A State Of Mind

After months of preparing mentally, physically, and emotionally, it is finally Miss Illinois week. This week begins the journey of my dream of becoming Miss Illinois. I couldn't feel more honored, excited, and gracious for the opportunity to pursue my dream!
I am a believer that we can achieve anything we want in life as along as we believe that we can. As my last post before Miss Illinois, I wanted to share a poem that I have read continuously over this past year. It has inspired me and helped me to truly believe in myself, and know that "its all in a state of mind." God Bless! - Jamie Johnson

A State of Mind
Anonymous

If you think you are beaten, your are If you think you dare not, you won't,If you like to win, but don't think you can It's almost a cinch you won't If you think you'll lose, you're lost For out in the world you'll find, Success begins with a fellow's will It's all in a state of mind For many a game is lost Ere even a play is run, And many a coward fails Ere even his work is begun Think big and your deeds will grow Think small and you'll fall behind Think that you can and you will It's all a state of mind If you think you are out-classed, your are You've got to think high to rise You've got to be sure of yourself before You can ever win a prize Life battles don't always go To the stronger or faster man But sooner or later, the man who wins Is the fellow who thinks he can.

Modeling and Manners Camp!

This past week I had the unique opportunity of attending and speaking at Moye Elementary's summer camp Modeling and Manners. When I arrived at the camp the girls were creating their very own stylish flip flops, and were eager to show me the new necklaces they had made. I had the chance to talk to the girls about Character Counts! our Miss Illinois platform.

I enjoyed hearing how the girls demonstrate good character in their lives, and answering the many questions they had for me! Later on in the week I attended their fashion show in which they showed the audience the modeling and confidence they learned through attending. I was so happy to be invited and had a great time!

In just a few short days I will be leaving for Miss Illinois! I am so excited!! Check back soon to read my last blog before I leave!

Thank you for reading! God Bless!

Jamie Lynn Johnson
Miss Southern Illinois 2010

Spring Forum and Miss Illinois Outstanding Teen and Pre-Teen

This past weekend was our Spring Forum, and also the Miss Illinois Outstanding Teen and Pre - teen Pageants. I had so much fun this weekend meeting all of the wonderful women competing for the title of Miss Illinois in just a few weeks. We found out our contestant numbers, I am number 8, and who our roommates are. My roommate is the fabulous Miss Macomb Kelsey Reed.

During Spring Forum many generous people donated their time into making sure that we are as prepared for Miss Illinois as possible. I am thankful to all of you!

On Sunday afternoon, I attended the Teen and Pre-teen pageants, and was there cheering on Miss So. IL Outstanding Teen Mandy Marsh, and Miss So. IL Outstanding Pre-Teen Olivia McCurdy. I am so incredibly PROUD of both of them. Mandy even finished as 1st runner up!! Congratulations to the new Miss Illinois Outstanding Teen Kaitlyn Wehr, and the new Miss Illinois Pre-Teen Grace Khachaturian!

Over these next few weeks, I will continue to give 110% into preparing for Miss Illinois. I am so excited and motivated. Check back often as I will continue to update on my Miss Illinois journey.

Thank you for reading and God bless!

Jamie Johnson

Miss Southern Illinois 2009