Brighton Kevin: 7 1/2 Years Old

Dearest Brighton Kevin,

You are growing up before my very eyes! You are truly growing taller and stronger; it is crazy to look back at recent pictures and see you transform from an older toddler into a try big boy. You are so wise and very aware of many things making you appear much more mature than the average first grader.

You are excelling at your AR Reading, rapidly increasing your book level day by day. You continue to flourish academically. You also have been working hard to keep your daily dojos by being less chatty during class time ;) Ms. Chaput is very proud of you for that leadership!

                                                  

You are rocking and rolling with your Javanon soccer team. You enjoy it so much~ practicing, passing, scoring, defending, and simply being with your teammates. Your skills have improved immensely over the last few months and it is showing. 

                                               

Speaking of soccer, you rapid up your first Futsal season with a big tournament appearance. Despite breaking a fall with your face (which resulted in a huge black eye), you scored two big goals and competed well to help your team! 

                                                

You have taken a new leadership role at golf as well~ being the older kid in small group, showing them the ropes. Coach Josh has been taking you out on the course where you've been birding several holes! You attitude and positivity are truly starting to shine through. I am so proud of you for continuing to work hard!

                                                

You are still as sweet as can be, giving me hugs daily and always wanting a goodnight kiss. Your snuggles are sincere and just make my heart light up. You are a very bright and caring young man. I cannot wait to see what life holds for you BK.

I love you!

Love,

Mommy

Adelaide Jane: 10 1/2 Years Old

 Dearest Adelaide Jane,

My big girl, you are turning into a tween right before my eyes. Having a few "real" crushes, asking questions about things I am not ready to answer, and showing signs of womanhood. I blinked and you are a decade & some. How I wish I could turn back time to when you were a baby just eating cake pops in the Target cart.

You are working very hard in 4th grade; switching classes and having 3 teachers for two subjects. Juggling the load of homework, quizzes, projects & tests plus being an athlete. You handle it well most days and have made great grades so far. 

You are still navigating the waters of friendship, finding your niche and way. You like to befriend those that are around you; you don't really know a stranger. You are able to roll with the punches, simply going from day to day with what appears to be ease.

You are continuing to work hard this gymnastics season. Competition season is well underway and you continue to push through some trying times. Severs has flared up; but your diligence to do your daily stretches, ice, and listen to your body have been helpful. I know this season has had some personal ups & down, but I am truly proud of you for persevering.

                                                    

I hope that you always smile, see the good in others, and remember that your value comes from within. I want you to remember that life is a journey, and if you're lucky enough to be on it long enough, every situation can be a life lesson. My hope is that you never allow anger or negativity to bring you down. That you RISE UP every chance you get.

I love you!

Love,

Mommy

40 Before 40: Buy a Rolex

"Jewelry is like the perfect spice; it compliments what is already there." ~Diane Von Furstenberg

What is more complimentary than a Rolex, purchased as a gift to create a timeless look in a world where time is our most precious gift. How blessed I am to have been given such a gift.

40 Before 40: Say a Morning Prayer for 365 Days

 For 365 days, the first thing I’ve done is read a Bible verse. It’s been refreshing to seek the Lord as I start my day. This is a ritual routine that I plan to continue into my 40th year.

40 Before 40: Make a Charitable Contribution in Each of My Grandparents Names

                                            

Founded in 1959, The Fillies is a group of women dedicated to supporting the Kentucky Derby Festival. 

We sponsor the Fillies Derby Ball, the official Derby Festival Program, the Derby Children's Tea, and we manage the Derby Princess Program.

In honor of my Mama Collins who sat on The Fillies' Board for many years, I was pleased to make a donation that would continue the events of the foundation.

St. Joseph Children’s Home has evolved throughout the years to become a multi-faceted, child caring nonprofit licensed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky with the mission of “Giving Children a Home.”

St. Joe’s is no longer home to “orphans” but rather, children who have been removed from their homes because they have experienced severe abuse and neglect. St. Joe’s has consistently adapted to the needs of the community and now serves children and families across three core programs: Residential Treatment Program, Therapeutic Foster Care and Adoption Program, and the Child Development Center.

St. Joe’s serves children in all counties of Kentucky, regardless of nationality, sexual orientation, race, or creed. Since 1849, St. Joe’s has provided a safe and loving home to over 75,000 boys and girls. We will not quit until every child has a family!

In honor of my Mama Comley who adopted my mom & Uncle Johnny from St. Joe's Orphanage & saved their lives, I was ecstatic to make a donation to help continue their mission in placing every child in a forever home.

Parkinson’s Foundation Tennessee and Kentucky makes life better for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) by improving care and advancing research towards a cure. Whether you are newly diagnosed with PD or have been managing it for years, are a care partner, family member or friend of someone with PD, we are here to help you.

My Papa Collins battled Parkinson's for 29 years. He was instrumental in forging ahead with research here in the state of KY. He opened the Bill Collins Parkinson's Center at Jewish Hospital to serve as a resource & rehab facility for those struggling with the disease as well as their family members. He was a pioneer in all that he did; even this debilitating disease that took his life.