Walking on Sunshine
Hola a todos!
What a beautiful spring it has been. I am currently outside writing this blog because I cannot get enough of this sunshine. The flowers I planted a few weeks ago are in full bloom and bees are happily pollinating them.
This week is National Volunteer’s week. As Miss North Carolina Teen USA, I hope to promote volunteerism especially amongst middle and high school girls. Venture out into your community and be a role model citizen to those around you!
Since I last wrote, I have enjoyed a number of fantastic appearances and opportunities that I would love to share with you.
Earlier this month, I shot with the incredibly talented, Jeanna Beasley. She is a sponsor of the Miss NC and Teen NC USA titles and her work is phenomenal. From this shoot, we were able to choose a shot for my Miss Teen USA profile picture. At this time, I cannot reveal the final pick but I am looking forward unveiling that soon! Below is one of the photos Jeanna took of me:
Later that week, I made a trip across North Carolina to the Wilmington Azalea Festival. At the appearance, I was accompanied by my gorgeous sister queen, Nadia Moffett, and my wonderful friend, Kristen Dalton, AKA: MISS USA! Kristen made a special trip back to her hometown to begin shooting her farewell video. It was great to see her again and spend some extra time with Nadia. After the festival, Nadia and I stopped by the Isabella Grape Boutique, a sponsor of the Miss NC/Teen NC USA titleholders. We had a great time shopping and came home with some very groovy dresses which I cannot wait to show you! The eight hours of driving were well worth it.
The Susan G. Komen Foundation is committed to curing and preventing breast cancer for all women around the world. As a titleholder, I had a list of causes I wanted to bring awareness to and I am now happy to add the Susan G. Komen Foundation to it. The North Carolina Foothills Affiliate of the Komen Foundation invited me to speak to an honorable group of volunteers, survivors, and fighters of breast cancer. Not only was I beyond thrilled to be involved with this notable cause but public speaking is one of my favorite hobbies. Thank you to all of those who have made an impact with the global cause.
Speaking of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, I want to invite you to join Miss North Carolina USA and I at the May 1st Run for the Cure event at Salem College located in Winston-Salem, NC. Remember, one person can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. Thousands of supporters show up to the race year after year for this meaningful and empowering event. Even if you are unable to make the race, you can donate to the link below:
Yesterday, I traveled to Matthews, NC for a Habitat for Humanity fundraiser. The event was called “A Ball to Build” (too cute!) and invited all little princes and princess to enjoy a fun night of crafts and dancing. Miss North Carolina USA, Miss South Carolina USA, and I all greeted the royal crowd. It was sensational to have a reunion with my SC sister queen, Rachel before she heads off to Miss USA. Next weekend, Nadia will be having her Miss USA send-off party (BTW, all of you are cordially invited. See Nadia’s Facebook for details) . Both of these girls have been and will continue to be outstanding representatives for their states.
This morning Nadia and I were involved with a Susan G. Komen photo shoot with Robert Christopher. The photos will be displayed at Nadia’s send-off party and I cannot wait to see them!
Have a blessed week. Soak up this sun!
Warmest regards as always,
-Lauren Ashley
Miss North Carolina Teen USA 2010
