TERESA COLLINS

crazy me...

I stayed up all night and kitted my kits. I crashed at 6am. So much on my mind, and I couldn't sleep anyway. Ty even stayed up and helped me. He even had to go do surgery today. So thankful for his support. The kits were big ones and lots of small elements. I precut, prestamped, precorner rounded the pages, everything to make the class go faster- when you have so many student in a class- trust me- its worth the extra time and care I take in prepping my kits. Thanks TY!!!!

This morning was weigh in day. I waited 45 minutes to get in. Now this is abnormal, but the outcome was worth it. I lost 2 more lbs. since last weigh in. I admit, officially, I am losing again, and EATTING MORE. How crazy is this???? Their new plan is MUCH BETTER than before. I was always hungry. So they took my measurements. I have lost 39.5 inches in the past year. Here is it broke down more- 10 inches from my waist, 5.5 inches from EACH thigh, 3 inches from each arm- and I can't remember the rest. So really, they said, that I've lost MORE inches than I have pounds. I know...they can't explain it either. I plan to be FOCUSED this weekend to eat really well.

Speaking of...leaving in 1 hour to start the big baseball weekend of Labor Day tournaments. Zach has games about an hour from our home. Love it- but wow...it's 100 degrees today here. YIKES!!! Ty has his second football game tomorrow. So I am running back and forth big time tomorrow. The girls...well, the are always making plans with their girlfriends. Life is good! I am THANKFUL!!!!!

Oh, I can't wait to share the photos from my box of goodies, but simply have run out of time today. It will be soon...So what are your plans for labor day??????

thanks for stopping by...

Oh you may want to check www.polkadotpotato.com

out this site...sale today over 250 scrapbook items for .99 CENTS....

wow....

Teresa

So...

the kits are GONE! They sold out so fast. I dont know what is the best way to sell extra class kits. I only had 12 and so I go in order of the emails that are sent to me. I realize this can be unfair, since not everyone does not live by their computer. RIGHT? Any suggestions????

I purposely designed extra kits the last time I taught in CA. I am so sorry, but for my class next week in NC and then in Puerto Rico, there is no way that I can kit more. I am OUT of supplies. I used some FANTASTIC Karen Russell stuff mixed with Junkitz. Speaking of Junkitz, I got a box of GOODNESS today. Wow, it was amazing! I got all the newest releases from Stacey and Janna and Myself. I will post a photo tomorrow. Thank you Kenny and Stacey!!!!!

Im busting at the seams to tell you about a event that I have agreed to do in Jan of 2009. Yes...crazy...but some things take TIME! I will let you KNOW when I KNOW. Hint- it is the ULTIMATE.....okay...that is all I can say! I'm mean...I know.

ALOT of things are going on in my life. I know that I will share more within the next couple of weeks on the blog...but for now...I want to share with you something that I learned - well, was confirmed in my heart today. There are people in your life that you know truly care for you and your best interest. There are people that will love and support you no matter what- hold these people NEAR and DEAR to your heart. Life is full of changes and sometimes change is not easy....alrighty....

off to take Zach to his baseball game. They are playing up...he is 9 and the team is a 10U team- but we are playing 11-12 U. Man, some of the boys are almost 6 feet tall- I kid you not. Big Boys...They make Zach look like a shrimp!!!

Go to weigh in in the morning...I will be measured...I will post my current stats- love to know how many inches are gone...better than the scale really.

much love Teresa

Can't SLEEP!!!!

So much on my mind. I thought I would share some photos from the past two weeks.

this is Ty at Football Practice. Crazy boy is a X-man. Messy hair...I know. I really enjoy watching his practices 3x a week and his games. Love this boy!!!!

here is the boys- last week on the morning of the 1st day of school. Ty REFUSED to do his hair and picked out his own clothes. Zach did his hair himself. So fine with this....

Here is Mckay... she just got her braces on...

where on where is Taylor and Gentry??? running from the camera that's where. I told them they owe me BIG TIME!!!! They think they are too BIG now...what??? High School girls....

Matt is still in Chicago and gets home this Sunday...yeah! He starts college again on Tuesday. Can't wait to have him home for a day! At least college is only 45 minutes away.

The class at SCRAP SHACK in NC is FULL- well beyond full. We added 7 people from the waiting list today. I wish we could accomodate everyone- so North Carolina girls I can't wait!!!! I must warn you...I've lost my southern accent. Ok- maybe I still have a tinge of a accent.

You can always tell when I've been on the phone to my sister Shelley or talking to Janna...I start talking like them!

Guess I should try to get some sleep....

Teresa

UPDATE

the class in NC is full. I got an email asking if I could do FIVE more students. How can I say no???? If you are on the waitlist...call the store. I am kitting FIVE MORE kits up! I am so sorry, but I cannot do any extra kits of this class. I am teaching it in NC and in Puerto Rico. I only have enough product- barely to be able to teach it at  the two stores. I do have a few extra kits- from CA classes that I will now sell. If you are interested, email me.

****here is Stephanies blog....homegrownhospitality.typepad.com/homegrown_hospitality/

ALSO, call me CRAZY but FINALLY we are starting the kitchen remodel.

DONT ASK...serious....

just kidding... I kept saying...can I really do this with such a large family, plus when I travel to teach- someone has to be at the home....

Actually, its TIME. I'm making TIME to do it. Last year simply got CRAZY with trying to do it all.

question...I am doing 18x18 slate flooring in the kitchen and bathrooms. They said Travertine does not hold up as well as slate- especially for a busy-big family. IS this true??? anyone have Travertine/Slate and willing to give me their thoughts???? I would very much appreciate it!

How do you live without a kitchen for two months?????

Weighed in this morning...and weighed the same as Monday.  its all good...better than gaining weight- right???? I feel GREAT, and MOTIVATED to keep going.

Hello....

Today was pretty fantastic. I had one of those AHA days. You know...the days where you finally are able to figure some things out that have been running in circles in your mind. I analyze everything...so many things. I try to be perfect- and of course there is no such thing. I go crazy trying so hard to be the perfect mother, friend, wife, housekeeper, neighbor, designer, etc. I have been trying to STEP BACK and look at the big picture. You know what...I have been praying ALOT for answers and strength. Today I feel renewed and that I am OKAY. Sorry- I know that I am not making any sense at all. I just am a firm believer in prayer and the peace it brings into ones life. I want to live everyday with an attitude of GRATITUDE. I got an email today from Melissa Inman (Better Homes & Garden). It was about the SCRAPPINK event in
September-28th-29th. It is focused on raising money for breast cancer. LSS around the country are participating by doing classes, make n takes, demos, etc. BH&G is making this event happen along with some fantastic sponsors. You will be able to go to the www.scrappink.com website and see all the details. I am happy to be involved. I want to make a difference! I plan to spend the weekend supporting the event at my local scrapbook store. I will post more details as I have all the information to share! Please check out the site and support this very important cause.

I was so touched when I visited the blog of STEPHANIE.  As I read her blog, it spoke volumns to me of her incrediable faith at the prospect of having breast cancer. She is in the stage of NOT KNOWING...she has found a mass. She is going through so much right now. I pray for her everyday...I've never met her, and yet I think of her often. I don't want to link her blog since I have not asked her permission. However, until I ask her....but she made me aware of how critical it is to do self exams and to go to the doctor when things are not right. She is one talented girl too...

look at this- I borrowed this from her blog.

It really makes me want to use the Extreme Boy and make an EXTREMELY cute chore chart. Love this Steph!!! Oh, and I sent you a big box of LOVE today. Watch your mailbox. I hope it brightens your DAY!!!!!!

I know...Im sappy today. I just am THANKFUL- what more can I say...

Oh, I am counting down the days- I will be headed to NC in ONE WEEK....7 days....

I will be teaching at www.scrapshack.com  and the class is FULL!  I will be in NASCAR land. Everyone has asked me to get Dale Earnhardts Jr. autograph. Do you think he will actually show up for my class??? he he...I know...I am so dreaming.

Can you believe- IZZY (I think we met at CKU Atlanta for the first time- am I right?????) is traveling from Georgia to come??? She is packing up her kids and having a little getaway with the kids and coming to the class. IZZY- YOU ROCK!!!!

Off to kit more. Yes, since I precut everything, my kits take me FOREVER!!!!

*TERESA*

winner

GAYLE your the winner.

email me your address please.

congrats!!!

teresa

LONG OVERDUE...

Saturday today...watched my son Ty play FOOTBALL. His first game ever at tackle football. He is 8 years old- a Murray GREMLIN. My lil' Man is a X-MAN. He was ONE POUND over the mark and has to be a X-MAN. He is too little for this position...compared to the larger guys playing the line. He is brave...and his mom is scared!!! He was fearless and LOVED it.

Then it was BASEBALL all day, practice for Zach and two games for Seth. Fun day!!!

Here is my cute friend Tammy Mitchell...  I met her over 2 years ago at CKU Masters Anaheim. She was in my class. I remember seeing her work, and commenting that I felt she was VERY talented. I immediately clicked with her! She is kind, warm and giving. She and I became email buddies. Then she opened an online kit club. Tammy was a huge supporter of my product line and would visit me at the trade shows. I was able to go to her home for dinner the last day we were in California this month.

She is blessed with a wonderful husband, and two BEAUTIFUL children. She has a cool website that I think is really cool. TAMMY MITCHELL ONLINE CLASSES . She teaches in CA at a scrapbook store, but she also teaches classes ONLINE. They are video classes. If you check out her site, you will also see she is a photographer. She is a woman who juggles many HATS. So I wanted to spotlight- Tammy, in case you've missed all the cool things she is up too.

Also, have you heard of FRECKLE FRIENDS????  Freckle Friends Website

My friend Susan Lyons asked me to be the OCT. guest designer for the club. I could not refuse her. She is so sweet! So you will be able to order a WHIMSICAL HALLOWEEN kit that I have designed from FRECKLE FRIENDS. I will use the new halloween line that I designed for the last trade show...and I'm working on using the new stamps that match my line that was designed for Hampton ARTs/Junkitz. I am not sure if the stamps are available yet. Anyone know???? Anyway, the kits will be precut, kitted- with instructions- etc. all through the FRECKLE FRIENDS website. I will keep you posted!!!! (PS The Halloween line is not shipping until September)...if you like the last line...you'll be excited for the addition!

So to celebrate...I'm giving away a prize...Halloween Papers from the Whimsical Halloween line with some Halloween tiles too! Not the new ones quite yet, but if you want to win...post any comment. Good luck!!!!!

*teresa*

ps...lost one pound on my weigh in on Friday. They upped what I was eatting too. Too low in calories!!!

Thursday...

and this week has been a LONG week. I am getting used to being at home all day ALONE again. I miss the kids alot, but keep myself busy. This week I have been really organizing my scrapbook supplies. I am doing donations to my elementary school, so today I am going through my supplies and finding items that I think would be needed, wanted and beneficial. 

I am TRYING to stay busy- because I have been so hungry on the new improved eating plan. I admit, it is so hard to not just eat out of boredom. I weighed in yesterday and I was UP .5 lbs. I was in shock...your eatting less and you GAIN. What is up with this???? My counselor said that several people came in and had gained too- (the group that had been given the lowest amount of food to eat) I told them I felt it was like a starvation plan. he he.... Im giving it until tomorrow but I think I need to move up back up to the plan where I'm allowed more food. I overate yesterday by one starch. Then I felt BAD! Over it today- new day...

Remember...talking about the cool thing that I was doing, but couldn't tell yet??? Well, I can now...it is this....TABLE SCRAPZ CREATIVITY CRUISE 

It will be a CRUISE where there you can take classes with all three instructors: Teresa Collins, Donna Downey, and Leah Fung. The dates are Friday April 25-April 28 out of Ensenada.

Now, I know from all the emails that this cruise is going to be so fun, full of creativity and I love that you will be able to attend crops, classes and such from all three of us.

The only thing is that they are LIMITING enrollment to around 100 students. It is very exclusive, and so spots will go fast!!!!

Check it out!!!

K- must go- I am in afternoon carpool mode. Today is piano lessons, guitar lessons...a day off from football and baseball practice- yeah!!!!

Teresa

So long....

It has been so long since I blogged. I normally am not so behind. Anyway, there is just so much going on right now. My children started school on Monday. I have kids at three different schools, and they are in some really hard classes, so I am trying to keep up on things. Plus, I am in the middle of major home improvements. We are repainting our interior of our home, refinishing our hardword floors, and recarpenting our home. And I'm dealing with lots of contractors coming and going- getting bids, etc. So in all of this, I have been working on my scrapbook studio. I donated alot of my older products to a organization in Utah. It is really too much for me to ship it outside of Utah, due to the weight of amount of product that I have. I never realized how many Making Memories metal words, phases, letters, etc. that I had amassed when I first started to scrapbook. Wow, I spent ALOT of money when I first started to scrapbook. I had NO IDEA what I was doing, my style or what products I would actually love and use. I have purchased so many items, that needed another home. I look at my work now, and it is so different from 4.5 years ago, and even 2 years ago. I know for me, I now know what I really like and I embrace who I am. Anyway, if you LIVE in or near SLC, Utah and could benefit from a product donation- again, it is older product- then please email me.

So guess what??? I went to weigh in on Monday morning and LA Weight Loss changed their entire program structure. They changed their menu plan based upon your height and weight. Now, the counselor- my cute friend Joni, looked at me funny. She was really quiet. She was explaining the NEW improved plan. It looks like I'm one *lucky girl* in that I now get to get EAT EVEN LESS. I have been really basically been maintaining my weight for the last few weeks. Kinda like a yo yo with the same 2 lbs....and so I'm really ready to *try* their new plan for me. As of this week, I have been doing LAWL for exactly ONE YEAR. I'm thinking this is a very long time to lose the 50 lbs. Then I think, the positive thing is that I've stuck to something for an entire year. It feels good and I'm trying to embrace ME- right now- and get moving, keep working at my goal.  I go again in the morning to get weighed in. Let's see if the *new program* is working. I am HUNGRY- I admit it!!!!

So I cannot post without talking about THE PINK PINEAPPLE. I was lucky enough to teach there just over a week ago. I am so IN LOVE with the store, the entire experience was just so wonderful. I love the owners. I was surrounded by the best students- and many familiar faces- thank you girls for your support!!!!

This is Christy- just a beautiful girl. I have known her for several years. I have always just loved her. Her very talented and cute daughter- Britney- teaches at the store too. Anyway, doesn't Christy look amazing???? She so inspired me this weekend. She knows why. I am so proud of her...for the success that THE PINK PINEAPPLE has attained. I met them before they opened the store-3 years ago. They came in CHA and met me at a booth and I KNEW they were onto an amazing plan for their store. Michelle Hill was with them too. What a wonderful group of girls.  

The entire store is decorated in PINK. So love it! This is the wall in the crop room. I admit, I did not take nearly enough photos. We were busy busy doing the two classes all day!

So the girls (the owners) treated me like a QUEEN...they were so kind and made everyone feel so welcome. They ordered in lunch for the girls too.

They gave me a box...with the coolest thing inside. I am so touched! I LOVE it...it is....

This really beautiful necklace. It is a PINK PINEAPPLE on the necklace. I have been wearing it LOTS. I was completely speechless- thank you girls!!!! I am blessed...

Here is Dani. She came to both classes at both stores that I taught at in CA. I am wearing the PINK shirt that THE PINK PINEAPPLE gave me. It says...WEAR PINK and the BOYS WINK. How hilarious is this???? I am so loving this shirt. I can just say...this store is FUN- if you've never been to the store- then you are missing out!  THANKS again PINK PINEAPPLE!!!!!

So I have heard that many stores are now carrying the new clear stamps that match some of my paper collections. I am seriously excited to see the new additions. I wanted to show you the stamps...they match my EXTREME BOY/TC Junkitz collection.

I know that the online site Creating Inspirations sent out an email that these stamps are IN the house. I can't wait to get mine too! and the NEW School Stamps are in- and the Alphabet Stamps.

So just as a reminder... these stamps go along with the Extreme boy line that I designed this

year....

Here is a image of some of the embellishments, etc. that match the line too. I love that the BOYS finally are having the BLING...go BOYS!!!!

I mailed out all my blog winner boxes on Monday. So if you've won so far, and sent me your address- watch your mail.

The winner from the last post is....

JENNIE OUTTERSON. Please send me your mailing address!

Also, Ginger...

please email me your address-

Have a fabulous day!!!!

Teresa

WINNER

is ginger

please send me your address.

I have been working on some really cool events for 2008...and talking and getting it all in motion. I still need to do my photos from my visit at THE PINK PINEAPPLE. It will be later- next post. PROMISE!!!!

So if you've won a prize on the blog this week. Please know I'm sending all the prizes out on MONDAY. I hope you understand- lots going on in the home front. My cute kids start school on MONDAY...so sad. I went and registered Taylor and Gentry (yes, Gentry will be in HS- 10th grade) this year- this morning. I went and paid the dues- they charge for alot of classes- so with both girls it was over $400.00. I don't remember my mother having to pay that much. Granted, I have 2 year books in the cost. Oh,and Drivers Education class was over $100. Taylor will be doing the Dental Hygienst Program and goes to the community college every day for 1/2 day for the year. She will then go back to the high school after the class and take her normal senior classes. I'm freaking out- how can I have a child that is 17 and a senoir. It was yesterday, that I was putting bows in her hair. Okay...not really.

I will be going to NC in 2.5 weeks...teaching at THE SCRAP SHACK....the class is filling up quickly- may already be sold out- need to check. The day the sample arrived, they had TEN signups immediately. Yeah!!!!  I'm teaching a 6x6 mini album (Junkitz chipboard albums- man, I'm addicted to these), and filled with product!!!!! Here is a little little sneak peak....

I used alot of journaling with my fave journaling stamps (Cat's life press)...and lots of the EXTREME BOY BLINGZ....and the sticker set is from Jenni's line (Jenni Bowlin Studio) in the Junktiz album. So if your near North Carolina....come by and say HI to me...Saturday September 8th...from 4:00-7:00pm.

In other news...my next teaching class will be at a store SCRAPBOOK GALLERY in Puerto Rico. Is anyone reading my blog from Puerto Rico?????? he he...The date I will be there teaching is FRIDAY November 2nd. Also, I am teaching the same class that I just posted above. Puerto Rico here I come....can't wait!

Time for FOOTBALL practice. Have a fab weekend!!!!

Oh, almost forgot...need to do another prize. Let's see...I loved reading where you develop your photos. I read all the comments and learn so much. So tell me.... What inpsires you most MAGAZINES? IDEA BOOKS? CLASSES???? CROPS???? to scrapbook. What is a constant source of inspiration for you. Maybe you find it online.

I would say that for me...inspiration comes daily. My photos are a constant source of inspiration. I am inspired by the online classes that several of my friends have designed and teach....Becky (Creating Inspirations) did this amazing house made of recycled cardbaord, Janna- well, that girl is talented, Jenni B. (her products are very cool and love to see her work online at her site), Stacey (she inspires me by the photos- very candid- very fun- makes me want to create playful fun items), etc. Now, of course -SHOPPING inspires me...I went to home depot yesterday and spend more $$$ on the mailbox letter stickers, washer rings, hinges....Okay, I admit it...I just am constantly inspired. Oh, there is a lot of people who scrapbook who inspire me...sorry not to mention more...

Teresa

Wednesday....

and the winner from yesterday is

TAMI R.

Please send me your address!!!!!

So yesterday, the photos were from UNIVERSAL STUDIOS. This was my first time going to the park. I loved it. Really, it was just a great day. I just dropped off my photos today and tonight I am doing my photos from Sea World. Lil' Ty is doing it with me. We got some great Sea World paper and stickers from The Pink PINEAPPLE. I will post his pages tomorrow. He is at football practice and lucky Dad got to go today. We stay at the practices in case he should happen to get hurt. I know overprotective, but lots of other parents stay too. I use this time to take photos too.

So Friday, I went to teach at IT'S ABOUT TIME in Murietta, CA. IT'S ABOUT TIME SCRAPBOOK STORE WEBSITE This is the cute display in the front of their store. I was very impressed with the store layout and style. I really LOVED the crop area. It was oversized and had the most beautiful RED CHAIRS to seat in. The girls who came to the class- TRULY are some of my dearest friends. Many traveled several hours to attend my classes. I am truly appreciative that they would do this. They are truly my friends. I have had the pleasure of having so many of them at various classes- CKU's, and at the Oasis, etc. I've grown to know them and their families. They uplift me and encourage me with their support and I want them to all know how much I truly love each of them. Stacia on the end was NOT a stamper, but I think I had her convinced that stamping can be REALLY cool. Sandra is also there by Stacia. She is a dear friend- wish Debbie could have made it too. We used foam stamps from my line (JUNKITZ) mixed with some cool Hampton Arts/Art Warehouse stamps by Danelle Johnson.  PURCHASE STAMPS HERE- DOWN TO DETAILS here is the website online to order the stamps. She carries the Junkitz line as well as the Hampton Arts stamps. She will be getting the newest JUNKITZ stamps in any day now. Oh, yes...the Halloween TC/Junkitz stamps that many of you asked about this past weekend and the EXTREME BOY stamps are shipping. Junkitz is starting to ship the SCHOOL LINE, stamps, etc. VERY EXCITED--I can't wait to get the items from the summer release....

Okay... Then there is LIA who truly has a way about her that makes me realize how blessed I am in life. She is just one of the kindest woman I have ever gotten to know. Oh, then I met GEMMA for the first time. This talented girl has been scrapbooking for about a year. She is a 2PEA girl and man, her talent is EVIDENT. Her photos were AMAZING- and I loved how she took the project and make it her own.

Granted, we forgot to take photos until after 11pm...so some of the girls were already gone and I'm sorry if your not in the photo. We did two classes- the JOURNEY BOOK and then the EVERYDAY MEMORIES class. It was a long day, but I LOVED every minute of it.

This beautiful girl is my friend Danelle Yee. Okay, she is also the worldest biggest NASCAR fan. I seriously LOVE her. She is such a ball of energy. She raced from work on Friday and took off early to come to my class. Then she even came to Saturdays classes.    

She emails me and I am always LUCKY and BLESSED to get to spend time with her! I'm sad Ginger and Star, Tashia...and the other girls couldn't make it. Thanks Dani....you know I think your AWESOME!

This is the COOLEST THREE GIRLS- they own the store. There is AMY (me), Mel, and Christy...These girls are just so fun...easy to chat with...and make you feel like YOUR AT HOME at their store. They cracked me up- they were so cute in how they interact with everyone in the store. They are the girls you WANT TO HANG with and BECOME BEST FRIENDS with. I think they are amazingly talented too. They even took the classes!!!!  I can't thank them enough- and I would go back and visit/teach at their STORE in a heartbeat.

Oh, did I mention that I was there all day??? Ty and the boys were doing the fun stuff- minature golfing, etc. in the day...and they went to the ANGELS baseball game that night. Since, it was so far away...I stayed to crop with the girls. I had a blast- nope I never did do a page...I did however talk alot, ate a yummy salad from ????, and printed out three photos from their photo machine. YES- they have their own PHOTO PRINTER- the big daddy- in the store. I was LOVING this. If you are anywhere close to this store...you have to go  and visit them. You can print your photos, scrapbook and feel RIGHT at HOME!!!!!!

I have no doubts...I've made some friends for life...and I can't wait to see them again!!!!

Here it is 11:30 pm...and the boys come to pick me up. They are loving all the new stuff dad got them. ANGELS stuff- of course!!!!

The boys are so tired and kept falling asleep...what a day!!!!

So let's do ANOTHER PRIZE- post a comment today on where you do your photo development. I find ALOT of my students do their own photos from home. I do mine at Sam's Club.

Have a great night!!!! check out the link above for more photos and check out their store.....

Teresa

Yesterdays contest....

yes, you all guessed right. It was Sea World. I LOVED it! So after we left Sea World, we went here. We spent the night right by this PLACE. We got up early on Thursday, and headed to the park. We stayed until the park closed. We purchased FRONT OF THE LINE passes, and so we never had to wait to get into any show or on any ride. The weather was beautiful and it was truly a day of pure bliss. The fave rides were Jurassic Park. Be forewarned- you will get not just a little wet, but drenched. I walked around with my entire head of hair smashed flat to my head. NICE! I looked pretty scary!!!!

The ride that the boys lOVED the most was REVENGE of the MUMMIES...

and they enjoyed SOME of the shows. Hey, they are boys and they want the FUN, FAST & CRAZY RIDES....  They did think the creatures from the movies was cool. KING KONG was a fave. Also, they let me take a photo of them with JAWS. *note- they never have seen the movie.

I have to admit, one of my favorites things was the STUDIO TOUR. We got to ride the tour bus- a 45 minute tour of the studio and film lot. I love to see the cool sets, and learn about all the behind the scene info. from the movies and shows that I enjoy.

As we were on our tour, we were told that DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES was filming then. We had to be quiet as we passed the street where the homes are on. However, we did pass by and saw one of the shows BIG STARS by her trailor. Can you guess who this star is????  We had rounded the corner, and caught her off guard. She was smoking and she looked directly at us and quickly turned her back to us. I was not fast enough to get her photo from the front. So here is the back shot of EVA Longoria....

So my fave show was WATERWORLD. I loved the action and we again got wet...yes, we sat in the very front row- the SOAK ZONE. We saw Shrek 4D- such a good show, FEAR FACTOR LIVE and basically all of the shows. We had to do BACK TO THE FUTURE (ride) since it will be closed forever in Sept. Oh, also, there is a NICKELODEN WATER PARK that was a HUGE hit with my boys....

So do you know where we spent the day????? Seriously, I want to go again.

So guess what??? I am up 5 lbs since I got home. I was being so good, but I always seem to gain a couple pounds. So for the last two days I am being extra careful...drinking lots of water and eating my carbs for the day early in the day. Plus, we have a small garden that is full of tomatoes, and cucumbers. I admit, I love to eat bowls of sliced cucumbers & tomatoes. In fact, that was dinner for me last night.

So my lil' Ty started FOOTBALL yesterday. Yikes, it's tackle and he is only 8. I went to his first practice yesterday. I had no idea it was so involved - 2 hour practices EVERY DAY but Sunday. We missed 2 weeks of practice, so he is just starting, but he was LOVING it!!! I am a little overwhelmed now with both Baseball & Football and all the things the girls do.

So the prize winner for yesterday is MARION. Please email your address! Post today- where you think we spent the day- and I will pick another winner tomorrow too. Good luck!!!!!

Teresa ,

So I'm thinking...

that I need a vacation from the vacation....well, I'm home and I'm doing like a hundred things today. I really did just want to stay in bed all day. I had the BEST trip. Seriously, I have so much to share. I am trying to put it all in one post- so I won't...I will do a daily blog and focus on the trip. This way, I won't forget all the fun details. So I thought I would do a fun prize on my blog- EVERY DAY this WEEK!!!!!! Today I will share details of the first place we went...we flew JETBLUE- oh, my boys LOVE having their own TV to San Diego. We arrived on Tuesday and rented our car. We travel with a portable GPS unit and when we arrived at our hotel, we realized that the GPS was not working. I guess it was the lighter plug in- did not work- no power- so we called the car rental place (AVIS)...they told us to come BACK to the airport and they would EXCHANGE the car. So we head back, and of course the BOYS are totally bored at this point. We do get a new car- and they gave us a UPGRADED car. Pretty cool, since we did not ask or even really complain. We just knew we needed our GPS to work and we had forgot our plug in to recharge the GPS unit. Long story- but we then went to dinner at RUTH CHRIS STEAKHOUSE across from the ocean in San Diego. Highly recommend this place!!!!! I loved the view and to be honest, it really wasn't a place for kids. My fave was their shrimp. My kids loved their steak- and their serving are BIG- so be forewarned if you go there- two people can easily share one steak.

Our first full day was spent here....

Can you guess where we are?????

How about another hint?????

Why is he sideways???? he he....

Okay, how about another one????

So sorry for the wonky view...

How cool is the TIDE POOL???? have you guessed where we are at?????

So here was just a few photos from the day. I have to say that we really enjoyed the shows, the animals, everything. I know the boys wanted there to be more RIDES...ROLLERCOASTERS...and were ready to leave at 5:30pm. After we left the park...we had a long drive up to Universal City, CA. We stopped for dinner at Boston Market (I love their chopped CHICKEN salad and we do not have any BM in Utah now)- and spent the next few hours (traffic!!!!) headed to the hotel. We arrived and headed to the hotel pool. Nice to relax in the pool and hottub. Zach was scared to be in the water- SHARKS...guess, seeing all the sharks during the day got him thinking!!!!! So can you guess where we were???? I know EASY...anyway, leave a comment and YOU could win a BIG PRIZE. I've decided to PURGE and sent out a cool box filled with product on the blog everyday this week. Good luck!!!!!!

Teresa

Okay...

I leave for the airport in about 10 minutes. Yikes- I need to blog. he he

Things are GREAT- how can they be bad when your headed to Southern California????

So today...I can't believe it- but I've lost 51.5 lbs. Yes, it's been almost a year. I'm a slow one...but that's okay! right????

Okay...watch for a fun announcement about an event that I will be teaching at next year. I don't want to let the secret out yet, but it is cruise...and the other artists coming are in my opinion TOTALLY ROCK. I know you will KNOW who they are. Anyway- it will be announced any time now...they are finalizing the details. I hate secrets- wish I could share more...but soon. I was thinking how cool it would be to use the TRAVEL line/Junkitz for one of my classes.

If your in NC- the book was mailed out today. The sample will be at Scrap Shack this weekend. Go check it out! I am out of time, but will post a sneak peek of it next week.

Looking forward to this weekend classes- and seeing many of my friends again!!!!

off to the airport. teresa

Movie night

Last night, Ty and went to go see the movie HAIRSPRAY. Believe it or not, I have never seen hairspray, so I wasn't really go ho to go see it. We arrived and I told Ty that I had NO IDEA what the movie is about. He had no idea either..so we finally know what it is all about. SO good...it was very cute!!!! TRACY the lead with her cheerful attitude was refreshing and John Travolta...made me laugh- knowing he was playing a woman. Loved it!!!!

However, as the credits roled, we sat in our seat and waited for the packing theatre to slowly empty. We noticed an older gentlemen-probably late sixtys, sit in the sits in front and to the left of us. I thought, I guess he wants to stay and see the credits. He was coming down the stairs and then just sat down in the now empty seats. Ty looked at me and mentioned that it was kind of odd, because he looked like he was looking for something. He sat for maybe 30 seconds and then left really quick- picking up a soda cup that he had put in the arm rest. Well, about 30 seconds later the man who had sat in the same chair, came back into the theatre...

He asked us if we had seen his cell phone. He had left it on the armrest. Well, we told him about the older man who had just sat there and how strange he was acting. Ty remembered he had picked something up with his soda cup. HE TOOK THE MAN's CELL PHONE!!!!!  He ran out to go find the man, but he was gone. We looked too, but the man was fast and disappeared with the phone.

So I told Ty- I was really just SHOCKED at what we had witnessed- by all accounts the older man, looked like a nice man. Nothing at all different or strange...and someone I'm sure I would have talked to, or struck up a conversation with. It told me, that you can't judge a book by a cover...I am too trusting in people and I need to remember this...

Anyway, it was a nice break to go to the movie...

THANKFUL...

I know...one of those days...when all I can say is THANKFUL. I am so THANKFUL today. Today my daughter Taylor is now 17. I can hardly believe it. Time goes by so fast!!!! It's hard for me to even believe that I got married at the age of 19. Only TWO years older than Taylor. So very young...too young...but how thankful I am that I had my kids younger.

here is Taylor on the book cover...(gentry (left)-Taylor (right)...

So today, I woke up at 5am...not able to sleep. You see, alot of wonderful things have been happening in my life. Lots of answers to prayers, things that I've wanted and thought about, but never dreamed would come to light, well...I know that prayers are indeed answered. I have been blessed and wish I could share more of what is happening, but I will just say...that I firmly believe that anything is possible in life. Don't set limits on what you can do or achieve and work hard towards your goals.

We spent last night at BOONDOCKS amusement center...well 6.5 hours...wow- it was fun. There was a birthday party for one of Zach's friends, but it ended up with all the baseball players there and their parents. We had a great night! I wanted to ride the go-carts myself!!!!

Today, I'm working on a project for North Carolina to teach. Wish me luck!!!!

*happy Saturday****

teresa

Happy Mail Day!!!!

Today was a happy mail day!!!! Look what came to my house for me.... click on the image to see the stamps bigger. Do you know who makes these beautiful stamps???? One hint... meow....he he...

thanks you CATS LIFE PRESS for sending me these ultra cool stamps. I love them. I'm a huge fan and SUSAN is a sweetheart (owner!) If you are a store- you really should carry these stamps. I use these stamps in my private classes all the time. You can order directly from CATS LIFE from their website at CATS LIFE PRESS STAMPS. 

Now...a shameless plug- but have you seen the newest clear stamps from us at Junkitz land???? I am patiently waiting to get them myself. Okay...I'm not being very patient...because I love them and want them yesterday...I am especially want the travel ones and the halloween and extreme boys- oh, and there is some really cute christmas ones too. Okay...they are all must haves...

Today, back to school shopping for the girls. New backpacks, clothes, shoes and a visit to the hair salon. I finished up all class instructions for next week. Oh, how I dislike doing instructions...yeah, I'm DONE!!!

Got to go- watching Chick Flicks tonight with my girls. The boys are playing sports games on the WII, and Ty is seeing patients late tonight. Went to Wendys for dinner for the kids (drive through) tonight and I am looking forward to a quiet night at home with my kiddos.

*teresa*****

INFORMATION

Scrap Shack link....

So I just got off the phone with the sweetest store owner, Wendy. She has the cutest southern (very thick) North Carolina accent. We were just chatting about my upcoming visit to teach at their store. So here is some informaton-

Scrap Shack - Mooresville, NC

The Scrap Shack is a wonderful new store opened up by Wendy Childers and Kelley Elledge (Dale Earnhardt Jr's sister).  They specialize in unique and hard to find items.  I have to say this store has the cutest setup.  The cash register area looks like a little grass shack. To sign up for class please call: 704-663-0207

Teresa Collins

Saturday September 8th

4:00-7:00pm

*project will be a mini album/book

Cost: $35.00 (yes...Teresa and Scrap Shack are offering this class at a  big discount- the class supplies alone retail for much more than the class fee) You won't want to miss this opportunity!!!! 

I am really looking forward to teach in my *home* state. I have taught all over the country and feel like this is a way for me to give back. I can't describe it, but I think it means alot to me- since my entire family has always and still does live in North Carolina. Do you think it is mean that I'm making my sister, Shelley come to the class???? I want her to understand- why I do what I do. Anyway, if you anywhere remotely close...and are interested in coming to the class, give the store a class.