Day 31: A Valentine For Carmen

I have heard through several people now about a young girl going through chemo. Carmen is a 8 year old girl living in Squamish. You can learn more about Carmen and read her story at http://www.caringforcarmen.com or by liking the the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/CaringForCarmen1). She sounds like a fantastic, determined little girl with a lot of strength and heart. 

A friend of mine, who knows her personally, posted a great idea on Facebook. She asked for people to send prayers and valentines her way. I know if I were in her position, I would love the kind words from strangers. So I ran to the store, found an adorable little elephant and a cute box of chocolates. Then, I remembered I had one more Miss America bracelet to give away and threw it in with the rest of the goodies and a note.My friend provided me with the address. If this is something you would like to join in on, please message me for the address. Finally, I sent the valentine her way and hope that it is able to bring a smile to her face!

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 30: Donated Blood(sort of)

Well I hate blood, about as much as I hate needles. However, I saddled up and decided I would face my fear and donate blood today at Eastern. Unfortunately, I am just coming off of a cold and was ineligible. It is the thought that counts right? I hope later in the year I am able to make this up.

Luckily, I did have a brave friend who did donate. (I proud of you Tiff! You make these acts so much easier!) I was there to hold her hand and learn a lot about the process.  By donating a full bag of blood (500mL) you can save three lives-that is amazing to me! Also, blood banks are always looking for donors. I had assumed that blood drives happen only so often, but that is far from the case. For example, if you are in the Spokane area you can make an appointment on the link below and donate at anytime. OR if you are an Eastern student, there will be another drive on Valentine's Day this upcoming month. 

http://www.inbc2.org

On another note, I have learned that while trying to make another's day, they end up making yours. Tiffany waited nervously in her chair, when the man seen below comes trotting (literally) around the corner. He wore his white lab coat and an enormous smile. He tells her "I could tell you are nervous and I just wanted to make you feel more comfortable with me." With that said, Tiff begins to relax and replies, "you're so happy." He then responded by explaining, "I am naturally a happy person, because I wake up in the morning, look in the mirror and tell myself 'no mistakes-today will be a good day." His spirit alone inspired me because he genuinely loved his job and helping others. Then when he gave us that piece of advice, he reminded me to be happy with who I was and to always wear a smile! Thanks Jerry!  

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 29: Just Listened

We all have those days...where we have almost had it and just want someone to vent to or cry with. It's natural. We are human. That's why today it was nice to lend an ear and help out a friend.
In my experience, I've learned that an expert listener doesn't say much and doesn't even need to offer advice, unless it is asked for.

Personally, I know I feel better when I am able to get it all out on the table and off my shoulders. Whatever you are holding in can feel like the weight of the world. This can cause more unneeded stress and can eventually make a person sick.

A great quote I remember is "You can hear without actually listening." Don't be that person. For 5, 10 or even 15 minutes put everything aside and find someone you can confide in. Find someone who will just listen. And hey, if there is no one else, I am always here!

Wise words...

Day 28: Opened The Door

There is not much to say today. A simple gesture can go a long way and can sometimes act as a catalyst.  Today I made sure to open the door for everyone I saw. This is something that should be done everyday, but unfortunately is easily overlooked. And no ladies, gents are not the only human beings who are cable of holding the door.

At a college, there is obviously a fair amount of doors and a greater number of students. You would think the students would have the common courtesy to hold the door for others. Don't get me wrong, the majority of students will hold the door if you are in close range. However, I have also had my fair share of doors slamming in my face.

Even worse, I was in the student union building the other day grabbing a coffee, when a student had his hands full of boxes. At first, the poor boy had to maneuver a way through the first door, then a generous bystander held the rest of the doors open. The point is, there were so many people around and it still took a minute for someone to lend a hand. Come on people...

Long story short-hold a door, share a smile and make a difference. There is no such thing as a small act of kindness.

Day 27: Attended The Lilac Coronation

I haven't been in Spokane long, but I have always been aware of the Lilac Festival. I never knew much about the festival itself or the beautiful young ladies, who sport crowns and matching purple outfits. The only thing I did know, is just that, the court is seven young ladies who always match and always wear purple. Tonight, I learned it is so much more.

Much like any other pageant system, there is so much more than meets the eye. To an outsider, these girls may look like just a pretty face, but they are determined, passionate and accomplished. Each contestant is a senior in high school and, if chosen to be a part of the court, receive scholarship monies.

(Before the show)

Each high school- public and private- in the Spokane area nominate one girl to represent their school. I believe I read there are 29 schools in all. Then after a long deliberation and judging the 29 girls are then cut down to the "Fab 14". These 14 young ladies are the lucky few chosen to compete on stage to be one of the seven in the court and ultimately the queen!

(The queen and her court)

At first, I hadn't really known what I was getting myself into. However, by the end of the coronation, I was so happy I had come and supported such an incredible organization. I hope the queen and her court have a fantastic year! It goes by too quickly...

Day 26: Became A Big Sister

Today is the Miss Auburn Scholarship Pageant, which means a Miss Washington sister is passing on her title. Tera Sabo's platform is Big Brothers Big Sisters and this is actually how I came up with the idea of featuring my sisters. I had been wanting to get involved with this organization for sometime now, so this was a perfect opportunity. 

(Photo credit: Select Photography) 

A big brother or sister is matched with a little brother or sister and is to act as mentor to them. Because my platform is empowering youth to take the lead, I look for any chance to inspire youth and positively encourage them to chase their dreams. Big Brothers Big Sisters' mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. How exciting right? If there is anything I have learned by working with kids, it is the feeling of pride and accomplishment you feel when you see them succeed and smile.  

You can become a big by clicking here. There are several requirements to be a big though, which include: 

1. Must be 18 or older
2. Must have a valid driver's license 
3. Commit to 18 months 
4. Visit with your little 2-4 hours a day, 2-4 times a month 

Although I haven't yet met my little, I am so excited for the adventures to come! 

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 25: Spoke Up About Human Trafficking

During Miss Washington week, I was so incredibly blessed to be surrounded by 21 smart, passionate and determined young ladies. I love my platform and know they feel the same about theirs. When I was trying to think of good organizations to support within my year of kindness, I thought to myself, "who knows better than 21 of Washington's best?" So, I will feature my Miss Washington sisters before they give their titles up. Salina was crowned during the sweeper pageant and will be competing for Miss Auburn tomorrow! I send her the best of luck and all my prayers! She is a phenomenal person!

Meet Salina Ellison, Miss Liberty

What is your platform titled?
SE: Human Sex Trafficking: Here in the US

How can someone get involved with your platform?
SE: The biggest thing with my platform is awareness. Even doing something simple, like posting statistics would be awesome.

Why did you choose this platform?
SE: I chose it because I realized how big of an issue it is and how little people know about it. Here are some stats that really shocked me. 
-Worldwide this industry generated 32 billion dollars over 1/3 comes from the US.
-500-700 minors re brought through and sold on the streets of Seattle weekly 
-Those numbers are what caused Seattle to be ranked 3rd highest in the nation for this crime

(Salina and I at Miss Washington 2012)

Before heading to school this morning, I wrote out several statistics about human trafficking on post-it notes. In between classes, I found random walls and mirror space to place the sticky notes. As Salina mentioned, awareness is the best way to be proactive. If at least one person reads the statistics, that is one more person who is aware of this epidemic. I know I was taken back by statistics, especially in Washington. After I learned more, I realized knowledge really is power.  

Also, I found this interesting video posted by UNICEF!

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 24: Donated Gloves To The Gospel Mission

As anyone from the Northwest knows, it can get pretty chilly during the winter! When you go outside you want to be bundled to keep the frigid out. But, what if you didn't have anything to bundle up with? Even more so, what if you didn't have a warm place to call home?

Right after the hustle and bustle of Christmas, my mom and I ventured into Target. Just like so many other items, they had hundreds of paris of gloves on sale. I thought to myself, "it would be nice for someone who was out in the cold to have a nice new pair of gloves." They were only $1 for a pack of two pairs, so I bought a few pairs and trucked them back to Spokane with me. I waited to donate them because I was in a bit of a culture shock when I moved to Spokane. I was so taken back by how many homeless people there were and how many people needed our help.

Today as I was driving, a man was standing on the street corner with a sign that read," Anything will help." Ok sir, if it's anything you want, how about a pair of gloves? I offered him a pair and he graciously accepted. Then I had about 10 pairs left and made my way to Storage Solutions. They accept donations for the local Union Gospel Mission. If you're in the Spokane area, I know there are several places that take clothing, furniture or monetary donations.

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,
Kailee

Day 23: Sent Flowers

 Today is a very, very special day! A very important person, who is near and dear to my heart, is celebrating a birthday! She is my beautiful grandma or Grammy as we know her! When I was growing up, Grammy and my grandpa- aka Grampsy- were very involved in my life and were incredible role models for my whole family. Not to say my other grandparents were not because they were, but  Grammy and Grampsy babysat when my parents were at work and were always around for Christmas!

When I was a junior in high school, my grandpa fell victim to the awful Alzheimer's disease. Although my grandma was hurting, she was so strong and even through rough times persevered. She has been, still is and always will be one of the strongest people I know. The picture below is on my Facebook and the caption reads, "my inspirations"-my mom is also in the original photo. They truly are my inspirations and I know that I wouldn't be who I am today without their tough love, unconditional love and encouragement.

(Grammy and I at Miss Tri-Cities 2012) 

Usually, I would be heading her way to celebrate with her, but since I am at school now the distance is just a little too far. On Monday night, I sat and thought about her upcoming birthday and pondered about how I could show her my love, no matter the distance. To me, a phone call wasn't enough and a Facebook message-yes, Grammy is on Facebook- didn't even come close! And as I sat there, I began to cry...and I am tearing up now as I write this. I can't remember the last time I wasn't there to celebrate with her and that hit me hard. If you haven't caught on, the significance this woman has held in my life is immense.  After stepping aside to contain myself and prevent myself from looking like a blubbering fool in front of my roommates I returned to my computer.

I came across this beautiful bouquet of flowers, seen below. I decided that a women so elegant and beautiful should receive something just as magnificent. I loved the colors and thought it would be perfect since Valentines Day is just around the corner. I was able to add a sincere, short and sweet message and I only hope that it is able to bring a smile to her face on her special day!

Grammy, if you are reading this, I just want you to know how much I love you and how much I appreciate you. I truly wish I were there. Happy birthday!

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,
Kailee

Day 22: Welcomed A New Neighbor

Moving can be a scary thing. When arriving to your new home, it's natural to feel uncomfortable and  yearn to feel welcome. I know I did. Everyone, no matter a simple greeting or an extravagant welcome party, deserves to know that they are accepted and appreciated. Hence, today's act.

We are a few weeks into the winter quarter and I have been meaning to do this for a while now, but today was the perfect opportunity thanks to the help of an accomplice. A fellow Tri-Citian has recently moved to Cheney and is now a fellow Eag! As mentioned, an accomplice and I acted quickly while she was at class and dropped off a goodie for her. This act was anonymous I may add, no recognition needed. Even though I believe this post may give it away. So, you know who you are fellow eagle and if you are reading this, I simply wanted to say, "Welcome!"

A few hours later, I received a text from my accomplice with a picture attached. Apparently the treat was well received and appreciated. Below are the following words written on her social media pages:

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,
Kailee

Day 21: I Have A Dream

"I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.'...I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.I have a dream today."-MLK

Today is a celebration of what Martin Luther King stood for; equality and of the strength of this great country. Until a few days ago, I hand't realized that there are many ways to commemorate MLK. I knew the holiday was fast approaching and I wanted to do something that celebrated such an incredible leader. To find an event, I simply did a web search for MLK celebration in (insert city name). Baffled, I came across a plethora of events and information.  

For example, this morning I went into Spokane where they did a Unity March. 

If you are an Eastern student, you can donate school supplies to local Cheney schools.

Or simply, watch and really listen to the wisdom that Martin Luther acquired. 

This country has taken great strides since the death of such a wise man. In fact, today was the inauguration for our first African American president's second term in office. I am not even a democrat and I believe it was an incredible way to celebrate such a renown day.  

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,
Kailee

Day 20: Encouraged Others

Two years ago, I had never imagined being in a pageant, let alone get on a stage at all. However, I was so so fortunate to have good role models, a circle of support and people to encourage me. They helped me find enough courage to sing on stage for the very first time and ultimately just have fun. I honestly don't believe that I could do anything without those who I count on the most and those who believe in me. Everyone, no matter in a pageant setting or not, needs a few words of encouragement to help them keep pushing further. 

Today was the first production rehearsal for Miss Spokane. Among the group, there are several girls who have never competed in a pageant before. Not to say that they feel uncertain about the process, but I remember how great it felt to have contestants say a few kind words to me. Encouragement can be as simple as a smile or as much as taking someone aside to instruct them.  

When someone is new to something, the important thing to remember is be patient! I can't tell you how many times I have seen people blow up on someone because they didn't catch on immediately. The consequence to showing your annoyed could really hurt the person and make them feel even more uncomfortable. Have you ever had that teacher who belittles the class if they don't answer the question correctly? Resulting in a class too afraid in speak up or try again. Obviously, this is the same case in most aspects of life. Calm, cool and collected is the way to go when encouraging. It is ok to make mistakes! We are all human and again, we all just need a little push sometimes.

Day 19: Teens For Jeans

There are 1.7 million teenagers who are homeless today in the United States. According to this site, the #1 requested item at a shelter is a pair of jeans. This is a great campaign that everyone can take part in. From now until February 24, Aeropostale is collecting gently used jeans for homeless teens across the country. Not only, will you be donating to a great cause, but you will also receive 25% off a new pair of jeans from the store.

This is an act of kindness that means so much to a young adult and is so incredibly simple! When I was searching for acts of kindness, I looked on Dosomething.org for new campaigns and causes. I came across Teens For Jeans and immediately searched my room for gently used jeans. My mom even donated a pair of jeans. Again, so simple.

All you have to do is round up a few pairs or a pair of jeans. Then locate the closest Aeropostale and drop them off! They will take care of the rest. They accept jeans of all styles and sizes.

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless,
Kailee

Day 18: Supported EWU Girl's Rugby

This is only my second quarter at Eastern and I am overwhelmed by the plethora of activities a student can get involved in. Some are activities I encountered at my community college, but some are new and exciting. One, for example, is men's AND women's rugby!

I had a good amount of time between my classes, so I wandered over to the PUB with a classmate. And I am glad that I did, because I was presented with a great opportunity. At a table just inside the entrance was the women's rugby team trying to fundraise for the upcoming season. They were selling Krispy Kreme doughts by the dozen. Now, these scrumptious treats are not the healthiest, but the thought was tantalizing and there is always a chance to share.I say I was happy with the opportunity because I remember how hard I work when I fundraise and how much it means when someone does help me out.

Not only was I able support the girls and get a dozen doughnuts, but I was able to talk to the girls about the sport. There is a lot that I didn't know and I now would like to attend a game! You can learn more about this club sport by clicking here.

It is amazing what the outcome can be when you open your eyes, your heart and your mind to something new. You may just learn something and/or make new friends!

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

On a health note: Yes, I am preparing for Miss Spokane and I am eating right. This does NOT mean I am starving myself or depriving my body. People have this postulated belief that pageant girls don't eat. My message for the day is girls you can still eat right and indulge a little. (i.e. 1 Krispy Kreme doughnut) Health is a lifestyle and it's all about moderation! 

Day 17: Began Volunteering At West Central Community Center

This afternoon, I began my volunteer work at West Central Community Center. For those of you that don't know, WCCC is a local after school program for elementary school children in the area. The center is very similar to a Boys and Girls Club.  This is a safe place where children can learn, grow and expand their horizons. The staff is there to encourage, mentor and empower the kids.

Their mission states: The West Central Community Center has been established to provide social, health, recreation & educations services to the community to help improve the quality of life for it's families. (Click on the logo to learn more.)

I am so excited about the time I will be spending at the center. I already feel a strong connection with a few of the kids and hope I am able to encourage, mentor and empower them as well. Sometimes, all a child needs is someone who will give them attention and listen to them.

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 16: Made Dinner For Friends

Well today I was busy, busy, busy with school and volunteering. I am trying to find opportunities to act kindly on campus but, I am also trying to get back into the swing of things. I am almost there, I promise.

Tonight after finishing my volunteer work, I  made dinner for my roommates and close friends. Every once and awhile it is nice to treat them and serve them. I made pizza and cookies...yum. Now, I bet you are saying, "But Kailee that pizza looks extremely good!" First of all, it was scrumptious. Second, I technically did bake the pizza and cookies. I never said I made it from scratch ;)  I know I always appreciate when they make me dinner, so I figured I'd repay the favor.

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 15: Became A Make-A-Wish Volunteer

Today I am so excited, because I am now a Make-A-Wish volunteer! This is such an amazing foundation that allows dreams to come true and bring magic back to the world. Their mission is to "grant wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy." I have been so fortunate to work with Children's Miracle Network and the experience has been so rewarding. After looking more into the Make-A-Wish Foundation, I fell head over heels in love with this organization as well.

You too can become a volunteer by clicking here. They are always looking for new volunteers to help grant wishes, sponsor a child or help with special events. Fortunately for me, Make-A-Wish's northwest office is in Spokane and I'll be able to help as best as I can! If you too decide to become a volunteer, I promise it will be a rewarding experience. I can't help but cry every time I hear an amazing wish that was brought to life by this wonderful organization.

I so look forward to my adventures with this foundation and the children we will be able to touch.

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 14: Tipped the Bag Boy

Today, I made my way back up to school. I am happy to be back. I was welcomed back, however, with loads of snow...Because I have been gone for over a month I was in dire need of groceries. Naturally, I trekked my way to the store and had a bag boy help me with the mass amount of food I needed lugged to my car. The poor guy struggled as he shoved the cart through the snow. I offered to help, but he refused.

After loading all of the bags into my car, it was the least I could do to tip the boy a few dollars. However, it was his reaction that made me realize my action was more random than I had thought. He turned to walk away and I said, "Oh, thank you. Here you are." He looked stunned and said thank you. Then as he began to push my now empty cart away, he looked back and said, "Are you sure?" After reassuring him, he was on his way.

I had my mind set on a different act, but today's act was truly random and unexpected. However, this act felt more rewarding. Lastly, again I say and believe that it really is the little things that matter. I hope next time you too choose to unexpectedly surprise someone.

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 13: Helped Someone Unwind

Today was another long day of hustle and bustle. I packed my bags and caught my flight back home! Although I spent the entire day looking for opportunities to complete my act, it is hard when you are on the move. However, sometimes others have long hard days too. They need to unwind and de-stress and today I was able to help with that. Sometimes, someone just needs you to be there for them. Although it's short, sweet and too the point. Sometimes the smallest thing make the biggest difference.

Day 12: Gave A Compliment

Today was crazy! Miss America day! I'm so so proud of Mandy! All I have to say for today is give 5 compliments to strangers! But, make sure they are genuine! Remember how it feels to receive a compliment as you give a compliment. It can seriously make there day.

Day 11- MAO Week: Did Something!

Today, was my first full day in Vegas and I had so much fun! My good friend Ali met my mom and me here and we walked the strip! The Miss America contestants did not have prelims today, just rehearsals! In just 24 hours we will have a new Miss America (fingers crossed).

As I walked around Vegas, I was wondering how I could complete my final task while in Vegas. Mandy Schendel, Miss Washington 2012, has titled her platform "Do Something; Enriching Youth Cultivating Leaders." For as long as I have known Mandy, she has always encouraged the younger generation to follow their dreams and just go for it! So, I thought to myself, how can I encourage youth while I'm here? Well, I was shopping around and found the cutest bracelets that said "Miss America" and"There She Is". I bought 5 of them and as the day went on I gave them to little "princesses" and told them I'd see them on the Miss America stage soon! It's simple, but a sweet reward to see the smile on their faces...:)

Watch Miss America tomorrow on ABC! And best of luck to Mandy!!

P.S. Mandy was the preliminary award winner for lifestyle ad fitness in swimwear! She is the first from Washington since 1981! Congratulations!

Day 10-MAO Week: Donated Used Purses

Another contestant that I was so fortunate to meet during Miss Washington was Miss Idaho 2012, Whitney Wood. Whitney's platform is really unique and very easy to support. Her platform is titled Handbags of Hope; Giving women confidence they can carry. Basically, the organization accepts gently used purse donations, which they then fill with 15 essential items that women need. Then they take the filled purses "to women and teens living in transitional housing. [They] support local shelters such as Domestic Violence Intervention Center and referrals."(Handbags of Hope Facebook)

Now, it seems that there is one category of accessories that each women goes crazy for. In my case, I am a purse lover! So, naturally my mom and I had a few nice purses lying around that we would never use again. We sent our purses to:

Handbag of Hope Idaho

290 Plantation Circle

Idaho Falls, Idaho 83404

You can send your gently used purses there, or discover more about Handbags of Hope by checking out their Facebook page!

Miss Idaho 2012, Whitney Wood

Watch Miss America live from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Saturday January 12th! 

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 9- MAO Week: Shh! It's A Secret...

Sometimes you have a plan and sometimes a better opportunity then presents itself. Just now, that opportunity struck me. Although this act was anonymous it still, coincidentally, related to the Miss America Organization! And I PROMISE I actually did something!

The Miss America Organization is the #1 scholarship provider for women in the world. With that said, each contestant works hard to earn more scholarship dollars and earn money for Children's Miracle Network. I am such a fan of this organization, that any opportunity to help in the betterment of young women and make someone's dream feel that much closer I will take!

Today's lesson...it's FUN to do something anonymously for the good of someone else! Try it sometime!

Until next time my friends,

Kailee

Day 8-MAO Week: Supported St. Baldrick's

Tonight the Miss America Preliminary competition began. Each night a group of contestants will compete in different phases of compeition. At the end of each preliminary night, there will be a winner for swimwear and another for talent. I cannot wait to see who the preliminary winners are!

 A few months ago, at Miss Washington, I was so fortunate to meet two of the other titleholders. One of them being Miss Alaska, Debbe Jo Ebben. Debbe is incredibly sweet and so courageous. Her platform is St. Baldrick's Foundation, where participants and cancer patients shave their heads together. Debbe was so dedicated and brave that she shaved her long beautiful locks for this cause. 

Tonight, I bought a new coffee mug in support of the organization. You can donate and/or learn more about St. Baldrick's by clicking here. 

Watch Miss America live from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Saturday January 12th! 

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 7-MAO Week: Donated to The Miracle League

Each contestant who competes in the Miss America system is asked to choose an issue relevant and relatable to them. If chosen as a titleholder, that contestant is then asked to be an advocate for their platform during their year. Over the years, I have seen so many amazing platforms and causes which make the young women in this organization that much more incredible. 

Miss Florida 2012, Laura McKeeman

After watching each contestant's video, I was touched by so many of the contestant's platforms and found that I really related to a few of them. The first platform I related to is The Miracle League. This organization runs baseball games for children with physical or mental challenges. Each player scores and gets to round the bases, which just warms my heart!

As an athlete for so many years, I've realized how important sports are in a person's life. Athletics have taught me so much about myself, working with others and was the first thing that gave me a feeling of accomplishment. I love the idea of The Miracle League because I know what it is like to score a point, make a basket or run the bases. As a child, the feeling is unlike any other and it gives you something to believe in. Everyone should have the opportunity to play the game that they love and most importantly everyone should have something to believe in. 

There is a lot of great gear you can purchase to support The Miracle League, or you can make a simple donation like I did!

Watch Miss America live from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Saturday January 12th! 

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 6-MAO Week: Voted For A Semi-Finalist

Today's act is very, very simple and everyone should take part! Even though I have and will continue to vote everyday, I think this is a GREAT opportunity for others to help make one girls dream come true! If you click here, you can vote for your favorite contestant to have a secure spot as a semi-finalist!

After watching all 53 videos I am astounded and inspired by what the contestants have accomplished.  These girls are more than just a pretty face. They are smart, articulate and determined. I can't wait to see who will be crowned Miss America 2013! I sure do have my winner picked out;)

Click on a video

Watch the video (or all 53 like me)

& vote! 

Watch Miss America live from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Saturday January 12th! Also, keep an eye out for my pageant sister, Miss Washington, Mandy Schendel!

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 5-MAO Week: Donated to Children's Miracle Network

In just one week we will have a new Miss America! As the excitement builds and the contestants get ready to compete starting Monday, I figured I would do my part and dedicate this week to acts relevant to Miss America. I begin my week by donating to Children's Miracle Network (CMN). For those of you that don't know, CMN is the national platform for Miss America and she who is crowned is devoted to representing CMN as the Goodwill Ambassador. CMN was founded in 1983 and became the national platform for Miss America in 2007. The thing that I absolutely love about CMN is the fact that they focus on two main goals; help as many children by raising funds and keeping those funds local.

Here are just a few ways that you can donate to Children's Miracle Network!

1. Simply donate money.
2. Donate time working with the kids.
3. Look for chances to 'buy a balloon'.
4. Donate toys or other goodies to put a smile on a child's face. 

Watch Miss America live from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Saturday January 12th! Also, keep an eye out for my pageant sister, Miss Washington, Mandy Schendel!

Have a random act of kindness you would like me to try? Comment below.

God bless, 

Kailee