* Grand Prize Winner
I exemplify your mission! Glance at my resume. You will notice that I'm a long-time performer. You will also notice that I co-founded the Alliance to Fight Eating Disorders, for which I was a public speaker and self-help group leader. I struggled with anorexia and bulimia from age 15-20. It seems so long ago, yet in this business, I often remember why........... My whole life I have been a performer. I sang and acted at every chance! In high school, I ventured into the world of modeling........ and learned that to succeed, I had to be something I could never be! The emphasis on "the look" was overpowering, and it took hold. I almost became a statistic, but I survived. Part of what helped me was my determination to help others with eating disorders, and prevent as many people as possible from developing them. I no longer struggle with the eating disorder, but I do know the frustration of facing an impossible standard of beauty. One of my goals is to encourage all women to believe in their beauty. If I can do this, so can others! We can change the face (and height) of fashion! Believe it. I do.
Erin Muir
Minnesota

* Our Five Perfectly Petite, "Picks of the Year" are as listed below.......

"I would make the "perfect" Perfectly Petite Model of 2004 because I know that powerful things come in petite packages. My many years of Martial Arts training taught me how to be confident, patient, full of self esteem and self respect. These qualities truly come in handy when it comes to modeling. I hold my head high and feel no shame in being 5'2. God gave all people the ability to change things for the better. I want to prove to people that petites have what it takes to become supermodels, if thats what they want. I crave to send out a message through my modeling to all other petites that we can do it, if we put our heart in it! Petite individuals, like myself, are the most incredible and determined people I know! I was number one on my high school golf team for 3 years, I placed 4th out of 97 girls in the whole league. I have been in Tae Kwon Do since 1995, breaking boards and sparring men beyond 6'0. I flew higher than a kite in cheerleading when I was tossed. I love who I am, and people telling me I can't model because of my height, make me laugh. You will see.... yes it's true, heads turn to see this girl who stands proud at 5'2.
Heather Montanez
California

I would make the "perfect" Perfectly Petite Model of 2004 because I am beautiful (and petite, of course). What makes me beautiful? Beautiful can be defined by how you present yourself to others. It is exuding self confidence without arrogance, it is about projecting a positive force around you that envelopes others, it is your inner strength propelling you to make your dreams come true. The reward is making a difference in someone else's life. I'm a full time occupational therapist in Florida which boasts a significant geriatric population. In almost 3 years of practice, my patients have taught me a very important lesson. It's essential that you keep a positive attitude, despite the obstacles in your life. Being around such people, I could not help but emulate such a contagious attitude. Most of my patients remember me, not for what compensatory techniques I taught them, but for my enthusiasm and my bright smile. What better avenue to use my smile than by being a model?! I love being around people and making them feel beautiful too, and I'm ready to share my trademark smile to the world!
Kathy Greene
Florida

"I would make the "perfect" Perfectly Petite Model of 2004 because growing up I had to accept the fact that I'm unique and exceptional. I always allow myself to rise above any obstacles that come my way. Knowing how to make it in an industry that demands all of you, but always understanding the importance of giving to myself, and that is when my success follows. Holding strong to values that molded me into a pillar of strength. Becoming a role model, and yet still having my personal home, that only allows for my routine. I always enjoy what I do, knowing that when I do, I will succeed. Remembering to do unto others what I want done unto me, gives me the privilege of fitting like a glove to my community. Realizing that I am a higher kind and nature. Because of that, I am of great value and excellence, but never forgetting my roots.
Soraya Sims
California

("Model Interpretations," according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary); 1) a structural design, 2) A usually miniature representation of something, 3) a pattern of something to be made, 4) an example for imitation or emulation, 5) one who poses for an artist, 6) one who is employed to display clothes or other merchandise, 7) a description or analogy used to help visualize something that cannot be directly observed. Each of these descriptions represents something that comes to mind when the word "model" is heard. For a child, a model is usually a small version of his favorite vehicle or airplane. To a car or computer enthusiasts, a model is the latest edition of a manufacturer. To most people in our society today, a model is an icon, an image that represents something. This can often be stereotyped as a lanky, serious person who can strut down a catwalk or lounge in swimsuits for a magazine. To me, a model sets an example for others, not necessarily only through appearance. Success, motivation and poise are all traits that should be possessed and demonstrated by a model. On a deeper level, sense of humor, kindness and generosity should also be displayed. In today's world, there are plenty of reasons for young girls to doubt themselves. They should be able to see that no matter what their body type or hair color, they can be whatever they wish to be. Models, by definition, represent this to them. I believe I would be able to play a part in changing this. I'm not a stereotypical model in appearance. I have always been the shortest girl in the class or on the team. I grew to embrace this, and I would encourage others to embrace it as well. I would make the "perfect" Perfectly Petite Model of 2004 because I would demonstrate that success comes in all shapes and forms.
Kristin Pettit Cicala
Tennesee

"I would make the "perfect" Perfectly Petite Model of 2004 because I'm a dreamer who projects enthusiasm and emotion into every reality; "Dreams are among the triggering factors which move humans and their socities."(Shepard & Ragan1982) The possibility of promoting fashion for Perfectly Petite would fulfill my dream of representing smaller framed women within the melting pot of our fashion world. I'm petite and I love to accomplish goals on a grand scale. As a master's level educator, I have already accomplished my goal of being a creative role model for impressionable young minds. My goal is to impress on all women a phrase my father taught me, "Pretty is as pretty does," No matter how beautiful one appears on the outside, true beauty always begins on the inside. By reflecting a positive attitude and taking care of myself through proper diet and exercise, I always want to look and feel my absolute best! I'm following my dreams in the body God gave me, hoping to pass inspiration to others. It's never too late to start taking care of yourself, or to follow your dreams!
Stephani Tell
Pennsylvania