Kentucky Woman

Stardate:  -308427.72

I am back home in Kentucky and already reminiscing the whirlwind of excitement that was the Mrs. International Pageant.  The week was full of smart and beautiful ladies, each with a purpose and a mission.

The first question people usually ask is, "How did you do?"  Naturally and without thinking your first response tends to be, "Well, I didn't win."  However, the truth is that I did win...in so many ways.

I had the once in a lifetime opportunity to represent the beautiful state of Kentucky, not just for a week but for the entire year!

I built a GEMS program out of literally nothing and had the whole community supporting the effort!

I walked across the national stage feeling confident and blessed!

Above all and most importantly the GEMS in my program will always and forever outshine the gems on my crown!

Being Mrs. Kentucky International has been a remarkable adventure!  It has truly been an honor representing Kentucky! 

-Jessica

It's the a Final Countdown!

Stardate:  -308480.43

In less than two weeks I will be representing the beautiful state of Kentucky at the Mrs. International Pageant!  Surprisingly, I find that I feel calm and relaxed as I prepare for this amazing opportunity.

When I arrive in Jacksonville, I will meet 65 other inspiring and driven women!  Make no mistake, this pageant is not about sizing up or getting the edge on the competition.  It is, and has always been, about having a dream and actively pursuing it!  My dream is to use the Mrs. International title to empower girls to dismiss the stereotypes that hold them back in the STEM fields.

This year I have tried to remember these simple steps:

1.  Never forget who you are.  It's easy to get caught up in what a pageant contestant should be.  In reality, you should be you!  Don't be afraid to hold back the things you love because it doesn't seem classy or glamorous enough!

2.  Never forget why you began.  My mission is one for girls and women!  So I specifically chose the International Pageant System because they support and encourage women in education, health, and civic responsibility.

3.  Never be afraid to publish yourself.  I mean this both figuratively and literally.  When I first began I didn't care for the idea of calling up organizations to showcase myself as Mrs. Kentucky International.  It seemed presumptuous.  However, I realized that I am not necessarily selling myself, but my platform.  It is called networking and it can be an amazing thing!  So, through this new found courage, I decided now is the best time to try to publish a children's book I have been working on.  It is directly inspired through the GEMS platform and I feel proud and confident with the opportunity!  

I am prepared and optimistic to compete at this year's International pageant!  Thank you sincerely to family, friends, colleagues, and community for your support!  

Tuesdays with Mobot at the Hosparus Lunar 5K in Elizabethtown, KY. 

-Jessica