These words resonated in my mind as the airplane door opened at 14,500 feet in the air. Last Friday, Charli and I had the unique opportunity to join something "golden"….the Golden Knights that is. When Captain Funderbirk first invited me to join their tandem skydiving team for my very first jump, I was a little more than hesitant to willingly jump out of a perfectly good airplane! This all changed, however, once we arrived to the wind tunnel flight simulator. The Golden Knights team welcomed us with opened arms and made me feel completely at ease. I immediately got geared up into my bright yellow jumpsuit, gloves, goggles, and helmet. I then, with the team, entered a giant vertical tube that simulated the wind speed of more than 120 miles an hour. I was truly thankful to have this experience beforehand, as it prepared me for the breath-taking jump that soon awaited me that day.

Next we headed to the Laurinburg-Maxton Airport, where the actual jump would take place. Charli had brought her "camouflage" bear with her, and since she couldn't go up with me for the jump, we attached her bear to the strap of my suit so she could feel apart of this amazing experience. After giving her a giant hug, I headed toward the plane. Once we were up about 10,000 ft and still had more to go, I grew increasingly nervous! However there was no turning back!

The rush of adrenaline that I felt as my feet hung over the edge of the plane was truly amazing! With my "tandem master" attached to my back, he leaned forward and out we went! Dropping at speeds of more than 210 miles an hour, I tried to take in the beautiful sights around me. As soon as the parachute deployed, I took a deep breath of relief and embraced every second of my 10 minute descent to the ground. It was in these moments that I was able to reflect on how truly amazing my year has been. The chance to tandem skydive with the Golden Knights, the same team that jumped with President George H. W. Bush, Tiger Woods, and Chuck Norris to name a few, was an experience that many people will never have.

In addition to having the thrilling experience of skydiving, I was also blessed to have one of the most rewarding experiences of my reign as well. The Children's Miracle Network Telethon in Greenville, NC, was a weekend that I will never forget. Being part of this event from start to finish was truly humbling. Over $1,100,000 was raised for these deserving children in need of our time, energy, and devotion. From answering phones, announcing totals, interviewing families, and raising balloons, I enjoyed being the "jack of all trades." The WTLN crew and staff made us feel apart of this fast-paced event. I have a new appreciation for television production!
Thank you to all of the preliminary queens and their families who took the time out of their busy schedule to make a difference in the lives of these children.

My prayers and thoughts are with all of the preliminary queens as they finalize a much anticipated arrival to Peace College. Cherish these last few days as a representative of your local communities, because one of you will only be back for a homecoming!

Humbly yours,
Amanda Watson
Miss North Carolina 2008