tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85790934442768447892024-02-21T23:46:13.800-08:00Kirsten HaglundKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-14695333803831252282010-11-10T15:40:00.000-08:002010-11-10T15:41:33.457-08:00Springing Back in the Lovely Fall...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; ">Well, hello! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; "> I know it has been an age since I have written, but I am going to begin posting again! This summer has been incredible busy; and after travels to Wisconsin, New York, Michigan, New York, Orlando, New York, Nashville, New York, Los Angeles, KENYA, RWANDA, San Antonio, and many many others... I am finally trying to settle back in and start updating again. I wanted to post these answers to questions I received from a high school journalist after a screening of "America the Beautiful" (the documentary film by Darryl Roberts) at University of the Inarnate Word in San Antonio last weekend. Enjoy!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; border-collapse: collapse; "><div style="color: rgb(80, 0, 80); "><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">1. Why do you find it important to raise awareness about eating disorders?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">Eating disorders affect between 10-12 million people in this country, and America has a bona-fide obsession with weight, calories, diet, and image. Because obsession with these things, coupled with genetic factors and and low self-esteem can lead to eating disorders, one can see that our culture creates the perfect conditions for these illnesses to develop. Eating disorders are also DEADLY, so a seemingly harmless diet or a habit that develops to control stress or manage pain has the potential to kill; this is why I believe so strongly in raising awareness of eating disorders, their causes, symptoms, and most importantly, ways that people can seek help and recover. I am especially interested in focusing this effort toward young women and adolescents in work that is preventative in nature, so that we can try to diminish or end these problems before they start. I firmly believe in the incredible potential of youth, more specifically young women, to use their skills and talents to change and better the world around them; their potential is severely diminished by enslavement and captivity to obsession with weight, diet, thinness, and 'look.'</span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(80, 0, 80); "><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">2. What are some of the things you've done or been involved with to promote awareness?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">On behalf of my Foundation (</span></span><a href="http://www.kirstenhaglund.org/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 65, 112); "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">www.kirstenhaglund.org</span></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">), I have continued to travel the country and campaign/speak for greater awareness and understanding of eating disorders. While during my year as Miss America and afterward, I have spoken (to name just a few) at the University of Colorado, University of Arizona, Harvard University, James Madison University, University of South Florida, as well as high schools and church groups across the nation, at national and international conferences on behalf of NEDA (</span></span><a href="http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 65, 112); "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">www.nationaleatingdisorders.<wbr>org</span></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">) and IAEDP (</span></span><a href="http://www.iaedp.com/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 65, 112); "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">www.iaedp.com</span></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">), throughout southern Germany at schools, hospitals and for community organizations, and will be traveling to Brazil to do the same in March of 2011. I also have spoken to Congress on behalf of the Eating Disorders Coalition in Washinton D.C. in lobbying efforts for Mental Health Parity and the FREED Act (</span></span><a href="http://www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 65, 112); "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">www.eatingdisorderscoalition.<wbr>org</span></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">). </span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(80, 0, 80); "><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">3.Do you think most teens are influenced by images from the media to be a certain weight? If so, how?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">You can choose how and to what extent you are influenced, if at all. However, when you are young and have grown up in a certain culture, you don't realize the power you have to reject cultural norms, media images, and the amount of them that you consume. This is why I am so passionate about educating young people about the dangers of eating disorders, and empowering them to be media literate and choose what they let affect them. The media sells lies about thinness, happiness, and success- I encourage people to be truth tellers, and live in the real world.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">Most teens, however, if they have not been educated this way, are affected by media images. We are almost brainwashed, by seeing one body type consistently being held up as beautiful in the media, into accepting that that is the way we must look in order to be considered of any value. Obviously, this is false. Also, not only does the typical model body type only naturally occur in under 1% of women on the planet, but it is also often a body type crafted by digital re-touching and editing; hence, unnatural. Couple this with the multi-billion dollar industry that is the diet industry- telling people that if they only get on "this diet" or "that diet," they will finally be happy- the conclusion is, of course, the media pressures us to look a certain way in order to be happy, complete fulfilled. They feed off American's insecurities, because they are plentiful. As soon as we, as a culture, deny these industries the profit they make from helping people to feel bad about themselves, society will change. However, I don't have much hope that this will happen as quickly as is needed.</span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(80, 0, 80); "><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">4. Do you believe eating disorders are becoming more and more common amongst teens? If so, why?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">I believe they are becoming more common, but we are also getting better at identifying them, hence, the numbers have risen exponentially. Why? For the reasons I have expounded upon above. Also, my fear is that as we continue to hear about this manufactured "Obesity Crisis," a generation of young people is going to grow up with a fear, a terror, of becoming fat, which will result in deprivation and strict control of food; habits which lead to and perpetuate bulimia, anorexia, and binge-eating disorder. Many people fail to recognize that binge-eating disorder, which can lead to obesity, is also an eating disorder. In an effort to create more healthy lifestyles, American media and politicians only focus on the negative. We seem to be heading down a disastrous path to creating a sharp increase in eating disorders, the health costs associated with them, and a virtual obsession with what we all look like and weigh. </span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(80, 0, 80); "><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">5. Was there ever a time when you felt pressured by society or media to look a certain way or be a certain weight?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">Certainly; I struggled with anorexia from the ages of 12 to 17. I was trying to fit in to the body norm that is perpetuated in the ballet world, as it was my fiercest, strongest desire to be dance as a professional ballerina. I experienced the same pressures that most other elite athletes, figure skaters, gymnasts, wrestlers, etc., face to look a certain way. These environmental pressures, coupled with the horror that it is to be an American teenager, bombarded by images of beauty, caused me to tailspin into a dangerous eating disorder. Once my parents forced me to start seeing a physician, nutritionist, and therapist for treatment, however, I slowly began to change my mind, my habits, and heal. During my year as Miss America, I also faced constant scrutiny and criticism, both verbally expressed as well as in print, of what I looked like and my body type. However, it was during that time of such intense pressure, that I really rooted myself in recovery, realizing that I could never please everyone; realizing, after participating in photo shoot after photo shoot, how images are not reality; realizing that the work that I was doing, speaking, leading, and establishing myself as a woman of accomplishment and achievement was so much more important than focusing on what I looked like. Furthermore, it was during my year as Miss America that I reconnected with God and my faith, and realized that my identity was found in Christ alone, and not in what others may have thought, or how the world wished to define me. That finally gave, and has given me, peace.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">Hope you enjoyed! Just a little refresher as to what I am all about, why I find passion in the work that I do, and a reminder to us all how IMPORTANT it is to reject the things from the media that are harmful, accept the things that are not, and redeem those things that can be used for good. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">I'm enjoying being in Atlanta for the time being (just a week), before I head out on the road again; time to reconnect with friends and have a little peace. Hope you are finding time to experience peace in small ways today- remember, as I often have to, we have the power to choose how we let seemingly uncontrollable things, situations, or emotions, effect us. That little truism is as much for your good as it is mine. :) Talk again soon.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">Thanks for reconnecting with me. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">Warmly,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></div><span style="color:#888888;"><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium; ">Kirsten</span></span></div></span></span></div></div></span>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-11053658098550828242010-05-03T05:08:00.000-07:002010-05-03T14:07:27.465-07:00"The single most exciting thing you encounter in government is competence, because it's so rare.” Daniel P. Moynihan, American Politician (1927-2003)Good News from the Eating Disorders Coalition in Washington, D.C.!<br /><br />In case you haven't already heard, the Senate version of the FREED Bill (the Federal Response to Eliminate Eating Disorders) was introduced the morning of our 2010 Lobby Day, last Tuesday, April 27th. The House version of the Bill was introduced last year, and we have garnered 28 cosponsors to the Bill (though that number may be more now; it is growing every day!). We have bi-partisan co-sponsorship in the House, which is a very good thing. Both versions of the Bill are available online to read, if you feel so inclined, at <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.opencongress.com">www.opencongress.com</a>. Check it out, inspired citizen!<br /><br />The Senate leadership that we have is solely Democratic... for now. :) I am confident that after our day of lobbying, we will soon see some more conservative members of the Senate on board. At the helm of the legislation is Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA, and Committee of Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Chairman), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Senator Al Franken (D-MN). As for the last individual... I reserve no comment. I'm just happy to have support for our Bill. Do I think he may be a polarizing figure for Republicans and this issue? Maybe. Do I hope politicians can get over it and see the NECESSITY of this Bill and its importance? Yes.<br /><br />A little under one hundred constituents appeared on Capitol Hill to lobby for FREED; citizens from across the country. Our main goal for this most recent lobby was to thank our House members whose support we have, and encourage our state's representatives and senators to cosponsor if they had not already done so. Armed with facts, figures and details of the Bill, along with personal stories of poor treatment, lack of resources, education, and the priority placed on eating disorders, I believe we succeeded in gaining momentum for this unique piece of legislation. I went to meetings with the Michigan delegation, and visited the offices of Rep. Mark Schauer, Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow, and Rep. John Dingell. We thanked Schauer for his support of the House Bill (he's already signed on!), and educated the offices of our other congressmen and women on the Bill. I felt it was important not to simply tell our stories as constituents who've struggled with affording treatment, access to care, etc. It was my effort to try to illuminate, for the congressmen and staffers, that this Bill is about more than eating disorders.<br /><br />The legislation is not just demanding money to be poured into a problem that is self-perpetuating; the costs attributed to the Bill are actually preventative, as they address RESEARCH, which leads to better EDUCATION (for med students especially, and all levels of students), which leads to the early detection and therefore lowering of treatment costs across the board. With better education, we can create more awareness of the disease, so that individuals do not get stuck in the 'revolving-door' of treatment and get better, the FIRST time, early on. This way money is SAVED; by families, doctors, and by insurers. I believe, along with the Eating Disorders Coalition that this disease can indeed be eradicated.<br /><br />I saw that our congressmen also understood that this Bill is RELEVENT, as it works hand in hand with recent efforts to improve the health and fitness of our nation's children to prevent obesity and its related health conditions. Efforts in the prevention of obesity and eating disorders combine when governments and people work together to educate on proper and adequate nutrition, the importance of moderation and balance in exercise, and the rejection of abnormal dieting behaviors and the importance of "thinness." Everyone cares about health, health care reform, etc., right now, and these are all issues addressed in the FREED Act. It would certainly look 'good' for our Congressmen to support this Bill. I think they're starting to get it. :)<br /><div><br /></div><div>A Congressional Briefing in the Gold Room in one of the House Office Buildings served to complete the day of lobbying. The panel of presenters included several professionals from the field of eating disorders, the EDC's founder and mother of Anna, who passed away from Bulimia at the age of 19, Kitty Westin, and Representative Patrick Kennedy (D-RI). Kennedy has been a tireless advocate and champion for mental and behavioral health issues on the Hill, having consistently been outspoken about his own struggles with substance abuse and bipolar disorder. One cannot help but admire his work ethic and candidness. The Eating Disorders Coalition will be sad to see him go in November.</div><div><br /></div><div>I do have more updates, especially related to an amazing recent visit to Timberline Knolls (a residential treatment facility outside of Chicago, Illinois)... however it is wedding week here in the Haglund household, so duties call. More to come.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm so excited to finally be getting a sister!</div><div><br /></div><div>Love,</div><div>Kirsten</div>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-35398469888828875262010-04-20T05:21:00.001-07:002010-04-20T06:08:31.791-07:00"If we could sell our experiences for what they cost us, we'd all be millionaires." -Abigail Van Buren<div><br /></div>Sitting at Starbucks, waiting for my car to finish its oil change... driving across the country will do that to you.<div><br /></div><div>Its raining here in Atlanta today after what has been a beautiful sunshine-y week. I didn't think the weather could be better anywhere than it is in LA, but the combination of sunshine here and miles of green (rather than miles of concrete) is quite pleasant. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm really looking forward to this week. Tomorrow I am leaving to fly to Chicago, where I will be participating in an event with Timberline Knolls to mark the opening of a new wing of their treatment center outside of Chicago, IL. Timberline Knolls has been one of the generous residential treatment facilities that has offered the Foundation a 30-day stay for one of our applicants so that they may begin on their recovery journey and ultimate freedom from their eating disorder. I am so confident in the young woman that we have selected to begin treatment at Timberline Knolls, and so excited to have been able to offer her such an incredible opportunity for hope and healing. I'll be meeting her on my visit to Chicago, as well as the amazing staff of professionals that give of themselves every day, to see that the women and men that they treat discover God, life, love, and themselves. The event is going to be held from 4-7:30pm at Timberline Knolls campus... if you're in the Chicago area, I would love to see you there!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.timberlineknolls.com/">www.timberlineknolls.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div>On a more personal note, it really feels amazing to be settling into a new place; new beginnings. I really love Atlanta. I had a great weekend here; served at a singles outing with Northpointe Church (Andy Stanley's church), where a team of about 10 other individuals and myself went down to the Sims Estate neighborhood and weeded, cleaned, raked and got bitten by bugs for a few hours. :) I say that with love, though. It was actually really fun, a gorgeous day, and great fellowship with the members of the church that were serving, as well as the community members. We were even able to enjoy an AWESOME, impromptu step dance performance, in the street, by the local prep-school boys... they rocked.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also got a nickname. Someone in the group that I was serving with figured out the I had been Miss America, and while I'm proud of having had the job, much to my dismay, they all started calling me "Big Time." Not exactly what I wanted to come to light at a service event, but it was all in good fun, of course, and I didn't really mind. But once someone figures "it" out, I always get teased and teased and teased. One of the members of the Chamber of Commerce of the City of Atlanta was there, and even she yelled, "Big Time, get over here!" when we all lined up for a group photo at the end of the event. She didn't know the reason behind the nickname, but someone joked, "You're going to be speaking at an event or something around here, and she's going to look at you and say, 'Hey! Big Time!'" Yep, that would be just my luck. </div><div><br /></div><div>On Sunday morning I was able to go to church for the first time here in Atlanta, with my new roommate (good friend and founder of the Manna Scholarship Fund <a href="http://www.mannafund.org/">http://www.mannafund.org/</a>), at Buckhead Church. It is a satellite church of Northpointe. Genie, my roomie, helps to lead a small group of middle school girls at the early service, and so I attended with her to meet "her girls" and share some of my experiences as Miss A. It is so amazing how God just ties everything neatly together: the message for the middle schoolers that morning was about 'labels' that we give each other, and how judgement is really saved for God alone; what we are called to do as followers of Christ is to love both believer and unbeliever, as we are all simply recipients of the amazing Grace of God. </div><div><br /></div><div>I cannot TELL you the struggle that it was both during my year, and still today (as evidenced by the slapping on the label "Big Time"), being judged and labeled at a "beauty queen;" no matter if the stereotypes are positive or negative. It is somewhat natural for people to have stereotypes; the problem lies in how one's behavior is affected by these stereotypes, and the degree of their awareness of and willingness to look past them. It was and remains a great challenge to constantly remind myself that I will never convince everyone of the values of being Miss America ($50,000 scholarship included), or that I am not just a crown, an icon, a bimbo, superficial. My identity is found in Christ, alone, and that keeps me strong. In the same way I realize that I am not defined by my job or title, I am able to realize and see through the labels society gives others. My experiences have given me perspective and greater understanding of highly criticized and unfairly judged members/groups of society. I am incredibly thankful for this burgeoning understanding; knowing that God granted it to me in order to share with others. It felt really, really neat to be able to share that message with the middle school girls Sunday morning. We had a great bonding time, and I can't wait to see them again next week. </div><div><br /></div><div>Following church was a lazy Sunday afternoon, which I spent with some new friends at the Dogwood Festival at Piedmont Park; an Atlanta institution ushering in the Spring. Although, it has been here for a few weeks already. I was very proud of myself... while I saw many a beautiful piece of art and much fine jewelry, I didn't spend any money! I don't need ONE more thing. Seriously. My closet shelf here in Atlanta broke before I even finished hanging up my clothes. Donate, donate, donate....</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you all have a great week, and hope to see some of you in Washington D.C. at Lobby Day next week. </div><div><br /></div><div>Kirsten</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-17843471267115435532010-04-16T08:16:00.000-07:002010-04-16T08:21:43.738-07:00Eating Disorders Coalition Lobby Day 2010<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="font-size: 13px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; "><span class="UIStory_Message">3 more days left to register to lobby with the Eating Disorders Coalition! Join us in Washington D.C., April 26th and 27th as we demand that our congressmen and women recognize eating disorders as a public health priority! I'll see you there!</span></h3><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org/LobbyDayApril2010.htm">http://www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org/LobbyDayApril2010.htm</a></div><div><br /></div><div>It is truly the most incredible experience, joining ranks with other survivors, activists, professionals, and policy experts to speak out for the recognition and eradication of this disease. I cannot tell you the self-worth and confidence that you feel after participating in a Lobby Day with the EDC. Speaking directly to Congressmen and Women, their staffers, and other individuals on the Hill is empowering, safe, and through the experience, you see how much our legislators actually DO care. This is your chance. Make your voice heard, and impact your world, your country, and the lives of so many. Join us, for Lobby Day 2010.</div><div><br /></div><div>See you in Washington.</div></span>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-36187306189471622172010-04-15T15:04:00.000-07:002010-04-15T16:32:28.800-07:00Updates, Travels, and Taxes...After a bit of a hiatus from the blogosphere, I am back, after what has been a very busy couple of months. <br /><br />Just to catch up....<br /><br />- In January, it was SO great to catch up with my Miss America sisters at the 2010 Miss America Pageant in Las Vegas. We happily welcomed Katie Stam into the 'former' club, and were all thrilled at Caressa Cameron's crowning as the new representative for the organization. She is a tremendous woman, with undeniable charm, wit, and intelligence. She also has vocal chops to rival Beyonce. I had the distinct pleasure of getting to know Caressa at the Miss Virginia pageant when she won, as I spent the week hosting each evening of competition. I can say that I knew she was prepared to do the 'job' from the time she won her state title.<br /><br />- February was naturally hectic, as it was (and is every year) officially National Eating Disorders Awareness Month. Travels included...<br /><br />A stop in Traverse City to host the Miss Heart of Michigan Pageant, and an opportunity to speak with a middle and high school youth group of girls on body image issues and eating disorders at a local church.<br /><br />Another visit to Sean Hannity's show on Fox News in New York<br /><br />University of Arizona in Tuscon, where I was able to meet and chat intimately with several local titleholders who will be competing for the title of Miss Arizona this summer. I spoke on campus, my appearance generously sponsored by Remuda Ranch and Sierra Tucson treatment centers. There was an EXCELLENT turnout; happily, many sororities came to the event, which was held at the University's brand new, eco-friendly Rec Center. Great start to National Eating Disorders Awareness Week!<br /><br />From UA, I flew straight to Denver, Colorado, where I spoke at the University of Colorado in Boulder. I was able to lunch with an amazing group of high school young men and women who serve as Positive Body Image/Eating Disorders Advocates in a group called the Boulder Youth Body Alliance. They have this great campaign, posting anonymous 'post-its' wherever they go that have positive messages written on them... like "You are beautiful!" I love this sneaky campaign tactic. :) Another great turnout for the speaking engagement on campus, with MANY great questions. I love speaking at Universities, because students are usually excited about engaging the speaker and asking pertinent, tough questions. <br /><br />From UC, I headed to Omaha, Nebraska, where I was able to do media and speak at a mini-conference for OMNI Behavioral Health Clinics of Omaha. They shoulder the burden of being the state's sole provider of comprehensive eating disorders treatment. I was also honored to receive a prestigious award for advocacy from OMNI, and felt it an incredible privilege to stand beside the other survivors who had shared their stories that day and declare freedom from the oppression of stigma and this illness. It was quite an emotional couple of days.<br /><br />From Omaha, I zipped up to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where I hosted a fundraising event for my good friend Robyn Hussa's program called NORMAL in Schools; an educational 'musical' telling the story of a family's struggle with an eating disorder that Robyn and her group of actors perform live in schools. Along with these performances, NIS provides curriculum on nutrition and eating disorders for students, and after performances, they have a talk back with professionals so that students may ask questions. The fundraiser was held the most amazing OLD OLD OLD theatre, the Turner Hall Ballroom. I reminded me distinctly of the theatre in the film Moulin Rouge... and was from about that time period, the turn of the century. The floors creaked and were slanted with age and decay, the stage itself was raked, the windows stained-glass, and the sweeping oak staircases magnificent. It was most certainly one of the most eclectic and interesting venues I've seen. It was great to catch up with Robyn and many old friends in Milwaukee, and enough money was raised at the fundraiser to cover almost all the cost of the DVD program NIS is developing to make the musical and curriculum more easily distributable. Way to go NORMAL in Schools!<br /><br />-In March I was able to speak to the contestants, parents and volunteers at the Miss Michigan contestant orientation the first weekend of the month.<br /><br />I also made a visit to my close friend, Bridget Love's Fed-Up Girl after school program at University High in Los Angeles. What a great, educational program for young high school women! It was a fun day, and I truly adore that age of girls.<br /><br />Of course, life can't be ALL work, so I popped home to Detroit to see family, and help out at my future sister-in-law's Bridal Shower (s). I am a bridesmaid for the very first time in my life, and I LOVE it! And I actually like the dress, too, which I know is half the battle of being part of the wedding party. But mostly, I'm just super excited to see my brother get married. The date is approaching soon, too... May 7th!<br /><br />Also in March was another visit to Sean Hannity's show in New York... health care, health care, health care... how in the world am I supposed to talk about it intelligently, when most of the country, heck, most of Congress doesn't understand all of what is in that stupidly enormous piece of legislation? But talk about it, we did. Forgive me for not really loving Nancy Pelosi's assurance that as a people, we would learn what is in the bill, and see the benefits AFTER its passed. As an informed consumer, you only want to buy a product, or invest in something when you have adequate knowledge of what the product, service is going to do or provide. You don't spend the money and then say, "hope it works!" Anyway, we're stuck with it now. In my opinion, however, there no good that can be accomplished by complaining about what is past; one can only look, and move, forward. So what do we do from here? Vote. :)<br /><br />That brings me pretty close to the present... I am happy to announce that April brought a change in location, for me, and a nice change in career goal and life situation. I am beyond excited to be going back to school at Emory Universtiy this summer, pursuing a degree in political science. After a great personal revelation, I decided that while I do love Los Angeles, and will miss my friends and church there, that it is simply not the place that God wants me to be. Additionally, after seeing what living the 'entertainment-lifestyle' is like, I see that it is not what I want to do for the rest of my life. While it works for many people, it just is no longer what I really want. <br /><br />I realized this after one of my appearances on Hannity for Fox News. My Pastor's family wanted to tune-in to watch, as I had gotten very close with them and had baby-sat (that looks really funny written out... I didn't sit on their babies, I promise) their four precious children on a few occasions. I fell in LOVE with their little girls Sadie and Sophia. After returning from New York, Sarah, my pastor's wife told me how much they all enjoyed watching the show, and told me that Sophia had said to her, "Mommy, I want to be on a TV show like THAT someday!" That comment sums up my reasons for wanting to pursue something other than a life that would simply promote our celebrity-obsessed, overly-sexualized, female-demeaning culture. I want more girls, like Sophia, to look up to women in news, women working and doing good in the world, women using their voices to stand up for their opinions and beliefs. I want little girls like Sophia to see that women are more than just romantic heroines pining for love, or snappy, spoiled, and gossiping mean high school girls that never grow up. I want to continue to be a woman, in my life's work, who uses her ideas, her brain, and her experiences to inspire and change this world, and encourage others to authenticity, generosity, and good principles. I just don't feel that I could do that as easily, nor as effectively in entertainment. I want little girls to look up to strong, smart, motivated women. Not just actresses. That is why I decided to go back to school, and pursue something else. I could not feel more confident in my decision, or more excited about the prospects of the future. <br /><br />About a week ago, I had the pleasure of returning to Sober Living By the Sea in Newport Beach, a campus, so-to-speak, of behavioral health treatment centers, that include residential facilities treating chemical dependency in men, women, and eating disorders. I had the pleasure of speaking at a press conference alongside U.S. Drug Czar for the Clinton Administration, General Barry McCaffrey, the CEO of CRC Health Group, Dr. Barry Carlin, and the head of the Women's Health Office for the State of California, Terri Thorfinnson. We got GREAT press coverage, and thereby much awareness in Orange County of Eating Disorders and the treatment options in their area. I love the team at CRC/SLBTS... and I love Newport Beach. :) I was able to have a whole Saturday off while there, and boy, did a massage do me good! <br /><br />Perhaps the most exciting development, however, in the last few months, has been the deciding upon, and awarding, of our first two scholarships to applicants to the Kirsten Haglund Foundation. We have been fortunate enough to have two INCREDIBLE treatment centers, Timberline Knolls and Recovery Ranch, donate 30-day stays at their facilities, to the Foundation. With this generous gift came the opportunity for us to do what it is we set out to do; give hope to young women who are battling this disease. We have awarded our first two scholarships, and are pursuing another opportunity with a treatment center at present. More information on this to come. While I wish we had the resources to provide financial assistance to each and every individual that comes to us, I feel so incredibly blessed to have been able to give the opportunities that we have. There will be more to come; small, but triumphant, steps.<br /><br />I will be heading to Timberline Knolls at the end of next week to speak and help open a new wing of their treatment facility that will allow for a greater number of available beds. From there, it is on to Washington D.C. to lobby with the Eating Disorders Coalition (ONLY 4 MORE DAYS TO REGISTER!!!). Looking forward to an amazing summer and a beautiful new life path. Hope you are feeling inspired to do the same.<br /><br />Oh wait, it's Tax Day. I doubt anyone is feeling much 'inspired.'<br /><br />Ok, so feel inspired on the 16th.<br /><br />Love,<br /><br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-29266547279177628252009-12-21T07:43:00.000-08:002009-12-21T07:47:13.740-08:00TUNE-IN ALERT!Make sure to watch Hannity tonight on Fox News Channel, at 9pm!<br /><br />Then, in the 8am hour, tomorrow, Tuesday December 22nd, I'll be on Fox and Friends with Gretchen, Steve and Brian, also on Fox News Channel. <br /><br />Check it out! :)Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-71707910737718190292009-12-17T14:40:00.000-08:002009-12-17T14:44:47.158-08:00Santa, a health risk?I'm sorry but this is ridiculous. Now, even SANTA CLAUS has to look like a super-skinny model? Horrible. Let Santa Claus be jolly and rotund. Nobody gives Buddha any crap.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,580449,00.html">http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,580449,00.htm</a>lKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-63935716880305323022009-12-17T14:37:00.000-08:002009-12-17T14:39:55.323-08:00BAD Cheerios. Bad."More Grains. Less You." This is also, a HORRIBLE campaign message. Less me? No thank you. I want to always grow my soul, my spirit, my mind and my heart. Any product that advocates it's benefits as "Less You" should be taken off shelves.<br /><br /><a href="http://http://www.pfpchallenge.com/Partners.aspx?partner=MultigrainCheerios">http://www.pfpchallenge.com/Partners.aspx?partner=MultigrainCheerios</a>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-70112748436652198352009-12-05T08:56:00.000-08:002009-12-05T08:58:19.731-08:00Okay, disregard that last post. I forgot how to add links. Figuring it out... stay tuned! We'll be back after this short break...Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-59400878557183488732009-12-05T08:54:00.000-08:002009-12-05T08:55:43.745-08:00Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia!<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBjx5yTidZc"></a><br /><br />Just in case you wanted to watch. :) A cute little number.Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-88642847127735241802009-12-05T07:08:00.000-08:002009-12-05T08:36:01.967-08:00Rewind, and.... Play.Is it December already? Ohhhh my goodness, please forgive my lack of updates recently! The last three months or so have been extremely busy... and now the holidays are approaching, and that is never a formula for lower stress-levels. :) But I am very much looking forward to this holiday season, and time spent with friends and family. The nice thing about living so far away from the home I grew up in, is that around Thanksgiving and Christmas, it is even more meaningful to be able to connect with friends you don't see any longer on a daily basis.<br /><br />Okay, quick recap? I can't fully describe all events in detail (unless you're up for a short novel... except it wouldn't be a novel, really, because this all DID happen, I can assure you!)<br /><br />OH, and please forgive any spelling mistakes. This entry is just way too long to catch them all, and life is too short to correct all the mistakes. We more FORWARD!<br /><br />SEPTMEBER! After a great night at home in MI for the Celebration of Life (our first fundraiser), it was on to-<br /><br />Chicago, IL- I was invited to speak at Windy City Community church. Pastor Steve and his wife Denise have an awesome ministry there. I was able to sing with their worship band on Sunday morning, speak briefly in both services, and have a luncheon with the middle and high school girls and their leaders. It was hilarious, as a joke, they all dressed in evening gowns (like, halloween costume-Salvation Army style, it was RAD!) to greet me at lunch.... we had a good laugh. Because, didn't you know, Miss America wears an evening gown EVERYWHERE? At all times! Yeah, bugger, I didn't know that either. Guess I was underdressed.<br /><br />Sunday evening was a program offered to the whole community, I was able to speak, and then answer questions alongside two professionals (nutritionist and therapist) from the Chicago area. It was great to be able to have those resources available for the attendees. We did a long autograph signing and photo session afterward, and it was heartwarming to meet many of the people who came out, several of them being individuals with whom the Foundation has been corresponding with via email, trying to connect them to resources. How great to meet them, face to face, and share a hug. :)<br /><br />Washington, D.C.,- where I bunked with my dear friend Kathleen MacDonald, policy assistant for the Eating Disorders Coalition and invaluable board member of KHF, for Lobby Day training and work day! It was my Mom's first time to Lobby on the Hill... what a learning experience it was for her! Go MOM!<br /><br />Back to LA- The Friday morning after Lobby Day I was up bright and early to get to Venice beach, for an IAEDP (International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals), Los Angeles Chapter event. It was actually REALLY neat; they had a photographer come, for whom I 'posed'... we did a before (NO makeup, no touch-ups), and after (hair and makeup) shot, after which he put them both up on a huge monitor. He then demonstrated how photographer and editor view and change, re-touch and sharpen images, deleting lines and wrinkles here, raising a hairline there, eliminating a blemish there and there and there, lightening the skin, etc., etc., etc.,... in order to 'finish' the image, fit for print. It is always so helpful to see the journey of the photograph from when it is taken to when it is all "Done." Continuing to remind us, that the images we are bombarded with everyday from the media, television, and advertising are simply not real. And that may not ever really change, but it is important for us to know that and be able to tell the difference: Images, two dimensional. Human Beings, 3-D. He also showed the editing journey with a photo of Jane Fonda... which was excellent, and of a young actress on Entourage, whose face was full of breakouts (he said she was extremely self-conscious), and yet she was transformed to a clear-skinned beauty. Amazing, isn't it? <br /><br />Then I flew to New York- to be a guest on FOX News, Sean Hannity's Great American Panel. Besides my driver from the airport to the hotel (the Muse... gorgeous!) getting pulled over, and me walking the rest of the way to my hotel in the rain... at 11pm... it was a great trip! :) As is protocol with these shows, I received the 'topics' for discussion for the evenings show the morning of, and spent my day researching and writing my opinions. Of course, as fate would have it, 10 sensational things occured in the world before lunch time, and so the topics changed by mid-morning. But I love to research and analyze and write, so I had a fun day holed up in my hotel room studying. It ended up being a great show, Sean is really a wonderful guy. How neat to meet Rick Santorum (former Senator from Pennsylvania) as well, fellow panelist, who was all open ears about my Foundation and our work. It turns out that he empathizes very well with those struggling and recognizes the seriousness of the issue. Wish he was still fighting with us on Capitol Hill! The FREED Bill needs him! Fox is always a great time, and Sean invited me back! I'll be on again Monday, 21 December... looking forward to it! <br /><br />I forgot to mention... Did I tell y'all that I'm making a Golf Workout DVD? I shot it at Warwick Hills the day after my fundraiser with PGA Golf Pro and Instructor Jay Golden... its going through the final editing process right now... I'll give you updates as they come along. :)<br /><br />OCTOBER!<br /><br />Back to LA... La Ventana (ED treatment center and transitional living on several campuses around LA and Malibu) was kind enough to host a fundraiser for KHF at Westlake Village Country Club, near Malibu. It was a BEAUTIFUL venue, great food, and wonderful silent auction items! My friend Paige (founder of Paige Premium Denim) donated too, to our silent auction. And did I mention I saw our jean, that will be going into production soon? I can't say too much, but I saw the distinctive pocket design, and all the washes it will be offered in; we're looking forward to a February 2010 launch, in time for the Spring line and Eating Disorders Awareness Month! I'll keep you posted! I spoke and Mom sold merchandise... it was a lovely event. <br /><br />Germany! I really could write a book about this trip. Especially the fiasco that preceded it, upon realizing at 5am the morning of our flight from Detroit to Atlanta to Stuttgart, that I had quite conveniently left my passport in my quilted laptop bag. In Los Angeles. 3,000 miles away. To make a long story short, I have an angel of a friend who awoke at 2 am to meet the locksmith at my apartment as they drilled out my deadbolt. He rushed my passport to the Delta Dash at LAX and sent it off on a plane to meet me in Atlanta during our short hour and a half layover. I could hear the William Tell Overture playing in my head as I sprinted off that first plane, through the ridiculous amount of terminals at Atlanta airport, past security, OUTSIDE the building to the Delta Dash counter to pick up my little blue book. Made it back through security JUST IN TIME. It was truly nuts.<br /><br />In Germany, I stayed with a lovely host couple in Renningen, outside Stuttgart. After a grueling two-hour press conference in the city the first morning, I realized that this whole "speaking with an interpreter" thing was going to be much more difficult than I had imagined. After a few of my many planned speaking engagements though, I began to get the hang of it. You have to speak two sentences at a time! And sometimes the Europeans just don't get my sense of humor. And other times, they really did, when my American compatriots were looking at me like I was crazy. No worries. I guess you can only be funny in one culture at a time.<br /><br />I was able to speak at several schools, both high school and middle school, at a huge youth event in Karlsruhe, at a city event in Stuttgart, and in Fussen (South in the Alps, right on the border of Austria). It was a great lesson in letting go of control, in that you can say what you will, but ultimately your words and your message and sincerity are in the hands of the interpreter, and you cannot control that, at all. I just had to trust that God was going to make clear what he wanted to make clear. It was truly an amazing trip though, the people were wonderfully warm and engaging, the country itself is so beautiful, rich in history and culture, and I didn't want to leave! The food and wine were excellent as well. :) I can never get too much pumpkin soup and Wellness Flakes (like Kashi... but better!)<br /><br />At the end of our trip we visited Strasbourg, in the Alsace region of Eastern France. I was in heaven. For those of you that know me, you know I am a total Francophile, and speak a bit of French. What a surprise and joy when, I swear it was something in the air, all my French came right back to me! I visited Nathalie (a French young woman my age who stayed at our house for one summer during high school) and her parents; they took us to see the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, took us on La Bateau-Mouche to see the city from the river, we dined on Tartes Flambees, and had a simply marvelous time. I adore that city. France is everything you would ever think it would be; from the art lining the cobblestone streets, to the garlands hanging along the street fronts; the accordian players serenading passersby, a love song in the air, renaissance architecture all preserved, and yet very modern health conscious bikers and runners taking advantage of the sunshine. It truly is magical.<br /><br />The great thing about Europe is there relationship with food and mealtimes. Not that any culture or country has a perfect 'food ideal' (NOBODY'S perfect, remember?), but it was so refreshing to dine without labels of FAT-FREE, no calories, and eat whole, fresh foods, milk from the farm down the street, no preservatives, and no comments of guilt and shame related to the food. What a pleasure not to have to rush during mealtimes, even when you're on a 'schedule.' It was very very nice.<br /><br />I then flew to New York City to visit my brother and his fiancee, Nicole for a few days. I stayed in their charming but teeny Manhattan apartment, and we caught up and prepared for our auditions! Since getting a theatre agent out here in LA, I've been going back and forth to NY for auditions/callbacks. After great showings and callbacks for both A Chorus Line (National Tour) and the Broadway revival of La Cage... I'm starting to feel like this is where I belong. I had kind of a heartbreaking situation with Chorus Line... that I can't talk in detail about. But it was going to be good. But... God has a plan!<br /><br />Los Angeles- where I spoke on a panel at the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita. There was a showing of Diane Israel's film, BeautyMark, and then a panel discussion including Diane, myself, and two other ED specialists with Q and A. We had a great turnout of college students... at least 300! A great Love Your Body, Rock the World message going on there. :)<br /><br />I rounded out the month in Sacramento, CA- I spoke three schools, middle and high schools. This was around Halloween too, so I was met by audiences full of Scream villians, Sponge-Bob Squarepants', and fruit (I swear, one guy was dressed up as a banana). I did local media, television and radio related to Eating Disorders (great message at Halloween), and spent the evening at a community event where I spoke briefly, but mostly signed autographs and hung out with kids in their costumes (I wore a black witches' hat. Good enough.)<br /><br />Sunday morning I spoke in both services at Bayside West Covenant Church, and following the services, spoke at a luncheon for the church's young women and their mom's. THAT was a great talk, as we spoke not only about the pressures they face related to body image, but also discussed that in terms of spirituality and what it means to be a Christian woman in today's culture; those pressures, realities and struggles. A REALLY great day.<br /><br />NOVEMBER! Almost done, I swear.<br /><br />This month thankfully, slowed down a bit. Whew! <br /><br />I flew back to New York for a few callback, and then to Atlanta, GA- I helped out my good friend, Genie Burnett for her weekend of MANNA Fundraisers (her organization, the Manna Scholarship Fund, has the same mission and purpose as KHF). It was a weekend of beautiful art (at a lovely auction), more speaking and sharing with several audiences, and good sushi. This was also my first time in the Buckhead area, I stayed at the Mansion across from Lenox Square, and I LOVED it! Autumn leaves were falling and the air was crisp... it was truly beautiful. Not to mention, my Mom and I got some good shopping in. :)<br /><br />Ann Arbor, MI- I flew back home to speak at St. Joseph/Mercy hospital for an educational/women's outreach event on Eating Disorders, offering stories of home and connecting women to resources. It was great to see my good friend from the Academy of Eating Disorders, Judith Banker, again, and again, many of the young girls/women who have contacted me via facebook and email were in attendance. <br /><br />I was then in Philadelphia, PA for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, was able to perform ( "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus") and not freeze my tail off (unlike last year's cold, it was a mild 55 degrees! Go Philly!), and catch up with my DEAR traveling companion from my year on the road as Miss America, Julie Hoffman. I was home by Thanksgiving evening though! So I didn't miss turkey and potatoes. :) It was as good a feast as ever.<br /><br />And now I'm parked back here in sunny California. I had a director's callback for the Toronto original cast of Rock of Ages yesterday, Jersey Boys audition Monday, so lots of work to keep at!<br /><br />The Foundation is also so very excited to make a big announcement... which, while details are being finalized, will have to wait for next entry. Now that I got all of those updates out of the way, I can from now on pledge to offer more concise and more witty patter. Enjoy this holiday season, and I'll talk (or write) again soon.<br /><br />Much love and peace, (I sound like the Dalai Lama)<br /><br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-64150527015051604332009-10-21T16:08:00.000-07:002009-10-21T16:10:19.814-07:00Sophie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ46MqgrSzuuBQJfuWRrRyErPa_iFThRiCykN5cBeQDoNv4wni0SYoEikBmgjvL7TuvjJy_KlD6PIm6Ezy8CaFPs4fpoa_6JnXc-AAUqQMWV08qiN-Hs0YZHEPkh80tDMg2YhVYgBAdE4/s1600-h/image.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ46MqgrSzuuBQJfuWRrRyErPa_iFThRiCykN5cBeQDoNv4wni0SYoEikBmgjvL7TuvjJy_KlD6PIm6Ezy8CaFPs4fpoa_6JnXc-AAUqQMWV08qiN-Hs0YZHEPkh80tDMg2YhVYgBAdE4/s320/image.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395194380313380178" /></a><br /><br />Just in case you wanted a photo. :)Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-30180882790617231952009-10-21T15:51:00.000-07:002009-10-21T16:08:23.821-07:00Living alone no longer!I have the most precious little bundle of fur curled up in my lap right now. <br /><br />I just adopted a kitten! My friend Eric found her and her 'sibling' on the side of the road while shooting a television show out in the desert... abandoned... and so brought the two little kittens home so that they could find loving owners. I had NO intention of taking one home. And then I saw them. And the rest is history.<br /><br />I am 95% sure she is a she. I took her to the vet today and they couldn't totally tell because she's not even two months old (and therefore must be a little Virgo like me). But, the doctor said she was pretty sure my little cat was a girl: and if not, I'm going to have a male cat named Sophie with an ivory collar with a sparkly bow. Aka... one very unhappy, emasculated feline. Then I'll have to change her name. Ughh. I really like Sophie. But alas, like a Boy Named Sue, a Boy cat named Sophie would really get beat up psychologically over time. So if she turns out to be a he (VERY unlikely), I've decided to name him Elliot. Because I love British names and I think that one is adorable. <br /><br />She is so TINY! Even the vet said they rarely see them into the office that small. She's not even a pound! And she is the most well-behaved perfect little thing; she eats and drinks and just sits in my hand or on my shoulder and doesn't cry or make a fuss... and even a DOG walked into the vet waiting room, right by her, while she was sitting on my lap, and she remained appropriately aloof and unaffected. Princess indeed.<br /><br />Okay, enough of being a proud pet owner. I apologize. But she is pretty dang cute.<br /><br />I'm back in Los Angeles now after several weeks of travel and appearances. I do have to go all the way back to the beginning, and tell about my CELEBRATION OF LIFE!!! Which was amazing! <br /><br />But, I have to go get some things out of the laundry and send a fax (info for the Philly Thanksgiving Day Parade, which I will be singing and dancing in again this year.). So I'll have to tell those stories next post.<br /><br />But I HAD to at least tell about my new kitty.<br /><br />Peace. (And that is "Peace" as like, "Namaste," not "Peace" as in, "Peace out, Brotha"... trust me, I know that I am quite white. :)<a href="www.kirstenhaglund.org"></a><br /><br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-45162406747283840692009-09-28T09:40:00.000-07:002009-09-28T09:50:58.390-07:00TUNE-IN ALERT! :)Make sure to tune-in to "Hannity" tonight, on Fox News!<br /><br />I'll be making an appearance as a guest contributor on the Great American Panel. The show starts at 9pm EST, and runs until 10pmEST. Hope you'll check it out!<br /><br />It's been a great couple weeks of traveling! I will be sharing lots of great updates and cool stories about the last few weeks soon, including the low-down on A Celebration of Life! The event went absolutely beautifully, and it was so nice to see so many family, friends and fans come out for the evening to celebrate a birthday, life, and the continued awareness of eating disorders. The battle for true beauty and healthy body-image rages on!!! Thank you so much to everyone who was in attendance, and those of you who sent your support via email, text message, and twitter from afar. :) More details to come...<br /><br />Love,<br />KKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-13387123073385677462009-09-13T15:12:00.000-07:002009-09-13T16:36:04.366-07:00Blame the Red Shoes, the Red Dress, and the Red CarpetHappy Sunday everyone.... Hope you're taking some time to rest today.<br /><br />I'm getting super excited as I pack up my things to come home to Michigan for the KHF's fundraiser on Wednesday! "A Celebration of Life" is going to be a wine-tasting, 'birthday' fundraiser for the Foundation (our first), at Andiamo in Novi... tickets are on sale on the website, so if you're planning on coming (and I hope you are!) you can still get your tickets! Of course, you can purchase tickets at the door too. All of the funds raised during the evening (there's a silent auction as well) will go to providing scholarships for eating disorders treatment, so it is a good, nay, a wonderful cause! I hope to see you there!<br /><br />I want to personally thank everyone who HAS already made a commitment to come, and is helping in the preparation for this event. There are so many hands helping and giving so lovingly of their time and sweat and patience so that this all comes together. I can't wait to celebrate with you, with a heart full of gratitude.<br /><br />Another kind of exciting thing; I've been doing some recording out here in LA, and am looking forward to potentially launching a few singles on iTunes. One of these songs I'm going to debut at the fundraiser! So we've got a little entertainment going down as well. :) <br /><br />It's going to be a busy week of traveling; after the big event Wednesday evening, I'm heading to Chicago, IL to speak and spend the day at Windy City Community Church. From there I head to Washington, D.C., where I'll be spending a day lobbying with the Eating Disorders Coalition again for the F.R.E.E.D. Bill (check it out at <a href="www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org">www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org</a>); as health care is at the forefront of U.S. domestic policy right now, we're very optimistic about garnering even more support for this Bill as it heads (hopefully quickly) through the House and Senate on its way to becoming a LAW. Wish us luck!<br /><br />From D.C., I come back to LA (with Mom on board), where I'll be doing a really neat event in Venice on the 25th. More to come on that.<br /><br />So enough about the future. At present, I'm trying to enjoy the present. :) I found this really great book called Proverbs and it has been kicking my butt the last couple weeks. <br /><br />Oh yeah! I attended the Creative Arts Emmys yesterday. The day was a blast, minus the bloated running time of the awards ceremony. And my embarrassing self... the group of girls I went with arrived a teensy bit late (shoe indecision on behalf of more than one of our party and a baby) and so we had to stand in the back upon arrival and wait for an appropriate time to be seated. We wait and wait and wait... and I with the bladder-the-size-of-a-walnut, decide this might be the opportune moment (to quote Captain Jack Sparrow) to use the Ladies' Room. Who knows when the show's going to end anyway (and since it's televised, no intermission)? Can you tell I'm thinking way too much here? So I make sure I have my ticket and slip out. I come back to the theatre a few minutes later (much more optimistic now about sitting for potentially 4 hours), show my ticket, and then realize that the girls are gone; must have gone to their seats in my absence. This is fine, until I look at my ticket and realize we're in the SIXTH row. F 106 to be exact, right in the middle of that 6th row, too. So I told you, no commercial breaks (it was being taped), no intermission, and a sea of Hollywood, creative types in black suits and black-rimmed glasses all comfortably watching Kathy Griffin cavort around onstage, all sitting in their seats. This is just peachy unless you have to walk all the way down the aisle during the show, toward the stage, ALL the way down to the 6th row, and make everyone stand by saying, "'Scuse me, 'scuse me, excuse me, I am SO SO sorry" shuffling awkwardly to the middle of the row and make a total scene by trying not to make a scene. Which is what I had to do. And Tina Fey is sitting like, two rows in front of me. I'm thinking, "Oh goodness, who is watching me inconvenience a whole row of people way more important than I am right now?" Oh, you know, just the creators, cast and crews, casting directors, hair and makeup people of all my favorite shows: LOST, The Tudors, 30 Rock, SNL to name a few, plus all the network execs and anybody who has any power in the world of television. NO BIGGIE. I mean, it's no big deal, of course, really, but for that second, I felt really really silly. Stupid bladder. <br /><br />AT LEAST... the redeeming detail... I was wearing my red Christian Louboutin's. And when you're wearing Christian Louboutin's, you can do no wrong. The woman in the red dress with the red shoes makes the rules, in my book. And so, in retrospection I say, WHATever seat warmers residing comfortably in row F! I will not apologize for my bladder or lateness or my presence. I will only say thank you for playing a part in a mildly humorous story in my blog; where Kirsten makes fun of her insecurity and displays again that we're all human (thank God).<br /><br />Highlights of the evening included seeing Elaine Stritch perform a hilarious musical tribute to Sheila Nevins (creator of over 500 HBO Documentaries, and winner of the Governor's Award), Carol Burnett, Tina Fey's win for her spoof of Sarah Palin... but truly touching was seeing the countless individuals behind the scenes rewarded for their incredible efforts. So much of the time, the actors receive the credit/admiration for that which is really created by the unimaginably difficult, time consuming, and truly magical work of the editors, sound mixers, hair and makeup artists, costume designers, etc., As an actor myself I will not say that we do not work hard. Extremely hard. But it was just really nice to see the creative artists be congratulated in such a special way. And you thought the Primetime Emmys were the only Emmys...<br /><br />After a long, but entertaining show, the gals and I headed next door to the LA Convention Center with the slew of other brilliant audience members (we're all brilliant in our own way... I convince myself of this everyday... especially when I'm stressing about the really BAD driver in front of me in LA traffic) for the after party! There was even a red carpet for the after-party. Albeit, not as plushy. This one wasn't red shag, it was more like red astro-turf. But I digress. The ladies and I got way too many pictures. How blessed I felt when, in not one of those pictures did the equation red carpet+numerous photo opportunities+ 'event'+ dressy outfit and heels= me wearing a crown. YAY! We did feel kind of awkward however, when we all lined up and upon looking for someone to take a picture ended up having to ask the guy who, upon turning around, has a shiny gold trophy (cough cough EMMY) in his hand. Ooops... "Yes, excuse me sir, I know you're celebrating having just had your life's work awarded onstage in front of thousands of the best of the best in your field but... can you take a picture of 6 girls? Oh thanks. I know that's exactly what you wanted to do right now. Here, I'll even hold that gold lady holding a bunch of strange orbiting circular objects while you press the button on my digital camera. OMG, you're the BEST!" But he was nice enough, and he did. It did allow me to see one of those lovely trophies up close though... they're huge! Dude, I wonder if they're super heavy? I was also wondering later at the Ball, if anyone ever left or forgot their Emmy/Oscar/Grammy/other statuette of significance under their chair at one of those after parties. My logic is... you know how if you acquire something somewhere that you didn't come in with, it's not part of your routine in making sure you 'have it,' with you, and so your just kinda forget about it sometimes? Well you certainly didn't come down the red carpet with that trophy in hand. And especially as a lady, it's not going to fit in your inconveniently sized, no-room-for-anything-you-REALLY-need clutch, so its very likely that you could forget about it by the end of the night, and (GASP!) leave without it. Unless you're like, Meryl Streep and leave the afterparty every year with one in tow. Then you're not likely to forget your buddy Oscar. Anyway... just a thought. Lucky waiter/busboy with the summer job at the LA Convention Center. :)<br /><br />So after a lovely dinner of $40 salad (I don't know what it was really called. I renamed it.), braised pot roast (it was SO tender) and carrots and fried mac and cheese... oh and a chocolate snowball-shaped thing (again, I don't know the proper name... oh wait, yes; dessert), we mingled and schmoozed (with each other mostly) and drove home. The excellent thing about this award shows and parties also is that everything is so organized and parking was so close and convenient! LA does everything the best. It was truly a great, fun, day, and I got to spend it with wonderful friends. Happy happy joy joy.<br /><br />I'm sure there have been other uplifting, wonderful things that have happened this past week, but to be honest my brain is kind of fried and I don't feel like typing anymore! I am going to go enjoy my Sunday away from the computer with friends, and continue to pack and plan for this blessing of a week and adventure coming up. I can't wait to see you all on Wednesday! :)<br /><br />Thank you for bearing with me as I make up words, share mind ramblings, and attempt to make sense of life's little mysteries. Now go and make sense of your own. Or be at peace with them and be better than the rest of us. I feel lucky enough that when I'm in the control room panicking or trying to remember where all the stupid buttons are, that God is there to remind me that He's got it all figured out already and he's doing the hard work for me. He turns that big on/off switch on my 'mind' OFF if I'll only let him. The cool thing is, he will for you too. Go have a great day, see you soon.<br /><br />Kirsten<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-14454832943538909812009-08-27T12:36:00.000-07:002009-08-27T12:40:07.551-07:00News Update!TUNE-IN ALERT!!<br /><br />Kirsten Haglund as...<br /><br />News Contributor on the Great American Panel<br />HANNITY Show<br />Fox News<br />Monday, September 28th<br /><br />Check it out! More details to come... :)<br /><br />Love and hugs,<br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-38891577131501769152009-08-26T12:09:00.000-07:002009-08-26T12:15:28.879-07:00Interesting... Check it out!<a href="http://www.kirstenhaglund.org"></a><br /><br />These are just some little news updates I found today... Good stuff in here. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.stylelist.com/blog/2009/06/15/british-vogue-editor-fights-size-zero-clothing-samples/<br />">http://www.stylelist.com/blog/2009/06/15/british-vogue-editor-fights-size-zero-clothing-samples/<br /></a><br /><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,519843,00.html">http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,519843,00.html</a><br /><br />Enjoy! One is more risque than the other... caution advised. :)<br /><br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-53082466431315547032009-08-25T19:42:00.000-07:002009-08-25T20:27:46.020-07:00Candle wax is SUPER fun to play with...<a href="http://www.kirstenhaglund.org"></a><br /><br />That title has absolutely NO relevance to what I'm going to talk about. But it is a universally accepted truth (to quote Jane Austen) nonetheless. Its the little things in life...<br /><br />Details, details, details... That's what planning is all about, right? KHF just had a board meeting going over all of these little 'details' for our big fundraiser coming up on September 16th. I'm beginning to get very excited; we've already got 17 rooms booked at the Holiday Inn nearby, people traveling to come to our event! We're solidifying sponsorships and silent auction items... we're going to have some REALLY neat packages available... I can't wait to reveal them! It's going to be a beautiful night. :)<br /><br />Is it already the end of Tuesday? Where is the week going? I had better not get ahead of myself. It seems sometimes my weekends are busier than my week days... perhaps that is because much of the business of show business happens through social networking (not the online version), and most social events and lunch meetings happen on the weekends! This past one was indeed fun... Saturday I went shopping for a new dress last minute (at Nordstrom Rack, which I realized, is totally AWESOME) for the Melrose Place Premiere Party that evening. The event was sponsored by AT&T, so in place of a red carpet, there was a BLUE carpet (the whole event was company colors, blue and orange). A good friend of mine who works at CBS pretty much put together the entire event, and what a job well done! It was a super fun evening, outdoors on Melrose Ave... where else? Celebrity spotting, Ashlee Simpson-Wentz who has a role on the show was in attendance, and I'm sure others, but honestly I didn't look too hard. The food was beautiful and very tasty... they had sorbet for dessert served inside the rinds of real lemons, pineapples, and coconuts. No chocolate fountain, however, which made me kind of sad. The only bummer of the evening was that there was no dancing, which I realize at these parties, there usually isn't. But when they're playing Lady Gaga, and you're in a dress and heels, DUDE you just wanna dance! I danced by myself a little and probably looked ridiculous, but proved that you can have a whole ton of fun by yourself, no alcohol involved. :)<br /><br />Earlier that day I stopped by Whole Foods to pick up a few things, and after looking at the bill, realized why I don't shop at Whole Foods very often. Or at least, California Whole Foods'. You realize very quickly when you move to the big city just how AMAZING those midwest prices are. For everything. Seriously.<br /><br />Sunday morning, I had the delight of one of the most beautiful church services... Well, the music at Hollywood Church is always awesome, so needless to say, the music was uplifting and GREAT. The sermon series the last few weeks has been about Heaven (which is always FUN)... and this final week was about our BODIES, and what they're going to look like, do, feel, in heaven; on the new earth. I won't go too much in depth, because I'm no theologian or pastor... but just the thought of living with God in a new, glorified body, free of any thought of acceptance, judgment, or restriction on that body was just incredibly enlightening. Of course, we can strive to feel that here on earth, but not every day will be perfect, and our world is still flawed, will always be flawed on the way it judges people based on outward appearance. Its amazing to think that one day we will live with God in perfect bodies that can go anywhere, do anything, glorifying God, forever and ever and ever. Dude. Heaven is SO worth that. <br /><br />That afternoon I met a friend for lunch in Universal City... a friend who is also the CEO of a small record company. He introduced me to a wonderful producer and lyricist, they handed me a CD of three songs they had already written for me, and invited me to the recording studio to work the next day! I can't give away too many details, but I can say we put down one demo track, and I'll be back within the next few weeks laying down the others. Very exciting! God kind of just drops blessings into your lap sometimes, and while I've always loved music and wanted to pursue recording, I never imagine it would get started this soon! I'm just going to work hard and see what happens. I'll cross my fingers and let you know!<br /><br />This is hilarious: So I was sitting on my balcony enjoying the sunny day today, when the loud rumbling of a waste truck passing by on Woodman Ave below me jolts me out of my otherwise peaceful thoughts. I look down, and its this big blue monstrosity... not your average green WM daily garbage truck... it was more of a big construction waste kind of truck. (Forgive me for not knowing the technical terms for these things.) What was FUNNY about this truck... was the name of the disposal company. I couldn't help but laugh as I saw it pass me... the emblem on the side, a four-pointed white crown, with company name printed in the middle: "Crown Disposal Co. Inc". I actually laughed out loud.... the 'lol' is appropriate to use here. I thought, "So that's the company that takes used crowns from has-beens." I guess if you're really sick of pageants and the last thing you want is to keep that silver sparkly thing around for future granddaughters to play dress up in, you call Crown Disposal Co., Inc. I guess that answers the question, too, of whether or not they're recyclable. Anyway... I laughed. <br /><br />So tomorrow I have an audition for a co-star role on Melrose Place... should be interesting. Then it's business business business. Kind of wishing I was in Michigan for a very close family friend's wedding this weekend. But ah, that's life. I have a friend who works for the military in the desert out here in Cali who is coming to visit me, so that should keep my mind off of the matrimonial festivities that I'm otherwise missing. I love you, Bensch's! :)<br /><br />With that, I'm going to watch an episode of LOST and go to sleep! Sweet dreams.<br /><br />Can anyone recommend a good book? I'm looking for one... <br /><br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-42145543680984817372009-08-21T19:25:00.000-07:002009-08-21T20:11:02.714-07:00A Lovely Day in Newport<a href="http://www.kirstenhaglund.org"></a><br /><br />First of all, I have to just say, Lost is the best show ever. And hulu.com is the greatest invention ever, as it allows us to enjoy all our favorite programming sans having to schedule time to park in front of the television, commercial breaks, and spending way too much money on past season DVD sets! I've been catching up on Season 3 as I sit and wait for my laundry to dry... and I bet you wanted to hear all about that, right? Right.<br /><br />It's been a relaxing day, after one very hectic but wonderfully uplifting Thursday. I headed down to Newport Beach on Wednesday night after a meeting with church friends, to stay at the Balboa Bay Club and Resort the evening before my visit to Sober Living By the Sea. SLBS is a treatment facility that consists of a few different programs, including The Landing (Men's only Chemical Dependency), The Rose (Women's Only CD) and The Victorian (Eating Disorders). I realized as I pulled up to the hotel, got out of the car and smelled the salty ocean breeze just how lucky I was to live near the Pacific Ocean, and have the opportunity and ability to travel. A side note, I apologize. <br /><br />Began the visit Thursday morning with coffee and a little orientation about SLBS and its history from Ryan, the centers' Director of Business Development and nicest guy, and Melissa Preshaw, from CRC Health group who flew in from the Cupertino, CA office. The morning consisted of tours of each of the facilities (Landing, Rose and Victorian), which are all actually homes on the Balboa Peninsula, where residents stay for the duration of their treatment. The homes were absolutely BEAUTIFUL, with large glass windows looking right out to the beach, stunning decor, and the most warm, loving, engaging staff. I was given schedules as an example of what their days are like... and I couldn't help but think to myself that it looked like fun! I know that is a borderline horrible-thing-to-say, but truly, what a blessing it is, or would be, to retreat to such a place, and spend all day, every day, caring for your soul and yourself; minus distractions, expectations, judgements, or other stresses. A complete retreat. Everyone needs that, to be sure. I suppose the answer is to find little moments of each day, time when you can do that in your regular life. In no way am I lessening the pain and struggle of the individuals in treatment there. But they are so extremely lucky to be in a place with such love, warmth, and specialized care. If only all those struggling with addiction and/or eating disorders had the resources to go to such a place for healing. Hence, the need for KHF and scholarships for treatment! I digress...<br /><br />After touring each house, I was treated to a beautiful luncheon at a great little place called The Dock, where myself and another woman and SLBS Alumn were honored for our work in the field of eating disorder awareness and advocacy. In the presence of about 20 other eating disorders professionals from the beach community, I certainly felt very humbled. The meal was awesome though, calamari and... what's that salad called with the mozzarella, tomato and olive oil? Shoot, I forgot. Well, that one, for starters. Then came the most delicious Salmon on top of an asparagus risotto... delish! The great thing about salmon (as opposed to steak) is that when you ask for it well-done, the chef usually does it. Hence, the reason I don't bother ordering steaks out anymore. :) My mom does it well-done, what's your problem Mr. Iron Chef??<br /><br />Following lunch, I had the opportunity to spend an hour with the women of The Rose and The Victorian in the living room at The Rose. It was so nice and informal. I sat on a comfy chair with the 15-20 women and spoke for about 40 minutes about my personal struggles, where I've been, where I am, and where I'm going. I'm struck by a wonderful and humbling realization every time I speak about this issue to people... that it is not my skills, or my talent, or my accomplishments, or any other measure of greatness or worth that enables me to connect with these other women, or make any kind of impact in any way. It is my flaws. It is my weaknesses. It is my humanity. And truly, I feel, it is God, using that weakness. There is tremendous power in honesty, disclosure, and the admitting of insecurity and vulnerability. Imperfection. It was a wonderful talk with those women. We then had about 20 minutes of open discussion and Q and A, where I was able to get to know them a little bit better, and share our lives and passions and pitfalls. We wrapped around 3pm and I didn't want to leave! I did leave however, with such a feeling of hope, for them, for me, and for the triumph of love and understanding over moments when it seems like our personal demons are certainly going to drag us over the edge. As it had been a cloudy morning, I left the Rose and the sun had come out... a little reminder that above the clouds the sun was always shining, and that whatever is darkness, always comes to the light.<br /><br />I sadly left Newport and the beautiful Balboa Bay Resort (I wanted to stay another night SO badly! Dude, that hotel was gorgeous.)... but happily headed to Garden Grove, near Anaheim to have dinner with very close family friends. The daughter in this family I got to reunite with, after not having seen her for, gosh, I don't know, probably 10 years! She now lives in San Diego, teaching, but all the time I knew her, she was a star basketball player. As this was my first time seeing her since my experience as Miss America, I had a great time sharing with her stories of my abysmal showings of athleticism, both as I threw out the first pitch at Tiger Stadium for last year's season opener, and attempted to guard Kid Rock at Curtis Grandersons' Charity Basketball Game. She laughed. I laughed. Mind you, I wasn't laughing at the time. At least I didn't have to wear a crown and try to shoot hoops. Now, THAT would have been embarrassing. <br /><br />And then I drove home. Exciting, I know. And crashed on my couch. I feel so blessed to have a couch to crash on. Especially one that's super comfy with big green and teal pillows. Oh yeah, I talked about how much I love couches in my last entry. Sorry. :)<br /><br />So after all that drivin' around, I decided to lay low today. Very excited for tomorrow though; I get to go shopping for a new dress for an neat little thing in the evening... the Melrose Place Premiere Party!!! Very excited, should be super cool. It's going to be at the Pacific Design Center on Melrose, and I can't wait! Hope there's a red carpet. :)<br /><br />Ok, peace, chickens.<br /><br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-35344973663841547852009-08-21T09:44:00.000-07:002009-08-21T09:52:25.725-07:00The Official Invite!<a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=XwXR9oH1hLs7ByGQKt2S8NmVutIGgB9FXQe0oCfv8mIE5rw_1Rd1L__Dh6K&dispatch=5885d80a13c0db1fca8cb0621aa94a5f6fa451543ea87377b15521baa3d60b80" target="_blank"><img src="http://i721.photobucket.com/albums/ww219/clairebuffie/evite-2.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-6650619939589902232009-08-18T09:26:00.000-07:002009-08-18T10:07:04.667-07:00Books, Tea, and other Adventures...<a href="http://www.kirstenhaglund.org"></a><br /><br />First of all... TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE for "A Celebration of Life," my 21st Birthday Fundraiser on September 16th, online at www.kirstenhaglund.org. So excited to see you there! :)<br /><br />I love living in California. The weather is always perfect. Seriously. Warm, and no humidity in the day time, hair stays manageable... then cool, sweater weather in the evening... no wasted, "Michigan-only" clothes in my closet! I am so responsive and sensitive to climate... so waking up everyday to such naturally perfect weather feels like such a blessing. I just find myself saying, "Thank you, Jesus for the sun in the sky!" After 20 years of snow, ice, and shoveling the remnants of an April blizzard off of your car... there is much to be thankful for, living in the California Republic. <br /><br />I was so thrilled yesterday to open up my mailbox to find an autographed copy of Jenni Schaefer's new book, <span style="font-style:italic;">Goodbye Ed, Hello Me</span>! Jenni is the wonderful author of the book <span style="font-style:italic;">Life Without Ed</span>, a humorous, insightful, and down-to-earth personal story of one woman's 'break-up' and recovery from Ed: her eating disorder. Her lastest work, which I received in the mail is its companion. I read <span style="font-style:italic;">Life Without Ed</span> during my recovery, and have since recommended it out as a helpful tool to many young men and women as I travel and speak. I was lucky enough to read <span style="font-style:italic;">Goodbye Ed, Hello Me</span> pre-publication and offer a quote for the first page. I HIGHLY recommend both of these books for both individuals and families going through this battle. Jenni's writing is insightful and real; no lofty language, no 'doctor' talk, just raw human emotions, and humor as well. Everyone can relate to Jenni's story, and she is so honest! It's refreshing. Both books can be ordered from Gurze Books, or Amazon.com. Check it out!<br /><br />I was thrilled to finally be able to meet Jenni at the NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association) conference last year during my reign as Miss America! She has been and inspiration and a light to so many seeking recovery. I then got to know Jenni through emails, letters, and shared appearances around the eating disorders community, and we have become good friends. I can tell you though, I never would have DREAMED when I was reading her book at a very low point in my eating disorder recovery, that one day I would be happy, healthy, and friends with its author. Life can be STRANGE... but good! All good things here. I just wanted to share/introduce you to her and her work. Both <span style="font-style:italic;">Life Without Ed</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">Goodbye Ed, Hello Me</span> are excellent reads for anyone traveling the road to recovery. So go forth, and buy! (A good commercial, eh?)<br /><br />You know how tea just makes you happy? I made a wonderful discovery recently... I have a Teavana (an AMAZING tea store in the mall) within walking distance of my apartment here in LA! I spent probably a half an hour with a friend trying all kinds of teas and just getting weak at the knees because of their goodness! I ended up leaving, my hands wrapped tightly around a warm cup of a piping hot combination... Strawberry Kiwi and Peach Ginger Tea. Absolutely amazing! It tasted like velvet. I'm trying really hard to replace all the coffee in my diet with tea; more antioxidants, and less caffeine, which leaches calcium from your bones. So far, so good! <br /><br />As for real life...last evening I had the pleasure of auditing an Auditioning technique class I will be taking next month, taught by G Charles Wright, casting director for That 70's Show, and now Patricia Heaton's sitcom, The Middle. The best part about the class? If you do well, after your performance you get a cookie! :) Nice! Last night's were homemade, oatmeal, chocolate cherry chunk, with pecans. Delicious. Everyone in the class, including G, is extremely nice and talented, so I can't wait to learn a lot! After class ended, I finally watched Walk the Line (I had been meaning to see this movie for forever!) with some friends on a really comfy big white couch. I love couches. Especially the ones you just sink right into and the cushions come up all around you. I loved the couch so much it put me to sleep! I missed the last 25 minutes of Johnny and June Carter Cash's overly dramatic life story. I'm really an old lady at heart, I think that's why I always fall asleep so early! Luckily, my friends don't judge me for my heavy lids, and they let me borrow the film to finish it later. Hopefully I'll get to it today... if the myriad of other tasks don't take over what seems to be WAY too few hours in the day.<br /><br />Off to work! Hope you have a blessed day, and check out Jenni Schaefer's new book! I know you will be delighted.<br /><br />Love,<br />Kirsten<br /><br />"If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans."Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-28509363176225140952009-08-17T13:23:00.000-07:002009-08-17T13:29:01.661-07:00Come hear the battle behind the beauty.<a href="http://windycitycommunitychurch.org" target="_blank"><img src="http://i652.photobucket.com/albums/uu248/misskhaglund/MissAmerica_Postcard2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-53474284808164567732009-08-17T09:51:00.001-07:002009-08-17T09:52:05.464-07:00Ooops, forgot to mention...<a href="http://www.kirstenhaglund.org"></a><br /><br />The all-important DATE!!!! Kirsten's Birthday Fundraiser, September 16th, 2009. Mark your calendar! :)Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-67362625316836477612009-08-17T08:13:00.000-07:002009-08-17T11:42:42.023-07:00Beginnings...<a href="http://www.kirstenhaglund.org"></a><br /><br />Hello Everyone!<br /><br />I hope anyone and everyone who is reading this is having a blessed day. I'm beginning this blog in an effort to try to keep as many people as possible updated and informed on what the <a href="http://kirstenhaglund.org" target=blank>Kirsten Haglund Foundation</a> is doing, what is happening in the eating disorders community, news on upcoming events, and probably a whole lot of personal silliness that will give you a little bit of insight into who I am, and what's important to me. Enjoy! Thank you so much for taking the time to visit, and it is my hope that you'll be able to follow this blog, learn a lot, and be inspired.<br /><br />Just a little update... the board and myself are currently busy busy busy getting everything prepared for our first big event! The KHF is putting on its first fundraiser, only about 6 months after our 'birth'... a big undertaking, but we've got big dreams! :) The event is a wine-tasting, silent auction, and evening of food and entertainment at <a href="http://www.andiamoitalia.com/novi/index.html" target=blank>Andiamo</a> in Novi, Michigan. We're calling the night, "Alive to Celebrate" Kirsten Haglund, Miss America 2008's 21st Birthday Extravaganza! I feel lucky enough to have it be my big 21st Birthday Bash! What? I'll actually get to taste the wine at my Foundation's wine-tasting? Now... yes I will! But kidding aside, we're in the process of making up programs, finalizing the invite, and all of the other little details that go into making the event a success. Tickets will be $80.00, which is a tax deductible donation, and you can email misskhaglund@gmail.com to purchase, or for more information. You can also "friend" me or the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/The-Kirsten-Haglund-Foundation/117926083720?ref=ts" target=blank>Foundation on Facebook</a>, where we will be posting more detailed info as it comes out. Wish us luck! Got lots of planning left to do... I'm really excited though. A preview of our auction items... we have one of our board members who is an exceptional artist, Kathleen MacDonald, creating some original pieces for the event, as well as some tickets to Detroit Sports events, some Miss America signed memorabilia, and a whole bunch of other goodies. Can't wait to see you there! Seriously.<br /><br />Coming up after my birthday party (I love that!), I am doing an event in Los Angeles September 25th, in conjunction with the <a href="http://www.iaedp.com/" target=blank>International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals</a>, LA Chapter (IAEDP-LA)... In Venice, California, myself and acclaimed fashion/celebrity photographer Jeff Vespa, are presenting for a program entitled "Real Beauty, Real Body- Body Image and the Media." If you're in LA, you should come check it out! Email me for more info.<br /><br />Also in the works is a luncheon fundraiser for the Foundation out here closer to my home... in Calabasas, California, just north of Los Angeles. The eating disorders treatment facility <a href="http://www.laventanaeatingdisorder.com/" target=blank>La Ventana</a> has been gracious enough to help in our effort to raise money for treatment scholarships... they are hosting a community forum/luncheon, Friday October 2nd. I will be speaking, and we will also have silent auctions items, and KHF merchandise on sale. Jeff and Steve, my good friends at <a href="http://www.laventanaeatingdisorder.com/" target=blank>La Ventana</a> have been absolutely amazing and so generous with their time and talents in helping us out. The eating disorders community is filled with the most gracious, kind-hearted, genuine individuals. An example...<br /><br />I met the coolest guy, his name is Jeff Dooley, who works at an eating disorders clinic out here in Beverly Hills, at the Ben Franklin Institute's Summit Conference for Eating Disorders in Las Vegas earlier in June. We had a great chance to talk there, and both living and working in the Los Angeles area, have kept in touch. While discussing further how we can combine our efforts to fundraise/create awareness in Southern California, I learn that he also is a very talented writer! Wonderful person that he is, he knows I am getting my acting career off the ground, and he invited me to be the supporting lead in the short film that he was getting ready to produce; a work that had been two years in the making. Entitled Caroline and Randy, a quirky relationship dramedy with psychoanalytic perspective, we wrapped filming last Wednesday, and I had an incredible experience working on set, with Jeff and the other actors, and wonderful director Patrick J DonVito. Now, not only are we friends as advocates, but friends as artists. Like I said... individuals in the eating disorders community are some of the most giving people I've ever had the privilege to work with. <br /><br />So that's a little bit about what's going on in my world... Its a little cloudy here in So-Cal this morning... but it feels kind of refreshing to me. About to go to <a href="http://www.cardiobarre.com/" target=blank>Cardio Barre</a>; my favorite workout! It's a class that is only offered out here in LA, a mixture of aerobics/free-weights and ballet, but without the soul-crushing combination of a leotard and pink tights. :) I'll be back to update soon, in the meantime, check this out...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,539905,00.html" target=blank>Experts: Obsession With Healthy Eating Strains Relationships<br />FoxNews.com Article</a><br /><br />Truth, huh?<br /><br />Blessings,<br /><br />KirstenKirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8579093444276844789.post-37383016190939596232009-07-31T12:36:00.000-07:002009-07-31T12:39:38.361-07:00The Renfrew Center | Miss America BreakfastNBC 10 Philadelphia ran a segment during their newscasts about an empowering breakfast event, hosted by The Renfrew Center Foundation in Philadelphia. It brought together Renfrew's experts, Miss America 2008 Kirsten Haglund, and cheerleaders and dancers for Philadelphia's leading professional and college sports teams to discuss body image-related issues.<br /><br /><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" id="Redlasso" height="320" width="390"><param name="movie" value="http://media.redlasso.com/xdrive/WEB/vidplayer_1b/redlasso_player_b1b_deploy.swf"><param name="flashvars" value="embedId=ab99608a-ef1a-4071-a01a-0d9a3bd4f1c0"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://media.redlasso.com/xdrive/WEB/vidplayer_1b/redlasso_player_b1b_deploy.swf" flashvars="embedId=ab99608a-ef1a-4071-a01a-0d9a3bd4f1c0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" name="Redlasso" height="320" width="390"></embed></object>Kirsten Haglundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08547542070349891618noreply@blogger.com0