Miss America Send Off Party

My cousin CaSandra posted this and I am just copying from her blog to mine:

My cousin Talia, currently reigns as Miss WV,
and in a few short weeks she will be flying to Las Vegas
to compete for the Miss America title!

Her family and friends gathered to show their support and
get a sneak peak at the outfits she will be wearing on stage.

(Sorry folks; no pictures, her gorgeous gowns are being kept a secret at this time)

You can watch the event on TLC on January 30th, at 8:00 p.m. EST

This year, 4 of the top 15 girls will earn their positions based upon votes from viewers like you!

If you are interested in getting an e-mail/text message once the voting has begun,
check out this site which will notify you when you can VOTE FOR TALIA!

Although Keilan was not able to attend the party,
she enjoyed helping with decorations with Mamaw during her Christmas visit.
I was the "photographer" for the event and
even managed to jump in a few pictures myself!
Mrs. WV - Misty McMinn - Talia's Pageant Director
My Mom's cousin Tammy and her husband John
traveled all the way from Pennsylvania
so that they could attend this special event.
Talia and DadTom and Talia
Dee & Lois Rhodes generously offered to DJ the event, free of charge
Patty Monk helped with the food
Vickie Honaker helped sell Talia's jewelry
Kelly Stitley made a guest appearance from Morgantown
to read the article she submitted to the editor of the local newspaper.
(To read the article, click here)
Also, an inspiration for Talia's platform, Kyle Maynard spoke...

... and signed a few autographs.

For more information on Talia's Platform goals, check out her biography.
Talia is currently selling jewelry so if you are interested in adding
some new accessories to your wardrobe remember:
"The blingier, the better"

(That may or may not be proper English,
but it is a phrase she once used in an onstage interview)

Also, TEAM TALIA shirts are being sold for $20

For more information, feel free to contact Talia directly MissWV2009@yahoo.com
or read about her appearances on her blog.

GOOD LUCK TAL! You have been a wonderful ambassador for our state and have continued to make our family proud. I never dreamed how much time, money and effort went into being Miss WV, but you are doing a great job!

No matter how famous you become, you will always be my best friend, my scrapbook buddy and my cheese & noodles eating pal!

My wish: Hope you make top 15!