makeup!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBQo5ZyUB7n_jynOckbzRDTM7zFWN6byoW7sntyBXsWMXSa_D2nAPD85Rf2Hkq7Tihyphenhyphen3y9U96mxHtu58IgSLYOLutdzxe-dvpzsl7jV-yL07-s3FfhAoX1WRfBTIsMeXDpg_n6FX9S0o/s1600/2503_10151305639146218_83655030_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBQo5ZyUB7n_jynOckbzRDTM7zFWN6byoW7sntyBXsWMXSa_D2nAPD85Rf2Hkq7Tihyphenhyphen3y9U96mxHtu58IgSLYOLutdzxe-dvpzsl7jV-yL07-s3FfhAoX1WRfBTIsMeXDpg_n6FX9S0o/s320/2503_10151305639146218_83655030_n.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KtU3lOMhfx1-BQndMo3q_vdN33jMVggjlgHc9NoyJElbGrbaB6e40UA2WiggusY9DN62Kdhw9ydB8Gwa_hH6MO-5cvOAVrAFoAcRBp4wKv_6sXoAhcLchsPLpzN6aMme_Ubn8sPBBZE/s1600/390487_10151305645946218_1408514590_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KtU3lOMhfx1-BQndMo3q_vdN33jMVggjlgHc9NoyJElbGrbaB6e40UA2WiggusY9DN62Kdhw9ydB8Gwa_hH6MO-5cvOAVrAFoAcRBp4wKv_6sXoAhcLchsPLpzN6aMme_Ubn8sPBBZE/s320/390487_10151305645946218_1408514590_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Once we were all transformed, it was showtime! My excitement nearly bubbled over and I did what I could to get into character before taking the runway. I danced and walked my way across the runway and then walked through the audience as instructed. As I went through people seemed to nearly hold their breath and I heard several utter "beautiful" in low whispers. These spectators were amazingly kind as they told me how wonderful I looked and how I looked like I could have come straight from the 1920's! It really was a wonderful experience and I am so thankful to have received it!<br />
I am also thankful for Herb Thompson who took the photo's of the actual fashion show - they turned out beautifully! <br />
Finally, I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter! I am incredibly excited to have a weekend to spend some much needed time with my family! I hope you get to enjoy the Holiday too!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-78104955578722153832013-03-21T08:56:00.001-07:002013-03-21T10:01:52.956-07:00Smiling Saturday Twice this weekend I have been told that I should get married and settle down in Hastings. The suggestion is quite enticing because I love Hastings (and I can find my way around town fairly well)!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZVYAo1zVz9eyMoGUwx4cnv5LHCW407PGTRSLMWMUECdj_-B8dWDIRC-TkGfqDK5miJjVFL0vUxPveuPBcZ3bXC3cabYGLvSuyvs5cpldjU8LiQCoX06eRMITb52CVYJfk4I0xRs8FsE/s1600/100_3018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZVYAo1zVz9eyMoGUwx4cnv5LHCW407PGTRSLMWMUECdj_-B8dWDIRC-TkGfqDK5miJjVFL0vUxPveuPBcZ3bXC3cabYGLvSuyvs5cpldjU8LiQCoX06eRMITb52CVYJfk4I0xRs8FsE/s320/100_3018.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Twirling Demonstration</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfaYM7bXh7-jIlMErSjLI7fcDBu7hWzgL00SPXWpjq-8PxkaKi7c3ZFtEtsVclZ12bVLrpuvRO042DGOe0p-l5EI03NIYbEABpPZ56xOLDjfcgePcb0PvIbsMa8tBgtGCg-cyw3HI3Hw/s1600/100_3020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfaYM7bXh7-jIlMErSjLI7fcDBu7hWzgL00SPXWpjq-8PxkaKi7c3ZFtEtsVclZ12bVLrpuvRO042DGOe0p-l5EI03NIYbEABpPZ56xOLDjfcgePcb0PvIbsMa8tBgtGCg-cyw3HI3Hw/s320/100_3020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Craft Time</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgrvD8ACW55qd4uDrfA20kQp7GCIYMbRSEXPHceNsDx4DYWDdS791wt8a5cX0vpD2U8RypLCNw_jGA8m_XkWB7d54b9HFfK8sb8RHCOzoah5lonzVOqKssYkq7QmCPJ8Bpj-VEURhdrdo/s1600/100_3032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgrvD8ACW55qd4uDrfA20kQp7GCIYMbRSEXPHceNsDx4DYWDdS791wt8a5cX0vpD2U8RypLCNw_jGA8m_XkWB7d54b9HFfK8sb8RHCOzoah5lonzVOqKssYkq7QmCPJ8Bpj-VEURhdrdo/s320/100_3032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some girl Scouts came in to sell cookies</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8L-tjfT5X2txzfTw1uh_7NOFxS9LoJR5i18V5GicLzLUbbnnXZxBi94oppPPzq_ptyAYEJblIihXGLgMsOkJR2I9NHMHVJ8aSfbVgEh6TZVofvBTyaf48tyXT1n9VJgOKQJhXE3aS2vo/s1600/100_3033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8L-tjfT5X2txzfTw1uh_7NOFxS9LoJR5i18V5GicLzLUbbnnXZxBi94oppPPzq_ptyAYEJblIihXGLgMsOkJR2I9NHMHVJ8aSfbVgEh6TZVofvBTyaf48tyXT1n9VJgOKQJhXE3aS2vo/s320/100_3033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
The Good Life!</div>
Saturday I was able to immerse myself in the Hastings community even more. I started my morning at the Children's Museum where we were able to do story time, a twirling demonstration, a craft, baton lessons, and play. I read <em>The Princess and The Pig</em> which I thought was really cute and the kids really seemed to enjoy. I then got to talk to the kids a little bit about my platform and show them some twirling (in a dress and heels)! While I really wanted to help with the craft, I ended up leading baton lessons during that time. It was awesome to be able to share my talent with the kids in Hastings because there are no studios out there and the kids wouldn't be able to learn much otherwise. It was also great because the kids caught on really fast! After these activities were over, I was able to play with some of the kids! We played school and firefighters, but we also checked out the birds that the museum houses! While the Omaha Children's Museum is great, I really enjoyed the Hastings Children's Museum; The museum is small enough to make parents comfortable, but big enough to keep kids busy for hours and it has so many valuable lessons tucked throughout. I personally loved the presence of occupational toys which allowed kids to explore possible jobs for their future including teaching, fighting fires, delivering mail, working in a grocery store, playing music, and many other options.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJk9VNPKFKiPOoYADldeHuuq1Fg_bXhX_hSPPzahQ7Bba6hTzIR3K3EekSWg6SUklEm8fp5i4L_CKafp9uybI6Lt7c8wUh-qWHwBGYFYWgVAT4y-ZgCaLpJWMFqbMtX55jtWJGcZ1SsRo/s1600/100_3012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJk9VNPKFKiPOoYADldeHuuq1Fg_bXhX_hSPPzahQ7Bba6hTzIR3K3EekSWg6SUklEm8fp5i4L_CKafp9uybI6Lt7c8wUh-qWHwBGYFYWgVAT4y-ZgCaLpJWMFqbMtX55jtWJGcZ1SsRo/s320/100_3012.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mya made a craft for me!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztuN97RTUfTr-jq7sKNR_YdHUN-zOiR3O_Ljx4uLoxpoI2Vm-tK02W_XRhGfPGR1FKp4EnCkIcpwiekRVLMZzV04RTeF3DiD_MgZ7fgqynDjOpFcBNGI0pdwynsVeOdKxXtKeYxDkLv8/s1600/100_3025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztuN97RTUfTr-jq7sKNR_YdHUN-zOiR3O_Ljx4uLoxpoI2Vm-tK02W_XRhGfPGR1FKp4EnCkIcpwiekRVLMZzV04RTeF3DiD_MgZ7fgqynDjOpFcBNGI0pdwynsVeOdKxXtKeYxDkLv8/s320/100_3025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Teaching baton!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-OOnhfi5QpATvrnqiW7kSfkA8MiyK8QEAeNdrzwZGlF_fPeI28ExshtlOm1r985PgAeZ42gwxD4aOSFbM1O5BE6ei9NzlVgiPt5-qtTMwhHNz8XwfwQ5hMJfaYWx1e4F7aH2uRHYLa8E/s1600/100_3016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-OOnhfi5QpATvrnqiW7kSfkA8MiyK8QEAeNdrzwZGlF_fPeI28ExshtlOm1r985PgAeZ42gwxD4aOSFbM1O5BE6ei9NzlVgiPt5-qtTMwhHNz8XwfwQ5hMJfaYWx1e4F7aH2uRHYLa8E/s320/100_3016.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Reading</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQ7hjOciwcRHnBegD-wV0_tdVqshzA0eN-VDK6xRZy9E8zHaXO72LbWjc2Cc_uW-IXyERqujoeEw0dFPdT694jcKXBlu9ykvt3QtaogYIwia3jOrm4vma7lx1UGUbxeH4kRPiJZn1xM0/s1600/100_3030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQ7hjOciwcRHnBegD-wV0_tdVqshzA0eN-VDK6xRZy9E8zHaXO72LbWjc2Cc_uW-IXyERqujoeEw0dFPdT694jcKXBlu9ykvt3QtaogYIwia3jOrm4vma7lx1UGUbxeH4kRPiJZn1xM0/s320/100_3030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Playing School!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqRBid6dLhCUA8DUBvOT8UgDjy1iCavY_Izwq-MTzqLsq-U8IRqnOaETGDTx52gmILx330fxDgFt9D_Lerlsy_Dth6VQvdnd6hlz4vUoSwAn3Tk0HmZdGSzWBhgmz6Ns6Vk6Kcgf7N2E/s1600/photo+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqRBid6dLhCUA8DUBvOT8UgDjy1iCavY_Izwq-MTzqLsq-U8IRqnOaETGDTx52gmILx330fxDgFt9D_Lerlsy_Dth6VQvdnd6hlz4vUoSwAn3Tk0HmZdGSzWBhgmz6Ns6Vk6Kcgf7N2E/s320/photo+(2).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Angela's daughter, Helen, being crowned!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/581774_573177219367493_2129617766_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div align="center">
Angie's daughter, Morgan, being crowned!</div>
After a brief lunch with my directors and their daughters, I arrived at my next appearance 15 minutes before I was expected. I was scheduled to do a Meet-and-Greet and Autograph Signing at Russ's Supermarket (a sponsor of Kool-Aid Days) at 2. When I pulled into the parking lot at 1:45, I noticed there was a group of girl scouts out on the corner trying to sell girl scout cookies. Considering I was early, I pinned in my crown, went over and introduced myself, and asked if there was any chance I could try to help them get some more costumers. The girls were excited to offer me a sign and go over by the main street in town to try to pull in costumers. After a few minutes, I told the girls that I thought I might have another way to get some costumers for the girls and I asked them to wait while I ran to my car. I returned to the girls with several batons and twirled on the corner for them to try to help a little more. The girls loved it and I had a blast; it truly warms my heart to know how happy I made those girls by helping them and I hope they know how happy it made me to help! When I told the girls I had to go in for my appearance, they asked if I would autograph their signs, so I stood in the parking lot with them for about 10 more minutes, making sure they all got their signs autographed!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/733957_573203459364869_498551000_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Perhaps my favorite part of the trip!</div>
Inside Russ's I was able to set up a table where I passed out Kool-Aid and signed autographs. Everyone was so friendly and people loved getting free Kool-Aid! It was a great way to meet some of the Hastings community that I otherwise might not have met and I was glad that I was able to support a Kool-Aid Days sponsor. I also provided that girl scout troop from the parking lot with autograph cards and Kool-Aid; I hope they enjoy receiving it at their next meeting.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4MXlJdkMZ99ndsaSb9bDo0hgAKxgEPv9pPJYW8_di0u9t9VIBxNtbLcV7ohQxEd24UgVSn3PqBuuJqQfSrqHTsBsXx15HPs3K_uwZaJ2TrQw87XxFQiRR-BKG-YJthwz4q3zmtI462Q/s1600/100_3034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4MXlJdkMZ99ndsaSb9bDo0hgAKxgEPv9pPJYW8_di0u9t9VIBxNtbLcV7ohQxEd24UgVSn3PqBuuJqQfSrqHTsBsXx15HPs3K_uwZaJ2TrQw87XxFQiRR-BKG-YJthwz4q3zmtI462Q/s320/100_3034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ready to go!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezceUoJhO_EEFP94d92g0Zgtl6b2wKx6XX9MZ0UO6EiwM4itQ57HwEzckEeDNjSSE9dc4vRbmlICXE4gRC9BoLKs08ZI4AgWXe6o0pEdAKU5wHI_UevzzDiWMe71v1_YwkAYmRDCzeng/s1600/100_3035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezceUoJhO_EEFP94d92g0Zgtl6b2wKx6XX9MZ0UO6EiwM4itQ57HwEzckEeDNjSSE9dc4vRbmlICXE4gRC9BoLKs08ZI4AgWXe6o0pEdAKU5wHI_UevzzDiWMe71v1_YwkAYmRDCzeng/s320/100_3035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
With one of the employee's :)</div>
To round out a busy afternoon, I headed over to the Hastings Museum. The museum was hosting a spinners and weavers showcase where people were able to show off their skills and creativity - it was amazing! I've never seen either activity before and I was extremely thankful that the artists were willing to explain it to me! I even got to see some wool dyed by Kool-Aid!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/554872_500428996681303_1624390324_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Admiring some of the work!</div>
After seeing the spinners and weavers, Becky Tideman (the marketing director) was kind enough to show me around the Kool-Aid exhibit and take some photos as I went through. We were also accompanied by two little girls who were estatic to explore the museum with me; while we went through the Kool-Aid exhibit they insisted on grabbing my hand, pulling me to look at something and saying "Miss Kool-Aid, Miss Kool-Aid! Come look at this!" It was pretty stinkin' adorable! <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/526907_500426750014861_592062047_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
It was also exciting to go through the Kool-Aid Exhibit because I learned a lot about Edwin Perkins who was quite an impressive man! While many people know that Edwin Perkins invented Kool-Aid, not everyone knows that he also invented other things. He invented Nix-O-Tine, which aimed to help returning military stop smoking. He also invented a line of beauty products that women were able to sell door-to-door during the war to make money. His insistence on running a good business and building up his employees was particularly interesting. I learned that people called "jobbers" were assigned the task of convincing store owners to carry Kool-Aid in their stores and Edwin Perkins created a manual that would promote more success in these individuals attempts. He also provided letters for the company, insisted on keeping the price of Kool-Aid at five cents even as other prices rose, and went out of his way to provide single Kool-Aid servings to soldiers in their rations during the war despite limited resources. I guess I learned that we have quite an amazing and inspiring entrepreneur in Nebraska history and he does not get the attention he deserves!<br />
<br />
While at the museum, Becky was able to get some pictures as I marveled at some of the exhibits such as the polar bear, bison, and cats that are present in the museum. I also got to look at one very impressive exhibit though and that was the "Cranestorm - Wishes in Flight" exhibit. This exhibit features over 36,000 paper cranes, each of which represents a Nebraskan who is living with a disability due to brain injury. The project, presented in association with the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska, brings awareness for those with disabilities as they may not be able to do on their own. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/734217_573672212651327_625061139_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A little blurry, but this was our emcee for the evening!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLJpOCAbkw82C1KDd-2IhLk956xgc6hWAdDs_HoMshIyj0SL2FfXzCICEh44OOXQmyvqu97T5Zi54uyCq2CYZ09NJUkcZuyzS_ot8be5UgmRWTkcWyP6JQumrUl6Co-KlN1C4eE1phKM/s1600/IMG_4471+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLJpOCAbkw82C1KDd-2IhLk956xgc6hWAdDs_HoMshIyj0SL2FfXzCICEh44OOXQmyvqu97T5Zi54uyCq2CYZ09NJUkcZuyzS_ot8be5UgmRWTkcWyP6JQumrUl6Co-KlN1C4eE1phKM/s320/IMG_4471+(2).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I was able to present a scholarship to Brittany Trausch - one of the girls I spoke to at St. Cecelia's!<br />
</div>
After the wonderful and inspiring visit to the museum, I had my last event for the entire trip. I went over to Hastings College where I had the opportunity to be a celebrity judge for the 3-point contest and the Slam Dunk contest. I was really nervous for this event. Anyone who knows me knows that I am not a sports girl. Charged with judging each slam dunk on a 10 point-scale (and having to hold up my scores Olympics style) made me really nervous because to me a slam dunk is a slam dunk, either they make it or they don't. I quickly found out that a slam dunk is not simply a slam dunk, these shots can get pretty impressive! It ended up being really exciting to judge the contest. I could feel my heart racing in anticipation of each shot as I wondered what shot they would attempt and whether or not they would make it. Despite the fact that I obviously had no idea what I was looking for, I really enjoyed myself and it was a great way to end my whirlwind weekend in Hastings!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6r5JI6qcYiQFpdpD1C8PL2rNfw0TLPuLNK9WEGBQVbIfVbS3hyulcsK9Nyg-ZryEJUUwrmnGe1S-xTd3YCXofMh10JM_iw_fvB_ysh_9YxeT_K5_2i4x5Y9vxcviP1rL55ZZbymQ3pnM/s1600/SD+3P+judges++(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6r5JI6qcYiQFpdpD1C8PL2rNfw0TLPuLNK9WEGBQVbIfVbS3hyulcsK9Nyg-ZryEJUUwrmnGe1S-xTd3YCXofMh10JM_iw_fvB_ysh_9YxeT_K5_2i4x5Y9vxcviP1rL55ZZbymQ3pnM/s320/SD+3P+judges++(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
With the other judges</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/579014_573672095984672_1369898077_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Slam Dunk Winner!</div>
<br />
<br />
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-89406237235453513832013-03-15T19:44:00.001-07:002013-03-17T17:39:35.392-07:00Friday Frenzie! I've had some pretty exciting and busy weekends as Miss Kool-Aid Days, but today is the first whirlwind experience of events that has ever left me feeling like I just need to sit and digest for a little bit. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZu-sDPiAvLS5K_c_2Be83W5I3AXvsnNjjSfU5pFV8RH-wvd9MxS5U0fFrwFaevEQhZ46UuhKpDnjETMD3zEYyS92OkZYHC_b9mVhtvGrGJSK-tpmQP7nwjiuLjFgvoW9Dl7ZSC56ENE/s1600/100_2961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZu-sDPiAvLS5K_c_2Be83W5I3AXvsnNjjSfU5pFV8RH-wvd9MxS5U0fFrwFaevEQhZ46UuhKpDnjETMD3zEYyS92OkZYHC_b9mVhtvGrGJSK-tpmQP7nwjiuLjFgvoW9Dl7ZSC56ENE/s320/100_2961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am so excited to work with these ladies!</div>
The Miss Kool-Aid Days Pageant has welcomed Angie Trausch and Angela Keiser to the team as they will be taking the pageant over next year. Today was my first chance to meet these ladies and we started our busy day at a local coffee shop where we were able to get to know each other and make a plan for our day.<br />
At about 9:45 we headed over to our first school visit for the day at Adams Central High School. I was able to talk to the junior and senior girls about the pageant, about my experiences in the pageant, and about my hearing loss. I found that many of the girls there had a negative view of the pageant. During my presentation I led the girls through the nitty-gritty facts of the competition, countered their misconceptions of what contestants are like, and shared my own story with the girls. I encouraged them to compete in the Miss Kool-Aid Days Pageant in August and even had a student talk to me about getting involved! <br />
After all the pageant has done for me, I feel it is the least I can do to help it move forward and grow and also to help young girls realize the opportunities that are out there for them. If we truly want the Miss America System to grow, we need to not only convince girls to compete, but we also need to correct the misconceptions that people have about pageants; the best way to do that is to inform them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbyl-GRyuN1ncIUR8Rq3fzJNjrmDUgt2yReFTYJmIBtm7vo9JCcq7VaxYJ5wVufpJfjo4lz-j9AIcU2zlrff5uHTBi5hCrBxcdRRcg-avLuSs9kDeMSRFmhHyewrt1AZcgXpS9_hLk0ec/s1600/100_2957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbyl-GRyuN1ncIUR8Rq3fzJNjrmDUgt2yReFTYJmIBtm7vo9JCcq7VaxYJ5wVufpJfjo4lz-j9AIcU2zlrff5uHTBi5hCrBxcdRRcg-avLuSs9kDeMSRFmhHyewrt1AZcgXpS9_hLk0ec/s320/100_2957.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Announcing my presence at Hastings High School!</div>
With one great school visit under my belt, the Angie's ushered me off to Hastings High School. While the school wasn't able to give me time to do a formal talk, they did allow us to set up a table where the three of us were able to inform girls about the pageant and get their information so we could get them involved. It was refreshing to see so many girls take an interest in the pageant and I really hope I can see them when I give up my crown in August!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmeOTkHRxw-BmDCoYhOCQI3ZAnmI-LcY0XuwBm-EdvFDxKKb2lqelw012-OHrMMw-mXwOlPwHVpMb6kr4j5YxS1k27eDzd8YK859aPZW4j4iPtwMYX4D4wImPPH9qbs5buqCTkvy2fsJ8/s1600/100_2959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmeOTkHRxw-BmDCoYhOCQI3ZAnmI-LcY0XuwBm-EdvFDxKKb2lqelw012-OHrMMw-mXwOlPwHVpMb6kr4j5YxS1k27eDzd8YK859aPZW4j4iPtwMYX4D4wImPPH9qbs5buqCTkvy2fsJ8/s320/100_2959.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's me!</div>
After our visit to Hastings High, we left for our last visit to St. Cecelia High School. I was able to talk to the girls about the pageant itself, but I also made sure to emphasize the close relationships that I have formed with the other girls this year which has honestly been one of the most amazing aspects of my involvement. It is such a wonderful reminder that there is so much good in the world!<br />
My last event with the Angie's for the day was spending some time working on preparing my stuff for state. The ladies were so supportive and encouraging. While they gave me some things to fix and work on, they really made me feel even more like I can accomplish anything.<br />
I didn't think it would be possible to gain anymore absolutely wonderful and caring supporters, but I was proven wrong when I met the Angie's today. They truly are amazing women and I am so thankful to have them in my corner this year!<br />
<br />
After this crazy morning I was able to head over to The Children's Ark and meet Susan in the afternoon. While I had not been prepared to speak at the Ark, I was totally in my element at the center not only because I was able to work with kids, but also because I got to talk about my platform in a lot more detail! I was also able to talk about being a positive role model and I got to teach the kids some sign language (granted they taught me a little too - I am still learning!).<br />
While I loved recruiting people to the system that has helped me grow more confident and mature in the past year, teaching kids sign was perhaps my favorite part of the day. It is so important to be kind and accepting in our world, but it gets difficult when communication is broken down. Even if the kids can gain a little bit of exposure and increased acceptance of talking with their hands, I feel it will benefit them and any hearing impaired individual they may meet in life.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9DdVbioUqk-Mkll5X5KZRJOqzSeSJzE4ShqCRaFw28omg50OrSjL5YXoLWYGjtO5YnQ13Z_zGLbuK2LLspXqGvrS_Mu_DmU-35JENwxIyEg2XEzQg89uICBYlaQCJUoYp83UVFUg5SqE/s1600/100_2978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9DdVbioUqk-Mkll5X5KZRJOqzSeSJzE4ShqCRaFw28omg50OrSjL5YXoLWYGjtO5YnQ13Z_zGLbuK2LLspXqGvrS_Mu_DmU-35JENwxIyEg2XEzQg89uICBYlaQCJUoYp83UVFUg5SqE/s320/100_2978.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Whoopers and Hoopers!</div>
After a quick change, it was off to the Whoopers and Hoopers basketball tournament at Hastings College. The tournament is held annually and includes men and women, college age on up, competing from around the mid-west to be ranked the best team out of over 100 teams. While there, I was able to meet some of the players, including a group of men who drove 5.5 hours to get here from South Dakota!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGszvwGCPBBJdo1MiscevR_ZV9XLP4YKZkd5L8cxk_g2YTzOu8tFGtLi205jhmb-X15Umf_bpg6cA8AgM6bMWgoGOOQ1PuIh0LH7QqsLDQjFL83lQXX0QDBayhfnfw3Ma4OOy3_dJ0gY/s1600/100_2969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGszvwGCPBBJdo1MiscevR_ZV9XLP4YKZkd5L8cxk_g2YTzOu8tFGtLi205jhmb-X15Umf_bpg6cA8AgM6bMWgoGOOQ1PuIh0LH7QqsLDQjFL83lQXX0QDBayhfnfw3Ma4OOy3_dJ0gY/s320/100_2969.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Selling tickets!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxZK-u9TY_wyXDlDzT0e0WCq5KlAQl3DxSGMaMRGerf3Oq215M4fOkZr4boxxVa8U0awvIH2DliN0txiqsNc3Euypi2lGFOtnuON_jbpRIpC3OAxRYeTywrBArcw89NgHMdHOpYyJ_FI/s1600/100_2971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxZK-u9TY_wyXDlDzT0e0WCq5KlAQl3DxSGMaMRGerf3Oq215M4fOkZr4boxxVa8U0awvIH2DliN0txiqsNc3Euypi2lGFOtnuON_jbpRIpC3OAxRYeTywrBArcw89NgHMdHOpYyJ_FI/s320/100_2971.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Selling t-shirts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZleKFBR_4w46i5M6GUFt3XRmQi9O_rzKVPPL7euorXUjblIOT-yb3ko3dFOKYgXmdD-y6r3qNhp4HmU-wVTn1D9xkbRN351AUl1MTq1eEZxQm-OMcV1WYDEBJHUP_0ZwuoemOAnpuN0/s1600/100_2973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZleKFBR_4w46i5M6GUFt3XRmQi9O_rzKVPPL7euorXUjblIOT-yb3ko3dFOKYgXmdD-y6r3qNhp4HmU-wVTn1D9xkbRN351AUl1MTq1eEZxQm-OMcV1WYDEBJHUP_0ZwuoemOAnpuN0/s320/100_2973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
With some of the South Dakota players!</div>
After all of this, I lost the pageant stuff and changed into sweats and I decided to head out to a local café for a bite to eat and a chance to use some WiFi. As I was ordering, I saw a young woman's head pop out from the back room. She looked at me and asked "Aren't you Miss Kool-Aid Days?" I guess what they say is true and I am getting a taste of what it is like to be Miss Nebraska - people recognize you even without the pageant stuff!<br />
<div align="center">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/295510_572883342730214_13952704_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div align="center">
Dressed down and working in the café!</div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-73767949082013497222013-03-09T21:26:00.000-08:002013-03-09T21:26:10.876-08:00HLAA When I entered the Miss Kool-Aid Days competition, I had plans of working with the Hearing Loss Association of America and during interview I even had to admit that I had not yet researched the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing but that I planned to.<br />
Soon after winning my title I met with Pete Seiler and began working with the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing where I was able to connect with several other groups for hearing impaired individuals. It was only within the past few weeks when I was looking to connect with ENT doctors that I discovered the contact information for the local Hearing Loss Association of America.<br />
I sent an email to the vice-president and within a week we had arranged a meeting! So this past Thursday Diane Muelleman and I decided to meet at Panera to have lunch and discuss HLAA.<br />
I am incredibly thankful that Diane was willing to take some time and talk with me. While the current group mostly serves as a support group, Diane welcomed my desire to attend meetings, build the group up, and attempt to expand and work for hearing loss issues across the state, especially in the West. We discussed some important issues when it comes to hearing health and discussed some things to do that could benefit the hearing impaired people in our state.<br />
Diane also agreed to work with me as I advance in my work in relation to hearing loss and to help me make a difference when it comes to hearing loss in Nebraska!<br />
I am so excited to expand my work with my platform and to better enable myself to truly make a difference when it comes to hearing loss in our great state and I couldn't be more excited to do it with all of the wonderful individuals I have met by my side!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-35859841571066672292013-03-09T15:33:00.000-08:002013-03-09T15:33:06.388-08:00Family Fun Center XL Today was my first visit to Family Fun Center at it's brand new location. It is now called Family Fun Center XL; the fun really was "extra large" as the new title suggests, but it was more the company I got to enjoy than the actual games that really made it fun.<br />
After a week in which I felt unreasonably tired most days, it was great to be able to forget about any worries and responsibilities and just enjoy time having fun with great people!<br />
When we got to Family Fun Center, everyone pretty much spread out and had the opportunity to explore the facilities on their own with two hours of free game play. I spent a little time walking around and supervising as the kids played and got their own chance to relax without worries. A few weeks ago I met Jorge (the bowling pro) at another outing, well today I got the opportunity to meet and hang out with his brother - and he was the biggest sweetheart!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-oA2c4Md8OSkmcfyWl1Ssi-hcUAlOBczgtDL3G-_VzUSI-VhedYHvmfP6zkfDCUjIS07zYb26L2DmwOiBZjZJzeeF3hbAV1XBAtaUE3CGjzpWxf1ZJ_J-oRIMUrUoXRmwuG5pkkh2xI/s1600/100_2946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-oA2c4Md8OSkmcfyWl1Ssi-hcUAlOBczgtDL3G-_VzUSI-VhedYHvmfP6zkfDCUjIS07zYb26L2DmwOiBZjZJzeeF3hbAV1XBAtaUE3CGjzpWxf1ZJ_J-oRIMUrUoXRmwuG5pkkh2xI/s320/100_2946.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ready for a round of mini-golf!</div>
<br />
We started out playing mini-golf. I would get really excited for him when he made a good shot and when he got his ball in the hole, clapping and cheering. I noticed about three holes into the game that he would look up at me with a huge smile on his face to see my reaction when he did something well! The afternoon continued in this way even as we moved on to arm wrestling, basketball, action games, racing, and even Pac-Man and Super Mario Bros - he would do something he was excited about, look at me or poke me, and smile a big wide smile, it was perhaps one of the most heart-warming things possible!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Mx3naTl8cDUa6Lbmq7jdzQkiO2kQHlqV5JPzNMPr8-a60SmOEOOEWys0VjhVmIwjcbjpyls6i3IQL9DsddnDYeZJeH67-j2wTn9Vs69NokUBS6RRftVjUpnzR5dN4Os_lrNT_CdOQDg/s1600/100_2949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Mx3naTl8cDUa6Lbmq7jdzQkiO2kQHlqV5JPzNMPr8-a60SmOEOOEWys0VjhVmIwjcbjpyls6i3IQL9DsddnDYeZJeH67-j2wTn9Vs69NokUBS6RRftVjUpnzR5dN4Os_lrNT_CdOQDg/s320/100_2949.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Self Picture - tag team arm wrestling against the machine! :)</div>
<br />
To say the least, I was disappointed when it was time to go home, but I do feel fortunate that I was able to spend the afternoon with him and the rest of the students at this outing!<br />
I'm already looking forward to the next outing with these wonderful kids - they always make my day better and I hope I can do the same for them!Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5893049271388112501.post-42949925435666079252013-03-05T11:07:00.001-08:002013-03-05T11:07:35.442-08:00Spread the Word to End the Word<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/64631_378526282165922_1689001317_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some of the athletes serving at the Breakfast of Champions!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Last year doing the polar plunge sparked my interest in the Special Olympics. Shortly after the plunge I got to attend the Breakfast of Champions for the athletes and my interest furthered. The athletes competing in the Olympics are incredible - they often overcome serious obstacles in order to compete in multiple events! When I get the chance to attend the events, I am often in awe of the obstacles these athletes face and the laid back way they discuss their difficulties. I feel like I have made some friends through my work with the organization and I have become rather fond of them.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/419525_367311236620760_1071835209_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of the athletes who plunged last year!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was only after those events last year that I learned about the Day of Awareness Campaign - better known as Spread the Word to End the Word. The campaign aims to stop use of the word "retard" or "retarded" which has become a slur in modern times.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In support of the campaign, I will be wearing blue tomorrow and doing my part to spread the word - I hope to see many other people in blue trying to end the use of the slur and bring more respect to people with disabilities!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Read the New York Times Article about the campaign:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/03/opinion/sunday/a-word-gone-wrong.html?_r=0">http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/03/opinion/sunday/a-word-gone-wrong.html?_r=0</a></div>
Kimberly Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02507623743955153448noreply@blogger.com0