I am humbled and elated to sit here (at 3:30am) to write to you as Miss Michigan 2008. Tonight has truly been a whirlwind, and I am beyond grateful for the outpour of support you all have shown me. As I walked into the theater today for one last time this year, I was at such an ease putting fate in God's hands. I have always strongly believed that everything happens for a reason, and I was at peace with the path that was soon to be chosen for me. I am extremely honored to represent the other 26 AMAZING contestants from this year's Miss Michigan pageant. I truly believe our state has some of the most intelligent and talented young women in the country! I am very blessed to have been able to spend a week with these exceptional ladies and cannot wait to see what this next year has in store for me.
Every aspect of competition went incredibly smoothly tonight. When I stepped foot onto that stage, I did not even have to fight back nerves because I wanted my talent to be a selfless performance in dedication to my mother and soak up the crowd that consisted of my supporters with light-up letters that spelled out "ASHLEE" that my dad had hand-made. The curtain rose and I had chills from the overwhelming support I felt from the audience. It was a remarkable experience that truly set the tone for the night. As the show neared its end, I found myself standing in the "final two" spot... to then hear my name called as the new Miss Michigan! You can find pictures of my crowning moment on both the Miss Wayne County website (www.misswayneco.com) and Miss Michigan website (www.missmichigan.org). To top off the night, Carleigh Rowley, a special young lady I have gotten to know was crowned Miss Michigan's Outstanding Teen (my new little sister) and my dear friend Katie Lorenz was crowned Miss Illinois!!! I can't wait to share the Miss America stage with Katie. Timing could have never been so perfect! As much as I would love to share more details, I need to get some rest! I will be talking to you soon! Miss America here I come!!!
Your new Miss Michigan,
Ashlee
Miss Michigan Week Photo Album
Every aspect of competition went incredibly smoothly tonight. When I stepped foot onto that stage, I did not even have to fight back nerves because I wanted my talent to be a selfless performance in dedication to my mother and soak up the crowd that consisted of my supporters with light-up letters that spelled out "ASHLEE" that my dad had hand-made. The curtain rose and I had chills from the overwhelming support I felt from the audience. It was a remarkable experience that truly set the tone for the night. As the show neared its end, I found myself standing in the "final two" spot... to then hear my name called as the new Miss Michigan! You can find pictures of my crowning moment on both the Miss Wayne County website (www.misswayneco.com) and Miss Michigan website (www.missmichigan.org). To top off the night, Carleigh Rowley, a special young lady I have gotten to know was crowned Miss Michigan's Outstanding Teen (my new little sister) and my dear friend Katie Lorenz was crowned Miss Illinois!!! I can't wait to share the Miss America stage with Katie. Timing could have never been so perfect! As much as I would love to share more details, I need to get some rest! I will be talking to you soon! Miss America here I come!!!
Your new Miss Michigan,
Ashlee
Miss Michigan Week Photo Album