Jan 16th-Jan 19th - Miss New York USA 2014!

On Thursday my Mom and I packed up the car and headed to Purchase, NY for Miss New York USA! During the ride we listened to music and talked a little bit about possible questions that could be asked. I kept thinking about how exciting and somewhat surreal it was to finally be going after a dream that I had for years! We arrived at the Renaissance Westchester Hotel and unloaded the car.

In the lobby I saw other contestants and the directors of the pageant Debbie Miller and Cindy Provost. I introduced myself to them and they were so welcoming to everyone. Then my Mom and I brought our luggage to our room and ate at the restaurant. On the way back to our room we noticed a wooden marble run toy in the lounge. My Great Aunt Jo had one that my Mom grew up playing and then I played when I was younger. We felt that it was a sign of good luck and I felt the love and support of Aunt Jo and other loved ones who are no longer with us.

The next morning I got up and did my hair and makeup for interview! As I was walking out the door of our hotel room to register for the pageant and interview with the judges my Mom started playing Eye of the Tiger song haha! We started laughing and marching from the room into the hallway, it was so funny! I kissed my Mom bye-for-now, she wished me luck and then I brought my belongings into a holding room where we were to leave everything until we were given our contestant room keys. I went upstairs to registration where I met hosts Lynn Morehouse and Jim Donovan (13-time Emmy Award recipient). I finished registration and then headed into the ballroom to wait to interview with the judges! When it was close to being my turn, a group of us were taken to another room before going into the interview room. My friend Hannah was a couple of people ahead of me so we wished each other luck!

(With Hannah later backstage in our opening number outfits)

Then I was called into the room and as I did I said an excited hello to the panel of judges! As I walked in they commented on how they loved my interview outfit and asked me to model it so I a did a little spin before sitting down. With the adrenaline I honestly cannot remember every question that they asked but some of the topics we talked about were being a former titleholder and my most memorable moment, my Filipino background, where I make an impact, earning my degree in finance and accounting and my future goals. I was a little nervous at first but the judges were very nice and really wanted to get to know each of us. Afterwards I got changed for rehearsals and visited with with my roommate Amy and other contestants!

Rehearsals began and we started with the opening number dance. We were divided into different groups based on difficulty level and we chose which one we were most comfortable with. When another group was going I realized that I never took a photo in my interview outfit with the photographer! I quickly changed back into my interview outfit and luckily the photographer was still taking photos of contestants who just finished their interviews.

I went back to rehearsals where we were given buttons with numbers on them to organize us until we received our competition banners. After waiting in line I told them my name and they handed me a button with the number 77 on it. My eyes lit up and my heart started pounding! Seven is one of my favorite numbers and I felt like it was a sign from the Universe that I made the right decision to compete this year.

After rehearsal we all went to our rooms and got settled in! The next morning we had breakfast and started rehearsals for the preliminary show. We rehearsed on stage and during rehearsals I had Jacklyn Beauty's team to do my hair and makeup for the show.

Then we had the Preliminary Show where all 171 contestants walked in swimsuits and evening gowns. It went very well except at the very end the finale included all of us walking in our evening gowns in a line down the runway and I tripped a little bit on the train of the gown of the contestant next to me. Overall I had a lot of fun on stage and I was grateful to have my family and friends there supporting me. Back at the hotel I got ready to go to the pasta party!

There was live music by the same talent for the shows, Alex Boye and The Paul Childers Band, and everyone was having fun! I didn't stay too late because I wanted to make sure to get some rest. The next morning was the big day! We boarded the bus to go to the Purchase Performing Arts Theatre and I realized that the bus number was 360. 360 is a special number to Mike, his family and me so I couldn't hep but smile and take that as a good sign too. We rehearsed for the final show and got hair and makeup done while Miss New York Teen USA was going on. We heard over the speakers that Corrin Stallakis won! 

I was in the dressing room talking to the other contestants and practicing questions for the top 5 onstage question. Then it was showtime! We did our opening number dance and then changed into evening gowns for the top 20 announcement. First they announced Miss Amity who was Adrienne Esposito and then I was awarded Miss Photogenic! I had such a great team help me with my headshot (Photographer Carrie Mateosian and Hair/Makeup by Scott Miller) but I was still surprised! 

Next they announced the top 20 and I was the first name called! Then the top 20 walked in evening gown and swimsuits and I had such a great time! After it was time to announce the top 5 and I heard my name! After having rehearsals and the Preliminary Show and the top 20 of the Final Show it felt like I had done the evening gown and swimsuit walks many times so this was the moment where it hit me that this was the real deal! I could not believe that after the top 5 questions there was going to be a new Miss New York USA! The next thing I new I was up to answer the final question. I had been studying current events and final questions for weeks. I knew the hot topics in the news and I was ready to talk about them.

Lynn Morehouse read "If you were to be crowned what would the headline in the New York Times be?" I was pretty thrown off by this question. It does not seem to be that difficult of a question but my mind was not expecting something like that and it required a little bit of creativeness. With a little stumble I answered "Beauty and Brains: Self-Proclaimed Nerd Wins The Title After Earning Degrees In Finance and Accounting." I wish that I had not stumbled when speaking but I thought overall it was a good answer and I just stayed confident when walking on stage. After each of the contestants finished their answers we had a final look where we walked and posed in front of the judges. I knew this was last shot to show them that I had what it took to be the titleholder.

(Top 5 before final look)

Then we went off stage and I knew I gave it all that I had and that the rest was up to the Universe. Backstage the five of us held hands and I said you are all beautiful and whatever is meant to be will be. I thought to myself that I have felt for years that this was the path for me but I knew it could be anyone else's path too especially since these ladies were beautiful inside and out. Then all of the contestants gathered on the stage while Alex Boye performed. 

Then the non-finalists awards were presented which I like that these directors give those awards because it is nice to recognize the contestants who did well in certain areas of the competition. Then it was time to hear the results. "Our fourth runner-up is Michelle Medoff. Our third runner-up is Ana Maria Lawson. Our second runner-up is Brittany Jasenski. We have two ladies left ladies and gentleman. The next name I am going to announce will the be first runner-up.. If Miss New York USA 2014 is unable to fulfill her obligations of the year the first runner-up will assume her title. (At this point we are holding hands and I am basically hyperventilating. I think I said something to Serena like oh my gosh, you are beautiful. Then I tried to clear my mind and just trust that the Universe would put us both on whatever path is meant to be for both of us.) 

Again, the next name I am about to announce is the first runner-up and she is..... Serena Bucaj! Candace Kendall is Miss New York USA 2014!" 

(Photo credit: Regina Wypych Ginetta Photography)

I dropped down with excitement! It was such an incredible feeling realizing that this dream of mine came true! It was one of the best feelings I have ever had! 

It was really a magical moment. Right after the show I took photos with the Top 5, other titleholders and the judges. I was able to hold in my tears until my family came on stage. Seeing my parents. my boyfriend and his family, my best friend and all of my family members that were there touched my heart and made me realize even more the reality of what just happened! 

We went back to the hotel and I saw some more people there and then my loved ones and I got dinner which was very nice. I was so excited about the night and about starting appearances but I finally fell asleep with my crown by my bed! I am so thankful for everyone who helped make this dream come true!

Jan 9th-Jan 15th - Miss New York USA Preparations!

On Thursday I went to my incredible sponsor Scott Miller to get my eyebrows done for the pageant. They are the best at shaping the brows without making them thin and then filling them in naturally! Later at home I got my swimsuit for the pageant and made sure that it fit well. I also tried on my interview outfit which I put together of wardrobe pieces from different stores, (I have to give credit to Mike for helping me pick out the shirt and blazer)!

(Not the best picture of it but just to get an idea)

The next day Mike's sister and husband came with me to pick out my hair extensions. I loved what they chose and Scott Miller cut them to make them blend in with my hair. Later I did more research for the pageant on anything that I thought could be asked in interview including New York State facts.

Over the weekend my Mom and I went to Scott Miller to get massages because I wanted one before the pageant to relax and help my posture (it may be somewhat of an excuse but I think that it helps haha). Back at home my Mom made vegetable soup and we baked biscuits mmmm!

That night Mike came home from Peru! I was so happy that his trip went well and that he was back home! The next morning Mike, Scott and I went to the archery range!

Later I brought my pageant gown to the Thimble Tailor to get it steamed before I left! Then I got a spray tan done so that I would have color but also have time for it to fade and look more natural. On Tuesday Mike and I brought Massimo to the veterinarian for a check-up and then I did more research for the pageant. The next day I went to Scott Miller to finish getting ready to leave for the pageant! They were beyond generous giving me makeup lessons, blowdrying my hair, putting in extensions and doing my nails! 

That night Mike's family and some of our friends went out to eat at Hose 22! It was so nice to go out for a nice dinner and feel so much support from everyone before I was leaving for the pageant!

Thank you everyone for the love and support not just before the pageant but always! After dinner I made sure that I had everything packed and I tried to get a good sleep before leaving the next day!

Jan 2nd-Jan 8th - Miss NY USA Workshop & Preparations!

On Thursday I went to the Thimble Tailor to try on my Miss New York USA gown! The last fitting I had they did a great job tailoring the dress to me but there were plastic strips to shape the dress that you could see sticking out through the silk. I was a little worried that there was nothing we could do but they cut the strips in the perfect spot so that they still kept the shape but did not stick out!

It was snowy out so I spent the rest of the day at home cleaning and doing research for the pageant. 

The next day it was my cousin Blake's birthday who lives in Texas... I hope you had a great day cuz! During the day I went to the mall to eat lunch with Liz! We always have a good time going out to eat and catching up. On Saturday Sarah came with me to NYC and we stayed with Dennise! The three of us and our friend Ryan went out to eat at Five Napkin Burger which was fun!

The next day I went to a Miss New York USA workshop by Michelle Holmes from Joyce's Boutique and Prepare To Win. 

Sarah was so sweet to come with me and take notes and video. We went over information about competing and filling out the pageant questionnaires, as well as walking and the competition patterns. Even though I had thought about the pageant for years it was helpful to practice so that I felt more prepared!

While I was there Mike was in the desert in Peru doing archery! When I saw photos I was so happy for him but definitely wished I could be there too!

After the workshop we headed back to Rochester, New York so that Sarah could go to work the next day. On Tuesday I went to C.A.S.H. (Creating Assets, Savings and Hope) training. I have volunteered for the organization before where I help people get ready to have their taxes done at no cost, as well as inform them of services in the community. Each year they have training and testing before the tax season starts. The meeting went well and I was excited to help my community! 

The next morning I spent time with my kitty Cookie Dough! <3

Later I went to my awesome dental sponsor Contemporary Dentistry to get whitening trays to use as much as I could before the pageant. They were so helpful getting me everything that needed right away! 

Then I went right down the road to Thimble Tailor to have my last gown fitting! We were having trouble with my shawl part of the gown because part of it popped off but Fatima secured it and I absolutely loved my gown! I felt amazing in my gown and Fatima also tailored my interview outfit shirt! I cannot thank Thimble Tailor and Contemporary Dentistry enough for their truly amazing and speedy work!

Dec 26th-Jan 1st - Connecticut & New Year's!

On Thursday I went to the archery range with Mike and then I went to Connecticut to visit my family! We got to my Uncle Austin's house at night and we hung out for a little while but everyone was tired including Rudy.

The next day Mike left home to go to Peru to visit our friend who lives there! During the day we drove to my Mom's neighborhood when she was a child. It is always special to me to see where she grew up and to hear stories about my family. 

Then we went to my Aunt MaryAnn's house where we had fun playing boardgames together and later went out to eat dinner in Litchfield Connecticut. 

Afterwards we went back to my Uncle's house and spent time with him, my Aunt Melissa and Rudy. The next morning we went to my Aunt Lolita and Uncle Richard's house to make treats to bring to our family Christmas party! Later at the party we had pizza and everyone hung out and of course ended up playing Scat which is a family tradition of ours. It was a great time and I was thankful to see everyone! I love my family!

We drove back home the next day and Mike messaged me from Peru saying that he was doing archery and he got a Robin Hood where he shot an arrow into another arrow! 

The next day I cuddled with my kitty Cookie Dough and I cleaned out my room and made a donation pile. At night I went to Mike's Aunt and Uncle's house to visit with his family in town! On New Year's Eve I worked at Scott Miller during the day and then went to the Thimble Tailor to get my Miss New York USA gown tailored! I got a gorgeous Sherri Hill gown from Joeval's Formalwear but it needed to be taken in and Fatima and her family are the most talented so I was honored to have them work on my gown. 

At night I went to Mike's house and had such a nice time with friends and his family! Then I went home to watch the ball drop with my family and spent all of New Year's day with them! I hope that everyone had a happy and safe holiday! 

Dec 18th-Dec25th - Miss NY USA Fundraiser & Christmas!

On Wednesday I styled my hair and went to Scott Miller to get my makeup done by Silvana for my fundraising event! At Five Guys Burgers Pittsford they let you choose a night where 20% of your guests' orders goes towards your organization. This worked out perfectly to raise money for the entrance cost for Miss New York USA. That night is one that I will never forget. So many friends of mine, my parents' and Mike's family came and it was very heartwarming to feel the love and support from everyone.

I really cannot express how much it meant to me to have everyone there. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! <3

The next morning we celebrated Christmas and Hanukkah at Mike's house! We were opening presents and Mike got a new sight for his archery bow. He asked me to go get his bow case so he could put it on and see what it was like. When I opened the case to take it out for him I saw a bow in plastic wrap. I was confused at first and then I saw it was pink and black and heard Helen say "Merry Christmas!" I was shocked! It was so exciting to get my own bow, and an amazing one at that!

After we celebrated Mike and I went to the range and I got to try it out! It was awesome and we had fun shooting together!

The next day I spent time at home and my Dad got out the ornament boxes and we decorated the tree! I stopped over at my cousin Amanda's house and got to see their new pup! 

Later at home my best friend Sarah came over and she, my Mom and I made gingerbread houses! My Mom also made ninjabread men that someone gave her the kit for so we made a Fairport Karate Academy gingerbread dojo!

Friday night some friends from the salon came over to Mike's house and they made a ton of different Christmas cookies. 

The next few days I worked as a hostess at Scott Miller and went to look at houses for Mike's sister and her husband. Monday was my Grandma's birthday, I love you Grandma! Then it was Christmas Eve! During the day I went to Amanda's house and celebrated with her. That night my Mom and I volunteered at Barnes & Noble where we wrapped presents to receive donations for Safe Journey which helps victims of domestic abuse. 

Then it was Christmas morning! My Dad brought my Grandma to our house and we all opened presents, including Cookie Dough! 

We had a nice time and then Sarah came over and we all had fun celebrating! 

Later I went to Mike's house to see him and his family! I love Christmas time and I had such a great holiday with my loved ones! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!