More Queen Fun!

Since my last blog a lot has happened! I am in the process of completing my final year in college for my undergraduate degree. Part of my prize package of winning Miss Black Texas USA was an official photo shoot with photographer Elroy McDaniel. Chandler (Miss Black TX Talented Teen) and myself had a ball getting dolled up and taking pictures in some of our favorite outfits. While doing so, we were able to catch up and continue to build our sisterly bond. I truly enjoyed because the relationships that you gain in pageants is what really makes them worthwhile.

The following day I also had the opportunity to take part in the Martin Luther King Festivities in downtown Houston by being a Grand Marshal in Houston's official parade. Thanks to a heat wave, it was "perfect" parade weather and I also got to catch up with Shunte, our Ms. queen. We not only made the Houston Chronicle (Houston's #1 newspaper) for our appearance, but were also featured on Fox 26. However, my personal favorite highlight of the day was being able to bond and connect with so many young girls and illustrate to them that there are positive role models in the community and that no dream is too big!

I want to end this post with something that caught my eye recently. President Barack Obama created an initiative to encourage citizens to be involved in community service on January 19. I spent that day at a local food bank. However, would like to encourage each and everyone of you to take this initiative of "giving back" and extend it beyond the month of January!

Until Next Time!
With Love,
Dymond Elise

Reflection

This past holiday season was a great one for me. I spent it with the people that matter the most to me, my family. One holiday tradition that my family participates in annually is visiting the Gaylord resort in Dallas, TX. At this resort they transform it into a magical Christmas wonderland from a large ice land to cookie decorations and supper with Shrek. They also have a meet and greet with Santa and the largest gingerbread house in the World (which happens to be human-sized). I had the pleasure of doing all of these things while also creating priceless memories that will truly last a lifetime. Outside of this fun tradition I was able to get all of my family together for Christmas dinner which was the best present that I could receive because it takes a lot of planning and compromising to make this happen!

Also with the end of this year and the start of another I reflected on all of the things that happened to me this year from being a senior in college, to winning Miss Black Texas USA. It was a year that means a lot to me and will never be forgotten. The good times and the bad times that were presented in front of me has led to the formation of the women that I am today and for that I am thankful and blessed. This upcoming year is definitely something that I am looking forward to and I hope that you all had a great holiday season and wish you a virtuous New Year!

Love,
Dymond Elise
Miss Black Texas USA