How do you do it?

This past summer, during the national competition, I was asked by 4 out of 5 judges, how I would be able to hold a national title while still under the care of a physician. I was intrigued simply because I had hoped that my work would speak for itself but I also needed to highlight the level of support I receive from those around me.

There is no way on earth I could go and do as much as I have as Mrs. Virginia International without the help of some very good friends, understanding family, and a doctor that taught me how to prepare myself physically for the demands of traveling.

There have been times during the last year that I have been driving/flying/traveling for 5 days out of a week. I must be able to administer all of my meds on my own along with knowing my body well enough to know my personal limits. I have been careful to always schedule what I call a "buffer" day - that's a free day before and after any road trip - this allows me the time to rest and recoup as needed - whether the trip was 1 day or 14 days, I was successful in making sure that I listened to my body.

There is a fair amount of juggling involved to make sure that my daughter is taken care of, the house is as it should be and that other things are in place. Late this summer, that became more difficult when outside forces stepped in and handed this family more than it's fair share. But, even in the midst of some very difficult days, I was able to make each appearance with a smile and show the world that there is always something to smile about, especially when it involved saving lives.

In the end, as my mom always said, when you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. And that is exactly what I intended to do this past year - thankfully, because of people, like my mom, I have been able to do exactly what I set out to do as Mrs. Virginia International 2011 and I am grateful that I have had the opportunity and look forward to new opportunities ahead!

Watch out world!