The biggest adventure you can take, is living the life of your dreams

Thanksgiving break came and went & I was fortunate to be able to be home with friends and family and soak in the comfort of being home for the holidays.

My Thanksgiving was small but beautiful. Full of food and family and a list of things to be thankful for. We forget all of the things and people in life that come by and make living that much more special, so I would like to thank everyone and everything that helps paste that smile on my face every day of the week.

-I am thankful for my family. Through thick and thin I know my family will always be my side. They will do anything and everything to make sure of my happiness and acknowledge I'm where I should be. When it comes to my dreams, they are the cheerleaders on the side lines encouraging me with every idea that pops into my head; and with pageantry they have been the absolute greatest driving to Hartford to pick me up for appearances and then usually an extra 2 hours to the appearance. I could never express enough gratitude for how thankful I truly am. I am so blessed to have such an encouraging family by my side through whatever new adventure I throw into their lives.

-My friends, both at home & at college. I am so thankful I have stayed in touch with my wonderful friends from home. I know they are just a skype call away and are still here to make me laugh whenever necessary. Their is no feeling better then coming home and spending every last second with them. I am so thankful for my friends at college. They are litterly my other half and I notice I spend at least over half of my day with them. I am so fortunate to have met such true friends so quickly.

-My reign, I am so thankful every day of my life for being Miss Teen Massachusetts- World 2010. This has been by far the most amazing,exciting, adventurous, and memorable year of my life, and it's not over yet. The people I have met, the experiences I now have stored in my memory - Holding this title means so much to me, and I will continue being thankful every time I put a smile on someones face or hear a little girl call me a "real princess" or raise funds for amazing causes that can truly make a difference in the world. My title means absolutely everything to me, & this year has been the most exciting ride of my life while giving me what I needed to truly discover myself as a person & realize everything I want out of life.

Thank you to everyone who has made my life so amazing! & Happy Thanksgiving :)

The past few weeks I have been on two wonderful appearances. Along with Jane Marshall I was able to visit the beautiful & amazing Bella Tucker. Her house in the process of being reconstructed to fit her needs. Seeing Bella reminded me of how much we take for granted in life. Everyone needs to meet this little girl just to have that wake up call about life in general. She has shown me what living is really about, and to never take advantage of a second of my life. We shared many laughs along with her family and I had one the greatest days I had in a while. Bella has become such a big part of my life and I carry her happiness with me whenever I need an extra boost. For information on Bella visit Friends of Bella.

Epilepsy Fundrasing for E.L.F. has officially begun! A few weeks ago a took a trip back to my high school to fundraise for the American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation. Being the ambassador for Massachusetts it means so much to me when people donate to this cause. What could be a better gift during the holiday's then putting a smile on children's faces who must spend their holiday in the hospital. Whether you donate $3 or $100, every penny counts. If you are interested in donating, please contact me asap! Tami4025@yahoo.com Thank you to everyone at East Longmeadow High School who donated, so little can do so much!

Last weekend I also had the opportunity to ride in the Big Balloon Parade in Springfield Mass. It was a good feeling to be able to make an appearance so close to home. I had such a blast waving to fans and connecting with pageant friends. It was a great morning despite the rain and by now I definitely have my "pageant wave" down ;) Kidding of course!

Last weekend a very good friend of mine Brooke Bibeault, Miss Massachusetts Teen USA gave up her title. I became very close with Brooke during her reign and shared many amazing appearances and memories with her. Brooke, you made Massachusetts so incredibly proud during your reign and demonstrated what having a title is truly about. You have impacted the lives of so many people with your kindess and good heart. I am so eager to see what the future has in store for you and keep up with the endeavors life has planned for you. I know you will keep shining on or off the stage, I am so lucky to have met you & had you become a part of my life!

This Saturday I will be in Rhode Island to attend Miss Rhode Island USA and cheer on my good friend Christine Skorenko! Soon enough the semester will be over meaning plenty of time for appearances and blogging, so get ready for some exciting posts!

Your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World
-Tamara Sacharczyk xoxo

The Amazing Wish Race

Last weekend I participated in one of most exciting appearances yet, Rhode Island's Amazing Wish Race. This race benefited the Childrens Wish Group of Rhode Island and "Fighting for a Chance." The day was hosted by Louie Stravato & Mike Naylor of TV's The Amazing Race season 16 and was flooded with reality TV celebs from American Idol to Big Brother and of course, tons of beauty queens.

I was on a team with Jane Marshall, Mrs. Massachusetts International; Anita Seraichyk, Mrs. Rhode Island International; and Jena Ribeiro, Miss Teen Rhode Island International. Although we might have been a little slow in the race, we had the times of our lives with the crazy adventures they had us on.

Our first challenge was to fill out a crossword puzzle and word search based on Rhode Island. Obviously Jane and I were a bit lost so we left that part up to the Rhode Island queens. On the way to the next event we decided to take a minor pit stop at a pastry shop where Anita treated us to the best pastries in the world. Although that may have been our falling behind point, we kept going. (Better late then never!) We then went to the next event which was running around a park to find tickets to a merry go round. After running around like crazy I finally found a ticket after looking under a bench. Once all 4 tickets were found it was back in the car to the next event in which we had to name bugs by a picture, create our own big (which sported a crown of course) and had to guess the type of bug after feeling it in a bag. Once that challenge was completed, it was off to the mall to a costume store where Jane and Anita dressed up in outfits as fast as they could. It was then time for me to call it a day and travel back to Connecticut.

This race was an incredible experience for an incredible cause. Thank you to all of the volunteers who took the time out of their day and raised money, and of course the people who held the event. It was an awesome time and if anyone is interested in getting involved in the next race contact Damon Borrelli who puts this together!

Just a couple of days ago I was in Rhode Island again for an amazing photoshoot with J.Holt Photography. http://www.jholtprophotography.com/ - She is a new sponsor for the Miss Teen MA and Miss Teen RI- World pageants and a great one at that. Dana & I both had the chance to shoot in our National gowns & a few other outfits of choice. Although it was a bit chilly, the photographs were so worth it!

Keep in mind that fundraising for E.L.F. is beginning to take off! In a couple of weeks I will be in my old stomping grounds at East Longmeadow High School to raise some money for children with Epilepsy who will be spending their holidays in hospitals. Let's give them safe toys to keep smiles on their faces :) If anyone has any questions on donating please contact me at Tami4025@yahoo.com!

Love your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World
-Tamara Sacharczyk xoxo

PINK OUT!

This past weekend I got off of University of Hartford campus and ventured to my long lost home in Rhode Island! It felt so good to be back in Rhode Island after many weeks for appearances. The weekend was definitely full and worthy of importance and I had a fantastic time!
Saturday I arrived and went to Providence Place Mall to meet Miss Teen Rhode Island- World Dana Marie Buitta to get fitted or the fashion show that night. The fashion show was "selling dresses for a cure" and was to raise funds for Breast Cancer. People donate their old dresses from proms to weddings and they are all sold for the extraordinary price of $20. I ended up choosing two dresses to walk in, both gray, one with a Marilyn Monroe look (my favorite style ever!), and the other silvery and classy. After we chose our outfits of choice we ventured to the village to hand out papers about the fashion show that night. I caught up with Christina Kain, a judge from my state pageant and the epitome of a beauty queen and had the opportunity to FINALLY meet Amy Diaz (Miss Earth United States 2009) in person after endless facebook conversations!
That night we participated in a ceremony for the Gemma Foundation. We listened to Breast Cancer survivors and learned more about the disease. The speech's were extremely inspirational and reminded me of how fortunate I am or my health. One particular speaker whose mother had breast cancer impacted me deeply. The emotion in her words allowed you to feel the fear she once was entitled to feeling. Breast Cancer Awareness is such a strong disease that is extremely important for people to carry knowledge about.
That night, Dana & I kicked off the fashion show by freezing our butts off down the runway for a good cause, "Selling Dresses for a Cure." We were interviewed on stage about our reigns, how we got involved in pageantry, advice for anyone wishing to compete, and my personal platform. Although it was freezing the numb hands and toes were worth it to take part in a cause that calls for attention.
The next morning we woke up bright and early to participate in the annual parade on Federal Hill. Lucky for me, I got to play Barbie for the day and ride in Amberly (Miss Teen Rhode Island- World 2009's) sisters pink car! It was tons of fun and the parade consisted of characters from Michael Jackson to batman. After the parade we went to Meet The Stars with Dana and Christine to sign autographs and meet with fans for the afternoon!
All in all, the weekend was incredible an full of fun filled activities. It was SO nice to catch up with my pageant family, I was way overdue to spend the night at Debbi's house! The 16th I will be back in Rhode Island with a group of my beautiful Massachusetts queens to participate in Rhode Island's Amazing Wish Race! Benefits go to The Children's Wish Group of Rhode Island and "Fighting for a Chance!" Don't forget to come and show your support, it should be an inspiring afternoon :)

Until then!
Your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World,
Tamara Sacharczyk

Flipping the page

"Flipping the page" is how I like to refer to my current status in life. I have graduated high school, experienced a summer living the life of Miss Teen Massachusetts- World; and have flipped the page to not forget about the amazing life I left back in the small town of East Longmeadow, but to begin a new one in Connecticute.

About a month ago I began schooling as University of Hartford! It has been such a ride and full of so many new experiences. Living on your own definitely has it's ups and downs. First off, (hold the applause please) I have succesfully been making my own bed & doing my own laundry. I know most of you are probably shaking your head in disgust, but having a fabulous mother cater to my every need my entire life was benifical up until now. Other then that, I'm living with a roommate who fortunetly I absolutely adore. I have made tons of new friends from all of the place and feel as though I now have two homes. Classes are going great & I am learning about things I never guessed I would. My work load consists of Media & Politics, Social Welfare, Rhetorics & Writing, Intro to Lit, and Intro to Theatre. On top of the that I am remaining busy by taking dance classes at the Perfoming Arts school and working at the sports center during games on campus. I am also currently trying to get involved with the school channel because as we all know my real dream is to become a broadcast journalist :)

Other then school, I have still been carrying my duties as a title-holder. Being Miss Teen Massachusetts- World is a juggle, but I still wouldn't give it up for the world. Just last week I had the oppurtunity to spend the day on Thursday at the Big E for Massachusets Day! I had such a wonderful time learning more about my state while representing it. I was interviewed by News 40 about my year as Miss Teen MA- World. I signed many autographs and talked to so many of my adorable fans. I even had the youngest boy I've met so far ask for my number, a 7 year old. Although he didn't succeed it made a memorable picture. Talking to little girls & having them tell you they look up to you is so incrediblle and I love every minute of learning about each individual I meet.

At the Big E I was lucky enough to meet a beautiful young girl who had a pace maker. She wore the biggest smile on her face as she walked around the Massachusetts building looking around in awe. I found out she also had Epilepsy, and this reminded me of a very important fundraiser coming up, E.L.F.! This is for toy rooms in hospitals during the holidays to insure children living with Epilepsy can have seizure safe toys. Fundraisers will soon begin so if you'd like to help out, run one, or donate, email me at Tami4025@yahoo.com - It will be appreciated beyond belief :)

I have some appearances coming up also that I'm very much looking forward to! A Walk for Emma Hope where I can connect with an extraordinary girl I met while judging a pageant and hopefully a few in Rhode Island so I can see my director and pageant family I miss so much!

Until then, I'll be busy cramming for exams & papers!
Your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World, Tamara Sacharczyk

So long sweet summer

As the summer abruptly comes to and end, I can't help but think about how much I have experienced in such a short amount of time. Summer is a time to relax, a time to keep old friends & make new friends. But most importantly, summer gives you a chance to be someone you haven't been before. You not buried underneath books & school work, or cliques and sports. You choose your journey, & wouldn't have changed my summer 2010 for the world.

Living these past few months as a title holder has given me the experience to travel all around Massachusetts, Rhode Island, & even Texas! Everything I have done since graduation has been more beneficial than anything else in my life. I've always said life's journey is it's destination, and I've never felt so confident & proud of my journey.

Going to Texas, I had so many crazy thoughts in my mind. I was going to a National pageant, I was representing my state, I had a shot of becoming Miss Teen United States World. What a way to begin your vacation! I look back at the week full of memories like it was yesterday, and still am missing all of the beautiful faces of girls I met throughout the country, and the experience all together. I came home placing top 10 & winning community service! Now that's a way to kick off vacation if you ask me.

Since then, it has been endless fun. I have had so many appearances that I wouldn't have traded for the world. From digging in the sand for keys to a car with Pro FM radio, to holding fundraisers for causes to dear to my heart; epilepsy awareness & the extraordinary Bella Tucker. I made Rhode Island my second home, and spent so much time there! I waved to fans during parades while showing my spirit for the USA, and I crowned countless 5 year old's the new Miss Teen Massachusetts- World during picture sessions.

Whenever I wasn't too tied up with my hectic life, I spent every waking moment with friends & family. I watched my friends grow, and get ready to venture off into college. I laughed so many laughs with the people who have been in my life for what it seems like forever. It's crazy to think after spending so many years with the same group of people, reality strikes & keeps you moving through life. I have a place in my heart for every single classmate in the class of 2010, and I always will.

As I say my goodbyes to summer, I open my arms to an entirely new chapter of life, college. Although I still have my title, & I still have my friends & family, things will being to change. I've always been told to welcome life's transitions with arms wide open.. and I will maintain this attitude through the next 4 years.

Until my next appearance arises with my Massachusetts queens who this summer have also grown into family, so long summer. You have been amazing, every single second. & I can move on with my future knowing the summer of 2010 is one I will never, ever forget.

Your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World
-Tamara Sacharczyk

End of summer craziness!

Summer is coming to an end very quickly! I feel like these past few months have completely blown by and soon enough sunshine & bathing suits will just be yet another memory for the books. The past few weeks I have been doing so many things that I absolutely love & adore.

All of my crazy adventures & lifestyles began about 2 years ago when I ventured into the most of the time glamorous world of modeling. Modeling is something I have always enjoyed because of my love for being in front of the camera. About a year ago one of my many goals came true & I was signed with Mass Models. Since I began modeling, I have participated in multiple photoshoots & runway shows, met talented photographers, models, makeup artists, and stylist; and have created some awesome pictures! I was lucky enough to get casted for a commercial with a salon, Ochoa's. Their were about 8 other models and every single one of them was breathtakingly gorgeous! It was a long day from hair & makeup, to taping of the commercial to, photoshoots. I left exhausted but it's always so much fun working with a new group of people, especially ones with so much talent up their sleeve!

A couple of days later I had the chance to have a photoshoot with the wonderful & amazing Justin Mayotte! We have been trying to book a shoot for what it seems like forever but after I was crowned it has definitely been a project trying to find the time. I am so lucky I had the chance before college stole me away! Justin works with a group of photographes at Flash House Studio's. He is very talented & professional at all times. I absolutely LOVE the images he has shown me so far & cannot wait to see the ending result with the rest. Thank you Justin for a wonderful photoshoot, I had so much fun!

Last but definitely not least, I was lucky enough to have a very exciting event with Pro FM radio! Christine Skorenko, Linsday, Debbi, and I went to Adam Lamberts meet & greet and got the chance to meet the fabulous star himself! He is absolutely adorable in person and truly is a genuine guy which is so refreshing to see. I've always been a fan of his but knowing that hes just as kind inside boosts him up even more on my scale. We ate, had our pictures taken, & the highlight of my day was someone as wonderful as him congratulating me on becoming Miss Teen Massachusetts- World! It was so much fun & I loved seeing my pageant family before I have to leave for school! Lindsay has truly become the big sister I never had & we share so many laughs when we're together. (Especially when we're cracking up at photoshoots after being starved!)

Yesterday was the most exciting event of all! I had the opportunity to spend the day with a young girl named Danielle, an eight year old girl living with Cockayne Syndrome. She is from Texas, but spent some time at the Boston's Children Hospital during the week to participate in a medical study for children with Cockayne Syndrome. Danielle was chosen as she met all the criteria necessary to participate in this study. To begin the afternoon, I met up with Jane - Mrs. Massachusetts International; Brooke - Miss Massachusetts Teen USA; and Jennifer Hard - Classic Ms. Massachusetts. We first took Danielle to watch the prelim evening gown for Tami Charles Coed pageant. Danielle was so mesmerized by the beautiful girls & gowns, she had the most incredible facial expressions through the pageant. After that was over, we took her to the American Girl Doll Store at the Natick Mall to have lunch. Between her & Sierra, Jane's beautiful baby girl, we had an absolute blast! The girls truly enjoyed themselves and Brooke, Jane, & I enjoyed splurging on food for the afternoon. (Once you have the eating habits of a beauty queen, they sort of stick with you.) We celebrated Danielle's belated birthday and shared so many laughs. I'm so incredibly happy I had the chance to spend the day with Jane & Brooke before college, through my journey they have become such amazing sister queens & family. & exciting enough, I will not only be spending a weekend in September with them, but Brooke & I will both be in Connecticut for college! Definitely going to be a comfort zone knowing she's not too far away. Thank you Jane for making yesterday possible, I had such a blast!

As the summer comes to an end, I am definitely not taking anything or anyone for granted. I'm also in the process of packing up my life, & getting ready to move to CT! It's crazy watching all of my friends leave, especially people who have been in my life for what it seems like forever, but I know that moving on is a huge part of growing up. I'll be busy spending the week I have left attached to my friends hips! This summer has definitely been good to me :)

Love your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World
-Tamara Sacharczyk :)

A news reporter & judge all in one week!

A very exciting and busy week just took place :) I cannot believe summer is almost over! It seems I'm always running around like crazy & the time truly just flies. (Not trying to put on a front like I don't absolutely love it)

As most people know, I aspire to be a broadcast journalist. & when I say aspire, I mean I have my heart 100% SET on one day being bigger then Guiliana Ransic and Maria Menonous combined! So luckily, I had the opportunity to go on the air with Bob Venturini for 'An Hour with Bob.'

I had a blast with such a television personality on & off the air. I love observing how other people showcase their personalities on TV and always am sure to soak up as many hints as possible. We discussed everything from me placing Top 10 at Nationals to being newly named ambassador of The American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation. My crown even fell off at a point during the show from laughing too hard after I misunderstood his accent and 'shark' came out as 'shock' leaving me in a deep confusion for a bit. All in all, it was an excellent show & I feel so privileged to have been able to be a guest on it! Thank you so much Bob! & of course, Debbi, for booking me the greatest appearances ever!


Then this weekend, I was able to judge my first pageant! Although it was just side prizes, I definitely learned a lot from behind the scenes & really got the opportunity to see how everything works. It was Mr. and Miss Elegance ran by Tammy Rezendes! She is absolutely sensational and the pageant was definitely very well put together. The majority of pageant girls have been in pageants since they were very young. Since I only began this past November, watching the little ones compete was a totally new experience for me! It was very difficult judging 'best eyes' or 'best dressed' when your looking at these beautiful children. The actual judges of the pageant consisted of my roommates for the weekend, Debbi - my director, her beautiful daughter Lindsay who I haven't seen in months, Dorris who actually did my hair for my state pageant, and Kathryn LeBlanc - whose daughters used to compete pageantry & now a new friend ! We had an incredible time & shared SO many laughs. Although I might have been the party pooper that fell asleep way too early I had the greatest time with everyone! It was definitely a hilarious weekend worth remembering. Nothing is better then spending the weekend with a group of girls. Thank you to everyone in charge of the pageant who let me take part in the adventure & congratulations to the beautiful & handsome new royalty! That stage was definitely rocked ;)

I'm now back in Massachusetts & have some exciting events coming up before I leave for college! (Byebye small town!!) Tomorrow I will be shooting a commercial for Ochoa's Hair Salon, Wednesday I have a photoshoot with Justin Mayotte, & next week I have a VERY exciting event that I will keep secret until the morning of! :) You will definitely be jumping up & down once pictures are posted, (lets just say that!) & of course within the next few weeks, I will be helping out Jane Marshall and a few other queens with a project for Habitat for Humanity!

Hope everyone's enjoying the rest of summer & soaking up the sun before the cold weather does!

Until next time, I'm your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World
-Tamara Sacharczyk :)

A weekend full of events!

I've been running like a crazy women since Wednesday, & I wouldn't have had it any other way. I had a weekend full of such amazing events & new memories & am incredibly worn out! (In a good way!)

First & foremost, the blog you are reading is a blog of the new ambassador for The American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation!! I can't begin to tell you how much this means to me. I put my heart into Epilepsy Awareness because it something very dear to me. I was diagnosed with Epilepsy 2 years ago, & since then, made 2 promises to myself. One being, I would always live my life to the fullest & accomplish every single one of my dreams. (One of those being a teen title-holder) My other promise was that I would help Epilepsy Awareness, funds, and make a difference. I am so happy I was able to do both & it would have never been possible without the encouragement of the wonderful founders of the foundation, Tracy & Erin Leyden. They have truly given me a home when it comes to my disease, & a cause that I can do so much for! Thank you to everyone who has supported my fundraisers, worn the Epilepsy pin, or just helped spread the word!

Wednesday began with my first pitch this summer! I was supposed to have a pitch a few weeks ago with The New Bedford Bay Sox but it got called off on account of rain. It was raining about ten minutes before the Holyoke Blue Sox played on Wednesday so I was pretty nervous mother nature did not feel confident in me throwing a baseball. Luckily, the rain stopped & I transformed from a beauty queen to a baseball player. (kind of) I had so much fun & everyone was so friendly! After I bounced the ball I got a standing ovation. (Go figure!) It was a very talented team of players & I'm happy I got to to experience a baseball game so close to home! Go Western Mass!!

Friday, I had a very good friends reception party! I met Jack Villamaino a few weeks after I was crowned to take a picture for our local newspaper. Since then, he has became such a dear friend and has been the biggest help. He not only has been very kind & genuine, but has helped me with SO many appearances including my fundraisers at the carnival, first pitches, & the 4th of July parade. I am very thankful to have met him & have such a great support system by my side. He is currently running for State Representative & I couldn't think of anyone more dedicated & willing to do a better job. I have a learned a lot from his dedication & will to do good while helping others around him. The reception was a very nice evening! I met tons of amazing politicians from around the area who were all incredibly nice & outgoing. Scott Brown also attended to show support! I met many new friends & was so happy to be able to support Jack! It was an amazing night!

Saturday afternoon, I left for my second home, Rhode Island! Since I have been crowned I swear I spend just as much time in RI as I do MA! It's truly amazing to be able to do things for all of New England. Saturday night I spent the night on the couch watching Miss Teen USA with my second mom, Debbi & Miss Teen New Hampshire- World, Christine Skorenko! It was streamed live on the internet but since Debbi was on top of things as always, we had it connected to the big screen! Yay! We had so much fun & tons of laughs. Christine has become like a sister to me since Nationals & I enjoy every minute I get to spend with her. Brooke Bibeault represented Massachusetts BEAUTIFULLY & I am SO proud of her! She is the most genuine, hard working, and deserving queen I have ever met & I am so happy I have gotten to know her. She made Massachusetts SO proud as always! Maryland ended up taking home the title & becoming our Miss Teen USA 2010!

Sunday morning was the best part of the weekend by far! I had an appearance for the Governor's Bay Day on Scarborough Beach. I stayed under the Pro FM radio tent with Miss Teen New Hampshire- World, Miss Teen Rhode Island- World, and Junior Miss Rhode Island- World. Pro Fm radio has been so great with events & allowing us to tag along! Barbi Jo, the voice of Pro FM was also the host of my pageant and it's always so much fun seeing her & her outgoing, exciting personality. She is an amazing role model especially for the industry I'd like to go into. She genuinely adores her job & everybody she meets & is SUCH a hard working gal. I hope someday I can have half of her presence when it comes to being an entertainment journalist. A big thank you to Barbi for allowing us to be a part of her exciting event! I always learn so much from her. I was even lucky enough to have her compliment me to my director. It means so much being complimented by someone you look up to! The other title holders & I spent the day signing autographs & half way through the morning decided to get up with Christine to take pictures with everyone in line for the prize! (We felt they needed some excitement in the hot sun!) The contest was a dig for many prizes under the sand including a NEW CAR! You had to register to enter the dig & we pulled only 10 names out of the box, and believe it or not, Christine pulled out my name! It was so much fun to be a part of the dig & get the opportunity to win a car even though unfortunately I wasn't the lucky winner. It was pretty cool to be on the other side of such an exciting & fun thing. I did win a few tickets to an amusement park though which I will definitely be hitting up before summer ends. I also offered to trade the winner of the car for my tickets but for some reason she didn't seem interested? (Doesn't hurt to ask ;) ) The rest of the day & carried onto the next morning I relaxed by the pool with Debbi & Christine & shared many laughs. A pageant family is truly the greatest family you could ever find, I absolutely LOVE mine!

Later today I had my second pitch of the year. (Woohoo!) I FINALLY was able to throw out the New Bedford Bay Sox opening pitch. It was tons of fun & I had a blast with the players. It's crazy how talented these college students are. It makes me realize more & more that I was definitely born without an athletic bone in my body! I will be sticking to dance, & I think everyone is safe that way!

The best part of my weekend was hearing about someone whom I have impacted with my fundraisers & appearances throughout my reign. A very sweet girl who has been reading about everything I've been doing on facebook chatted me to tell me what a great job I am doing with my title. To me, nothing is more important then knowing I am impacting my state & the people in it positively. I know I was given my title for a reason, to go out & make a difference, & I am so blessed to be able to do so! Thank you so much for the encouraging words & standing by my side. I couldn't be representing a better, more appreciative state!

Home sweet home! I had such a wonderful weekend with so many new memories that will stay with me forever. As we move into August, I have many exciting events coming up! I'll keep you posted as always!

Until then I'm Your Miss Teen Massachusetts World!
-Tamara Sacharczyk

Bella Tucker

Yesterday, I was blessed to be able to meet & spend some time with Bella Tucker, the extraordinary young girl my Mass queens & I held a fundraiser for last week.

I have never been so inspired in my life. Bella is so beautiful inside and out & such a will for life. As an 8 year old, she is living with a smile on her face after having all four limbs amputated. But by looking at her face, you'd never guess. Mrs. Massachusetts International, Jane Marshall; and Miss Massachusetts Teen USA, Brooke Bibeault; experienced this incredible day with me. I can't put into words how I felt after visiting Bella. She gives you a sense of strength when you look at her and try and imagine just a little of what the past few months were like in her life. I know she has the most powerful, amazing life ahead of her & I will do everything possible to help make all of her dreams come true.

She will be flown out to Philadelphia soon to get Prosthetic limbs. As soon as she gets back, Jane, Brooke and I will be taking her shoe shopping!! I'm very, very excited for this!

Bella is also blessed to have the most dedicated family I have ever seen in my life. Her father is not only by her side every second, but willing to do her hair, feed her, or just encourage her to take her medicine. We also met her wonderful neighbors, cousins, aunt, and grandmother. With a family like that, I know Bella will be able to get through any obstacle life throws at her.

You have so many people who love you Bella, you will ALWAYS have a special place in my heart! xoxo

While at Boston's Childrens Hospital - we had the opportunity to meet a few other amazing children going through battles most of us could never dream of. We met a beautiful 5 year old who just experienced open heart surgery. She worn Janes crown and was all smiles, and trust me when I say her smile lit up the room. We also met a few other kids for pictures, and while in the lobby I met a wonderful girl with CP flown in from Turkey. She has a 13 hour flight to Boston and usually stays for 2 weeks when in need of medical care. Most of us forget how blessed we are in to live in the state of Massachusetts and have such a powerful hospital right down the street. It truly makes you appreciate our state and more then anything, our health.

This visit to Boston is one that truly changed my outlook on SO many things. I am so fortunate I was able to meet Bella, and the rest of the children. A piece of my heart will always be left in that hospital, and I'm so blessed to have met such courageous people.

As always, I had the most amazing time spending the day with Jane Marshall and Brooke Bibeault. These two ladies are so important to me & I'm so lucky I get to share my reign with them. Jane is leaving for Nationals in Chicago on Tuesday on her adventure towards the National title of Mrs. International. She is such a wonderful women who is so genuine in caring about every single person around her. I couldn't picture anyone doing better things with a National title. I wish you the best of luck Jane, you deserve this more then anyone! As for Brooke, you'll be able to watch her on national television compete for the title of Miss Teen USA! July 24th, make sure to tune in and cheer on our beautiful Massachusetts queen! I've never met someone so dedicated to a title and everyone else around her. She is by far the sweetest title holder I have ever met and someone I am sure will be a life long friend. She is truly here to do great things for the state of Massachusetts and we're so lucky to have her! Best of luck Brooke, your inner beauty will shine through!

"There must be a thousand girls out there, dreaming the same things as me. But I'm not going to worry about them. I'm dreaming the hardest!" Love my sister queens!

My family is in from Utah and New Jersey, so luckily I was able to spend the night with them last night! Today we have a family party and I'm so excited to get the chance to see all of my long distance relatives. Family really is everything to me and I couldn't explain how much each member in mine means to me.

As for upcoming events, I have my first pitch in New Bedford on the 13th! I am excited, and a bit nervous, since I might not be the most athletic person! I will be with my fabulous Director/second mom, Debbi - And after spend the night in Rhode Island! I haven't seen her since the air show the day after Houston and miss her way too much! I also have a few very exciting events this month so STAY TUNED!


Always Your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World
-Tamara Sacharczyk

Fundraisers & Sunshine!

Since I've come back from Houston, it has been complete craziness but so much fun that is so worth it. The East Longmeadow Carnival is annual tradition and something I have been going to since I was a baby. It was so much fun to actually be a part of it!

I had a week long booth for two different causes. The first cause is Epilepsy Awareness and funding. I had 2 beauty queens come down to help me fundraise and plenty of friends as well! Throughout the week I was able to raise $200 for The American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation, spread pamphlets of information on Epilepsy, and even meet others diagnosed with the disease. All in all, it was an awesome fundraiser and I cannot wait to hold my next! Thank you Miss Teen Maine- World Julia Reich, and Miss Teen New Hampshire- World Christine Skorenko for driving all of the way to Western Massachusetts to help such a good cause!

The last day of the parade the booth was transformed into a raffle for a very special little girl. Bella Tucker is an 8 year old going through a very difficult time. With the help of Mrs. Massachusetts International Jane Marshall, Miss Massachusetts Teen USA Brooke Bibeault, and Miss Pink Trish Grzela, we ended up raising $320 for this inspirational young girl. This was without a doubt one of the most inspiring fundraisers I have ever done. I also had the opportunity to reconnect with a good friend, Mrs. Massachusetts International before she makes her way to the National competition which I am so excited to hear about her doing amazing at! She is truly remarkable. I had the chance to talk with Brooke Bibeault who is a completely beautiful girl inside and out and someone who I have tons in common with. We definitely have the best girls ever representing the state of Massachusetts and I'm so proud that we can all come together for a wonderful cause.

Tomorrow I will be joining Jane & Brooke at the Boston's Children's Hospital to visit Bella Tucker and give her the profit of the fundraiser in person. I'm so excited to finally meet her! To learn more about Bella, please visit http://www.friendsofbella.org/

July 4th was another great day! This has always been one of my favorite holidays for the traditions it holds. This year, the tradition was broken a bit but in a positive way! I was able to ride in my towns annual parade with Miss Teen New Hampshire- World Christine Skorenko! Although it was hot, we had tons of fun and even had the opportunity to meet Massachusetts Governor, Deval Patrick! Thank you Jack Villamaino for making this appearance possible!

I have a very exciting month ahead of me full of appearances and good causes! I just came back from a vacation in Rhode Island with my best friend Kelsey and although a vacation felt good, it definitely feels GREAT to be home!

Thank you everyone who supported my fundraisers, your generosity means so much!

Your Miss Teen Massachusetts- World
-Tamara Sacharczyk

"Flown in from the state where the sports are big & the fans are even bigger.."

The past week and a half has been FILLED with absolutely AMAZING & lifelong memories. I cannot believe how much I've grown in the past 2 months I have worn my crown.

The night before I left for Nationals, I spent the night with Debbi in Rhode Island watching Miss Junior Teen Rhode Island- World Sydney at her dance recital! I was stunned at how good she is at such a young age. She is the sweetest thing & I had such a blast. I even got to a chance to catch up with my favorite host, Barbi Jo!!

The next day I boarded the plane with Debbi, Miss Teen Rhode Island-World Dana, And Miss Teen Maine-World Julia as we left for Houston, Texas to compete for Miss Teen United States-World.

I couldn't have imagined the week better if I tried. I truly met the most beautiful, hard-working, determined group of girls in the country. Although we were exhausted, we busted our butts to make the pageant a success. Gaspar Cruz along with his staff did an incredible job. The week feels like it was a dream it went by so quickly! I met so many people I know will be a part of my life for a long time. From rehearsals to lunch's to 3:30 AM hair & makeup, we all did it and every contestant deserved their state title.

I was very fortunate to not only get called for top 15, but top 10, & win community service! Never did I imagine at my first National competition I would be standing on stage as a finalist. The beautiful Belle Owen, Miss Teen Kentucky-World took home the crown & I couldn't think of anyone more deserving! It's so comforting knowing we have such an amazing young girl representing the United States at the international pageant next month. I went home on cloud 9 and haven't quite come off since! I couldn't thank my parents, sponsors, director, and coach enough for preparing me 110% and guiding me to always be myself and do my best; I love you guys so much!

All of my United States-World girls, you have no idea how much you impacted my life in such a short amount of time. I will never forget your beautiful faces and all of the incredible things you do for our country. I am confident is saying I met the most amazing girls EVER, and if you ever take a trip to Massachusetts, you know who to call! <3 you girls!!

The day after we flew back from the pageant I jumped right back into reality and stayed the night in Rhode Island to make an appearance at the air show. It was so much fun and so rewarding to talk to people who serve our country. Everyone was so nice and so willing to give us tours of the planes. We signed many autographs and even walked away with some new friends.

As always, I've had the most memorable days ever. I still am stunned by the people I meet and new adventures I find myself on. Starting tomorrow I'll be running a fundraiser at a carnival for Epilepsy Awareness along with for a beautiful little girl going through a tough battle, Bella Tucker. I will be joined by many other title-holders and volunteers. Lets see how much we can raise!

Until then I'm Your Miss Teen Massachusetts-World
-Tamara Sacharczyk

Career speaking & parades!

This weekend I was lucky enough to attend 2 appearances, one in Massachusetts & one with my sister queen in Rhode Island!

The first appearance was speaking at Birchland Park Middle School for career day. Birchland Park is a middle school I once attended, and not too long ago. It was definitely a little sad after just having my graduation knowing that 4 short years ago I was in the same position those 8th grade students are now in.

I had groups of beautiful & ambitious girls & talked about finding a goal and conquering it in high school. This also lead to staying away from peer pressure and how to remain focused! Personally, volunteer work has made me the person I am throughout high school along with my career ambition of becoming a broadcast journalist. Knowing that you have something ahead of you makes setting goals so much easier, and reaching them gives you all of the confidence in the world. Knowing how eager I was as an 8th grade student about to step into high school halls, I ended each talk with advice and answering questions about the high school. I couldn't tell these girls enough how exciting and important the next four years were. I'm excited for them to really take the first big step into adulthood. The most important thing about high school is at graduation not only crying tears of sadness, but making sure those tears also have happiness, and excitement in them because you know the next chapter of life will have so many more memories and surprises!

The best part of this appearance was not only the fact I could talk about something I truly believe in, but I got an opportunity to speak to our youth. The most amazing feeling was all of the positive emails & facebook messages I received after. There is no better feeling then knowing you affected someones life, especially someone who potentially could put your advice and encouragement to good use some day! I truly hope the 8th grade class is ready to experience all of the wonderful moments & memories high school has in store for them, it truly goes by too quickly.

The next day I woke up bright & early to attend the Gaspee Day Parade in Rhode Island! This was my first parade and SO much fun! Dana & I smiled & waved until our jaws hurt. The best part of the parade was definitely people clapping when you drive by, that's something I'm still adjusting to. The Gaspee Day Parade held so much American pride from pilgrims to policemen to clowns, floats, and boy scouts; it truly demonstrated what U.S. spirit is all about! It was so much fun being recognized in a 3 mile parade and meeting state officials and new friends while reconnecting with old ones!

There is only 5 days until I officially leave Massachusetts! Saturday I will be in between New Bedford & Rhode Island for the day - and Sunday morning I leave bright & early to Houston!! I couldn't be more excited if I tried. I know this will be an incredible and unforgettable experience no matter what the results bring!

"Keep your expectations low, and your hopes high!"

Your Miss Teen Massachusetts-World
-Tamara Sacharczyk

When one door closes another door opens

Saturday was one of the most heart warming events I have EVER experienced, The Special Olympics. This event happens all over the country, and is one of those things you must see to appreciate. Never in my life I have met such inspiring individuals who wore the biggest smiles across their faces while facing struggles many of us could never imagine. This is a day I will NEVER forget & something I will definitely get more involved in.

I spent the day with my sister queens Dana & Sydney along with Debbi & our moms. We signed many autographs while watching various activities. We also had the opportunity to meet many of the Olympians and shake their hands while they won. From soccer to swimming, they did it all, I was beyond impressed with their courage.

As soon as I walked in the first girl who approached me with a beautiful young girl with rhinestone sunglasses on. "Are you a real princess?" She made my day, never did I think I'd ever be asked that question. She had the biggest smile on her face after wearing my sash for a little - the true beauty queen was her.

The most exciting part of the day was when music came on and I decided to get on stage for a dance with one of the Olympians, and I must say, he knew what he was doing! After being spun and dipped a multiple number of times I was holding my crown in my hand from it falling off! I don't think I've ever shared so many laughs in my life. Everyone ended up getting on stage including Dana & Sydney and we had a blast!

The day ended with Dana & I taking one last walk around the park. We ended up being followed by a team of baseball players who insisted to get a picture with us. Our parents found it hilarious when we were walking back with a baseball team behind us! In the parking lot, we had one last dance when we heard the famous Chicken Song come on! Dana & Sydney are not only my pageant family, but slowly becoming my real family. I am so blessed to be sharing this year with them.

..All good things must come to an end..

Yesterday was a big milestone in my life.. my high school graduation! Waking up in the morning I realized for the first time that this was IT. I was graduating from my comfort zone and taking a step into adulthood. After reading my speech I found myself soaking it in, and yes, crying. You truly don't appreciate every individual person along with every memory until it's over. Class of 2010 - You have MADE me the person I am today. I will never forget the kindness I experiences after my house burnt down freshman year, to the laughs and smiles during our dances & school lunch's. I know we will ALWAYS continue to make each other proud & I cannot wait to see the joy you each bring to society. You'll always be in my hearts.

"Dream what you want to dream. Go where you want to go. Because we only have ONE life, and ONE chance to do all of things we want to do!" Good luck ELHS Class of 2010 - I love you

Your Miss Teen Massachusetts-World
Tamara Sacharczyk

Forever young

Last night was my senior prom - my very LAST dance as a high school student. I can say it a million times and type it a million and one.. yet it still won't sink in!

The night was one to remember along with every other dance my class has shared. As our 13 year journey suddenly comes to an end it really makes you realize how much your class really means to you. When our class song Forever Young came on - for the first time ever I recognized the song from looking at the familiar faces in the room. I'll never forget our first dance, the famous 8th grade semi.. and how nervous we all were. I thought it was the absolute coolest thing ever to go to someones house all dressed up and take pictures.. I felt SO incredibly grown up. Little did I know in the next four years I'd be going to 5 semi's and 2 proms - I'd have plenty more group pictures and countless memories. But last night was one of the destinations to this long journey we have been on for what it seems like our entire lives. I'm so happy I spent the entire night with the best group of friends ever - I truly couldn't have been more blessed walking out of high school with so many hands to hold.

3 days until graduation! Let the next chapter begin :-)

As for Nationals - it is coming up so soon! I am in full preparation mode and I'm ready to proudly represent my state! I owe my director Debbi Rogers the world for being so on top of everything in preparation and still managing appearances! I will be attending The Special Olympics tomorrow with my sister queens from Rhode Island! The Special Olympics is something I've wanted to get involved in for a while and am so excited to finally have the opportunity! My cousin Sam has participated in them multiple times and whenever she won a medal always lit up the room with a smile - I can't wait to help other kids feel the same amount of accomplishment. Also, next week all of my speech preparation will pay off when I speak to my very own old middle school about steering away from peer pressure in high school and finding a passion to build yourself as an individual. It'll definitely feel good to be able to not only visit my old teachers but encourage the youth of my own town to cherish the next 4 years.

I'm sure I won't be able to update you on my exciting weekend until after the matter with PLENTY of pictures - Until then..

"When your young, you always want the next step. You want to move on and grow up as soon as possible. Now we finally are doing just that, moving on and growing up. So stay young at heart - and always see the world as a playground. The possibilities are endless, so always be a dream chaser. Move on to that next step with a deep breath full of optimism. We only have one life to live, and one chance to get it right!"

The "beauty" in Beauty Queen

Although I consider myself a title-holder more than a beauty queen, I've got to say there are perks in getting all glammed up and attending events. The past two days I definitely experienced the beauty part of my title & LOVED every minute of it.

I visited my favorite place in the world, The Crowning Touch to search for my National wardrobe! And of course, they were helpful & wonderful as always. If you are ever involved in any pageant, I recommended Maria and Raquel more then anyone. They have been by my side helping me with every little thing from my first pageant to now, my preparations for nationals. With help from them, my mom, and Debbi, I definitely picked out the gown & interview outfit with the 'WOW factor.' Nationals are coming up soo quickly, I can't wait to be Massachusetts first representative! I owe thousands of thank yous to everyone at The Crowning Touch, I know I feel my absolute BEST at Nationals.

Lucky for me, Debbi, my pageant director, has become like a second mom in such a short period of time. She let me stay the night at her house so I could attend my first pageant as a visiting queen. The Miss Rhode Island pageant was BEAUTIFUL. From the contestants to the stage, everything was perfect. I had the chance to reconnect with pageant friends including my cousin queen Miss Teen Rhode Island-World Dana, and meet fabulous new ones. The world of pageantry truly has the most outgoing and good-hearted people you will ever meet in your life. The competition was tough and every single contestant stood apart from the crowd in one way or another. I admire the Miss America organization SO much for what an outstanding pageant they have. Every year, they award the most scholarships in the country to deserving and inspiring young woman. The 2010 winners were beautiful and I wish them the best of luck during their year. It was nice to see the new beauty queen fall to the ground crying when she won, it definitely demonstrated heart and how much winning this title means to her. (Plus, for a minute I thought I was the only one who couldn't control my emotions when a crown was placed on my head!)

Another perk of my night was the GORGEOUS cocktail dress I was given by my sponsors, Promgirl.net. It was a Clarisse, dark blue, and of course, sparkly! Thank you Promgirl.net, you MADE my night perfect with a stunning dress to walk around in.

The celebration party for the winners after was the best time of all. I had the chance to get some food in my stomach after a long day, chat with everyone I just met, and watch the crowned beauty queens soak in the moments of realizing IT'S REALLY HAPPENING!

After a tiresome yet amazing night, I woke up early again this morning for a photoshoot! My photographer was so kind and outgoing. And Debbi was of course amazing as always with direction. We did a series of outfits out doors to spice up my Miss Teen Massachusetts-World portfolio. It was a BEAUTIFUL day outside and I even found a Massachusetts fan who had his picture taken with me. (I still haven't quite gotten used to that yet!)

It was definitely an eventful weekend and one that I know will be unforgettable. From the dresses to the appearances, from pageant videos to the live show, I had the time of my life. Feeling like a beauty queen is never a bad thing, and I felt as glamorous ever all weekend long!

"We are all of us stars, and we deserve to twinkle." Marilyn Monroe

Your Miss Teen Massachusetts-World
-Tamara Sacharczyk