The Happiest Place on Earth

ANAHEIM, CA — Thanks to the help of my lovely room mates (contestants from Maryland, Texas and America's 2010 Homecoming Queen), I woke up on time and my Sunday started off on a great note. After our early morning breakfast, we had the wonderful opportunity for a photo shoot in the Disneyland park before it opened to the public. We even got photos taken on the teacups of the Mad Tea Party. (Yay, for documenting my first teacup ride!) 

After we were chased out by the rush of early morning Disney-goers, we were approached by a small girl who asked if she could have a picture with all of us "princesses." We were so delighted and of course agreed! I can only imagine the happiness she felt, but I surely could see it, for it was written all over her face. (:

Sunday morning proved to be a truly magical time that gave us girls the chance to become more acquainted with one another.

After the morning festivities, we were free to spend the majority of the day with our families. Instead of dealing with the crowds, commotion and spending the day waiting in lines at Disneyland, my parents and I decided to do some shopping in downtown Disney and spend the day at the pool. I was sure to enjoy every moment of the free time, for Monday's schedule was quite hectic.

At 7 p.m. we were to meet back at the Disneyland Hotel to prepare for the state souvenir exchange. Each gift was extremely unique, and it was fun to learn the stories behind each of them. We got so many wonderful things, from a stuffed toy potato (thank you, Idaho!) to a shell necklace from K'auai in Hawaii. It was just like Christmas in July! Looks like I might be needing to check another bag for the flight home ... 

Editor's note: Raime Lamb is Hartland High School's 2010-11 homecoming queen and 2011 graduate. In April, she won the title of Michigan's homecoming queen to qualify for the finals of America's Homecoming Queen competition.