Final Appearances as Mrs. Tennessee International

This week I was lucky to have the opportunity to make two very meaningful appearances as I wrap up my reign as Mrs. Tennessee International 2011.  My client and friend, Shields Thompson, Miss Scenic City Outstanding Teen, asked me to accompany her on a visit to the Le Bonheur Childrens' Hospital here in Memphis to spend some time with some incredibly brave children.  The kids were so strong; so resilient, and they inspired me.  I appreciate Shields for including me in this heartwarming experience.

The next day I was honored to speak at my husband David's alma mater, Lake County High School.  I spoke to almost 100 high school girls about the importance of dreams, believing in themselves, and about never giving up.  The girls were very receptive, respectful, and I had a lot of fun with them.  David introduced me before I spoke, and I was so honored and touched by his sweet words.  This week was a great way to end my reign as Mrs. Tennessee International. 

Two weeks from tomorrow I will be crowning my successor.  I wish for her a year as meaningful and as fulfilling as the year I have experienced.  As a titleholder, we make the experience what it is.  We can chose to do nothing, do a little, do just enough, or truly make a difference.  I like to believe I made a difference, and I am determined to continue to do so after this journey comes to an end.  I hope the next Mrs. Tennessee International decides to do the same.

Mary-Marsha Riley
Mrs. Tennessee International 2011

I must say that this little angel looks a lot better in my crown that I do! 

It was an honor to spend the afternoon with some extremely brave young people.

It was very special to be able to speak at David's high school.

These girls are great.  Lake County High School is doing it right.   

Every girl loves a crown!

 

All Good Things Must Come to an End

In five and a half more weeks, I will be crowning the next Mrs. Tennessee International.  I am lucky to have had the opportunity the hold the title for almost one and a half years instead of the usual one year.  As it all winds down, I am starting to reflect upon this experience.  It is overwhelming, and I am so thankful.  Everything happened just as it was supposed to, and I just could not be more pleased about the journey I have taken.  I did it my way from the beginning until the end, and I have no regrets. 

Talk to you soon!
Mary-Marsha Riley
Mrs. Tennessee International 2011

Happy Holidays from the Riley Family in Tennessee!

I hope everyone is enjoying preparing for the holiday season!  David and I spent last weekend with my family in Arkansas, and we had such a wonderful time.  Sometimes we get so busy in our lives and with our obligations that we forget just how important our families are.  My family is small, but we are fiercely close and loyal to one another.  My love for them is as solid as rock.  My wish for each of you this holiday season is that you have someone in your life who you treasure, who you would fight for, and who you love unconditionally.  If you are lucky enough to have that, you are truly a fortunate person.

Merry Christmas, and God Bless you all,
Mary-Marsha Riley
Mrs. Tennessee International 2011

L to R:  My sister, Gina; my dad, Bernie; my mom, Judy; me; my husband, David

And in the front:  Ashton, our joy :)        

Christmas Challenge

I want to challenge each of you to spend time this holiday season giving something of yourself and your talents to help another person.  You will never regret a second you spending helping someone else.  Share your gratitude for the blessings you have been given.  I always keep in mind that if not for a simple twist of fate, I could have been born without the opportunities I was lucky enough to be blessed with.  This fact rings true to me every week when I tutor my ten year old friend, Devon.  He and I have been working together weekly since he was seven.  Devon faces huges challenges; none of them of his choosing.  Making him believe he can and will succeed is a big part of my life.  I feel it is my responsiblity.  And, you know what?  Spending time with such a determined, kind-hearted little guy lifts my spirits every week.  I leave my time with him feeling revived, energized, happy, and grateful. I challenge you to do the same thing in your own life.  Pay your gratitude and your blessings forward this holiday season.  You will be changed as you change the life of someone (or a dog or cat :) that needs you!  Get out there and make a difference this month! 

God Bless,
Mary-Marsha Riley
Mrs. Tennessee International 2011      

Me and my husband, David, with Devon

My First Commercial!

This has been such an amazing year! My first job as a working model was a holiday commercial for Laurelwood Shopping Center.  It was a bit surreal to live the experience. I think it turned out great!  Click on the link below to see what you think!  And, to all my Memphis friends...consider coming to Laurelwood for your holiday shopping!    

http://vimeo.com/32328733

Happy Birthday Devon!

 If you know me, you know that I have been tutoring my little buddy Devon Leonard for four years now.  We started together when he was a 6 year old first grader, and yesterday my awesome fourth grader turned 10.  I am so proud of Devon.  In the last four years he has evolved from a shy and quiet little boy with no confidence into a happy, capable, confident, and fun loving little man.  He received his highest marks ever on a report card this past quarter, and he is no longer behind in his reading.  Devon is terrific.  I am determined to see him make it; despite some challenges that most of us will never have to face.  I will continue to be his biggest cheerleader.

Here are some photos of my sweet little buddy as he opened up his brand new Nintendo DS on Friday morning.  He was so incredibly happy, and his happiness touched and uplifted my heart.  If any of you are looking for a way to enrich your life, take a few hours a month and devote them to changing the life of an at risk young person.  You will be glad you did.  If you are in Memphis, contact Sarah Quintal at Streets Ministies and get started today!

     

More Official Mrs. International Photos

Yay!  I was so excited to see my Mrs. International photo CD in the mail today.  Thank you to Paula Preston for working so hard during pageant week to capture our memories!

 Getting off the bus about to board the boat for the tour of Chicago!

 Me and David during the Evening Gown Competition 

 Us again...David was the perfect escort :)

 Fitness Competition

 This is my favorite Evening Gown Competition shot.

 My announcement as a Top 12 Finalist!  

 Third Runner-up!!  I was SO happy!!! :)

 Happy, happy, HAPPY! 

 Top 5 and Our Husbands

 Mrs. International 2011 Top 5

 David and me at the Cornonation Ball after the Finals of Mrs. International 

My favorite dress of the week...at the Meet and Greet with the Judges

SO MANY GREAT MEMORIES!!