MSJ 2015 | Page 6

I had the weight of the senior community on my shoulders, senior women who are always confident in business, social and community events and being so perfect at every public affair. It’s been a very good year. I learned to prepare my hair in many different styles, I have worn more jewelry, bling, bling jewelry and more make up than ever before in my life. And to my credit I exceeded my personal goal of at least 68 public appearances with my Crown and Sash with over 148 at my last count. I now see myself as a different person. Surely an accomplishment and I thank you all for accepting me at each of the appearances. ! I hope that I have been an inspiration, motivation and encouragement to seniors. Stay active, well, alive and involved; move that body with seniors at Schell Sweat.“Eat light, if not right” and whatever you do “Don’t eat too much”; Diets are only temporary solutions to a permanent situation. Change your lifestyle. courteous, be gentle, be happy and clap along. A last thought for a rambling senior: this pageant and the reign of the Ms. Senior Jacksonville has been therapy for me. I had lost my middle daughter only six months earlier. It kept me going. The reign is for only a year, but the experience lasts for a lifetime. To the new queen, accept my apologies if I should forget the reign is now over, and keep these things in mind during this experience: be yourself, smile, strut, be quiet, be sweet, be helpful, be courteous, be gentle, be happy and clap along. ! Thanks to A Seasoned Affair, the photographer, Traci Lynn-Jewelry, Belk’s-make up and all the others for the many gifts, flowers and the constant support. Your gifts have been the wind beneath my wings. ! Deborah Thompson Ms. Senior Jacksonville 2015