Thursday, October 28, 2010

STREETS Ministries Halloween Party

Today was a good day.  My husband David and I, along with a group of wonderful friends we recruited, hosted a Halloween party for Georgia Avenue Elementary third graders in downtown Memphis.  The cupcakes, popcorn balls, chips, Capri Suns, and candy were flowing!  We helped the kids decorate pumpkins to take home with them, and we all had an amazing time.  These children are inspiring, and spending time with them is always uplifting.

I have also had a wonderful first month of tutoring Devon and Jamal.  I have had the opportunity to spend 6 hours of one on one time with the boys this month, and their progress is impressive.  They both took part in the party today, and I look forward to seeing them again on Tuesday and embarking on our second month of tutoring.  I have no doubt that the remainder of our school year together will be amazing.  You can see Devon in the photo below in between me and my husband.  We both adore the little guy!    
     

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Memphis Child Advocacy Center's Chefs' Celebrity Gala

On October 21, 2010, I was honored to be a "celebrity server" at the Memphis Child Advocacy Center's annual Chefs' Celebrity Gala.  The lovely evening raised $263,000.00 for the CAC which provides the abused children of Memphis with treatment, comfort, and support.  I was honored to spend the evening with more than 600 kind hearted Memphians who share my passion to help abused and at risk children succeed in life and achieve their dreams.

    

In Memory of and with Everlasting Love for Jordan

After fourteen years, six months, and five days of unconditional love, companionship, support, and pure joy, my sweet baby dog Jordan lost his battle with cancer and peacefully returned to God in Heaven on October 20, 2010.  Jordan has been the most beautiful blessing of my life, and my love for him will endure forever.  I hereby dedicate my year as Mrs. Tennessee International to Jordan.  Thank you to everyone who loves him and me and for praying for us and sending me such kind words of support of encouragement.  I am so lucky to have so many compassionate and caring people in my life.  God Bless and take care of Jordan Porter Riley until I see him again.   

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Titleholder Photo Shoot

I had quite the day of pampering today at the official Tennessee International Pageant photo shoot in Nashville.  Kristy Belcher, for anyone who does not already know, is an amazingly talented photographer, and she is absolutely beautiful on the inside and out!  The precious Bryan Wood was there to beautify our hair, and the classy Lisa Proctor worked her magic on our faces.  I can hardly wait to see the photos, and I am SO thankful and blessed to share this year with Phil, Bobbie Marie, and Randi who are all simply wonderful.  Thank you to everyone involved for such a special day.

God Bless!
Mary-Marsha Riley

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Ladies Leadership Luncheon

Thank you to Tracy Hendry for hosting a wonderful luncheon today.  It is always such a honor to be in the presence of women who are agents of positive change in our city and state.  And, it is a pleasure to be able to share my mission of providing all children with quality education and the opportunity to reach their potential.  Thank you Tracy!