Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen 2019 Orientation

This past weekend I was surrounded by the most dynamic, talented, and incredible young women in the state of Florida! All of the Miss Florida and Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen candidates attended orientation, so it was wonderful to meet everyone.  

Friday my Mom and I checked into the hotel. Afterwards, we went out and explored Lakeland (it's gorgeous). On Saturday morning I turned in all of my official paperwork and shopped at some of the incredible Miss Florida Organization sponsors pop-up stores (Regalia Magnificent Apparel and Ann Marie's Boutique). In the afternoon, we took a 2019 class picture with all of the candidates and attended a meeting. Saturday night, everyone went to a Lakeland Flying Tigers baseball game organized by Visit Central Florida and the Miss Florida Organization. Before the, game we met with attendees and signed autograph cards. Then, we watched Jessie our reigning Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen and Taylor our reigning Miss Florida throw the first pitch! It was a great night of getting to know all of the girls and watch a game of baseball!

Sunday the outstanding teens began the day with spending time with Jessie, who had incredible advice and encouragement! In the afternoon, a general meeting took place where we discussed pageant week and what the job of Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen entails. One of the highlights of the meeting was hearing from Forever Miss Florida 2006 Allison Kreiger Walsh. Sunday was extra special, because it marked ten years since being diagnosed with childhood cancer. It's incredible to look back and see how God has been constantly faithful in every aspect of my journey. Little five and a half year old Hannah would have never imagined being at orientation for Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen ten years later. Overall it was an amazing weekend!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the Miss Florida Board, sponsors, Jessie and Taylor, and all of the Forevers for everything that you do. I feel extremely inspired and grateful for this opportunity. 

I am so excited to be back in Lakeland soon with all of my sweet sisters!
-Hannah