Day 273: Pageant Planet Helps Feed The Planet

I am always on the look out for new opportunities to give back, so when my mom emailed me this earlier, I knew I wanted to give back. I love, love, love when I see others giving back as well. In this case, this particular gentlemen is giving back in a big way. The gentlemen who sent the email below is trying to raise $6,000 to feed 240 children for 30 days.

If you would like to help him reach his goal, please email Steven Roddy at info@pageantplanet.com with the subject line "This scares me..." and your phone number. If you are involved in the pageant world, you can sign up for coaching and the proceeds with be donated. He also asks for everyone to simply help share his mission on any and all social media sites.  I emailed him and I am waiting to hear back so I can donate. Please tell me that you will, if nothing else, share this mission on Facebook, twitter, etc. Together we can all make a difference. 

God bless,

Kailee

Day 272: Donated To Alzheimer's Research

My mom and I are walking in a walk to End Alzheimer's this weekend in honor of my grandpa who passed away from the disgusting disease. This afternoon I raised $100 that will be put towards my fundraising goal. You can still donate to my page by clicking here. I appreciate the help.

Day 271: #AJO

My mom sent me this story earlier that I just had to share. Recently, a young girl passed away from epilepsy and all she wanted the morning she passed away was get a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks. After she passed and her parents were able to properly grieve, they wanted to give back in honor of her. They went to Starbucks and paid for the next 40 people in like and wrote #AJO (Alyssa Josephine O'Neil) on each cup. The employees at Starbucks were so touched by the gesture that they handed out 50 additional drinks for free all with #AJO on them. To read the full story, click here.

To keep the movement going, I went to Starbucks and explained the story to the employee. I asked for her to write #AJO on my cup. In addition, I bought a drink for the person behind me and again asked if they could write #AJO on it. I don't know if the person behind me will ask about it or even notice. No matter, I was still able to honor a complete stranger whose family is on the other side of the country and  is trying to make a difference. All because a sweet girl wanted a pumpkin spice latte. 

I strongly strongly encourage you try it. Keep the #AJO movement going!

God bless,

Kailee

Day 270: Donated To World Food Programme

At Taco Bell this evening, I was asked if I would like to donate to World Food Programme. Ironically, that was the organization that I wrote about yesterday. To keep the National Take Action For Hunger trend going, I of course donated a dollar. 

Day 269: World Food Programme Challenge

This is quite simple and only takes but a minute. By clicking on the link below, you will be taken to a website where you can take a 5 question quiz. For every person who takes the quiz, a hungry child will be fed. Like I said, really simple. So, do it! I challenge you. I went 4/5. Can you beat me?

http://quiz.wfp.org

God bless,

Kailee

Day 268: Women's Health Day

Today is national women's health and fitness day! I wasn't really aware of this until my mom showed me it. What women's health and fitness day is, is the nation's largest health promotion for women of all ages. Across the country, thousands of women are taking part in group exercises to talk about women's health and fitness. In addition, and most importantly they are keeping their bodies active and healthy. The focus of this day is to stress the importance of regular physical activity.

This is an act of kindness to your body. It is so important to stay healthy and happy which comes from regular exercise is essential. This afternoon, I also took part in a group exercise class. I took a zumba class and got my sweat on. At the beginning of the class, they spoke about proper workout techniques and also maintaining diet. So, I challenge you to take part in 30 minutes of physical activity. It doesn't need to be extremely vigorous, it just needs to be done. Do something nice for your body today. It will thank you later.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 267: ReStyle

As I sit here typing this, I am gearing up for my last first day of school...ever. The feeling is really surreal and yet I am so excited for all of the adventures that this year has in store. I spent today getting everything ready before diving into full madness. I did a lot of organizing, cleaning and emailing. While   taking a little break on Facebook, I found an organization called Hope For Women. This organization strives to bring "premium quality, Fair Trade, eco-friendly products created by women artisans to the mainstream marketplace since 2006, and are committed to providing sustainable employment for economically disadvantaged women worldwide." 

One of their brands is named ReStyle. At ReStyle, you can buy products mainly made by women to help women. This website offers many different items, including; jewelry, bags and cases, cards and items for men. I personally really liked the bracelet seen below with the saying, "Dwell in possibilities."They have some really cool items on their site and I highly encourage you to take a look. 

God bless,

Kalee

Day 266: Your Purchase Counts With Dove

I absolutely love and appreciate all that Dove does as a company to make women feel beautiful. Recently, they created a social campaign to help raise money for their partners who also believe in empowering women and young girls. Their partners include Girl Scouts, Boys and Girls Club and Girls Inc. With each purchase of a Dove product (mens, women's, lotion, soap whatever it may be), they will donate a portion of the proceeds to one of their three partner companies.

Once I found this out, I went to the nearest grocery store and bought some Dove soap. Next time you are at a store or need some deodorant, I would suggest thinking about what your deodorant brand stands for. Mine is empowerment. I just commend Dove for going against society and telling people in general that they are beautiful. While on the topic, I wanted to share a commercial that was shown as I was writing this blog. It is a commercial by Special K, but shares the same message that Dove promotes.

God bless

and stay beautiful,

Kailee

Day 265: World Peace

Today, is International Peace Day! This is a day celebrated across the world. This day was founded in 1981 by the United Unions General Assembly. In my opinion, this is just a day to encourage positive attitudes, spirt and encouragement to others.

"On this International Day of Peace, let us pledge to teach our children the value of tolerance and mutual respect.  Let us invest in the schools and teachers that will build a fair and inclusive world that embraces diversity.  Let us fight for peace and defend it with all our might."

To join in on the festivities, people are asked to wear purple, a color of serenity. Of course, I had to show my support and wear my favorite color.

                                          

This day is celebrated every year, so next September remember all we need is World Peace...enjoy.

God bless,

Kailee

P.S. 100 more days!

Day 264: Team Ramiro

Alright, this is for a good friend of mine! Recently, a friend of hers was in a serious  long boarding accident. He unfortunately went in to a coma and has had severe brain trauma. He is in recovery right now and is looking for your help! I helped by making a small contribution because every little bit helps. The link is below

http://www.gofundme.com/TEAMRAMIRO

Day 263: Wedding To Remember

Hey all! A fellow Miss America sister needs our help. My mom was on the internet the other day and came across this contest and shared it with me. Keep in mind that this girl and I have never met and literally live on opposite sides of the country. However, she is a Miss America titleholder and a great believer in the 4 points of the crown; style, scholarship, success and SERVICE. She is engaged to a gentleman in the military and they have been chosen by Fox as finalists in this years "Wedding to Remember."Her name is Ashleigh and her fiancé's name is Matthew. She is the current Miss Taunton in Massachusetts. They are one of the three final couples left and you can vote for them to have their dream wedding by clicking here. You can read a blurb from all of the couples and vote from there! Best of luck Ashleigh and Matthew!

God bless,

Kailee

Day 262: Did My Roommates Laundry

This afternoon, one of my roommates had to head back home. Before she left, she mentioned that she still had laundry to do. Once she left, I helped a sister out and did her laundry! 

Day 261: Cell Phones For Survivors

I moved back to Cheney today and had a very long day of moving. With that said, I wanted to make this short, sweet and to the point because I have to wake up early tomorrow.

DoSomething.org is currently running a campaign called cell phones for survivors. They are asking for old and unused cell phones. The phones will then be given to a survivor of domestic violence. You can learn more about the campaign and how you can donate by clicking here.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 260: Bought A Bracelet From A Woman In Need

While running a few errands today, I ran into a woman who was selling bracelets outside of Safeway. She explained that by buying a bracelet, it would help her buy food. The bracelets were a dollar and that is what I had in my wallet. I gave her my dollar and in return she handed over a pink braided bracelet to "match my outfit." I hope my donation will really help her buy food.

                                      

God bless,

Kailee

Day 259: Dinner Donation

Well, the show is over and we have packed up to head home. It was our last day on the boardwalk and I have so many memories I'll be bringing home! Before heading to he airport, the group I was with and I stopped for a little lunch at Margaritaville. Sitting on the table was the flyer below. Seeing as September is national take action against hunger month, several organizations are chilling in to make a difference. By dining at Margaritaville, a portion of the bill will be donated to No Kid Hungry.

Day 258: Water Girl

This evening after the Miss America final night, those who have badges were able to visit with the girls. Hidden in the corner of the visiting room was a water dispenser for all to enjoy. However, the dispenser wasn't working so I stood with the water jug and poured water for people for several minutes. 

Day 257: Helped Stack Chairs

After the marvelous Show Us Your Shoe Parade, the entire boardwalk was full of garbage and now empty chairs. I mean thousands of chairs, from the thousands of people who had watched the show. Luckily, there were a ton of volunteers there to help! I wanted to help a little, so I helped stack chairs before heading back in for the night. 

Day 256: Buy Itka's Book!

This week I met an elderly women who is a holocaust survivor. She is one of the most incredible women I have ever met and she writes poems! She wrote a book of poems and I highly suggest you take a look at her book! Show Itka some love!

Day 255: Contributed To CMN

In honor of Miss America week, I have to say something about Children's Miracle Network! Since partnering with theChildren's  Miracle Network in 2006, Miss America contestants have raised over 9.5 million dollars for local hospitals. In her year of service, Miss America will act as the Goodwill Ambassador for CMN. Because the two organizations have such a close partnership, CMN had a table set up at the trade show this afternoon. They had on display t-shirts, pins and candles. For a contribution, you could take home one of the cool pieces of memorabilia. Of course, I had to donate (what a phenomenal cause) and I walked away with a new t-shirt and a pin. 

Day 254: Took A Moment Of Silence

Today we, more than ever remember that tragic event that took place 12 years ago. Everywhere I looked today, I was reminded of why I am so proud to be an American. In honor of those who have fallen and those who have fought, I took a moment of silence. In that moment I thanked God for our freedom and for those strangers in which I have never met that are selflessly fighting for me. 

In addition, I wanted to share this story that I shared with my friends on Facebook. 

 

God bless America, God bless our troops and God bless you,

Kailee

Day 253: Helped With Luggage

This morning, my mom and I began our adventure to Atlantic City. While waiting for our fellow travelers in Philadelphia, we saw a young girl traveling alone with 3 large sized suitcases. She tried to stack them together in a way that she could drag them all along at the same time. While I am sure she would have made it to her destination...eventually, I knew I wasn't going to let the poor girl suffer. I offered to help and she seemed baffled and replied, "oh that's ok I'm just going to my shuttle. But thank you!" Seeing as we were still a good 60 ft from the door, I told her that I would at least help her to the door. When I finally helped her to the shuttle desk she was again very gracious and thanked me multiple times. She even told me, "I really wasn't sure how I was going to move all of this." I told her it was my pleasure, because it was. I mean if you would have seen the poor thing trying to lug it all by herself, you would have helped too. Wouldn't you? I mean these are the simplest, unexpected moments that really bring a smile to your face! :) 

God bless, Kailee

Day 252: Drive For Dollars

A few days ago, I wrote my blog on wearing orange to urge others to donate to local food banks. This being the case because September is National Hunger Action Month. Today, the family and I went to Papa John's to pick up pizza and we saw this can sitting out at the cash register. The note on the can was titled 'Drive For Dollars' and explained,

"Thank you for helping feed hungry people in our community. Every $1 donated provides 6 pounds of food for hungry children, families and seniors." 

 I would still like to donate food to a food bank, but of course I had to donate a $1 here. The fact that a dollar, which so many people take for granted, can provide a good amount of food for a hungry family is incredible. Can you give a dollar today or even this month?

                                              

God bless,

Kailee

Day 251: Grandparents Day

In 1978, President Jimmy Carter officially proclaimed the Sunday after Labor Day 'Grandparents Day.' Today, happens to be that day. This is solely a day to recognize our loved ones who are always there to give us an extra hug or an bake us something scrumptious. I know that my grandparents have fortunately played a large role in my life and have taught me so much about life. When I was younger and my parents were working, my grandparents played babysitter and I loved spending time with them. 

I am sad to say that I have lost both of my grandpas, but today I am thinking about them and thanking God for the time I was able to spend with them both. I am so blessed to still have both of my grandmas with me. A few days ago, I found the perfect cards to send my grandmas. I wrote them each a little note and sent them off. Hopefully, they received their cards and know that today more than ever I am thinking about them and appreciate all they have done! God bless grandparents! Love you Grammy and Grandma Dot.

                                         

Much love,

Kailee

Day 250: Did Something Nice For My Parents

Happy 28th anniversary to my incredible parents! Thank you for giving Trevor and I so much more than we deserve. To celebrate the loving example that you both have exemplified, I wanted to do something nice for you. Seeing as I will be out of town, I wanted to leave you something to show my appreciation. Mom, I remember you saying that you were going on a movie date, so I thought I would help out by buying a gift card for you to use! It's your anniversary and neither of you should have to pay. So enjoy your movie and enjoy your time together. I love you both! 

God bless,

Kailee

Day 249: Pamper Yourself

There are times in life that we need to listen to our bodies and take care of ourselves. I was always taught to be a good leader you take care of others, but first make sure you are ok. Treating yourself kindly every now and then is a positive thing and highly encouraged. Whether it is getting a pedicure, as I did, or taking a day off and escaping reality for awhile, everyone needs it ever now and then. Treat yourself, your body will thank you. 

Day 248: Wore Orange For Hunger

This month people are going orange. Food banks are hoping to spark interest and spread awareness by wearing orange. The goal is to get more people to donate to local food banks and volunteer. Now, they need food more than ever. People tend to think that food banks only need food in the winter months, when really they receive the most during those months. Orange is the color because it represents the color of harvest.

One in six Americans and one in four children are at a loss for food. Those statistics startled me, so today, I simply wore orange and told others why. You can participate too! It is taking place all month long. Also, you can donate to the local food banks listed below. I plan on it!

• Second Harvest Food Bank
• 810 E. Chemical Dr. Kennewick WA
• Tri-Cities Food Bank of Kennewick
• 424 W. Deschutes Ave Kennewick WA
• St. Vincent De Paul Food Bank
• 115 W. Lewis St Pasco WA
• Golden Age Share
• 504 S Oregon Ave Pasco WA
• Tri-Cities Food Banks
• 321 Wellsian Way Richland WA

Day 247: Think Mike

A few days back,  a sorority sister of mine shared a post on Facebook asking for any spare change or prayer for a friend of hers that was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident. Unfortunately, at this point he is in  critical condition. He needs help to raise money for his medical bills. By clicking on the link below, you can donate as little as a $1 and help Mike out. I donated and I hope the best for Mike, his family and his recovery.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 246: Bought a Papa Murphy's Card

A co-worker at work today was selling discount Papa Murphy cards for $5. The proceeds help benefit a young gymnast in the area, who will be traveling to train at the National Olympic Training Center. How excited and I am so happy to contribute to a young girl striving for her dreams. You go girl!

                                   

God bless,

Kailee

Day 245: Help An Expecting Mother

A while back, I was going through a winning streak of raffles and ended up winning a $10 gift card to Pipsqueaks. I was so excited that I actually won something, but the problem was Pipsqueaks is a child's boutique. Since I am clearly not pregnant nor do I know anyone who is having a child soon, I was at a loss.

 

Well, the other day I was at the mall and ran into a girl working in Penny's who was indeed pregnant. After coming home from my shopping escapade, I realized that I still had the unused gift card. I thought to myself that the young expecting mother could use the gift card a lot more than me. Today, since there were many Labor Day sales, I returned to the mall. I returned with two missions in mind. One was a price adjustment on the clothes I had bought on the prior trip and second was to find the girl and give her the gift card. 

I was successful in both tasks. When I was finally able to find her and explain what was happening, she was, well...dumbfounded. She was very grateful and I could tell that it had taken her by surprise. It was so fun to see the look on her face and help a young mother out. I hope she can find it useful.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 244: Turned the Town Teal

September is ovarian cancer awareness month. And the ladies with the local chapter known as Ovarian Cancer TOGETHER are doing just that...spreading awareness. It all started a few days ago, when the iconic Cable Bridge had, for the first time, changed the color of lights on the bridge to teal. Each evening in September, when the bridges lights illuminate, those in sight will be reminded that this month we fight a bit harder for those fighting this horrible cancer. Click here for more on the local chapter.

(Photo credit: Tri-City Herald)

Tonight, it was Gesa Stadium's chance to turn teal. Several ladies from the chapter and a group of veterans on motorcycles arrived early at the stadium to decorate with teal balloons, ribbons and bows wherever the eye could see. While setting up their table seen below, I had the chance to speak to a few women who have either fought ovarian cancer or are fighting and donate a few dollars to their organization. I had an incredible conversation with them talking about their upcoming plans for the month and mainly about the disease itself. I learned so much, but the one fact that struck me the most is there is a cure for this cancer if caught early enough. So, these women are largely focusing on spreading awareness of the symptoms and supporting those affected by ovarian cancer.  

President and Founder of the organization, Kay Kerbyson, informed me that ovarian cancer is unfortunately being found in younger women. Some even as young as 20. In past years, it has commonly been found in women in their 40's, but now young ladies need to be aware of the symptoms as well. She also mentioned that the survival rate is just around 95% if found early enough. 

The symptoms can include; bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, and urinary frequency. 

                                        

Below is a list of several other places where they are "tealing the Tri-Cities" and spreading awareness. 

• September 2 @ 9:00AM- Teal a Tree in Kennewick (Meet @ Washington & Kennewick Ave.)
• Septermber 3 @ 10:00AM- Teal a Tree in Richland (Meet @ John Dam Plaza)
• September 7- Walmart in Richland
• September 7 @ 2:00PM- Healed with a Kiss (Hedges Family Estate Winery)
• September 20- Yoke's in Kennewick

Lastly, I just wanted to mention that 2 out of 3 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will die. This could be preventable if you listen to your body and know the symptoms. Show you care, be aware. 

God bless,

Kailee