tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88006687748335039062012-02-16T16:09:40.063-08:00Thanks for visiting! Please visit my website: www.hilarygushwa.comHilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.comBlogger521100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-10353635558045975552010-11-16T18:35:00.000-08:002010-11-16T18:35:45.543-08:00Hi blogging world!<br /><br />I've decided to end my blog, and really focus my energy on Heart2Heart's new website!!! I'm excited for the direction that it's headed in.<br /><br />Some very exciting things going on for Heart2Heart! We have re-vamped our logo (complete with colors representing leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers), I'll be doing a radio interview this week on behalf of Heart2Heart, and am working on some incredible fundraisers as well as seeking patients to hold marrow drives for. So if you know anyone, ANYWHERE let me know! Heart2Heart travels. :)<br /><br />Thanks to all of my blog followers over the years! It's truly been an honor to share my experiences with the world. You can now follow my work with Heart2Heart at: <a href="http://www.hilarysheart2heart.org">Heart2Heart</a> . Or you can follow us on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/heart2heartorg">Twitter</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/heart2heartorg">Facebook</a>.<br /><br />Wishing everyone the very best!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-1035363555804597555?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-53870001448455499722010-07-29T14:46:00.000-07:002010-07-29T14:46:38.324-07:00U.S. Representatives Walter Jones and Besty Markey have brought forward a Congressional Resolution to make September officially "Blood Cancer Awareness" month. <br /><br />Now is the time to increase education, research, and be an advocate for the people who have been affected by a blood cancer. I ask you to follow the link below, which automates an email to send to your U.S. Representative. <b>TAKE ACTION!!!!</b><br /><br /><a href="http://www.capitolconnect.com/lls/alertdetail.aspx?AlertID=107"><br />http://www.capitolconnect.com/lls/alertdetail.aspx?AlertID=107</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-5387000144845549972?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-62239915260521388552010-07-22T15:52:00.000-07:002010-07-22T15:52:06.858-07:00I have set up a Heart2Heart team for the 1st Annual Be the One Run, which benefits Be The Match marrow registry. <br /><br />Every year 10,000 people with diseases such as leukemia and lymphoma need a marrow transplant but have no match in their family. These patients RELY on Be The Match to help them find an unrelated donor so that they can get the transplant necessary to survive.<br /><br />I am asking YOU to either join my team or make a tax-deductible donation as we do a 5K run to raise money and awareness for blood cancers by following this link:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.bethematchfoundation.org/site/TR/BeTheOneRun/BetheRun?px=1322641&pg=personal&fr_id=1631">http://www.bethematchfoundation.org/site/TR/BeTheOneRun/BetheRun?px=1322641&pg=personal&fr_id=1631</a><br /><br />Remember; YOU have the power to save a life!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-6223991526052138855?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-57123336054154112562010-07-21T16:18:00.000-07:002010-07-21T16:18:54.507-07:00Hello to everyone who's been following my blog! <br /><br />I know, I know....I'm fired for not having made an entry in about 6 months. But it's for good reason! I was officially diagnosed with Eosiniphilic Gastroenteritis! And yes, there is an exclamation point not because I'm happy with the diagnosis, but because I am finally HEALTHY (so the speak)!!! I never thought I could feel this good again, but thanks to the Mayo Clinic and my primary physician, I have worked myself back up to excellent health. So thanks for being patient and waiting SOOOO long for another entry! <br /><br />Although I've been focusing on getting myself better, that does not mean I've neglected my commitment to LLS, Heart2Heart, or the American Heart Association. I'm in the process of putting teams together for Light the Night, Be the One Run, and have done multiple presentations for the AHA on Cardiovascular Disease as well as the Go Red campaign. I also entered the Intramural speech tournament at Cal State Northridge (where I attend school), and won 1st place in the Persuasive Speech category....of course my topic was "Becoming a Marrow Donor". <br /><br />So I welcome everyone back to my blog! Definitely more posts on a consistent basis to follow. Before I sign off, I'd LOVE to wish the best of luck to the California girls as they compete for Miss and Miss Teen International. <br /><br />hugs to all, Hilary<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-5712333605415411256?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-77668513613722263562009-11-19T16:11:00.000-08:002009-11-19T16:15:49.216-08:00Hi everyone!<br /> <br />Ok so last I left off we have found out that i had severe anemia, due to an extreme iron deficiency. We had found out that my hemoglobin level was a 6.6, which means I had HALF the amount of blood as a normal person, therefore my heart/brain/body had to work twice as hard to pump the blood through faster to get oxygen through my body.<br /> <br />I have seen 3 cardiologists since I have been here, and all see to be in agreement. I definitely have POTS, which was diagnosed years ago. This just means that when I stand up, my heart inappropriately races. All 3 cardiologists also agree that the severe anemia is causing a tachycardia now, as well as what they call a "flow-mur". This is like a heart murmur but only happens because the body can't move the blood fast enough, therefore it causes it to skip beats. <br /> <br />I saw the kidney specialist who thinks the swelling in my legs is caused by idiopathic edema. This is caused by a capillary leak, and only occurs in young females. <br /> <br />I have also seen a endocrinologist since I have had elevated cortisol levels since the start of 2009. However he thinks that my adrenal glands are just working overtime to battle what my body is going through, and that they are not having independent problems. <br /> <br />I had an endoscopy of the Upper GI done last Friday, and that showed multiple (seriously probably over 30) ulcerations. They are basically just small, superficial ulcers in my stomach. These are thought the be the source from which I was bleeding. They said because they are so small, I was just oozing over a long period of time which I would not have noticed. They took biopsies of the ulcerations as well as throughout my stomach. Yesterday I found out that I have high levels of eosinophils in my stomach and small intestines...eosinophils are white blood cells. I have <strong>tentatively</strong> been diagnosed with Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis. This is perplexing all of the doctors here because the ONLY symptoms that I have of this disorder, is anemia and slight asthma. But having a high level of eosiniphils has been confirmed through blood work as well as biopsy results. But like I said this is a tentative diagnosis, there are a few other options it could be but we have to get the anemia under control before we know for sure (other things are a couple types of leukemia, blood clotting disorders, etc).<br /> <br />So if it is EGE, how are all of these symptoms related to it? The thought is that I developed EGE, which caused the ulcerations. The ulcerations slowly bled, until I developed the Idiopathic Edema, Flow-Mur, tachycardia, and elevated cortisol levels. So first we have treat the anemia before we can take care of the others!<br /> <br />Tomorrow I am heading back to CALIFORNIA!!!!!! I will be returning back to the Mayo Clinic January 4, 2010 to get to the root of the problem, after we get the anemia under control through at home blood work-up. Thank you to everyone for your support, concern and love. Of course I will keep everyone posted on what the final decision is in a few weeks, as well as plans for a future trip back to the Mayo Clinic.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-7766851361372226356?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-38954948532432152322009-11-11T20:51:00.000-08:002009-11-11T20:54:55.721-08:00<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SvuVCs7drtI/AAAAAAAAAIE/RGwr4u3ZZ8w/s1600-h/DSCN1687.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SvuVCs7drtI/AAAAAAAAAIE/RGwr4u3ZZ8w/s200/DSCN1687.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403076051613888210" /></a><br />Monday was my first appointment at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ. I met with my diagnostic doctor, Dr. Windgassen, who was in charge of listening to my MANY complaints, and then deciding what tests needed to be run, who I needed to see, etc. She sent me immediately to get an echo cardiogram and blood work. I was provided with my schedule that she had put together so far, which looks like I will be here at least through Thurs. Nov 17 because she has every day filled with things to do.<br /> <br />When they drew my blood they took 15 vials of blood, which took FOREVER!!!! Less than two hours after that I got a phone call from Dr. Windgassen that I needed to immediately go to the ER for a blood transfusion, because my blood count was 6....and should be a 12! After 13 hours in the hospital, and 3 units of blood later, I was released at a 9. I was told today that I am at a 9.5. They have discovered that my severe anemia is because I am severely iron deficient! I literally have almost 0 iron in my body. So now in addition to all of the tests and specialists I was originally slated to see, we now have to figure out what the cause is. <br /> <br />On Friday I am scheduled to have a GI Endoscopy, which I will be under anesthesia for. Hopefully we can determine from that what is causing my blood count to be so low.<br /><br />It's truly beautiful here, and such a relaxing place to be. I will be sure to post updates as they come along. Thank you to everyone for your love and support, this is a really difficult time for me and I really appreciate it!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3895494853243215232?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-81482565410199461002009-10-15T16:54:00.000-07:002009-10-15T17:03:40.591-07:00My year as Miss California International is officially over. It was the best year of my life to date, and I am thankful every day for the people I have met and the difference I was able to make as Miss California International. I only hope that my successor, Gretheel Olvera, has an amazing year like I did! <br /><br />Fall semester at CSUN started, and I have been overwhelmingly busy with schoolwork. Graduation has been a long time coming (due to changing my major a hundred times lol). So I am really trying to take as many classes as I can each semester so I can graduate ASAP. As quite a few of you know I've been battling some health problems, some my whole life, and some new ones that started in early 2009. The shortness of breath, difficulty with stairs, hard time talking, and massive leg swelling is really starting to take its toll on me....thus a HUGE reason why I haven't blogged in so long!! The symptoms seem to be getting worse and worse, and now I am exhausted 24-7. Not for long I hope, I had some testing done and am expecting results in the next few days....so keep your fingers crossed!!<br /><br />I hope everyone is having a great fall so far, and I promise to keep everyone updated on what's new in my life! HUGS!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-8148256541019946100?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-1201420118877893282009-06-27T23:19:00.000-07:002009-06-28T17:37:26.066-07:00<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SkgMvDND0aI/AAAAAAAAAHw/AWpcU8BHHgs/s1600-h/DSCN1489.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SkgMvDND0aI/AAAAAAAAAHw/AWpcU8BHHgs/s200/DSCN1489.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352542159583302050" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SkgMu53h0TI/AAAAAAAAAHo/K-elZ16or0M/s1600-h/DSCN1488.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 92px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SkgMu53h0TI/AAAAAAAAAHo/K-elZ16or0M/s200/DSCN1488.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352542157077074226" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SkgMu24ZscI/AAAAAAAAAHg/ctQ-2aSrrqg/s1600-h/DSCN1486.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SkgMu24ZscI/AAAAAAAAAHg/ctQ-2aSrrqg/s200/DSCN1486.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352542156275429826" /></a><br /><br />Just a few months ago I was put in contact with a young woman in Arlington, VA who was interested in holding a marrow donor drive. Her sister, who is currently undergoing treatment for leukemia, actually lives here in Southern California! I was so excited at the thought that Heart2Heart could hold it's first marrow donor drive outside of California, that I jumped at the opportunity.<br /><br />After a LOOOOONG (did I mention delayed?!) flight to the East coast last night, I was ready for Heart2Heart's drive this morning. We had a wonderful turn-out, and Be The Match registry will be receiving quite a few new and willing donors. I had such a fantastic time chatting with Sara and Emily, who helped put the drive together, that the day just flew by. But of course the day didn't end there! Sara and her frieds were so sweet...they volunteered to show me around the DC area....I love being a tourist!<br /><br />Thank you so much to Sara, her friends and family, and Be The Match registry for making today so successful. After today's drive I am confident that many more chances like this will become available for Heart2Heart...I just know it! :)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-120142011887789328?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-4784629799521507752009-06-14T20:20:00.000-07:002009-06-19T21:18:43.524-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f546b304d4441304d513d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: " src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f546b304d4441304d513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />This weekend my parents hosted a party in my honor so that my friends, family, and sponsors could wish me luck before I head to Chicago for the Miss International pageant! The party was at River Ridge Golf Club, and was decorated in shades of purple. About 70 people came to share in this wonderful evening with me. There was a really neat slide show presentation on all of the events I have taken part in since winning Miss California International, as well as some surprise certificates of accolades including my hometown mayor, and Congressman Elton Gallegly. I also previewed pieces of my wardrobe for the Miss International pageant since I knew all of my girlfriends would love a fashion show!<br /><br />I felt so lucky to have won Miss California International...and becoming a part of the California International sisterhood has definitely surpassed my expectations. I've had a wonderful time sharing my year with Sheryl, Elise, and Jayne. Eddie and Dennis have been integral in my year, and have truly become a part of my family. Thank you so much to my parents and sister for throwing me such an amazing bash, and for your continual support, strength, and love. You're the best!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-478462979952150775?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-26901457618932487992009-06-08T17:36:00.001-07:002009-06-08T17:41:05.132-07:00On behalf of Be The Match marrow registry, I am posting this in the hopes that if you are not already on the registry, that you do so in the next two weeks! You can SAVE A LIFE!!!<br /><br />Every day we are faced with decisions. Some decisions we make are life-changing. Other decisions we make touch someone else's life. I am pleased to offer you an opportunity to make a decision that can do both-change your life and touch some else's life. <br /><br />Every day, thousands of patients, are searching for a life-saving donor - someone just like you. BE THE MATCH Registry helps people who need a life-saving marrow or blood cell transplant. The registry connects patients, doctors, donors and researchers to the resources they need to help more people live longer and healthier lives. <br /><br /><strong>Join Be The Match Registry: </strong><br /><br />From June 8th through June 22nd, The Be The Match marrowthon seeks to add 46, 000 new members to the registry and raise funds for the Be The Match Foundation. While it does cost $100.00 to add a new member to the registry, during the marrowthon campaign the fee is waived for the first 46, 000 registered.<br /><br />Joining is easy. Patients need donors who are between the ages of 18 and 60, in good general health, and are willing to donate to any patient in need. Click on the link below to begin your registration and remember to add the promo code Hopemarrowthon09.<br /><br /><a href=" http://www.marrow.org/JOIN/Join_Now_Special/Marrowthon09/join_now_mt09.html "> http://www.marrow.org/JOIN/Join_Now_Special/Marrowthon09/join_now_mt09.html </a> When asked to provide a "Promo Code", please enter Hopemarrowthon09. <br /><br />THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-2690145761893248799?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-66819620381659799192009-06-05T18:59:00.000-07:002009-06-06T19:18:33.446-07:00<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SisgtDicvPI/AAAAAAAAAGI/12g7eRyMA-M/s1600-h/DSCN1470.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SisgtDicvPI/AAAAAAAAAGI/12g7eRyMA-M/s200/DSCN1470.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344401341221223666" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/Sisgs7d_AoI/AAAAAAAAAGA/DvhlbDTnICk/s1600-h/DSCN1468.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/Sisgs7d_AoI/AAAAAAAAAGA/DvhlbDTnICk/s200/DSCN1468.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344401339055014530" /></a><br />After a lengthy drive home from Palm Springs (due to traffic of course!), I was up early this morning for the Moorpark Morning Rotary meeting. I was invited to be the guest speaker, which I was thrilled to do. The current president and soon-to-be president are dear friends that I've known for quite some time; so I was happy to see them this morning! I really enjoyed talking about Heart2Heart, and the successes we've seen in the past 10 years. And the really cool thing about this meeting was that it was right across the street from where I held my first marrow donor drive so many years ago. It really felt like I'd come full circle! Thanks to Doug and Brian for having me as your honored guest this morning.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-6681962038165979919?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-2924047543172337242009-06-04T18:50:00.000-07:002009-06-06T18:59:55.350-07:00<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/Sise8hirDFI/AAAAAAAAAFo/9XhMeBZmeE8/s1600-h/DSCN1464.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/Sise8hirDFI/AAAAAAAAAFo/9XhMeBZmeE8/s320/DSCN1464.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344399407950007378" /></a><br /><br />After a few months, I finally returned to the city where I was crowned to be a guest on "Talk of the Desert", which is a 30 minute television program hosted by former Mrs. California International Melinda Read. I was so excited to accept this tv interview, and spend time with such a wonderful woman. She told me all about her experiences at the Mrs. International pageant, and that hosting "Talk of the Desert" was a direct result from her being Mrs. California International.<br /><br />During the 30 program, we discussed Heart2Heart, Go Red For Women, what my year as Miss California International has been like so far, and what my plans for the future are. We actually ran out of time to talk.....it flew by!!!! I want to thank Melinda so much for inviting me as a guest on her talk show, it was truly an honor to have spent my morning with her. For more information you can visit her website: <a href="http://talkofthedesert.tv/">http://talkofthedesert.tv/</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-292404754317233724?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-90140657700055883292009-05-16T14:59:00.000-07:002009-05-20T15:41:05.126-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f5451304e5467344d413d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox scrapbook: USO Care Package" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f5451304e5467344d413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own scrapbook - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/scrapbooks" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox scrapbook</a></td></tr></table>All I can say is wow! Today was such a fun event. I was invited to help put together 20,000 care packages to send to our troops overseas. I was joined by many Northrop Grumman volunteers, and celebrities such as Nancy Sinatra, Gary Sinise, and Erik Estrada. Nancy Sinatra kicked off the afternoon event by singing her famous hit, "These Boots Are Made For Walkin'" which she dedicated to the troops. We spent hours in assembly lines making sure we hit our goal of 20,000 care packages. Thank you so much to Northrop Grumman and the USO for asking me to help out with Operation USO Care Package. It was truly inspirational to take part in something that can bring a smile to the faces of the men and women who defend our country.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-9014065770005588329?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-39235473513124620392009-05-06T21:49:00.000-07:002009-05-07T22:01:10.290-07:00<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SgO8ksuDW_I/AAAAAAAAAFg/-bgmMqPiA38/s1600-h/DSCN1409.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SgO8ksuDW_I/AAAAAAAAAFg/-bgmMqPiA38/s200/DSCN1409.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333313722402429938" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SgO8kal1xcI/AAAAAAAAAFY/9mwvyy1pKiU/s1600-h/DSCN1414.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SgO8kal1xcI/AAAAAAAAAFY/9mwvyy1pKiU/s200/DSCN1414.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333313717536146882" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SgO8kGjUwUI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/Rpsb7ZHOW8w/s1600-h/DSCN1413.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SgO8kGjUwUI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/Rpsb7ZHOW8w/s200/DSCN1413.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333313712156885314" /></a><br /><br />Today was the Learn and Live Luncheon for the American Heart Association. This wonderful lunch was held at the Wilshire Grand, which is a gorgeous hotel downtown Los Angeles. The Learn and Live Luncheon is an opportunity to show potential volunteers and donors what the AHA is all about and the amazing work they do in life saving research and awareness. It's a great chance for anyone who is interested in becoming involved with the AHA to see a mini-presentation on their charitable works! I was asked to attend as a table hostess and heart survivor. I really enjoyed hearing about new developments in research, and seeing so many people who were willing to give of their time. Thank you so much for asking me to be a part of this luncheon!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3923547351312462039?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-32815645878795029992009-04-27T23:55:00.000-07:002009-04-29T19:19:34.846-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f446b354e4455314d773d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox scrapbook: Reach for the Stars" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f446b354e4455314d773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own scrapbook - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/scrapbooks" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox scrapbook</a></td></tr></table><br />This weekend I traveled to Fresno, CA to be a part of the Reach for the Stars program. This was such an inspirational event that every year the California International girls have gone to, and I was so thrilled that I finally got to go myself!!<br /><br />I was joined by my sister queens Sheryl and Elise, and it was so much fun to have an event where we got to spend so much time together! We were invited to a sponsored dinner Sunday night, where we were dazzled with local food and entertainment and really got a chance to unwind after the long drive. Then we woke up bright and early Monday morning for a Fox TV interview, where we talked about our platforms and how our year as the California International queens has been so far. We spent the rest of the early morning visiting the program sponsors, which was a lot of fun. Just before lunch we finally arrived at the middle school. Reach for the Stars is a program at Tahipiti Middle School that encourages the children to pursue their dreams, education, and follow in the footsteps of their favorite stars. Sheryl, Elise, and I had a wonderful time talking about community service and spending time with the kids. Thank you so much to Ron for inviting me to such a unique event!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3281564587879502999?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-5933868897776100272009-04-23T18:50:00.000-07:002009-04-29T18:55:17.026-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f446b354e4445334d413d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox postcard: Ventura GRFW" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f446b354e4445334d413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own postcard - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/postcards" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox postcard</a></td></tr></table><br />Today was the Ventura County Go Red For Women Luncheon, held at the Westlake Village Inn. Although I had school today and couldn't attend the actual luncheon, I arrived eaerly in the morning to help with set up. What a beautiful venue! The luncheon overlooked the gorgeous golf course greens, complete with a huge fountain and lush gardens. Today was also special to me because I was asked to be a part of the Ventura County Heart Gallery. My photo and heart survivor story were put on a poster and was put up for display along with 9 others at the luncheon. Not only that, by it will be traveling throughout Ventura County at health fairs, luncheons, and walks for the year. I thought it was so exciting to be asked to be a part of this, and truly an honor. Thank you so much to Go Red for asking me to be a "heart survivor", and for inviting me to the luncheon today!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-593386889777610027?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-82935005749738160932009-04-04T22:46:00.000-07:002009-04-05T18:59:52.401-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f4455304e7a45774d773d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: Heart Ball" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f4455304e7a45774d773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />It was such an honor to be invited to the Los Angeles Heart Ball, which is an amazing event put on by the American Heart Association. I was joined by Shawn, Mrs. California International 2009 Sheryl Ellison, and her husband Ryan.<br /><br />I'd like to start by saying that it was so cool to be at the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel...where "Pretty Woman" was filmed!! The food was INCREDIBLE....Chilean sea bass, mushroom raviolis, citrus salad, and YUMMY chocolate dipped treats!! I really do love chocolate! We also watched a wonderful show by the one and only Toni Braxton....WOW I wish I could sing like her!! The AHA was able to raise a substantial amount of money tonight, and I found that very exciting!<br /><br />It was a magical night, and thank you so much the the American Heart Association for inviting me!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-8293500574973816093?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-74854664162242158862009-04-03T23:25:00.000-07:002009-04-20T22:23:43.965-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f4455304e6a67334d513d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: WOTY Finale" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f4455304e6a67334d513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Tonight was the culmination of my 9 weeks of fundraising for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The Finale was held at the California Science Center- Annenberg Building. It was such a gorgeous venue, and really cool to know that it was built out of completely recycled materials!<br /><br />During the past nine weeks I collected both live and silent auction items to be auctioned off at the Finale, had an email campaign, and then the Miss California International 2009 Golf Ball Drop. All of these contributed to me surpassing my goal!! Thank you to everyone who donated money, their time, or an item. I honestly can't thank you enough!!<br /><br />My family, Eddie, Dennis, and Shauna joined me in celebrating not only my fundraising efforts, but the work of the other 14 candidates. Together the 15 of us raised over $173,000 during the past 9 weeks. Congratulations to the 2009 Greater LA Man and Woman of the Year winners.....you are both truly an inspiration!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-7485466416224215886?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-23079258880152708312009-03-31T21:25:00.000-07:002009-03-31T21:35:43.445-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f4451334d6a63784e513d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: Golf Ball Drop" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f4451334d6a63784e513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />photos provided by: John B. Mueller Photography (Thanks John!!)<br /><br />Today was a BEAUTIFUL day in Ventura County...so much better than the 38 mph winds we had on the original drop day! This was my first time in a helicopter, so I was excited to see the city from a higher viewpoint. Although it's hard to see me in the photos, I am in the front end of the helicopter! We dropped 375 golf balls onto the golf course, so it definitely looked like a waterfall of golf balls. Although I was bummed we had to wait a week, it was definitely worth it.<br /><br />Thank you so much to the Optimist Club of Simi Valley for their support and efforts. Also a huge thank you to River Ridge Golf Club for providing a stunning venue, and thanks to Aspen Helicopters for making sure it was a safe trip for me :) Thank you to AAA Club for their wonderful prize donations, they were wonderful. Thank you to John B. Mueller Photography for getting such amazing shots of my event. I'd also like to thank everyone who purchased golf balls to support The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through my Woman of the Year Campaign. Each of you participated in helping to find a cure for blood cancers...and I thank you from the bottom of my heart!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-2307925888015270831?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-38309750611779622372009-03-22T18:59:00.000-07:002009-03-22T19:20:36.241-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f444d794e6a497a4d673d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: Golf Ball Drop" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f444d794e6a497a4d673d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />(photos by John B. Mueller Photography)<br />So today was supposed to be Miss California International 2009's Golf Ball Drop, benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Mother nature had a different plan! Although the forecast said possible showers, it was a beautifully sunny day....despite the massive wind storms! Needless to say the helicopter pilot did not think it was safe to go up, which I was thankful for since I didn't want my first time to be my last!!! We did get some fun pictures today though, so I thought I'd share them.<br /><br />The Golf Ball Drop has been rescheduled for March 31st, with guests arriving at 2 pm and the drop at 3 pm. This means it's not too late to purchase a $20 golf ball, and support LLS! The grand prize is a 3 or 4 day Mexican Riviera cruise, with other prizes such as the rental and 300 miles of a 32' RV, weekend stay at Apple Farms in San Luis Obispo, and a weekend stay at a resort in Cancun....and of course a chance of winning $25,000!!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3830975061177962237?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-19491092667989365592009-03-16T22:15:00.001-07:002009-03-16T22:19:20.643-07:00<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/Sb8ysGRkBMI/AAAAAAAAADw/baCx2KbypI4/s1600-h/INTL_0237.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/Sb8ysGRkBMI/AAAAAAAAADw/baCx2KbypI4/s400/INTL_0237.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314021818500383938" /></a><br /><br />Congratulations to Shauna Libby, Miss Ventura County International 2010 and Sejal Thaker, Miss Teen Ventura County International 2010!!<br /><br />I had a wonderful time at the pageant, and getting to know all of the contestants. It was exciting to have so many first time competitors, and I know Crowning Glory Productions will have a great year not only with Shauna and Sejal, but with their at-large contestants as well! Congratulations to everyone...you were fantastic!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-1949109266798936559?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-6452978378236191222009-03-07T15:12:00.000-08:002009-03-08T15:17:32.249-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f4441344d7a4d784e773d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: GRFW and Jiffy Lube" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f4441344d7a4d784e773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Well today was a windy day here in Ventura County! Despite the wind, we managed to make a difference by promoting women's heart health. I was invited by Go Red For Women to attend the Jiffy Lube event, which was raising money for Go Red! Jiffy Lubes across the USA have pledged to raise $1.5 million dollars to support heart disease awareness and prevention through Go Red For Women. This event in particular gave discounted oil changes....which of course I took part in!!! Thank you so much to Jiffy Lube, and Go Red For Women for asking me to be a part of this event. I really enjoyed myself!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-645297837823619122?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-65736938134241318312009-02-27T21:21:00.000-08:002009-03-01T09:33:36.853-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a6b324d6a41324e513d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox postcard: Moorpark Rotary" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e7a6b324d6a41324e513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own postcard - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/postcards" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox postcard</a></td></tr></table><br />Today I was invited to be the program speaker at the Moorpark Rotary Club. Moorpark is actually where I grew up, and they have been instrumental in my success over the years. I am actually an Honorary Rotarian in Moorpark!<br /><br />It was wonderful to catch up with the Rotarians, and fill them in on what an exciting year I've been having as Miss California International. Thank you so much for having me as the speaker!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-6573693813424131831?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-70806268506501628712009-02-25T15:59:00.000-08:002009-02-25T16:13:08.706-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a6b774e6a597a4d413d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: GRFW Luncheon" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e7a6b774e6a597a4d413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Today was the Los Angeles Go Red For Women Luncheon held at the downtown LA Marriott. I arrived well before the lunch to help in any way I could, and was able to take advantage of the workshops prior to the lunch! I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting the National Director of Go Red For Women, Stephanie Wilson. I also enjoyed seeing some friendly faces. Today was truly inspiring to hear so many women's stories of heart disease, struggle, and how that shaped their lives today. Thank you to Go Red For Women for having me!<br /><a href="http://www.goredforwomen.org/">http://www.goredforwomen.org/</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-7080626850650162871?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-82131455439288816562009-02-09T22:11:00.001-08:002009-02-09T22:28:42.051-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a55774d5463334d413d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Dinner" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e7a55774d5463334d413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own photobook - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/photobooks" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox photobook</a></td></tr></table><br />First I'd like to thank Du-Pars of Thousand Oaks for allowing us to have this event at their restaurant.<br /><br />Yesterday was the Miss California International 2009 Spaghetti Dinner Extravaganza! It was not only a dinner, but an opportunity for contestants throughout Southern California to shop for wardrobe (trunk show by Crowns & Gowns) as well as check out an amazing skin care company (Become). Not only did future contestants attend, but I also shared my day with my family, Eddie, Dennis, Scott, Mrs. California International, and Miss Teen California International.<br /><br />Thank you to all who attended...and a HUGE thank you to Crowns & Gowns, Become, and Cookie Lee for making this a truly unique Extravaganza.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-8213145543928881656?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-7969762586844565392009-02-04T17:27:00.001-08:002009-02-04T17:43:37.494-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a51784d4459774e773d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Healthy Heart Workshop" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e7a51784d4459774e773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own postcard - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/postcards" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox postcard</a></td></tr></table><br />Happy Heart Awareness Month!!! I hope everyone plans to wear red on Friday Feb. 6, 2009 in support of the American Heart Association.<br /><br />Today was the Go Red For Women Casting Call and Healthy Heart Workshop, held in Los Angeles. Go Red For Women is searching for stories and the face of GRFW for 2010. During the Casting Call, was the Healthy Heart Workshop. I was asked to tell my story as a HEART SURVIVOR, in hopes that it would inspire women in attendance to know their numbers!<br /><br />My sister queen, Mrs. California International 2009 Sheryl Ellison, was at this event as well conducting the interview portion of the casting call. It was so wonderful to spend some time together since we live far away from each other.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-796976258684456539?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-59778154984669280842009-01-31T23:37:00.000-08:002009-02-02T09:01:47.776-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a4d324e444d774e673d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Jan 31" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e7a4d324e444d774e673d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />My last day of January was certainly a busy one! I started off my day with a bone marrow donor drive at Whole Foods Market Health Fair in Thousand Oaks, CA. It was so cool to be a part of their Health Fair, and thanfully it was really nice weather since it was outdoors! <br /><br />Then it was a quick change of clothes, and off to Beverly Hills for a party. I am a candidate for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Greater LA Woman of the Year, which is essentially a FUNDRAISING COMPETTION for nine weeks! We kicked-off the competition with a party at Beverly Hills Classic Cars. It was wonderful to get to know the other candidates, meet the Boy and Girl of the Year, and hear so many wonderful stories of triumph over blood cancers. <br /><br /><strong>I hope you enjoy the pictures, and I encourage you to make a donation to my campaign by visiting:</strong><br /><a href="http://los.llsevent.org/pledge/index.cfm?mid=HGUSHWA">http://los.llsevent.org/pledge/index.cfm?mid=HGUSHWA</a><br /><br /><strong>Remember this is a fundraising competition, and the winner is named Woman of the Year! Help me to meet my goals and make a donation!</strong><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-5977815498466928084?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-74902635393427851922009-01-06T09:35:00.000-08:002009-01-06T17:44:18.853-08:00<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SWOY6roFE4I/AAAAAAAAADg/7MB11u1sMFg/s1600-h/cgplogo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 176px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SWOY6roFE4I/AAAAAAAAADg/7MB11u1sMFg/s200/cgplogo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288238521373758338" /></a><br /><br />It's finally time for the Miss Ventura County International 2010 pageant (an official preliminary to the California International Pageants). Crowning Glory Productions will be awarding 5 titles:<br /><br />Miss Teen and Miss Gold Coast International 2010<br />Jr. Miss, Miss Teen, and Miss Ventura County International 2010<br /><br /><br />If you are between the ages of 11 and 29, and live/work/attend school in Ventura County; you are eligible!!! This is an AMAZING program to compete in, so please attend the <strong>orientation</strong> to be held:<br /><br /><strong>January 24, 2009 <br />Courtyard Marriott<br />1710 Newbury Rd. in Thousand Oaks, CA<br />10:00 am</strong><br /><br />This preliminary pageant has had multiple Top 10 Placements, Top 5 Placements, and 2 States winners in the past three years. YOU COULD BE NEXT!!!! For more information please visit the website:<br /><a href="http://www.crowninggloryproductions.com"><br />http://www.crowninggloryproductions.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-7490263539342785192?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-34681234077730073512008-12-14T21:07:00.000-08:002009-04-07T12:49:58.259-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e546b344d4455304d513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Bone Marrow Donor Drive" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e546b344d4455304d513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Today was Heart2Heart's December Bone Marrow Donor Drive held at Food Share, Inc. I had a wonderful time catching up with old friends, and I truly felt that having people sign up to be a potential donor was a great way to give back during the holiday season.<br /><br />Thank you so much to Jeanne for seeing my passion for Be The Match and making your facility available, and Vivian for helping me make this drive a success. Happy Holidays from Heart2Heart!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3468123407773007351?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-19270907544320386372008-12-13T19:41:00.000-08:002008-12-14T16:24:46.416-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e546b794f4441314f413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Camarillo Parade" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e546b794f4441314f413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table>I had so much fun today in the Camarillo Christmas Parade. My dad borrowed a 1930's Model A convertible, a historical vehicle owned by See's Candies! It was so neat to see a car that had been kept up all of these years, and even more exciting that my dad drove me in it in the parade today! I am such a lucky girl that I was allowed to use it....thanks See's Candies!!<br /><br />I was joined by Crowning Glory Productions, my parent's local preliminary to the California International Pageants. Appearing in the parade on their behalf was Jr. Miss Ventura County INTL- Julia Valenzuela, Miss Teen Gold Coast INTL-Dedria Brunett, Miss Teen Ventura County INTL- Katie Karp, Miss Gold Coast INTL- Allison Bowman, and Miss Ventura County INTL- Meghan Lopez.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-1927090754432038637?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-38614347155453328792008-12-06T23:11:00.000-08:002008-12-07T20:31:46.463-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e5463354f5463324e673d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Festival of Lights" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e5463354f5463324e673d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />I was so excited!!!!!!!!!!!!! Today was the first time that my sister queens and I have gotten together since we won! We started our day off with a tasty catered dinner at our sponsor, Harriet's, house. It was so much fun to relax, catch up on the past couple of months, and of course enjoy some good food!<br /><br />We had a quick change into our crowns and gowns for the "Festival of Lights" parade. It was so different to do a parade in the dark! Of course, all of the cars were lit up in Christmas lights. We had a blast!!<br /><br />We finished up the evening with a small Christmas party with our families, Eddie, and Dennis. It truly was a perfect start to the holiday season!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3861434715545332879?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-33008255231663194242008-12-05T16:58:00.000-08:002008-12-07T17:33:52.693-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e5463354e54677a4e413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play " src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e5463354e54677a4e413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own scrapbook - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/scrapbooks" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox scrapbook</a></td></tr></table><br />Let me start off by saying what a WONDERFUL school Bubbling Wells is! The campus is gorgeous, the staff and teachers welcomed me with open arms, and the kids were some of the most inquisitive and well behaved children that I've met in a long time<br /><br />I had the rare opportunity to visit with around 250 kids. I had 30 minutes in every classroom to discuss my road to winning Miss California International, as well as the importance of community service. After every speech we did a question/answer segment....and I had some of the coolest questions from various students!! Two of my favorites were, "Are you proud of yourself?" and "Do you have a professional makeup artist?" I can absolutely say that 30 minutes in each class was nowhere near enough time!!!<br /><br />I also was invited to attend their monthly assembly to hand out various certificates, including honor roll, attendance, and student of the month. I would like to say a special thank you to Mr. Davis for accompanying me from class to class. Also, thank you so much to the students, faculty, staff, and Principal of Bubbling Wells for making this such a special day for me!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3300825523166319424?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-11167782705406222532008-12-04T10:37:00.000-08:002009-04-07T12:52:33.011-07:00Heart2Heart will be hosting a bone marrow Drive on December 14th from 12 pm- 4 pm at:<br /><br />Food Share, Inc.<br />4156 Southbank Road<br />Oxnard, CA<br /><br />Join Be The Match and SAVE A LIFE!!!!!!! <br /><br />(please bring a non-perishable food item to donate to Food Share!)<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/STgo4BXSqbI/AAAAAAAAADQ/UtWXPjeh2Xk/s1600-h/Heart2Heartdrive.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 308px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/STgo4BXSqbI/AAAAAAAAADQ/UtWXPjeh2Xk/s400/Heart2Heartdrive.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276011906368448946" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-1116778270540622253?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-71017849558480373582008-12-01T20:53:00.000-08:002008-12-02T09:08:26.346-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e5463774f446b334d413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Festival of Trees" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e5463774f446b334d413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Today I was a model for the Optimist Club "Festival of Trees". This was a charity lunch, with all proceeds benefiting the Optimist Youth Homes and Family Services. Optimist Clubs from all over Southern California were asked to decorate a tabletop Christmas tree in whatever theme they wanted. Then we had the chance to purchase tickets to try and win our favorite tree!!! Of course I didn't put tickets in just one, I had to diversify my odds!<br /><br />They had a wonderful lunch along with a fashion show which featured clothes from Damon and Draper! I had the chance to model a day and night look....and the runway was SUPER long!!!<br /><br />After I modeled in the fashion show, it was time to see who won the trees! And to my surprise, I won the VERY first tree announced...."Return to Tuscany!!" SO COOL!!!!! Not only did my tree come with an array of gifts including an Olive Garden gift card (yum yum), I also got to keep the decorated tabletop tree. I had such a fun time today!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-7101784955848037358?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-52328910783201463452008-11-27T10:33:00.000-08:002008-11-27T10:37:34.554-08:00<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SS7o1uf0S-I/AAAAAAAAADA/9pFeOT5yQgw/s1600-h/turkey.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 172px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SS7o1uf0S-I/AAAAAAAAADA/9pFeOT5yQgw/s200/turkey.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273408223409621986" /></a><br /><br />I just wanted to wish everyone a happy and yummy Thanksgiving!! Hope the holiday surrounds you with wonderful memories, family and friends.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-5232891078320146345?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-34546522439508138802008-11-10T17:22:00.000-08:002008-11-10T18:33:56.040-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e544d344e7a49794f513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Tackling Hunger" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e544d344e7a49794f513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own postcard - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/postcards" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox postcard</a></td></tr></table><br />Today was the Kick-Off for the 2008 Holiday food drive season! Food Share of Ventura County has teamed up with Vons grocery store and PODS across the county to tackle hunger. Vons started the food drive by donating $60,000 in non-perishable foods, which is an incredible contribution. The goal of Food Share is to get 250,000 lbs. of food donated. In attendance was NFL mom Berna Colbert, local press, and radio station B95.1 with Bo Jackson....so cool!<br /><br />Food Share will be hosting a joint food and bone marrow drive for Heart2Heart in December...more info to come on that! To make a donation online or to read more about how you can help please visit: <a href="http://www.foodshare.com">http://www.foodshare.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3454652243950813880?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-9300433431700803162008-11-08T23:13:00.000-08:002008-12-13T20:50:04.544-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e544d324e6a59324e413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play 2009 Bakersfield Pageant" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e544d324e6a59324e413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Tonight I had the honor of judging the Teen, Miss, and Mrs. Bakersfield Pageants. The pageant had 34 wonderful contestants, and every single contestant brought something unique to the table. The director, Gayle Tape, really puts on a fabulous production. Not only did the show run smooth, but the contestants were certainly prepared to put their best foot forward! Gayle and her production team really outdid themselves this year.<br /><br />Many awards were handed out including Miss Congeniality, Photogenic, Interview winner, and Fitness Winner. Here are the final results!<br /><br />Miss Teen Bakersfield (also Fitness winner): Erica George<br />Miss Bakersfield (also Interview winner): Angelica August<br />Mrs. Bakersfield (also Interview winner): Rhenana Grimes<br /><br />I met so many kind-hearted people at this pageant, including fellow judges and Miss California International hopefuls. I truly felt that I walked away with new friends, and new opportunities. Seeing some old pageant friends was fun as well! Congratulations to the new Teen, Miss, and Mrs. Bakersfield!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.thebakersfieldpageant.com">http://www.thebakersfieldpageant.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-930043343170080316?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-52594783215896074382008-11-01T23:16:00.000-07:002008-11-02T13:45:21.413-08:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e5449324e444d774e413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Girl Power Conference" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e5449324e444d774e413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />First I'd like to say I can't believe it's November already! Today was definitely the first sign that fall was here....it rained all day! Even though I miss the warm weather, Southern California definitely needed some wet weather.<br /><br />Today I was a featured speaker at the Empower2Purpose "Girl Power" Conference. The seminar had the theme of inspiring girls to go after their dreams; teaching them to be assertive, in control of their destiny, and community minded. I spoke during the dinner portion of the day! I really enjoyed talking about how I've gone after my own dreams, the obstacles I've overcome, and my plans for the future. I had such a wonderful time talking to the girls in attendance one-on-one, and I hope my words inspired them to make their own dreams come true! The founder of Empower2Purpose, Tamala Kelly, presented myself and the other speakers with GORGEOUS flowers and a commemorative award for attending "Girl Power." That was so unexpected and very thoughtful!<br /><br />Empower2Purpose is truly an incredible organization. I found their mission statement so relevant to what girls today need, and that Empower2Purpose really takes into account what each and every girl has to say. Thank you so much for a wonderful day, it was something I will remember for a long time to come. For more information, or to make a donation to them, please visit: <a href="http://www.empower2purpose.com">http://www.empower2purpose.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-5259478321589607438?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-36722460335178702322008-10-22T14:28:00.000-07:002008-10-23T09:37:44.054-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e5441344e6a63344e513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Radio Interview" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e5441344e6a63344e513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Today I was a guest on the show "Locals Only" with Kelli McKay here in Ventura County on AM 1400! Kelli had contacted me through my non-profit organization's website, wanting me to be a guest on her show to discuss Heart2Heart. I thought that this was an incredible opportunity so I jumped at it! Not only did we discuss Heart2Heart, we also talked about my year as Miss California International and the International pageant system.<br /><br />I also ran into a friend from high school who is a DJ and host on LIVE 105.5 FM. He actually had me do a couple of sounds clips, which was so much fun! Thanks to DJ Skitz and Kelli McKay for being so hospitable!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-3672246033517870232?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-66259337167388010592008-10-18T23:10:00.000-07:002008-10-19T12:39:37.262-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e5441304d546b304d513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Happy 30th Birthday!" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e5441304d546b304d513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Not only did we have the 5K today, it was also my sister Keri's 30th birthday! As a surprise, Eddie and Dennis made the trip out to Ventura County to celebrate with us! It was so much fun to have the family, Shawn, Eddie and Dennis all together. We did a really fun progressive dinner, with a twist. It was in the harbor, and a boat shuttled us from restaurant to restaurant! We had a lovely tour of the harbor, got to see the sunset, and had a wonderful time celebrating her birthday. Love you Keri....and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-6625933716738801059?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-22671966973382551512008-10-18T11:41:00.000-07:002008-10-19T12:09:52.097-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e5441304d5455334d413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Start! Heart Walk" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e5441304d5455334d413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />This morning was the 5K Start! Heart Walk for the American Heart Association in Simi Valley, CA! The weather was gorgeous....nice and sunny! Not only did I get my work-out by walking, I was also asked to meet and greet at the Go Red For Women booth!! They had a HUGE poster up with my picture, talking about my own heart abnormality. What a great keepsake! During the awards segment, I gave a short speech thanking the walkers for raising money as well as awareness. Thanks to the American Heart Association for asking me to be a part of this great event!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-2267196697338255151?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-7388690120375294352008-10-12T11:31:00.000-07:002008-10-12T22:54:31.226-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e446b314e7a4d344e673d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Light the Night Walk" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e446b314e7a4d344e673d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Tonight, in Woodland Hills, was the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society "Light the Night Walk." For anyone that hasn't done this event before, it is really unique! The walk is at night, because every walker carries either a red or white balloon that LIGHTS UP in honor or in memory of a loved one that battled a blood-related cancer. I have done this walk before, but it was the first time that my organization, Heart2Heart, had a team!<br /><br />Team Heart2Heart had 13 walkers. Not only did my family walk with our team, but we had a couple local International titleholders that joined us!!! As a team we raised about $1,000 which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. <br /><br />It was a beautiful night tonight, and great to know that all of the fundraising Team Heart2Heart did contributes to bringing us one step closer to saving lives.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-738869012037529435?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-90802579472304393962008-10-01T15:57:00.000-07:002008-10-01T16:07:53.087-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4467794e4445314d513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play USO Web-A-Thon" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4467794e4445314d513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />What a beautiful 1st day of October! I had the opportunity today to attend the Celebrity Golf Tournament and 1st ever web-a-thon benefiting the USO! It was held at the Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. The golf course literally sat right above the ocean water, and it was clear, warm day. I was waiting to find where the actual web-a-thon was being held, when I heard someone yell "I want my picture with Miss California!" The golfer took out his own camera and had a friend take a picture of the two of us. I had one taken also because it was JEREMY RACTCHFORD of "Cold Case" which is one of my absolute favorite tv shows! I found it hysterical that he wanted his picture with me, and I was definitely star-struck!<br /><br />Inside the clubhouse was the web-a-thon. What a cool experience! There was 4 tv cameras there that were rolling, but for the Internet and not tv! I had about a 5 minute chat live on-air and web with the host of the event, radio station KEARTH 101's very own Gary Bryan. After that they let me answer the phone lines for to take pledges! It was so much fun! <br /><br />Thanks to the USO of Greater Los Angeles for having me, and I hope that the donations you received today exceeded the expectation!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-9080257947230439396?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-19098057857581563842008-09-29T21:26:00.001-07:002009-04-07T12:53:45.298-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4467774e4451344d773d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Long Beach Drive" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4467774e4451344d773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />Tonight was the bone marrow drive that Heart2Heart was hosting in honor of Tyler Cordova. We had a great turnout for such short notice on this drive, which was thrilling! I had a wonderful time getting to know Vivian (the City of Hope coordinator), and Lloyd (the pastor of the church). We made some great plans for upcoming events...I'm really excited!<br /><br />I want to thank City of Hope for facilitating this drive, and the Willow Street Church of God for providing us with a wonderful venue. Also a TREMENDOUS thank you to everyone who came to become a part of Be The Match...you could <em>save a life</em>!!!<br /><br />Please continue to keep Tyler and his family in your thoughts!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-1909805785758156384?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-14431519087796353122008-09-24T23:00:00.000-07:002008-09-25T18:46:00.067-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4463314e6a51344d673d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Rusnak College Launch" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4463314e6a51344d673d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />What a cool event this was! "Keys to Success" was held at the original Rusnak Audi dealership in Pasadena, CA. For the night, they teamed up with College Launch, a program to help kids applying to college to understand that colleges are looking for more than just great grades. They had dance performers, a fashion show, and a silent auction, which benefited the "La Canada Flintridge Educational Foundation." I was asked to be a "Celebrity Panelist" and ask interview questions in a mock college interview! It was so much fun to be the one asking questions instead of answering them!!!<br /><br />Thank you so much to Rusnak Audi and College Launch for including me in such a tremendous event. I really enjoyed myself!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-1443151908779635312?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-70752852129162663342008-09-12T18:46:00.001-07:002009-04-07T12:54:19.789-07:00<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SNgz6l8sGHI/AAAAAAAAABU/80vRj_KMFEo/s1600-h/Tylersdrive.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SNgz6l8sGHI/AAAAAAAAABU/80vRj_KMFEo/s400/Tylersdrive.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249002447412402290" /></a><br /><br />Tyler is 6 years old, and has gone through 2 years of treatment for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. His tumor was thought to be gone, but his family just found out that the cancer has spread. He is need of a bone marrow donor, and has <strong>no match in his family</strong>.<br /><br />My organization, Heart2Heart, will be hosting a bone marrow drive for Tyler at the Willow Street Church of God: <br />1455 W. Willow Street in Long Beach, CA<br />Monday September 29, 2008<br />4 pm-8 pm. <br /><br />Anyone who wishes to be registered in Be The Match and possibly save a life should come to this event! There is normally a cost involved in being screened, but Heart2Heart will be covering this fee....so it will be FREE to anyone who comes!!! <br /><br />If you would like more information, make a donation, or are planning to attend, please email me at heart2heart_org@yahoo.com or visit Heart2Heart's website <a href="http://www.hilarysheart2heart.org">http://www.hilarysheart2heart.org</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-7075285212916266334?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-56489883254902798282008-09-10T23:42:00.000-07:002009-04-07T12:57:52.025-07:00<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SMlHo2iJsVI/AAAAAAAAABE/m8rWbUOcjFY/s1600-h/HilaryGushwa_MissCalifornia.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SMlHo2iJsVI/AAAAAAAAABE/m8rWbUOcjFY/s320/HilaryGushwa_MissCalifornia.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244802008208748882" /></a><br /><br />I can't believe it...tonight marked exactly one month that I've been Miss California International!! I celebrated by being the guest speaker at the SCV-Newhall Optimist Club. It was held at a wonderful restaurant in Saugus, California. I was provided with 20 minutes to speak about my platform, Heart2Heart, and what I have done to help people who suffer from leukemia and other blood-related cancers. Little did I know that one of the Optimist members in attendance actually has leukemia, and is awaiting a bone marrow transplant...his brother is a perfect match to him. This Optimist member was truly thankful for the strides I had made to add people into Be The Match so that the 70% of patients that rely on Be The Match for a matching donor would have better odds at finding a perfect match. I truly enjoyed tonight, and I want to wish the best of luck to him as he heads into surgery.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-5648988325490279828?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-7281003621059250902008-08-30T09:51:00.001-07:002008-08-30T10:08:29.701-07:00<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SLl80ZefDgI/AAAAAAAAAAU/iowP4oms9Oc/s1600-h/go+red.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ipZs13hDarA/SLl80ZefDgI/AAAAAAAAAAU/iowP4oms9Oc/s320/go+red.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240356881056075266" /></a><br /><br /><br />The American Heart Association and one of their biggest supporters, Macy's, has teamed up for <strong>Shop For A Cause Day</strong>! This will be held at Macy's across the US, as well as online! <br /><br />Shopping can be good for your heart! Did you know that a 150 pound woman can burn 684 calories in two hours of shopping? Burn some calories and support the American Heart Association’s "<strong>Go Red For Women</strong>" movement by participating in Macy’s "<strong>Shop For A Cause Day</strong>" on Saturday, Sept. 20. <br /><br />With just a $5 donation, you will receive a shopping pass good for 10 to 20 percent off most purchases at Macy’s that day. Along with your savings pass, you are also eligible to enter an in-store drawing for a $500 Macy’s Gift Card!<br /><br />I happen to be selling the shopping passes! So either contact me to make your $5 donation, or visit <a href="http://www.heart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3058560">http://www.heart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3058560</a> to purchase you savings pass online!<br /><br />Thanks everyone<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-728100362105925090?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-91398810276570470222008-08-23T11:34:00.000-07:002008-09-23T17:16:51.676-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e44637a4e4441324f513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Thank you!" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e44637a4e4441324f513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own scrapbook - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/scrapbooks" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox scrapbook</a></td></tr></table><br />(watch the Smilebox Slideshow to see the official pageant competition photos of Hilary Gushwa, Miss California International 2009!)<br /><br />Since I had some extra time today, I thought I'd take the time to make an extra special post! I received the photos from the pageant photographer, and though everyone might enjoy seeing some of the great quality pictures from the pageant!<br /><br />I also wanted to make sure to thank several people! Thanks to several of the California International Sponsors: Flower Mart, Dr. Warren Stout, YogEssence, Shari's Berries, Stila Cosmetics, Pro Beauty To You, BECOME International, Crowns and Gowns, and Torgny & Co. Jewelers. You have all made such amazing donations to the pageant, and I sincerely appreciate everything you are doing to make this a wonderful year for me and my sister queens. <br /><br />I also wanted to thank Eddie Peterson, the Director, and Dennis Cooke, the Administrator and Producer, who are the reasons behind the success of the California International Pageants. They are both such incredible men, and I look forward to a wonderful year with them!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-9139881027657047022?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-43648951529365856812008-08-21T13:38:00.000-07:002008-08-22T10:58:03.077-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e444d354d7a55794d773d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Simi Optimist Club" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e444d354d7a55794d773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own postcard - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/postcards" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox postcard</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Today I was off to an early start! At 7 am this morning I was the speaker and guest of honor at the Simi Valley Optimist Club. I had the opportunity to talk about my platform, Heart2Heart, and share my story of how I became involved in Leukemia Awareness. I also shared about the International pageant system and how it really promotes making a difference in your community and beyond. I also learned a great deal about the Optimist Club, and how they are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children. I found the "Optimist Creed" to be quite uplifting, so I wanted to share a couple of the items they strive for:<br /><br />*To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true<br />*To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own<br />*To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future<br />(and my favorite) *To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile<br /><br />Aren't those cool?? You can read the rest on one of the photos I've posted.<br /><br />Then, to my surprise, I was given an award after my speech! I was honored with the first ever "Spirit of Community Award" for making a difference through Heart2Heart. Thank you so much to the Simi Valley Optimist Club for having me. What an amazing day!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-4364895152936585681?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-47058283264744672062008-08-11T13:36:00.000-07:002008-08-17T14:50:42.114-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e444d304e4449334e773d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Miss CA International!" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e444d304e4449334e773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />On Sunday August 10, 2008 was the pageant finals at the Palm Springs Auditorium! The stage set was beautiful, completed with a sparkling crystal chandelier. Our opening number was to the song "Shopping for Labels" and it was a total blast! We wore gold sparkly tops, jeans, sunglasses, scarfs, and carried fully decorated shopping bags!! Mine were Godiva and Swarovski.....of course I would pick crystals and chocolate as my shopping bags! :)<br /><br />I was so excited when they started announcing the Top 10 for Teen....both Miss Teen Gold Coast Dedria Brunett, and Miss Teen Ventura County Katie Karp were called! I was called as spot #7 of 10 in the Miss category. I really enjoyed having a big stage to model my outfits on!<br /><br />At the time of coronation they also announced some extra awards....I had also won the Preliminary Interview Award! What an honor! I am so thankful that I am now a part of the California International sisterhood, and am looking forward to making a tremendous difference in my platform, Heart2Heart "Making Strides for Leukemia Awareness" as well as Go Red for Women which is an alliance that was created with the International pageant system! Enjoy the photos!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-4705828326474467206?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8800668774833503906.post-72619190209793731412008-08-09T19:22:00.000-07:002008-09-11T12:35:32.322-07:00<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4455304e6a41344f413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Prelim Show and Dinner!" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4455304e6a41344f413d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table><br />(click above to see Hilary Gushwa's slideshow from the California International pageant weekend!)<br /><br />Welcome to my blog!!! I guess a great place to start my blogging adventure is the weekend of the California International Pageants. What an amazing group of ladies that were competing for the Jr Miss, Teen, Miss, and Mrs titles! I felt so lucky to be surrounded by positive, ambitious, genuine women. I really enjoyed my time with so many of the contestants....Miss LA County and Miss Santa Clara kept me laughing the entire weekend! :)<br /><br />Pageant weekend kicked off on Friday morning with a wonderful breakfast, where we had the opportunity to mingle and hear what was in store for us for the weekend. The off to rehearsal where we found out we would be walking a 36 foot runway!! I was so excited!!! Friday night I competed in the Fun Fashion category. We did a "runway" segment at the end of the show for GO RED to show our support to women who are fighting heart disease. <br /><br />Saturday was an early morning, starting with rehearsals. I had my private one-on-one interview with the judges early afternoon, and that night I competed in Fitness Wear and Evening Gown. Then it was time to celebrate! We had a delicious Awards Dinner. To my surprise I won Miss Photogenic, Miss Community Service, and the Preliminary Evening Gown Award. I also won the Become "What Makes Me Beautiful Inside and Out" Essay.....which was accompanied with a $625 cash scholarship! Thank you so much again to Become for choosing my essay....I was psyched!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8800668774833503906-7261919020979373141?l=misscaliforniaintl09.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Hilary Gushwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02718174787027308453noreply@blogger.com0