If you were to ask me a year ago if I would be the next Mrs. New Jersey America, I would have said, “You have to be kidding me, right!?!” Never would I imagine the road that was before me. Even after I won, people would ask how it felt to be a “Queen,” and I still felt like it was just a dream. A dream that I soon realized that had come true.

            Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of all the possibilities that could be, but never really believed that those many things were possible. Being Mrs. New Jersey America and the path it set forth before me helped me to see much more than I could ever imagine. I learned that if you can believe it you can achieve it! For once, I finally believed!

            This year has been such an inspiration and blessing for me. I started out as a fragile soul wanting to make an impact on the world, but not knowing where to begin. Now, I am finishing strong with courage and confidence, knowing where I have been and where I am going.

            I will treasure all of the wonderful memories and people that I have met on my fantastic journey. The real prize in winning was not all the recognition, fabulous prizes, or even going to Mrs. America (which was amazing), but it is the gift I received from the individuals around me. The gift of gratitude, love and selfless giving! To have strangers come up to me and thank me for making an impact on their life was more than I could have asked for. To have a child come to me and say my own personal story inspired them is absolutely priceless!

            I would not have been able to make it through this year with out the help of many but especially my very loving and supportive husband, Eric, and my very enthusiastic and proud father, Joe.

            Eric, thank you for always being my number one fan and helping me to see what unconditional love is! I get it now. You were always by my side and helped me to stay calm when I needed it the most. Your faith in me is endless. I love you!

            Dad, you have been there from day one with me and without your undying support, I would not be the woman I am today! You believed in me from the day I was born and never stopped believing! Thank you! It means the world to have a loving and giving father who is so proud and involved. I will always hold that dear to my heart.

            To all of my family and friends, thank you for all of your support, patience and understanding. You are always with me on my many adventures. They would not have been the same with out you! Knowing you are there means the world to me!

            To Geri, and the Mrs. New Jersey America Organization, thank you for you constant belief and support. This has been one of the most amazing adventures of my life! Geri, you shine inside and out, thank you for shining your light on me!

            To my successor, always live in the moment and cherish all that is around you. This will be an incredible journey if you allow your heart to follow the path. This will be a year in which you can make such an impact in the lives around you. Please know that what power your crown truly has. I wish you all the best and all of the wonderful joys that come as being Mrs. New Jersey America.

            A special thank you to my angels above, John, Rob and Mom, you have guided me every step of the way. Thank you for giving my own wings of inspiration and strength that touched my soul. I miss you always and I love you!

With Love,
Christina
Mrs. New Jersey America 2006