Cook'n It up with Collins'

Update...Enjoy

2009-06-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

So what the heck have I been doing? Well its small town and I think most of you know so lets check out the fun stuff I have been up to!

First - Claire...her hair is getting so long and she loves to have it braided. It is long enough now to braid down both sides. She is so darn cute!

Evansville - So what the heck do I do in Evansville? I love to go down there and stay with Brita and boat or go to the river all weekend long. It is so much fun and we are definatley making up for the past 3 years of our lives we have missed! I love you Brita!

This was the view out the boat on the way to Kentucky lake. Yes we boated 10 hrs both ways from MT. Vernon, IN to KY LAKE! It was awesome! We were way burnt.

Then Casey came for a couple days! That was fun. Went fishing and spent a lot of time together. Casey is my brother by the way...he lives in Dallas.

Brother Casey holding up fish I caught. He came in from Texas to watch my lil brother Bill graduate H.S. IN effingham, it was sad to see the last one go!

My big blue gill fish I caught with my brother Casey, he was jealous!

Claire loves pudding cups now! Too bad she looks like she has billy bob teeth.

Claire going down the big girl slide at the strawberry fest. She is geting so big...

This is really all I have for now but stay tunned. I am sure I will think of more stuff to cue you in on....by the way, head over to Stephanie Roots blog if you haven't scoped it out yet. She is coming home!!!! AH YEAH~

GARAGE SALE

2009-05-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

I will be having a garage sale at my new house on Van Buren St. 504! Right across from the old Garden Restaurant...we will have

LONGABERGER - Lots

MATERNITY CLOTHES - I bought all mine new and I am selling all of them!

Dress clothes...suites, jackets, etc

Claire's clothes

Tons of house nick nacks!

Stroller Set - NICE!

All kinds of stuff so stop by and look around!

Finally

2009-05-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

Claire finally slept through the night in her new big girl bed all night...had to take a pic to remind me that she really can!

2009-05-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

I did a real bad job putting Claire in dresses last year so I am trying to do better this year...here is the first start

Mother's day

2009-05-11T10:31:00.000-07:00

My team at work is the greatest most thoughtful team ever! They suprised me with a pot of flowers and a signed note from all of them!!! They are great~!
It says...Happy Friday, Happy Mother's Day, Happy your on our team...how thoughtful

Trailer

2009-05-11T10:21:00.000-07:00

Check out this trailer! Holy cow...I would so live here!

Courtesy of MSN.com
The basic I-House is 992 square feet, though the design's blend of indoor and outdoor space makes it seem bigger. Though final prices haven't been set, Clayton hopes to deliver it for about $100,000. But the "core" unit can be expanded by adding additional rooms in different configurations to suit the buyer's needs and the character of the lot — placing rooms above one another to accommodate, for example, a hillside. Clayton Vice President Chris Nicely says the goal is to allow as much customization — both in configuration and interiors — as possible. It can be set on a traditional foundation, for example, or it can sit on piers driven into the ground.

They hope to sell to the general public in the next couple months...I am going to put one in my parents front yard.

What a weekend

2009-05-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun Saturday night with Nagem, Brita, Samee Jo and Josh...not so much fun sunday :)

Anywho... here is a pic of the start of the night...

PCLUB WINNER

2009-05-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

Here is my long awaited trophy for winning Presiden't Club which is being one of the top 2 reps in my region/division

HELLO NASHVILLE

2009-05-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

So we went to Nashville last weekend to have a get away and watch Brita, Blairla, and Papa Bruce run a marathon. It was a great weekend and Claire and I had a ball at OPRY land! Anywho...keep the family in your thoughts that one member of a family (not anyone from Jasper County) didn't survive the race due to a medical condition...no details have been released on this yet.

Claire at the fish tank...too cute!Sting Ray's...wonder if they are related to my brother ray?
Build a bear Nashville style!

Here we go round the ...carousel, notice the fish jumping in the background

Get me outta hear!

MORE!

Spring Cleaning

2009-04-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

I have a bunch of Longaberger for sale...send me your email address and I can send you the list. It is pretty cheap!!!

Let me know...pass this along!

Claire First Hair Cut

2009-04-24T08:13:00.000-07:00

Claire had her first haircut yesterday...don't freak out because it was just a trim!!!! Here are the pics...it was fun and hilarious!

What a beautiful day

2009-04-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I picked up Claire and decided to take her to the park! She loved it. We got up to the top and I made her ride on my lap on the big slide...I was scared S*%$less. I told her no more so she went without me! HAH! She was sliding around like no ones business!

Just noticed as I was typing this...her hair is in her face in all of these...I ponytailed her up today though! Sorry Claire Bear
I didn't like this one...Claire didn't need me though!

She kept getting this crap in her shoes.

Look at me!

Kitchen update

2009-04-23T06:41:00.000-07:00

You can't see the plaster effect until you look closely but it is a huge change and I LOVE IT...you have to pretend that the tape is off and the trim is up....blah blah blah...but here ya go!

Kitchen update

2009-04-21T07:25:00.000-07:00

SO we decided to try out the "old world plaster" witch if you have ever been in Joe's in Newton, it is kindda like their walls. It didn't go so well...the directions never said don't try this when it is humid and the paint might not be completely dry...oops. It looks terrible so we are going to wait until the section that we did (2x2) drys all the way and start over with the plaster. If anyone has any suggestions on how to make the process easier, by all means let me know. Here are a few pics of the wall before painting...I wouldn't dare show you it now though until it gets fixed.

Claire napping!

2009-04-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

Mom said to put her head in a pillow so she doesn't have bobble head! She looked more uncomfortable I think!

this weekend

2009-04-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

Went fishing with my mom and Claire...didn't catch nothing...mom caught a big ole bass though.

Claire had to show off what she found!

This morning

2009-04-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

I received a picture message first thing this morning and I though who the heck is texting me already!!! It was baby Drake! This is what it showed.

Have a good day aunt cook! Love Drake!

I love this little guy!!!! thanks Drake for making my day!!!!

Dominoes Anyone?

2009-04-15T08:07:00.001-07:00

Jill, I think you wanted to try one of their sanwiches...watch this video and let me know when you want me to pick you up one?

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/30225758#30225758

Guess what today is?

2009-04-15T08:00:00.001-07:00

These cartoons appeared on MSNBC today!!! FUNNY

Wierd News...

2009-04-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

I love this section of MSN...this is hilarious....well not funny he was hurt...but seriously?
Man with flatulence problem gets stabbed
He was eating with a friend in a motel room when he was injured

WACO, Texas - A man was stabbed after causing a stink — literally — in a motel room while eating with a friend, police said.
Five men from the Houston area were sharing a Waco motel room Tuesday night, and two were inside the room eating when one had a flatulence problem, Waco police Officer Steve Anderson said. One man was so upset about the gas that he threw a large knife at him, cutting his leg, and then stabbed him in the chest, Anderson said.
The 35-year-old man was transported to a Waco hospital, where he was treated for what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries, Anderson said.Jose Braule Ramirez, 33, of Houston, was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, police said. He was arraigned Wednesday and was being held in the McLennan County Jail on $15,000 bond and placed on an immigration hold, according to jail records. He cannot be released, even if he posts bond, until authorities verify he is in the country legally.
A jail spokeswoman who declined to give her name said she was not allowed to release information on whether Ramirez had an attorney

Kitchen

2009-04-15T07:45:00.000-07:00

I have decided to do some remodeling in our house and the first project was to get that yucky wall paper off the accent wall. If you have seen my kitchen table, it is a special handcrafted table and benched made by Chris's gpa. It is beatiful and it deserves to have the rest of the kitchen to match it. THis is the start of the wall...if you have any ideas on what to do with the rest of the walls, let me know...I need all the ideas and suggestions I can get!

Have you heard?

2009-04-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

A few issues that amaze me....

1.) Sexting...the big hype right now...whatever. You control what you send...here are the 7 rules according to fox news....these are hilarious!!!!

1. Timing is everything. While it can be tempting to respond right away, being overly eager can be a turn off. This is especially true for those just getting to know each other. Rein in your enthusiasm from time to time, using time as a tease in responding to certain TMs. This makes you appear laid back and easy-going. This increases the perception that you’re fun to hang out with, and more...
2. Texting has a curfew. Unless you’ve got a 24-7 passion policy for booty calls, most people are not going to be keen on TMs after a certain hour. Know that if you TM somebody after 10 p.m., it’s considered a late-night booty call.
3. Don’t beat around the bush. TMs can be easily misunderstood. People like them for the fact they’re succinct and direct. You want to flirt, and with that hint. Just don’t be cryptic. These are supposed to be time-saving titillations.
4. Don't drink and text. Getting drunk equals getting stupid. And while it can be funny, it’s not so sexy. So stick with sober messages.
5. Avoid breaking major news via text. Texting should not involve first professions of love, marriage proposals or the breaking of bad news. For example, would you want to receive the message “Have herpes. Sux. U should get checked 2” on your cell phone?
And while new love interests may handle rejection better via text, do not dump somebody you’ve been involved with for weeks, months, or years via SMS. That’s just cold.
6. Discretion is the best option. If you’re sexting more than one person, do not leave your phone out while on a date. Do not check your phone in front of a date. Turn off your phone if you find yourself having a “sleepover.”
7. Proofread. Any TMs involving sexual encounters, especially those complemented by racy pictures, need to be double-checked. Is it being sent to the intended receiver?

How about this one....Taxing Prostitition!!!! WTH....how can you tax something that is not legal...so do we tax the sales of marijuana? HAH

Thats all for now.

New Do

2009-04-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

For those of you who haven't seen me lately...went to Jackie Judy at my mom's and told her to spice me up a bit...here is how it turned out.

Movie Review

2009-04-06T13:41:00.000-07:00

Pretty boring weekend. Took claire and my niece Kaitly to an Easter Egg hunt on Saturday! It was beautiful outside. Claire won a ton of candy and Kaitlyn won a 50.00 savings bond so it was definately worth going! Watched a few movies this weekend...here is my review.

Changeling - Angeline Jolie
Great movie, the picture quality was amazing! great acting...I gave it a 2 thumbs up!!!!
The book was wayyyyy better! The movie had bad acting, terrible graphics, and left out so many good parts that the book picked up on. I hope New Moon is better!

This movie has to be the most emotional movie I have ever watched. The aching in my stomach at the end of this movie almost made me vomit. Holy Cow. I have never had the same emotions before that I construed throughout this movie.

Adam Sandler - Bedtime stories -

Cute...very unrealistic though. Could have put more into the stories but overall I gave it a 2 thimbs up. I enjoyed it!

So much to catch up on

2009-03-31T06:36:00.001-07:00

I have been out of it for a while so much to catch up on so here we go...

Newest obsession (thanks Steph) TWILIGHT...

Never thought I would get into this but I won the book and dvd here at work and started the first book Sunday. Holy cow is it addicting. Jill and Steph, I completely understand now. I love it...I am to the part where she figures out he is a Vampire! I can't wait to see what happens next. I have a ways to go though!

This weekend - went to STL to Lumiere place (newest casino there) and tore it up! Made 550 off 40 bucks! YAHOO!!! This place was amazing. Reminded me of VEGAS...it was the same style and everything. Went to the ADMIRAL...yuck. What a run down hole in the wall! I couldn't believe the amount of people in there! Sunday went to the AMERISTAR~! Loved it too. Stayed at the HYATT and paid 40bucks for the most beautiful room ever! It was great. The weather sucked but the money we won made up for it.

Claire - Is doing so good going to the potty. She has gone #2 several times! Right now she is dealing with "night terrors"? Never heard of these but she wakes up in the middle of the night and screams bloody murder but is not awake. She will sit up in bed and scream until we wake her up, then she goes right back to sleep.

BTW...her pics are online @ Melissa's sight... http://www.grinsandgiggles.smugmug.com/ they are adorable!

Diet - I am down 8 lbs...I started a contest here at work that I have to loose 2lbs a week for 4 weeks or I don't get my money back that I paid in - YIKES - better buckle down. I have spin class twice this week so that will help!

Landscaping is going great!!! I planted all our stuff inside first in those little "in home" greenhouses. For all of you who kill plants like I do...this is the bomb!!! You start your seed in this little tray and you let them grow for a couple weeks then plant outside. We have so many sprouts already...Even watermelons (these are for JILL M)...and I planted some cucumber lemons (these are for Zoey) I will try to get a pick of them online soon

FREE FREE FREE

2009-03-19T07:17:00.001-07:00

Has anyone visited my favorite website lately. Probably not because I haven't told anyone but it is time...I LOVE THIS SITE!!!! Any coupons that are out, or discounts, or anything...will be on here. Right now you can get FREE ARBY"S sandwiches, 15.00 gift card to Papa John...and the best part is people comment on how to do it and if there was any hidden fees or anything. So I check this daily to see what is new!!! Check it out for yourself

www.spoofee.com

I LOVE THIS!

Thanks Lisa

2009-03-16T16:53:00.003-07:00

Thanks Lisa for mentioning the blog and getting your Free Tan!!!

Whose next? Bingo starts up there monday to win free tanning!

HOT MAMA

2009-03-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, so mom and I spent all day yesterday changing bulbs in the new pink beds...hot mama. I went 10 minutes and I felt like I spent a day at the beach. It was awesome though, the glow of the pink and Mango tan lotion. All I needed was a Miami Vice (Dora and Jill!!) and I would have been in heaven!

Retraction

2009-03-12T13:33:00.001-07:00

Kelly Clarkson's performance last night has been gratley raved about. (Type it in on google and see what you get) The hype is...is she prego? Because her appearance is much more different than before. If anyone took offense to the weight gain I pointed out to Kelly that I posted previously, I apologize...I guess I should have worded that different.

FROM BABBLE.COM
Kelly Clarkson performed on last night's American Idol, and while she sounded great it wasn't her voice that's got everyone talking. The internet was buzzing with rumors that the singer is pregnant, pointing out her weight gain and what appeared to be a baby bump. Clarkson performed, "My Life Would Suck Without You," and I'm sure tongues were wagging that she was singing the song to her unborn child. Of course, Clarkson has been widely quoted lately as saying she has "no desire" to have children and that she "would not be a good mother." But haven't we heard that from celebrities before, and the next thing you know they're picking out cribs at Petit Trésor? Check out this video of Clarkson's performance last night, and see if you think she's got a bun in the oven:

Anywho...if you want to see her performance...visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?

Again, I was just commenting on her before and after

VOTE FOR BRITA

2009-03-11T08:11:00.001-07:00

I received this email from Brittany today!!! Please vote for her!!!

Hey,
I need a favor. I entered a holy jean contest to win chute tickets and a back stage tour at the PBR event that is here in Evansville next Friday, and I made it in the top 4! But now, I need all of you to vote for me so that I can actually win the tickets. Eric is going to bull riding class in 4 weeks, and it would be awesome if I could win this for him so he can see what its like behind the scenes.
And in case you can't tell which one is me, I'm the fourth one down:
http://wkdq.com/Contests/ShowUsYourHoles/tabid/9669/Default.aspx
YEE HAW!
Thanks,
Brita
PS - My jeans are actually worn in that way. I didn't buy them like that or cut them up like the other contestants.

Free Tanning!

2009-03-11T07:41:00.000-07:00

Anyone who wants to tan for free (once of course) can go see my mom and tell her you saw her pink bulbs on her blog and she will let you have a free tan!!!! Then you can be lobsterfied like me...but it wasn't those bulbs that did it!!!
www.bodystylesforwomen.blogspot.com

Body Styles

2009-03-11T07:19:00.000-07:00

My mom owns the gym up town and I think everyone is catching on to the food bank that is bringing food up there for super cheap. She receives anything from bread, to lettuce, to bagels, etc. Anyone who has been up there know how nice it is especially in times like this. She gets new every monday...she has a blog that we keep updated with the food, check it out. There is a link on my page as well! Go visit her blog...pretty please!

www.bodystylesforwomen.blogspot.com

Sunburn

2009-03-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

So I think the tanning business industry is picking up dramatically right now. Everyone wants a tan for the capris they are about to bust out. So I am a faithful tanner and for all of you who know me I rarely burn. Yesterday I went to the tanning bed...and got lobsterfied. I have been tanning for over a week and did nothing different that I normally do (and no they are not new bulbs) I am miserable. I am so red and I have taken tylenol and motrin faithfully every 4 hours and its not better...does anyone have any ideas?No this is not me! LOL

Updates

2009-03-06T11:19:00.001-08:00

Here some randoms of Claire bday and other pics...

Rainbow Bridge

2009-03-06T07:06:00.000-08:00

As some of you have already heard, we have had no choice but to put our English Bulldog Kaitly "Hog" down. It was a very sad week in the Collins house but she is now at rest in her grave between 2 beautiful shade trees buried with her Harley collar that she loved and wore so well and her toys. I loved her so much and she will be missed by all!!! A good friend of mine sent me a letter about Rainbow Bridge. I am so in love with this that we are having a hard copy made and put on her burial site. Enjoy!

Pray for Kaitlyn

2009-02-24T14:14:00.000-08:00

My doggie - my Purebred English bulldog - was violently attacked by the neighbors dog. It is tragic and this dog is part of our family! To sum up her injuries, her back is broke and her ear canal has been destroyed. I have pictures of her but they are so graphic i have decided not to post. Keep her in your thoughts. She is still in Doggie ICU at Walt and Harmon in effingham. I cannot imagine what our bill is going to look like. OMG! I may have to sell my house! O well.

This pic is Monday while still on anesthesia

This was today!

Missing Girl in Florida

2009-02-20T07:11:00.001-08:00

Okay, so all of you who followed the Caylee Anothony case...now we have another missing girl who by coincindence name is Haleigh Cummings...I just think it is all too much the same...so where is the girl...the full story on the link below.
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/29143439/

Happy Bday Claire

2009-02-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

I decided to celebrate Claire's bday with the blogging world by reminising (sp?) her last 2 years...enjoy.

Claire - Happy Birthday!

2009-02-19T12:19:00.000-08:00

Busy DAY!!!

2009-02-19T08:54:00.000-08:00

My day has been so busy...here is a look at my beautiful desk!!!!

Claire's Cupcakes

2009-02-10T10:55:00.000-08:00

Claire and I decided to make Cupcakes for her birthday. I let her decorate them herself! It was a lot of fun.

Claire

2009-02-09T18:48:00.001-08:00

Sarah D...

I took your advice and here are the jammies I went and picked up yesterday at wal-mart. So far she has kept them on...we will see how the night goes

Claire with her Valentine Twizzler mmm in her new jammies
No idea mommy taking my picture

MMM TWIZZLER

Making cupcakes...

We made birthday cupcakes last night. It was so much fun!

Emergency Room Visit!

2009-02-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

Last night Claire and I were playing in the living room and all of a sudden she started screaming that her wrist hurt, so I stopped and got her some ice to take care of it and she persisted with the screaming. I thought it would stop and it didn't. She kept going and going and going and Chris had to leave for work so I had no help from him. Finally I called the inlaws and they came over and she really went to screaming! She was holding her arm and everything else! It was a terrible feeling thinking that I broke her wrist.

SOOO we get to the ER and she is still holding her arm and the whole bit! They said they were going to take xrays and of course questioning me the whole time...what happened and the hole bit! I felt like I was being put through the system! I though for sure a counselor or something was going to be coming in and taking my kid away! So anyway, we get ready to go for xray and all of a sudden Claire puts her arms up on the air and we looked at her a little puzzled. I asked her if her arm still hurt and she said NOOOO. I was so embarressed...mortified...whatever it is you call it.

What a drama queen. I think she might of hurt it but definatley put on a show. I felt humiliated and couldn't believe she carried on this behavior for over 4 hours. WOW. What an actress!!! She could definatley won an award for the performance! I was impressed! So they decided that she did have an ear infection though! And to top it all off, I missed the grammies...if anyone recorded it and wants to loan it to me that would be amazing!

So we go in the e.r. with what we thught was a broken wrist and we walk out with an ear infections and amoxicillin! UNBELIEVABLE!

But...better safe than sorry because when do you know if a 2year old really is hurt or not.

BRRRR - Could use some help here!

2009-02-06T07:37:00.000-08:00

So every night I put Claire to bed with her blankey and baby. She now has decided that she doesn't want to use her blankey but to hold. If you try to cover her up she yells...NO DON"T LIKE IT! So I let her go to sleep and sneak in later to cover her up...by morning...blanket gone and she is curled up in a little ball in the corner of her crib...shivering! Her feet are blue (because she takes her socks off in the middle of the night) and her legs are ice cold, because now she is potty training and she takes her pants and diaper off in the middle of the night because she doesn't want to wear one! So I thought I would be sneaky and put her in a long sleeve onesie last night, that worked...it was still on this morning when I snuck in there to cover her up again, but no blanket, socks, or pants. So now, (which I am sure it is from her being cold) she has a real bad cold!!! GOSH! What do I do to keep her warm at night, her clothes on...and whatever else! GRRRR She is so smart!

To show how smart she is, last night she went and picked up daddy's back of tootsie rolls and I told Chris to take it from her before she got a belly ache, so he did and I look over and the little shit had hid a handful under her butt because she knew he was going to take the bag! Where does she come up with this stuff?

So now we are potty training and she doesn't want to wear a diaper (but we are not far enough along for that) and she doesn't want to wear panties because the rub her thighs (welcome to the world of a woman Claire...my underwear rubs mine too!!!) so last night she goes streaking through the house with her shirt, no undies ....but she does have pants but they are pulled down just a little bit so all you see is her lil butt as she runs by...I swear she goes potty 25 times of an evening!

She is getting to the point where I think she is starting to get bored. She doesn't want to read a book, or color, or play with her kitchen, she hates tv (why I don't know because I love my shows and I thought she would too :) so I think she just needs to go outside and run but it is freezing and a mess. She doesn't want to listen at all and thinks that she is 10ft tall and bullet proof and pretty much tells me how it is...it just seems easier to give in to her everyneed other than to argue.

I guess this is the toddler phase or terrible 2's or whatever you want to call it. If you have any words of incouragement - ideas- suggestions - free babysitting :) let me know!

Jessica

FREE TO GOOD HOME

2009-02-04T13:36:00.000-08:00

We have a puppy and his name is Heuy. He is sooo cute but I cannot handle the stress of a toddler and 2 dogs. Please, if anyone is interested...he is yours.

He is house broke!

He is cocker/beagle mix.

This is his baby pic...he is a little bigger but not much~

Potty Training

2009-02-04T13:28:00.000-08:00

Claire brought Chris and I her little potty on Sunday and Chris said "what the hell is she doing with that in here?" I said "I don't know, I'll take it in the other room" I grabbed it from her and it was full of pee. So I told Chris...I think she is ready.

She wanted to sit in the living room on the potty and I really didn't care...so!

Now she is wearing panties of an evening and has only had one acciddent since Sunday night...
Next will be pullups through the night and panties at babysitter!

Notice one shoe on and one off! LOL

catching up

2009-02-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in a while becuase I have been so busy trying to get caught up from my Grandmother's funeral and no vehicle and bla bla bla...

Anyway, last weekend, we started our Friday night voyage to Champaign to the assembly hall to see WWE and ECW! It was awesome! I loved every bit of it. (Even without Cena) I got to see some of my favs...Kofi Kingston! (He is my fav!) Ray Misterio, Kane, CM Punk, and some oldies....Tommy Dreamer...HBK Shawn Michaels...and more! I loved it, you weren't allowed to take pics in there but I snagged on when noone was looking...its not a good one, but you get the feel for how close we were!

Then Saturday night I went with Chris to the Ameren Christmas Party (yes...in January). It was at Stone's throw. It was alright, a little boring because I don't know very many people but the food was good and the drinks were smooth :)

Then Sunday we watched the Super Bowl and ate some snacks, I felt like it flew by! In 2 weeks we have Claire's bday party...her 2nd HOLY CRAP!

This is Hilarious

2009-01-29T12:19:00.000-08:00

101 Ways to annoy people...here are my top 25...I will send more tomorrow. If you think of one that is not on here, leave it with me and I will post tomorrow! Jamie...if you read this...I hope it helps your bad mood because it helped mine!!!LOL

1. Sing the Batman theme incessantly.
2. In the memo field of all your checks, write "for sensual massage.
3. Specify that your drive-through order is "to go."
4. Learn Morse code, and have conversations with friends in public consisting entirely of "Beeeep Bip Bip Beeep Bip..."

5. Speak only in a "robot" voice.
6. Start each meal by conspicuously licking all your food, and announce that this is so no one will "swipe your grub".
7. Leave the copy machine set to reduce 200%, extra dark, 17 inch paper, 98 copies.
8. Stomp on little plastic ketchup packets.

9. Sniffle incessantly.
10. Leave your turn signal on for fifty miles.
11. Name your dog "Dog.

12. Insist on keeping your car windshield wipers running in all weather conditions "to keep them tuned up."
13. Reply to everything someone says with "that's what YOU think."
14. Claim that you must always wear a bicycle helmet as part of your "astronaut training."
15. Forget the punchline to a long joke, but assure the listener it was a "real hoot."
16. Follow a few paces behind someone, spraying everything they touch with Lysol.
17. Practice making fax and modem noises.
18. Highlight irrelevant information in scientific papers and "cc:" them to your boss.
19. Make beeping noises when a large person backs up.

20. Invent nonsense computer jargon in conversations, and see if people play along to avoid the appearance of ignorance. Erect an elaborate network of ropes in your backyard, and tell the neighbors you are a "spider person."

WWE

2009-01-27T11:36:00.000-08:00

We are going to Champaign for to see WWE live on Friday, just got an email and guess who won't be there...John Cena!!!! GRRRRR
What is the point in going now? If anyone can explain why he won't be there I would appreciate it!

Thanks!

Trip to Florida

2009-01-26T12:23:00.001-08:00

Here are a few pics from the voyage to Florida and back. Just wanted to thank everyone for the calls and thoughts! Keep praying because my GPA has a lot to learn and so does everyone else!

Since it was 70 degrees thought I would introduce Claire to the world of Gelatto...MMM Watermelon
Auntie Cheryl introduced me to the life of ring pops! She used it as a binky...how funny.

My poor face with rash...dunno what caused this.

Edible Arrangement!!!MMMMMM

Zoey telling me she missed and loved me!!!! AWE!

Arrangements

2009-01-22T17:28:00.000-08:00

The funeral for Faith Marie South will be Saturday from at 12:00 with a visitation starting at 10:00 at Heritage Garden Funeral Home in Niceville, Florida

Thank you for all your prayers, thoughts and kind words

Jessica

I'll Miss You Grandma!

2009-01-22T05:20:00.000-08:00

Grandma Faith took her last breath this morning at 6:15. It was the most releaving moment anyone could ask for. She was so tramatized and it was time for her to make her tranisition with the Lord. The nurse last night asked me to take my grandpa home for some rest because she thought that he was the one holding her spirit there. She told me in confidence that she would pass when he leaves...and she did. I got the call this morning and brought my Grandpa back to the hospital. Please pray for my mom, she is trying to be so strong and she needs to break down!!!! She wouldn't even come to the hospital because she didn't want to see her mom that way. I didn't make or pressure her so keep her in your thoughts and pray that she can have mourning that she needs and be comfortable with it. As the oldest child I think that it is very hard for her! I will post arrangements later and let you know. Until then,

GOD Bless
Jessica Collins

Update on me - We need prayers!

2009-01-21T15:53:00.000-08:00

For all of you who have or haven't heard, my Grandmother, Faith South, which would be my mother's mom...Monday morning had an anurism (sorry don't know how to spell) in her head that pushed her brain over to the left side of her head and disconnected her brain stem. The damage is terminal. She is only 71 years old. Chris, Claire and myself flew down here to be with my family during her last few days. So we have shut off her lifesupport and it is only a matter of time. She is on morphine to help with the pain. My grandfather is not handleing the situation well at all and neither is my mother. She is trying to be as strong as she can but it is hard to see your mother/grandmother lying there waiting to tranisition on with the Lord. So as of right now, her bloood pressure has dropped from 188/95 to 121/60 and her kidneys are shut down. The doctor said it is only a matter of moments and should happen this evening or morning. They said that they could do surgery to relieve some pressure and she would live but in a vegitative state. SHe did not want that per her living will so no surgery. If anyone out there reading this has any explanation for why this happened or any miracle that they can try out that may save her life, let me know. If anyone knows what will happen next let me know. I feel lost and I haven't the words to explain how I feel. I cannot believe that she was so healthy and all of a sudden, she is terminal. WTF? I feel like to whole situation is nothing but an unanswered disaster! So Please pray for my family, if you wish to pray for a miracle or her to transition on with the Lord or my mother or whatever...just pray! He is listening, sometimes he just doesn't respond the way we want... I will post more later...

Jessica Collins

Cedar Rapids

2009-01-16T19:48:00.001-08:00

Chris, Claire and I decided to travel from cold to colder. We are in Cedar Rapids this weekend with our BFF"s Eric and Stephanie Root for the weekend. On the way here we watched our temp gauge in the car keep dropping and the snow, holy cow. There has to be at least 15 inches on the ground. So I will not be around to blog this weekend but will catch everyone up on our trip when I get home.

Samee should be home by now and she does have pics of Drake on her facebook page.

Jess

22-Year-Old Sells Virginity Online -- and Feds Can't Do a Thing to Stop Her

2009-01-15T14:19:00.000-08:00

WOW!!! Unbelievable. If i would have only known...

A 22-year-old woman is selling her virginity online — offering her body to bidders nationwide in an auction that reportedly has netted a $3.7 million offer — and the law isn't doing a thing to stop her.

Here is the link

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,480037,00.html

Obama Family moving in

2009-01-15T12:11:00.000-08:00

The Today show this morning was all about the Obama's getting ready to move in. They had an interior decorator taking control. Out of all the theme's to choose, they go for the Hollywood Theme? HUH? I am pretty sure that would not be my first choice. The decorator said he would start on the children's rooms first. I would have a hay day with that. Do you know how much the president is alloted to redecorate! Holy Cow Bat man. I could by a big ole house for the amount they spend to remodel. So below are a few ideas I had for them to remodel with!

I could cook here. I love the layout!

Pottery Barn! Very delicate.

OHHH LALA!!! This is where the magic would happen!

Very nice, not sure where to go #2 but it is nice.

Love the play room! Very bright

Austin Powers would love to come and visit!

Study...the planet maybe!

I thought I did a great job and I think the Obama's would be proud and take my designs into consideration. If you think of something I may need to add or that you would let me know!

Drake Ryan Herdes

2009-01-15T07:40:00.001-08:00

7lbs 3 oz...19.5 inches long. Congratulations Samee and Dustin!

Samantha (Cummins) Herdes

2009-01-14T12:15:00.000-08:00

She is at a 5 and was just introduced to the wonderful world of Epidural!

American IDOL

2009-01-14T07:03:00.000-08:00

Will this be our next American Idol...I doubt it! She sure had Simon and Randy on her side but she got Paula in a frenzie when she decided to battle Kara!! I thought it was hilarious...
11 out of the18 that showed auditioning last night received a ticket to Hollywood....will this season be different?

Biggest loser review

2009-01-14T06:54:00.001-08:00

Last night was extrememly dramatic...what can I say, it had to of been the hardest decision ever! The 2 people who needed to stay the most were below the yellow line. So unfortunatley we said goodbye to the white team. I know the point is to work hard as a team and from home but I do believe he has worked harder than anyone on the show and Stella didn't even get a chance. Then Joelle has the oppertunity to be the laziest one and she gets to stay!!!! I hate this situation and I think that Stella should have a chance...hopefully they will bring the 9 back later in the show.
In addition to: Daniel worked extrememly hard and for him to loose only 3 lBS...yikes. I am really upset...now for the good stuff!

What was your deal last night BOB...you freaked out...I will admit that I loved it though! Joelle should get the boot! I hope he pushes her so far she feels like quiting.

BABY D

2009-01-14T06:21:00.001-08:00

Just to keep everyone up to date, Samantha Cummins Herdes, her water broke this morning so we should have BABY D very soon!

Some New Years Eve pics

2009-01-12T16:46:00.000-08:00

Get away from my drink spinner!

Cheryl, Jill, Dora, ME

Guess What

2009-01-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

I really thankful for DVR because Biggest Loser is on Tuesday nights and now we have a new addition!!!! Season Premier BABY! There is a new judge that is supposedly giving Simon a run for his money! Love IT

Heart attach

2009-01-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

So I almost had a heart attack today when I tried to call my husband and no answer. He was suppose to take Claire to the sitter and at noon I called the sitter to see if Claire was there and she said no! I freaked out because I could not get ahold of Chris...so I called Jared to see if he had noticed Chris's truck at home and he said yes. So I am thinking that something is wrong because he was not responding to my calls and Claire hadn't been to Jamie's yet. Finally, Jamie called me and said that Chris was pulling in! I told her to have him call me right away. I broke down on him because I was so SCARED! I have never felt that way before...ever!
So now I ask, how long do you wait or what do you do when you are paniked. Should I have sent someone to check on them...do I wait...what do you do? Is instinct enough?

Jess

How to get rid of.....

2009-01-08T09:20:00.000-08:00

I am intrigued by this website, on how to get rid of anything!!!!
Where was this when we were 16? How to get rid of hickeys, stretch marks, gym memberships...sorry mom...bugs, smells, spots,

IT IS UNBELIEVABLE! I AM IN LOVE! IT IS ALMOST AS ADDICTING AS BLOGGING!

http://www.howtogetridofstuff.com/

Let me know by posting a comment what your favorite "how to get rid of is!"

WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW

2009-01-08T06:21:00.000-08:00

Chris, Jared Wagner, and myself will be heading to Champaign the end of the month to see John Cena and Chris Jericho in action, I can hardly wait...so last night Jared stopped by to check out the tickets and they decided it would be awesome for Chris to wear his mullet wig...I couldn't quit laughing and neither could Jared so this is how it turned out!

Biggest LOOSER!

2009-01-07T06:16:00.000-08:00

Okay, so last night was the season premier...all I have to say is BOO!

How dissapointing is it that 9 people went home. I understand that they have the chance to come back...BUT how are they suppose to learn after only 1 week at the ranch! And how dare them split Jerry and Estella up...I cried on that one!!!

ORANGE TEAM...what can I say, a combined total weight of almost 800 lbs. WOW...how inspiring is it that 2 friends are in it like this...Daniel lost 30lbs his first week.

Jerry, after fainting because his blood pressure dropped so low, lost 25 lbs in one week at age 65!!! Rock on Jerry...

Now...Ron lost a whopping 32 lbs in one week...holy smokes! I want to loose 32 lbs and I can't do that in 4 months...GO RON!

The dissapointment I have is letting that many people go home right off the bat, yes they have the chance to come back but the point of the show is to lock them up at the ranch and teach them a different lifestyle and having them one week and sending them home...I just think it was to early!
Please let me know your thoughts, thumbs up or down?

TONIGHT!!!

2009-01-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

Guess what starts tonight?

New season of Biggest loser! Suppose to be the heaviest one yet.

Claire and her first Tune up.

2009-01-05T06:14:00.000-08:00

Chris and my Step Dad Dave decided to work on the vehicles on Sat. Claire was getting restless so I took her out there to let her watch, I didn't know she was going to be so intrigued to help. I had a fit when she got dirty but Dave told me to leave her alone! I am still trying to get Grease out of her nails.

Claire handing papa the lugnuts

Claire helping PAPA

DUNNO

Notice Chris is under the truck! I love this one!

New Years Eve

2009-01-05T06:11:00.001-08:00

I had the joy of celebrating the New Year at my Bro's house with all the gang...Dora, Jill, Cheryl, Ray Jeremy and myself...what an interesting evening...Jill and I made it a point to stay up past 4am. About 10 till 5 we decided we had enough and headed to the house!I would like to see Ray top that one!

Christmas Pictures

2008-12-31T15:23:00.000-08:00

Claire and Daddy

Claire and PAPA

Claire and MOMMY... €

Claire and her bibs...

2008-12-30T08:38:00.001-08:00

Don't ask about the binky, she hasn't had one since 9months old and all of a sudden it is back in our life...o well...could be worse.

More Xmas gifts...

2008-12-30T07:57:00.000-08:00

This is what I got for Christmas...from my inlaws. Grandpa Holt made this and it is absolutely beautiful!!!!

XMAS Gifts

2008-12-28T18:37:00.001-08:00

I hope everyone had as good of a Christmas as our family did! Here are a few things that Claire got from Santa, he must have thought she was a good girl all year. I sent him an email about her but he must not have gotten it! LOL

Here it is...the long awaited and aticipated kitchen from my parents...it is amazing, not a good picture but it is so awesome! Claire loves it! It also came with a wooden smoothie mixer with wood fruit! I love it...Iean she loves it!

This is what Chris's parents got Claire from her room...so pretty, still not big enought though to hold all the toys.

This is her first Jeep, of course pink...can you believe Chris hasn't put new tires and wheels or a lift on it yet?

Ghost or?

2008-12-23T11:14:00.000-08:00

I have to have my Today Show every morning and this a.m. they were discussing the little girl who was about to have life support removed when a light came about and the daughter miraculously began a recovery that doctors cannot explain...if you haven't heard the story check it out because it is amazing and comforting.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28364813/

Both images are borrowed from MSNBC

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRIS COLLINS

2008-12-23T08:29:00.000-08:00

MY HUSBANDS BIRTHDAY IS TOMORROW ON CHRISTMAS EVE! I WANT TO WISH HIM A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY AND HOPE YOU HAVE THE BEST ONE YET! I LOVE YOU....JESSICA AND CLAIRE.

Santa Claus...

2008-12-23T08:28:00.001-08:00

It is official, we will be expecting Santa Claus in our house for the first time as a family with our 2 year old claire, she is absolutley loving christmas this year...I hope everyone had a very Merry One and may all your wishes come true!!!

Caylee Anthony

2008-12-22T13:02:00.000-08:00

Wow...I am sure all of you are very aware of Caylee Anthony's death and that the dna was proven to be hers...I am a big follower of that case and it just eats me up everytime I watch it. The meter reader that found her remains had not only called in that day to the police to report his findings and after a little research has determined that he is one that called the tip line several times throughout the whole investigation. The link to the "what happens now" is http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/28320366#28320366 check it out and post your thoughts if you like.

Also, Casey told her mom that she felt Caylee was close, so close she could feel it. A few block from the house is where she was found, I would say that is pretty close. I do not understand how they just now found her when they have been searching so long and she was so close.

NOW---who do the Anthony's have retained to help their case?

1.) Dr. G Medical Examiner....

2.) BONES? Anyone watch this show on t.v. the lady who writes this show has been retained by the Anthony's to help, and she said that once she figures out if the bones were in water and what type of bugs, she will be able to determine more so the cause of homicide...

And more that you can see on the video earlier.

I just do not understand why she won't talk and put us all at ease. Her attorney made the comment, "IF only America knew have of the story"...SO TELL US!

Last one!!!!

2008-12-22T11:42:00.000-08:00

BDAY

2008-12-19T07:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my mother sent me flowers a day early for my bday...I figured that she thought it really was yesterday...today I received a huge arrangements of balloons!!! This was from her too so I thought that she was going overboard then I had a message from the dad that said HAPPY BDAY and call me when you get a chance...so now I think that both of them ordered something for me to make sure the other didn't forget! Anyway, they are both beautiful and I love it!

Getting a little harder!

2008-12-19T06:51:00.001-08:00

Here ya go!

DAY 3

2008-12-18T06:50:00.000-08:00

okay, not a whole lot of response on the puzzles yet, so here is day three and I am not going to post the answers until it is over to give some people the chance to catch up.

Christmas Carol Puzzle Day 2

2008-12-17T11:53:00.000-08:00

Here is day 2...Steph Root got the most right so far!

Christmas puzzle...

2008-12-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

My favorite part of Christmas is the songs and it never fails, every year someone passes out the Christmas carol puzzles and I love to do them, so I thought I would post a new one everyday and see who emails me with the right answers...if you have the right answers, there is a good chance you may receive a goodie in the mail...here we go and good luck!

Christmas Pics

2008-12-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

So here is a little of what we have been doing during the holiday season...

Claire visits santa at the train...BURRRRR!

Claire and Rudolph at Holly Jolly on Friday night. He was her favorite!

Clarie and Sam...awe

She loved him!!! She thought he was great and he is suppose to be scarry~!

Brownies

2008-12-05T11:18:00.001-08:00

Claire and I decided to make brownies last night and she had so much fun. It was in her hair and everywhere. I didn't care though...

Claire Pictures

2008-12-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

Please check out Claire's new pics at Melissa's site.

www.grinsandgiggles.smugmug.com

They are amazing!

Collins Co.

2008-12-02T07:49:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, I am quite the go getter and I have decided to start a little business of my own. I am going to be an official reseller. I take your items and sell them anyway possible and make you money. You do nothing, I ship, sell and pay. That is the most of it. So you are asking what I sell...well I have been brought so far a box full of Longaberger, (which I am still working on), xbox games, purses, etc. It is unbelievable the response I am getting so far! Anyway, if you have any questions, let me know and I would be happy to give you more info, and in the mean time, if you have somthing lying around that would look much better in the form of money in your pocket, let me know and I will sell it for ya!!!!

Daddy and Claire Sleeping

2008-11-23T18:21:00.000-08:00

This is what we do on Sunday afternoons...

Diaper Cake

2008-11-21T07:08:00.000-08:00

I have figured out my talent finally...haha. I have officially made my 3rd diaper cake for a baby shower. This is the second boy cake I have made, the other was for either. I love making these and the best part is the look on the expecting one's face. They are so fun and I wish that I could find the market to make a bunch and sell them!!!! Any ideas on that let me know. Until then, if you need one made to your likings, let me know and I would be more than happy to!!!

Just Because

2008-11-18T11:46:00.000-08:00

Halloween

2008-11-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

I have had so many people begging me to put Claire on the blog from Halloween as her duck!!! She had the Quack Quack down!!!!

Sarah Palin - Unplugged

2008-11-11T08:04:00.000-08:00

By the way, I am a huge TODAY SHOW fan and this morning Matt started his intereview with Sarah Palin and it will answered all the questions I had about her...such as the arguing during the campaing in which she said was not true and never happened...she addressed the rumor that supposedly her daughter's baby wasn't really hers...which she said was crap...They did mention that she is the only state Governor the will drive herself to work. Tomorrow is part two on whether she will run for President for 2012...I can hardly wait to hear what she has to say.

Pulled from MSNBC - “I had great faith that perhaps when that voter entered that voting booth and closed that curtain, that what would kick in for them was, perhaps, a bold step that would have to be taken in casting the vote for us,” she said at one point. “So the margin was pretty surprising to me.”

Her thoughts of how suprised she was by the margin was actually believable. She always has a way of saying things that sure spice up the room. She also said that he and John still talk every day which I found suprising myself. So, what do you think is now in store for her and do you think she will be a candidate in 2012?

Are you rude? Maybe you should think again

2008-11-11T07:55:00.001-08:00

I am a follower of CNN because I find it interesting and there is a story on there from Oprah about what is rude and what we consider rude... http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/personal/11/11/o.are.you.rude.test/index.html

I personally find some of these things rude myself but then after reading the article...I start picking things out in everyday life that I see that I decided is rude and it is now driving me CRAZY... so I decided to talk it out with myself... I have listed below some things that I think are rude in civility today and tell me if you agree and if you have something to ad to it...also, bloggers, you can start this on your page as well with what you think is rude...
Don't forget to read the article! IT is so true!

1.) I work in sales and I get hung up on a lot on the phone and I am just trying to provide business owners a resource and they are soooo rude right now. I hope they do not treat paying customers this way.

2.) People who argue with what you say...just trying to find something that is not completely valid in your statement!!!

3.) People who run there hands under the water and do not use soap!

4.) Reading over my shoulder...

5.) Leaving your dishes and trash next to the can or dishwasher but definatley cannot make it in there!

Okay enough for now....let me know yours!!!!

New Family Addition

2008-11-11T07:48:00.000-08:00

NO>>>>NOT PREGNANT!!!!
But we did get a new puppy...His name is HEUY

Candy

2008-11-05T11:31:00.000-08:00

I wake up this morning and to my dimay...my husband left me a nice little organized present after I went to bed last night. I thought after his dentist visit yesterday, he would have listened to the DR when he said no more candy for a while!!! So here is what I found... Notice that it is all sorted out by type, size, etc...what the heck was he doing?
(By the way, he said he was looking for tootsie rolls!!!)

Pumpkin carving

2008-10-29T18:43:00.001-07:00

So I haven't carved pumpkins in forever...I almost forgot how until Chris decided that he could do it better! We had fun!!!!

Anniversary Gifts

2008-10-29T17:44:00.000-07:00

Chris and I celebrated our 2nd anniversary in September. What the heck do you buy a spouse on the 2nd? Well I got Chris a titanium Harley Davidson ring and I got a new Fossil watch from him. Not too bad for 2nd year.

Settings

2008-10-27T13:57:00.001-07:00

My settings are outta wack so scroll down to see all the other posts.

thanks.

Mr. Clean Mr. Clean -

2008-10-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is the silliest thing I have ever written about but I am so amazed by this cleaning product. For any of you who have been lucky enough to come into my messy house, I have a lot of linoleum everywhere and it is white and it gets very dirty. I am always looking for something new to clean with that really works well...and I am always looking for a deal. So I found this at walmart and what caught my attention was the free magic eraser that came with it because those things are pretty pricy themselves. So I picked it up and went home and used it and you would not believe the turnout. I have never used a product that works this good (didn't realize how dirty my floor was even!) You always see those commercials and never know if it really works, let me tell ya!!! IT DOES!

This is the finished product...

This is before...how DISGUSTING!