Bahamas Part II: Jimmy Fallon!

I don’t even know where to start! The past month has been absolutely amazing, crazy, and unforgettable.

If there is anything I’ve learned about being a Miss Teen USA state titleholder…name drop whenever possible (just kidding ;-]). After confessing my love for Jimmy Fallon onstage at Miss Teen USA, I was blessed to have been invited back by the Atlantis Resort to meet my obnoxious crush and watch him perform live! I arrived in the Bahamas about two weeks ago, where I had one of the most incredible weekends of my life!

Upon arrival, Audra Mari (Miss North Dakota Teen USA) and I greeted guests at Poseidon’s Throne. We met so many interesting and diverse individuals from various parts of the globe! Afterwards, Audra, her mother, my mother and I joined the President of the Atlantis Resort, George Markantonis and his wife, Sarah, and their son for dinner. The Markantonis family is one of the most interesting families I have ever had the chance to meet. We had a fabulous dinner (delicious conversation AND food)!

Then, Audra and I spent a little time in Club Crush with vacationers. It brought back so many fun Teen USA ’11 memories!!

The next day Audra and I started our day off making Pageant Pals with several adorable girls who were on vacation. We had a blast “sashing” the animals they stuffed and dressed. Then, we headed to the Blue Pool to judge the Pulse Bikini Contest; the winner won a free vacation back to the Atlantis to compete in another swimsuit competition! We also helped out with Cartoon Network’s “Hole in the Wall” show—it was hilarious!

Saturday night was THE night. After a real pageant girl preparation of three hours, I was ready. Before the show, I got the chance to meet the man of my dreams with Audra and her mom, my mom and the Markantonis family. Before they brought him in the room, some of the awesome Atlantis special events staff members explained to me that a mass email had been sent out explaining my story. This also explained why everyone throughout the weekend kept saying, “Well played, Miss MO,” (ha!). Shortly after, with no announcement, Jimmy Fallon walked into the room. At this point, I had an out of body experience.

The Atlantis staff explained to Jimmy (I’d like to think we’re on first name basis, hehe) what I may have mentioned on stage about him at Miss Teen USA. I introduced myself and confessed I have had a huge crush on him for years. Then, I got my hug :). It was nice confirmation to learn he is so down-to-earth!! After the meet and greet, we all headed to his show, which of course was completely hysterical. 

I still can’t believe that I met my dreamboat. I cannot say thank you enough to the Atlantis Resort for making it happen. Thank you as well the Markantonis family for everything—you are all so kind hearted and it was a pleasure getting to know you!

To Cecile Raubenheimer—you are one of the most fascinating individuals I have ever met. I loved getting to know you. Thank you for everything from organizing the trip to being the best hostess in the world!

To Audra and her wonderful mother—I really enjoyed getting to know you both better :). You have very kind hearts and I loved sharing in this experience with you!

I cannot express how blessed and thankful I am for such an incredible year. I never would have guessed last November the year I had ahead of me! As I return back to school for my senior year, my heart and prayers go out to everyone being affected by hurricane Irene, from the Bahamas to the States.


God bless,
Sydnee