Emily Lymberopolous, Miss Illinois Preteen started her year off with a blast -

I could hardly believe it when I was crowned your 2009 Miss Illinois Pre-teen. I’ve learned so much this year and wouldn’t trade it for anything. First, I would like to thank God for giving me this opportunity. With the gifts and talents that God has given me, I will do my best to honor Him. A verse I kept with me during my year was; Phil 4:13 “For I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength.”

I started off my year at the Columbus Day Parade with my sister queens. Made build-a-bears for the children in the hospital, Trick or Treated for canned goods for our local food pantry, donated gift boxes to the Samaritans Purse and before I knew it I was off to Nationals in Anaheim, California. I made new friends, spent time with family, traveled to Hollywood, Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Beach, and got to visit Disneyland for the very first time. I loved everything about Nationals and I am so grateful for what I learned from this experience.

To my Sister Queens, you guys are the best! Heather: You’re beautiful inside and out! Lynzi, thank you for all the events you and your mom planned, you’ve taught me so much. Catherine, you’re amazing I’m going to miss you! Kaylyn; Someday I know you’ll be famous and I can say I had the privilege of being your sister queen. Imani you are the most adorable Princess ever! I’ll never forget your smile. I love you all so much! Sisters forever! To my cover girl, Alex, you are my best friend, I will never forget you! I love you!

Mom: The time we spent together will never be forgotten. “Life is an adventure”; as you would say, each experience shapes us and molds us into the person we become. I would never trade this time with you for anything! Thank you!
To my Dad, a wonderful example of a man who loves God and his family with all his heart, your support means so much to me. Thanks for allowing me to live out this dream! Billy and Brian, thanks for sharing mom’s time, I love you guys! Jimmy, for a big brother, you’re the best! I admire so many things about you. Grandma, Thank you for all your help and prayers and the laughter we’ve shared! Andy, you are my favorite! I was so glad when you could come to California with us! It wouldn’t be the same without you!

I was fortunate enough to travel to several State Pageants like Oklahoma, Iowa, and Missouri. Sydney, Peyton, Faith, Grace, and Michaela… we have so many good memories together! I love you all!

To my successor, remember to enjoy every moment. Look for an opportunity to make a difference and go after all your dreams with a passion. For with God, all things are possible. For the last time, I am your National American Miss Illinois 2009-2010 Pre teen Queen, Emily Lymberopoulos.

I had the best time representing National American Miss with my Amazing Sister Queens!

Thank you to my family for their amazing love and support! Going to Hollywood with you was the most amazing family vacation!

Clowing around some of my new friends and visiting other state pageants was a highlight of my year!

I met some of my best friends through NAM - girls from all across the country!