In so many ways one is blessed by little miracles.

Throughout this year I have lived so much and am honored to have been able to do it all. Poulsbo is truly the most beautiful city in Washington and to have been an ambassador for it was a wonderful privilege. I have been welcomed into a family with ease and I thank the entire city for providing that comfort. Thank you to the Poulsbo Noon Lions Club for allowing me to flip pancakes with the best darn felines around.

Support given from the Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce is also deeply appreciated and I would like to thank Robert Ford and Todd Tidball. Poulsbo plays host to a number of unique and wonderful businesses and I would like to thank Yes, USA! Bellestrasse’s Clogs, Alan’s Salon, Mimi’s Nail and Foot Spa, Sluys Bakery and The Nordic Maid.

I saved my last statement for an extraordinary group of people who captured my heart this year — the Poulsbo Vikings! You were always there when I asked and you always treated me like a queen. Thank you Poulsbo for allowing me to represent my Norwegian heritage in such a beautiful place.

My family has always been a great source of joy and support. I would like to thank them for putting up with me throughout this.

To my sisters Paula and Aleah, you both have taught me so much about unconditional love and I value our bond as one everlasting. Ben, you are my best friends and I knew that whenever I had doubts, worries or just the giggles I could call you — thanks bro. Dad, there could not have been a prouder daughter walking into the Miss Washington ballroom on her father’s arm. Mom, forever you have been my number one hero and I thank you for imparting your wisdom on me when I’ve needed it most.

To the entire Eddings family (and Aunt Susie), if someone were to ask me why I possess the qualities I do, I would tell them, “It’s a family thing.” To my extended family, Amanda, Lois Elaine and Ed, Laura Blue, Kathy, Pat, Joyce and Roy and Noreen; it would not have been worth as much if you had not participated. Thank you to the Miss Washington family and just a word of caution — I’ll be back!

These 525,600 minutes have been some of the best in my life so far. Lynda, you have said that I am hitched to a lucky star, but I don’t think luck is much of a factor — you are. Michele, you are an inspiration filled with empowering words of wisdom. I am a better person for knowing both of you. Thank you to my angels on earth, Stan and Carolyn Kennedy, Gisela Griffiths, Gloria Roof, Teresa Williams, Amanda Cheatham, Gary Watland, Ruby Watland, Bruce Nilsen, Dianne Lyle and Brenda Papillon. Holly and Aaron I will always be there for you when you need me. Laura, LaFawnda and 2nd East Ashton, you gals have shown me amazing love, despite my many absences due to events, and that Jesus Christ is alive and well at Seattle Pacific University.

To the contestants, it will be my honor to pass on the title to one of you. Each of you are deserving in many unique ways. Parents, you are allowed to show a little bit of pride as your daughters are about to officially embark upon a year of heart work. My heart will always stay in Poulsbo with my fellow Norwegians and Swedes.

However, one thing that will remain with me regardless of my location is a little saying I use often already, “Uffda!”

Kristen Eddings served as Miss Poulsbo 2002.