One of the first appearances I had in the month of October was the Southern Women's Show. I was able to model in fashion shows on behalf of The Clothes Tree by Deborah, speak on behalf of Artistry by Amway, and visit with women, men, and children alike at the Artistry by Amway booth. This was such a fulfilling experience in the fact that I got to share about myself, my platform, and the Miss America Organization as a whole. There were many little girls there that I got to speak with about my journey through the pageant circuit and the lessons that I have learned throughout the years. It was a blessing to be able to possibly influence the lives of these young girls. The Southern Women's Show was a success and one that I was proud to be a part of.
Another wonderful appearance was a speaking engagement at Troy University. I was invited by a fellow Miss Alabama contestant and dear friend, KeLeigh Edwards, to speak to a Freshman Forum Leadership group. The audience was comprised of high school students who were selected to attend this unique conference at Troy University. It is always an honor and a privilege to speak to young people about their potential to be tomorrow's leader. We had a tour of the campus following my speech, which was delightful. Troy University is such a beautiful school and the staff and student body is equally as pleasant.
Throughout October I was able to emcee a couple of prelims as well. Among them were Miss Samford and Miss UAB. I had never been to either pageant, so it was a definite treat to be a part of both productions. There is just something about a school pageant that gets everyone extremely excited to be a part of the show. I love me some school spirit!!
Perhaps my favorite appearance from October was being able to speak at my home church, CrossPoint Church in Argo. I was invited by my church family to share my testimony and my story with all three services on a Sunday morning. Most importantly, I was able to talk about my sweet Momma who has shaped me into the Godly woman that I am today. I know that I would not have been able to share my story, and my personal memories with the congregation had it not been for my Guardian Angel who was with me that day. I am so honored to be a part of such a family of faith where "Just One More" is our mantra. The Porter's would not be able to have made it this far without our CrossPoint family behind us. It was an absolute blessing being able to share my heart with my church family. I am blessed!
I also had the opportunity to be the special guest at the Decatur Rotary luncheon. I was able to sit at the head table and visit with many of the Rotary members' daughters before, during, and after lunch. It was a treat to be able to share a little bit about me to the Decatur Rotary Club and their large member base. I am so delighted to see so many people willing to give their time, money, and effort to such groups as the Rotary Club. Volunteerism is what makes the world go around, and I am proud to know that Alabamians not only understand that, but live it on a daily basis.
This just about sums up my adventures in October. Although, a picture is worth a thousand words, I wish I could find the way to explain how precious each and every day as Miss Alabama is for me. For me, it is about connecting with the people and trying to make as much of a difference as I possibly can.
To quote William Shakespeare: "My crown is in my heart, not on my head; Not deck'd with diamonds and Indian stones, Not to be seen: my crown is called content; A crown it is that seldom kings enjoy"
I LOVE MY JOB, and I don't think I could ask for anything more. Life is good, and most importantly GOD is GOOD.
Until next time...
~Courtney
Isaiah 40:31
