I have my bags packed and waiting to fly from Grand Rapids to Orlando on Monday, August 13. This will be my first official pageant week, and I could not be more excited.

I've spent the past several months easing into my role as writer for fourpoints magazine. What I have encountered since the beginning is the joy of contestants and volunteers alike to be involved in an organization that promotes and encourages women young and old to be their best selves. I am most looking forward, during my week in Orlando, to making the acquaintance of those with whom I have spoken on the phone. To put a face to a name will bring my experiences with MAO thus far full circle.

Stay tuned for daily blogs and pageant updates throughout next week. The fourpoints team is flying down Monday night, and we'll be at the trade show bright-eyed and bushy tailed on Tuesday, August 14. Visit our booth Tuesday at 10 a.m. to meet our August cover model, Brittany Cozza! Later in the day, we'll introduce you to this year's Precious Princess winner Sheridan Garbe! See you soon Orlando!

Written by: Erika Fifelski, fourpoints staff writer Photo: xenia