Woke up to the phone ringing off the hook with interviews, e-mails to check and txt messages to send back. Had 78 txt messages of congratulations and more than on Facebook. Spent a little time trying to respond and thanking everyone for their support. Chose the photograph to go on my autograph pad and worked on getting those ordered. Set up meetings with the DHHR Cabinet Secretary Martha Walker and Mission WV to begin my platform awareness and our partnerships.
Wrote a speech to give the next day in Parkersburg, my first speaking appearance.
Went to Cheddar's for a late lunch (yes, more food!) and mom tried to put her hair on my face in the reflection of the door as we were going on to see how auburn would look on me - little did we realize that the hostesses and waiters had recognized me and were laughing their heads off, wondering what we were up to.
Went to TJ Maxx to buy mom underwear and some clothes, as she was unprepared to stay with me as long as she was going to, and I had my first request for an autograph! A lady approached me and said, "Aren't you the new Miss WV? I watched you - congratulations! Could I please get your autograph for my niece?" I, of course, said, "Sure," in my usual loud voice, and she says, "Shhhh, don't let everyone in the store know who you are, they'll bombard you!" I just laughed and wrote a note to her niece on a receipt we found in her purse.
Went to Superior Ford to pick up the car they provide for the year - Jarod Hartshorn is absolutely the most generous and friendly guy around! What a blessing they are! I was overwhelmed by their generosity and tickled to see that the car they provided (Ford Focus) gets great gas mileage!
Off from the dealership to my first appearance at Camp Muffley, autistic camp run by Rick Romino of the Clarksburg Elks Club. I was met by Rick Romino, the camp organizer, who introduced me to the campers and the staff. What a great evening that was! My favorite part was the talent show, where campers and staff showed their many unique gifts for music, theater and dance. The talent show included me and another camper who promised me we were going to be "ballroom dancers." Turns out he liked to slow dance, and that was okay, as I wasn't coordinated enough to ballroom dance anyway.
Left Camp Muffley and drove to Parkersburg, arriving in the hotel at 10:30 p.m. - BIG DAY!
