What a wild ride it has already been!

I still can’t believe that I am going to Miss Virginia this summer. When I look at my crown I have to pinch myself sometimes to realize that I am not in a dream, but I am actually living out this amazing opportunity. Right after I won I attended a wonderful afterglow party sponsored by the Miss Chesterfield Organization at the sponsor hotel Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites in Chesterfield. I was able to meet some amazing board members, see my wonderful family, and finally relax just a bit.

But when I say “relax for just a bit” I really mean that! After the party I drove 2 ½ hours back to my hometown of Harrisonburg. Upon arriving at around 3am, I crashed in my bed with my hair still curled and stage make up on. (I know I know… not good for the skin but I could barley even walk into the house I was so tired!) I took what I like to call a power nap for 3 hours only to wake up at 7am. See, I am still doing this thing called school, and that happens to be in Texas. So after my glorious nap, I repacked my suitcase, boarded a plane, and headed back to Texas.

It was bittersweet leaving Virginia. I would have loved to have been able to stay longer, celebrate with my friends and family and sleep some more, but it was back to the daily grind. Even though it was hard to leave Virginia, I felt like I was flying from one pageant capital to the other. Texas…well no need for explanation…they love pageants also!

My first few weeks back have been based around planning and organizing my life. I don’t think the common person realizes how much work and preparation goes into competing for Miss Virginia. Everything from buying an evening gown down to labeling clothes hangers takes time and organization. However, I love it. From shopping to labeling I enjoy every aspect of the process. I believe that’s what you really gain from this Miss America experience. It’s not so much the actual competition night and awards, but all of the mini lessons learned leading up to the culminating event.

As I begin to plan, visit sponsors and work to build my platform, I plan to write and discuss the journey. Right now I am in a plane over the Mississippi River flying back to Virginia making it my first time back since being crowned 3 weeks ago. I plan to meet with some sponsors, check into some possible wardrobe and maybe see my family for a moment or two JThank you all for the continued love and support. Without Christ and without you, I would not be able to live out my dream.

With All My Love,

Amanda Miller

Miss Chesterfield 2011

Let the journey begin...

This morning I woke up, shuffled my way to the bathroom still sleepy eyed and drowsy. I went to pick up a washcloth and I began to run warm water form the faucet. As I gently washed my face, I looked up at the mirror. I stood there for a second staring at my face. As I turned the water off I kept glancing back at the mirror and eventually cracked the biggest smile I have ever shown. For the person I saw in the mirror, was the same as the one who was crowned Saturday night as the new Miss Chesterfield.

At that moment looking in the bathroom mirror I realized that my life was changing right before me. Years of work and preparation were beginning to shine though. Hours of training were paying off. I was embarking on the Miss Virginia journey that I had dreamed about for so many years. So many times I had been starstruck at former Miss Virginia's and Miss America's, but at this moment I was starstruck on someone new. Myself. I was proud, yet humbled. I was so proud of what I had accomplished and what I will be able to due in my future. Yet, I was very humbled because I realize how many dream of this opportunity and will never be able to cease it.

I never knew a bathroom and a mirror could produce such profound emotions. However, in that bathroom this morning I said a prayer and promised to myself that I will not let this opportunity slip by and I will not press on without glorifying God. I will work harder each day to serve my community, I will prepare for Miss Virginia with a full heart, and I will stay humble and bound by grace. Because, with Christ, all things are possible.

All My Love,
Amanda Miller
Miss Chesterfield 2011