New Year, New Perspective

Happy New Year! Hope everyone had a fabulous time celebrating the holidays with their friends and family. While 2013 was a truly unbelievable year, I always relish the opportunity to start anew, set fresh goals and look forward with positivity while remembering all the experiences I had the year before that got me to where I am today. It's with that in mind that I write today: making sure I embrace change while reflecting on the moments and people that made an impact on me in 2013, and recapping a few of my most recent appearances. Read on!

I traveled to St. Louis for the 2014 Miss Missouri and Miss Missouri Teen USA Pageant at Lindenwood University in November. I had a wonderful time seeing my boo, Mrs. Missouri United States Kristy Kelley and a few other titleholders, though it was bittersweet saying goodbye to Ellie Holtman and Brenda Smith-Lezama, my 2013 Vanbros sister queens. I know wonderful things await them as they start a new chapter in their lives! But I know it's difficult to pass on the crown. Congratulations to the 2014 titleholders, Erica Sturdefant (who did a great job helping me prepare for interview this summer at boot camp before nationals) and Samantha Bowers! I added a few pictures of the pageant below.

Then, as 2013 came to an end, I went to Wichita for the 2014 Miss Kansas and Miss Kansas Teen USA Pageant at Maize South High School the weekend before Christmas. I got to catch up with a few friends I hadn't seen in quite some time, which was wonderful, met a 2014 Mrs. Kansas United States contestant, Kristin, and was there as 2013 titleholders Staci Klinginsmith and Aly Klinzing passed on their crowns. I will miss them both, especially Aly, Miss Kansas Teen USA 2013. She was such a sweet girl who made every moment of her year as a titleholder and truly made a difference in the lives of many. I made quite a few appearances with her, and was fortunate to have her as a little sister queen. I know she will go on to do wonderful things. Aly, you are fabulous! There's a picture of us below. Congratulations to the new 2014 Kansas titleholders, Audrey Banach and Claire-Bailey Lee; welcome to the Vanbros family!

Christmas came and went, and then New Years Eve was upon us! I had such a wonderful time ringing in 2014 with my husband, Alex -- check out the picture below -- and our two best friends who just moved back to Kansas City after hiking the Appalachian Trail last year. What an amazing accomplishment! It's adventures and opportunities like that, ones that people think you're crazy to take but that end up being so rewarding and changing your priorities and perspective, that are so easy to pass over and ignore. Don't ever ignore those opportunities! Since being crowned your 2013 Mrs. Kansas United States, I've tried to live in the moment, take chances and continue to step out of my comfort zone. It's definitely changed me as a person and I'm so thankful for the opportunities I've been given and the unique people I've met.

If you're ready for the chance of a lifetime, make sure you visit www.mrskansasunitedstates.com or call (913) 381-7121 to apply and take the first step. You never know, 2014 could be your year! Feel free to email me with any questions you may have at mrsksus2013@gmail.com. No matter how things turn out, I promise you won't regret competing. I promise.

I can't even imagine where this year will take my husband and I, but wherever we go, we're so ready. I'm excited to see who I crown the new Mrs. Kansas United States this April, and look forward to seeing how the "power of the crown," as they say, positively affects the next titleholder as it has so positively affected me. So go out and make 2014 your best year yet! Strive to be better, go farther, do things that scare you and never compromise who you are for others while remembering the experiences of 2013 that helped shape who you are today.

I'll leave you with a quote from the current Miss USA, Erin Brady: "You will have chances you can't even imagine. If you can break away from 2013, you can start a wonderful life in the present moment."

Here's to a truly fab New Year ... cheers!

All the best,

RYK

Kristy, Ellie, Brenda and me at the Miss Missouri USA Pageant in November.

Me with Mrs. Missouri United States Kristy Kelley at Miss Missouri USA.

At the Miss Kansas USA Pageant with 2014 Mrs. Kansas United States contestant Kristin.

With Miss Kansas Teen USA 2013, Aly Klinzing at Miss Kansas USA. 

Ready to ring in 2014 with my husband and friends in Kansas City! Cheers!

I'm Thankful For ...

Happy Thanksgiving! I can't believe we only have a little more than a month left in 2013. While I watch the first of two football games on television (seriously love holiday games), I thought I'd take a minute to write about the many things I'm thankful for today ... and everyday!

I'm thankful for my family. My parents and sister are so supportive of me that I really don't know what I'd do without them! They remind me everyday what unconditional love really is and have been by my side for my entire life. Such sweethearts! Just want to make them proud. I added a picture of my parents and I at my rehearsal dinner below - they're so darn cute!

I'm thankful for the Vanbros team and especially my excellent director, John Vannatta. I don't take for granted the fact that John and his brother Jason have more than 25 years experience in the pageant industry and are positive and encouraging forces who would do anything for their queens. Love you guys!

I'm thankful for my sister queens. One of the most meaningful aspects of pageantry to me has been the close relationships I've forged with the four other titleholders from Missouri, Tennessee, Texas and the current Mrs. United States who I've been fortunate enough to take my journey with so far this year. Kristy, Amanda, Janet and Lori you are all wonderful! I posted a few pictures of us below.

I'm thankful for my sponsors. You know they say it takes a village ... and that's so true! There's absolutely no way I would have had such great success at the national Mrs. United States Pageant this summer if it wasn't for the talented group of professionals who helped me be the best me I could be. I'm not only a better, more polished contestant but also a more mature and self-confident person. Great people who want the best for me - make sure that you check out the list to the right.

I'm thankful for the opportunities I've been given as a result of my title. I truly believe that once you win, your year is less about yourself and more about others. The people I've met at appearances, and the things I've been able to do since winning last March, have really enriched my life and made me a better person. No doubt about it!

Finally, I'm thankful for my friends and my fab husband, Alex. They keep me grounded and help me keep things in perspective ... and always keep me laughing! Great people. And Alex is (obviously) really special; a very supportive, lighthearted and calm person. A perfect balance for me! There's a picture of the two of us at our wedding below.

That's about it for today. I hope you have a wonderful Holiday season, regardless of what you celebrate or who you celebrate with. Enjoy your Thanksgiving! And take a few minutes to think about who and what you're thankful for ... which I'm sure is plenty!

All the best,

RYK

Me with my Mom and Dad at my rehearsal dinner last year.

From left to right my 2013 sister queens (minus Lori); Janet, me, Kristy and Amanda. 

Me with Kristy and Amanda at the Stratosphere in July.

Me and Kristy goofing around at the Miss Missouri and Miss Missouri Teen USA Pageant. 

Alex and I at our wedding last year!

Kansas Travels

I'm going to start this blog almost the same way I started my October blog: I can't believe how fast this year is flying by ... it's already November?! Seriously.

I hope everyone is enjoying their fall; it is certainly brisk and rainy here in Lawrence, but beautiful as the leaves finally change color on the campus of the University of Kansas as winter quickly nears. Since I've had a little down time lately, I thought I'd fill you in on my recent travels throughout this lovely state!

After a very busy September, both at work and making appearances, a quiet October was a welcome change! My husband and I were able to clear our calendars and take a few short weekend trips to different small towns and explore the beauty and eccentricity of north central Kansas. It was a lot of fun and we met quite a few interesting Kansans along our journey!

The second weekend of October we took a trip out to Wamego and Manhattan, just north of the beautiful Flint Hills. We stopped by downtown Wamego, which was cute and quaint but busy, and then headed onto Manhattan, the other large college town (home to Kansas State University) down the highway from my home of Lawrence! Just outside Manhattan sits the Konza Prairie, a native tallgrass prairie, which was absolutely beautiful. The people in each town were friendly and welcoming, the rolling hills of the prairie were breathtaking. It was the perfect way to unwind from a really crazy September.

Then we decided to head a little further into the Flint Hills and check out Council Grove and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve the next weekend. Council Grove was a tiny little town, but was so full of history. After walking through a park near downtown and looking at a few of the historical sites, we drove south to the National Preserve and were able to walk around for about an hour before the sun went down. It was really quite amazing, rolling hills for as far as the eye can see! Make sure you scroll down to see a few of the photos we took during our travels.

After coming home from these trips and having a few weeks to reflect, I am reminded of how unique the state of Kansas is. I think it's important as a titleholder to get to experience as much of the state you represent as possible so you can personify your state in a way, particularily the special and often resilient spirit of the residents. Even though I've only lived in Kansas for 10 years, I've really grown to love this state and am so fortunate I am to be able to represent such a naturally beautiful place that has such an interesting history and such lovely residents. I couldn't resist adding a picture of my crown and sash below -- go Kansas!

Well, November's shaping up to be a busy month! Next weekend I'm heading to St. Charles to watch the 2014 Miss Missouri USA Pageant! While I'm there I'll be able to reunite with my sister queen Kristy Kelley, Mrs. Missouri United States, for the first time since rooming with her in July at nationals. Then, when I'm back in Kansas I'm meeting with a few 2014 pageant contestants. Can't even wait!

Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy what's left of your fall!

All the best,

RYK

Exploring the Flint Hills outside Council Grove. 

The Konza Prairie just south of Manhattan.

September to Remember

I can't believe how fast this year is flying by ... it's already October?! September, which also happened to be Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Leukemia Awareness Month and the first official month of fall, was quite busy for me, so read on for all the details!

On September 14, I stopped by Heroes & Halos in Eudora with Miss Kansas Teen USA Aly Klinzing. It was such a wonderful event where children and families affected by childhood cancer could have a carefree day of fun away from the hospital. The two of us were stationed at the ring toss booth playing with kids and their siblings all morning, and it was adorable! The kids were such good sports, and it was heartwarming to see them forget about their worries (as much as they could) for just a few hours. So much fun!

Then, on September 19, I drove out to Loch Lloyd to attend the A Chance for Children Patron's Party. Mrs. Kansas United States 2010, and Mrs. Kansas Mommy, Emily Kuhlman, invited me and it was one of my favorite events! The proceeds from the sale of tickets, the silent auction and raffle, which totaled over $3,000, benefitted KU Kids Healing Place at the University of Kansas Medical Center, which cares for children with chronic and life-limiting diagnoses. I had the chance to chat with quite a few inspiring and accomplished ladies, many of whom were fellow University of Kansas alumnae! A truly lovely evening.

Finally, on September 22 I joined Miss Kansas Teen USA Aly Klinzing again, along with Violet from Great Wolf Lodge, to visit children at the University of Kansas Hospital's Pediatric Critical Care Unit. We brought projects to work on and things to color, and spent a few hours with children stricken by cancer and other devastating illnesses and their families. I was honored and humbled to spend time with these strong children and their supportive and determined families. It was truly moving! The staff at the University of Kansas Hospital are special and skilled people; thank you, Aly, for asking me to join you! After leaving I was inspired, and also deeply grateful that I have never had to fight to get healthy, or fight for my life, like these children. Never again will I take my health, or the health of my loved ones, for granted.

I was able to wear my beautiful blue and orange Warriors for Ross sash to all of the September events I attended, to continue to raise awareness of children's cancer so we can help find a cure! Thank you, Vanbros, for my special sash! Check out all the pictures below to see how each appearance went.

Want me to stop by your event, fundraiser or school, or judge your pageant? Just email me at mrsksus2013@gmail.com; I'd love to! Want to check out additional pictures and follow even more of my journey as Mrs. Kansas United States 2013? Make sure to like my official Facebook page and follow me on Twitter @RealMrsKSUS!

Three appearances, two trips, two weddings and three events at work later, October has arrived. I love the fall because of football, cool weather, and the start of state preliminary pageants for Miss USA! Looking forward to a fabulous fall, and I hope you enjoy every minute of your fabulous fall, too!

All the best,

RYK

Working the ring toss with Miss Kansas Teen USA at Heroes & Halos Sept. 14. 

With Mrs. Kansas United States 2010 Emily Kuhlman at the A Chance for Children Patron's Party Sept. 19.

With Violet from Great Wolf Lodge and Miss Kansas Teen USA at KU Med Center on Sept. 22. 

Making a necklace at KU Med Center with patients, Violet and Miss Kansas Teen USA.

Post-Nationals Contemplation

Now that it's been a little over a month since the national Mrs. United States competition, and I have been back to my more routine day-to-day life (if there is such a thing!) for a while, I've had time to truly reflect on the experience. That said, I have to say I am humbled, proud and very satisfied with how everything went! I thought today I would reflect on what I took away from the competition, share a few additional pictures with you, and let you know what I've been up to since Las Vegas. 

Since returning to Kansas, I've gone on a (fabulous and rather long) vacation to Cape Cod, traveled to both Minneapolis and Buffalo for weddings, and have been back to work for the start of another busy fall semester at the University of Kansas. Throughout that time, I saw family, was reunited with my close college friends, and spent some quality time with my husband, Alex, which reminded me of how truly fortunate I am -- as if competing at a national pageant and representing the great state of Kansas wasn't enough! I am truly blessed.

The success I've achieved in pageants and in life would not be possible if it weren't for all of the amazing people I have supporting me, and who have helped make me the person I am today. Looking out from under the bright stage lights at the Stratosphere in Las Vegas during nationals and seeing my family and friends smiling back at me, cheering me on, meant so much. There are few things more meaningful and inspiring! I no longer take that unconditional love for granted, and was able to finish a Top 12 Finalist, which I am so very proud of.

I am also reminded that pageantry is a wonderful way to improve yourself, to serve your community, and that it gives you the means to positively affect the lives of others. There may be (plenty of) high heels, sparkly dresses, crowns and big hair, but beneath all of that there are strong, confident, independent and caring women who are able to make a difference. Everyone I stood onstage with at Mrs. United States demonstrated all of those qualities; really, such an experience! I think John Baker described this the best when he said a "... 'pageant girl,' if there is such a thing, is not just one kind of girl, but rather someone who combines everything she already is with all that she strives to become!"

Want to see some of the photos from Las Vegas? I posted a Facebook album from the official photographer Terry Wright, and have also posted quite a few below, so make sure to check them out. I know I've said this before, and will likely say this again, but I really am grateful to be your Mrs. Kansas United States 2013!

As I wrap up today, don't forget that September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Next weekend I'm heading to Eudora for Heroes and Halos, where families with children affected by cancer will have a fun-filled and care-free day on the farm. I'm really looking forward to it!

Hope you all had a great Labor Day, and you're enjoying the start of fall ... and football! Go Jayhawks and go Cowboys! So glad football is back, I just love it. Enjoy your week!

All the best,

RYK

Chatting with Mrs. West Virginia and my roommate Mrs. Missouri at registration on Saturday, July 27.
Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography. 

At breakfast on Sunday, July 28 with Mrs. Missouri and Mrs. Tennessee; go Vanbros!

Over 100 stories above the Las Vegas Strip at the Stratosphere Observation Deck. 

After my personal interview on Monday, July 29 in the VIP Suite at the Stratosphere.

My contestant introduction on finals night, Wednesday, July 31. "Rachel Karwas, KANSAS!"
Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography.

I made Top 12! Answering my onstage question during finals with our host, Jay Joseph.
Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography.

In my custom-made Allyce King swimsuit during finals.
Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography.

And in my Tony Bowls evening gown from Watercolors High Fashion.
Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography.

After the parade of gowns with Aquillia Q Vang, Mrs. United States 2012.
Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography.

Again, the contestants onstage, with Mrs. United States 2012, Q, in the middle!
Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography.

With my husband, Alex, after finals at the Level 107 Lounge on the (you guessed it) 107th floor of the Stratosphere. 

And, finally, I squeezed in a little gambling the morning of Thursday, August 1 before I caught my flight back to Kansas. I won a total of $11 with the help of my husband at the Stratosphere Casino!

National Competition in Las Vegas!

I can't even believe it is already August - and that the national 2013 Mrs. United States Pageant is already over! I had such an amazing time in Las Vegas. Just amazing. Are you ready for all the details? If so, read on.

I arrived in Las Vegas Saturday, July 27 and set out for the Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower for registration. I received my welcome packet, turned in a few forms, met the 46 other contestants and the national director Isabella Illacqua, and was reunited with my sister queens, Mrs. Tennessee United States Amanda Uggla, Mrs. Texas United States Janet Randolph, Mrs. Missouri United States Kristy Kelley (my roommate for the week) and Mrs. United States 2012 Aquillia "Q" Vang. Before leaving, we all picked up each other's state gifts and then got ready for the evening's events. We had dinner before heading to the theatre to watch Frankie Moreno. So much fun! He was great, and we got a sneak peek of the stage we would walk across ourselves later in the week.

Sunday, July 28 we donned our official contestant t-shirts, a special gift from Q, and rehearsed pretty much all day with our fabulous choreographer Natalie Carson before heading to the observation deck...107 stories above the famous Las Vegas Strip! The view was amazing. I was about to ride the Big Shot, which catapults you from the center of the Stratosphere Tower straight up before dropping you down, but there was a storm rolling in making the winds too high. Guess I'll have to wait until next time!

On Monday, July 29, we went to the Level 8 Pool for our swimsuit photo shoot bright and early in the morning, then rehearsed most of the day before being dismissed to prepare for personal interviews, which went from 6 p.m. to nearly midnight! The judges, Dr. Jeffrey Roth, Jennifer Lier, Rebecca Prephan, Stephanie Hill and Paula Lawrence, were wonderful to talk to. A great group of people.

Then, on Tuesday, July 30 we were finally able to practice onstage! We rehearsed all day and then did a full show run-through with lights, music and host Jay Joseph before heading back to our rooms to prepare for the preliminary competition. At 7:30 p.m., the house lights were dimmed and the 47 contestants left it all on the stage as we performed our opening number, contestant introductions, swimsuit and evening gown. I was proud of my performance in my opening number dress from the lovely ladies at Sassy Chic, my amazing custom Allyce King Designs swimsuit and my Tony Bowls gown from Watercolors High Fashion, but I'd have to wait another day to see if I advanced.

Finally, Wednesday, July 31 arrived! We had a few final rehearsals in the theatre that morning and early in the afternoon, and then left to prepare for the final competition, which kicked off at 3 p.m. The 47 contestants were narrowed to a group of Top 12...and I'm proud to say I was one of those finalists! I worked so hard and was thrilled and humbled to be able to represent myself, my husband, my family and the state of Kansas as a Top 12 Finalist still vying for the national title. I competed in swimsuit and evening gown again, and then came back out onstage with everyone to hear who received the special Fitness (Mrs. Texas), Congeniality (Mrs. Vermont) and Photogenic (Mrs. Alaska) awards before they narrowed it to the Top Five and then crowned the new winner! I was disappointed I didn't place in the Top Five, but still so proud I was a Finalist! Go Kansas!

Congratulations to one of the most genuine, caring and calm women ever, Janet Randolph who is your new Mrs. United States 2013! She will be an amazing titleholder, and I'm fortunate to call the former Mrs. Texas United States a sister queen and, more importantly, a friend.

As I reflect on my journey to, and at, nationals as Mrs. Kansas United States, there are many I would like to thank. First, a very special thank you to Mrs. United States 2012, Aquillia "Q" Vang, who worked hard to make our 2013 pageant a truly unforgettable experience and who I was blessed to get to know as a fellow Vanbros titleholder since winning my state title in March 2013. Q, you are great!

I'd also like to thank my director John Vannatta for preparing me and my sister queens as much as possible prior to nationals, and for being one of the most positive forces in my life. John, I feel I can do anything with your support.

Thank you to all of my sponsors for their support of the Vanbros ladies: Allyce King Swim, Linda Loveless and Arbonne, Hairstylist Bryan Wood, Kim Forsythe, Makeup by Q, Sassy Chic, Rachel Imdieke Photography/Simply Joyful Photography, Valerie Hayes and Watercolors High Fashion.

And, finally, thank you to my family and especially my husband Alex, who has stood beside me, smiled at me and encouraged me through everything. You mean so much to me, Al; Rock Chalk!

Are you ready for the experience of a lifetime? Make sure to enter the 2014 Mrs. Kansas United States Pageant for your chance to wear the crown and represent the married women of this lovely state at nationals next year! Feel free to email me at mrsksus2013@gmail.com with any questions you have, or check out www.mrskansasunitedstates.com for more.

I think that's (finally) about it - promise I'll post additional pictures as soon as I can upon returning from my much-needed vacation to Cape Cod. Have a wonderful August!

All the best,

RYK

At our swimsuit photo shoot at Level 8 Pool Monday morning.

Me with Mrs. Iowa United States, Katie Spielmann!

All the contestants in our opening number formation on Wed., July 31.

Th crowning moment! Congrats, Janet! Photo courtesy of Terry Wright Photography.

The Top 12 Finalists at Mrs. United States 2013!

Me and my husband, Alex. Rock Chalk!

Allyce King Model Search & Fashion Show

I'm back at work again after traveling to St. Louis then welcoming my family to Kansas for the Fourth of July - and I must say I enjoyed my long weekend despite my constantly busy schedule! Hope you all had an excellent holiday, too, and you're ready to hear all about my trip to attend the Allyce King Model Search and Bridal Elegance Fashion Show on June 29!

I was excited to go to St. Louis not only to meet Allyce King, who custom-designed my competition suit for nationals in a few weeks, but to check out the latest fashions from Bridal Elegance and also visit my in-laws. All great reasons for a short trip to Missouri!

The full weekend of events, which included the nationwide model search, a Pageantology workshop with Shandi Finnessey and Susie Castillo, a pageant panel, trunk shows from Allyce King Swim and Bridal Elegance, and of course the fashion show I participated in with a handful of other current and former titleholders, was held at the lovely Chase Park Plaza Hotel. It was an amazing backdrop - a truly beautiful hotel!

We arrived Saturday morning for fittings and got to peruse the racks of clothing that the ladies of Bridal Elegance had brought along from their shop outside Chicago. It was tough picking out just two dresses to wear in the fashion show! I spent the rest of the morning getting ready and catching up with current Mrs. United States, Aquillia Vang, Miss Kansas Teen USA Aly Klinzing and Mrs. Missouri United States, Kristy Kelley. Then it was time for the fashion show! Scroll down for a few pictures from the event.

A few familiar faces were there modeling with me - a few former Miss Kansas USAs, Miss Kansas Teen USAs, Miss Missouri Teen USAs and the current Miss Missouri USA, Ellie Holtman, among many other beautiful ladies. We each modeled two Allyce King Swim bathing suits and two dresses from Bridal Elegance. I wore a lovely, brand-new MacDuggal pageant gown and a cute pink cocktail dress in addition to my two suits by Allyce. It was great! Can't wait to get my competition suit in the coming days. If you missed this audition, don't worry because Allyce is heading to a handful of other cities throughout the U.S. this summer and fall. This weekend she's in Nashville, but make sure to click here to stay on top of future model search dates.

Then it was back to Lawrence for a very short work week before welcoming my family to town for the Fourth of July! It was a much needed, and much appreciated, long weekend.

This weekend we have our last Vanbros boot camp in Kansas City before nationals! I'm looking forward to meeting Mrs. Texas United States, Janet Randolph, for the first time and seeing the other Miss Teen USA titleholders and my Mrs. United States sister queens from Tennessee and Missouri as well. I can't even believe how quickly nationals are approaching. My wardrobe is set, I'm hitting the gym more than ever, I'm preparing my state gifts and the signs for my family to hold up in the crowd at the Stratosphere, and I had my last great session with Valerie Hayes to prepare for interview ... I simply can't wait to head to Las Vegas to compete!

Have a wonderful Thursday and Friday, and also a wonderful weekend!

All the best,

RYK

My husband, Alex, and I after the show. He's great!

Me with Allyce King and Mrs. Missouri United States, Kristy Kelley.

Me with Mrs. United States Aquillia Vang and Kristy.