Cole and steph.docx

Cultural Roots

  • Earth Day is my Birthday!

    Earth Day is my Birthday!
    Lubbock, TX I don't remember much about this day, but I know that God knew what he was doing when brought me into this world. Little did I know I would have an amazing big brother, and the perfect mom and dad. This day was truly the best day ever.
    My brother Brian was born October 28, 1983 and was so proud to be my Bubba. He taught me how to sneak food and candy into my room at night without my mom and dad knowing, and how to stand up for myself if someone was picking on me.
  • New Adventure

    New Adventure
    In 1995 both of my parents were transfered to Austin for work purposes. We ended up in the town of Pflugerville, TX and my family is still there today. I thought moving away from my friends in Lubbock was the end of my life, little did I know that I would meet my best friend the day I started 4th grade. Jena and I have been "sisters" for 20 years and know all there is to know about each other. She ecourages me, tells me when I am acting crazy, and supports me no matter what.
  • Mothers Side of the Family

    Mothers Side of the Family
    Granny- 3/13/1927-9/18/98
    Papa- 12/26/1913- 6/5/05
    Garland, TX My Papa was a WWII vet and fought in Germany. He was a very quiet man that kept to himself, except when it was football season! He lit a fire in me at a young age for the love of Texas Longhorn Football!
    My granny showed me what it meant to truly care for people. She was always doing things for others. She taught me the basics of sewing and instilled in me the desire to craft and create things.
  • Dad's Side of the Family

    Dad's Side of the Family
    Grandma- 9/13/1923- 1/16/07
    Garland, TX My dad's side of the family was always "different" compared to my mom's side. My Grandma didn't show me affection and tended to be very demanding of others. It took me a long time to truly understand how to genuinely love her. While I know that she loved me and my family, it was just a much different kind of love. My dad is one of four and we would all see each other on holidays but didn't have much interaction other than that.
  • College Graduation

    College Graduation
    I moved to San Angelo in 2004 to attend Angelo State University. I originally was a nursing major but quickly changed my mind and majored in education and special education. I was the 3rd person in the Collins family to graduate from college and gradutated with my Bachelors degree in 2008. I am now working on my Master's degree and will be the only other person in my family, besides my dad, to have a Master's degree.
  • The night we met

    The night we met
    I had no idea this night would change my life. I was invited to dinner and a concert with some friends after a rough week at work. I had no idea this guy would be there and I really didn't pay much attention to him at dinner. When we arrived at the concert he asked me to dance... the rest is history! We were engaged June 4, 2011!
  • Saying Goodbye

    Saying Goodbye
    Bruce Collins (Dad)- 9/9/48-4/15/10 I never thought I would have to face the pain of losing my father at a young age. My dad was a fighter and fought hard for 15 months. He was my rock. He taught me that it is ok to cut loose and have fun. He was always telling corny jokes that made me belly laugh. He always knew the right thing to say when I needed it the most. He LOVED baseball and would take me Longhorn, Ranger, and Astros's games. He gave the best hugs and was full of wisdom. Cancer Sucks.
  • Meeting the future In Laws

    Meeting the future In Laws
    Meeting Roy and Wendy was great. I knew after dinner at Cheddars, most people aren't this lucky! They are so sweet and supportive of me and the things that I do. Roy reminds me of my dad. He is loving, caring, and has some of the best stories. Wendy is fantastic. She has reinspired me to sew like my Granny taught me so many years ago. She is a wonderful listener and truly cares about everyone. I am blessed to know them and to have them both in my life.
  • Mama

    Mama
    Wanda D'Spain
    San Angelo, TX Mama (Coles grandma) was a unique lady. She was fun to be around and I loved to listen to her stories. I remember when I met her and she found out I was a teacher, she was so excited. I loved listening to her stories about living overseas and seeing all the many different things she collected from different countries. She always told me to do what I love and to always remember that I am making a difference in the lives of young children, just as she did.
  • Wedding Day

    Wedding Day
    San Angelo, TX I married my best friend and soul mate! Cole and I were married at the Art Museum here in San Angelo. We had a blast being surrounded by our family and friends. We had such a great time and will be celebrating 4 years of marriage this year.
  • Sturgis 2013

    Sturgis 2013
    Sturgis, South Dakota My husbands side of the family loves to ride Harleys. We have been to Louisianna, Big Bend, Ruidoso, Port Aransas, and many small towns in the Texas Hill Country. The longest distance we have ever been was the trip we took to Sturgis, South Dakota. We rode from San Angelo to Sturgis in 2 days. I love being on the Harley, we have been blessed to see some beautiful country and enjoy each others company. We all have a blast with each other and know how lucky we are!
  • Natty Jo

    Natty Jo
    Ft. Worth, TX
    Natalie Collins My brother and wife Kristen welcomed their first child Natty Jo! I didn't realize how much my life would change with her being in this world. Even though we don't live in the same city, we still FaceTime and visit as much as possible. Natty Jo is the coolest little kid ever! I love watching her learn new things and getting to see her grow. I realized now more than ever the value of time and the bond of a family, even if we dont all live in the same town.
  • Bayou Country

    Bayou Country
    New Orleans, LA Cole and I have grown to love the culture and atmosphere of Louisana and Bayou Country. We love the people of Lousiana and most importantly.. the food! The way of living down in New Orleans is so much different than here in west Texas. While the affects of Katrina are still prevalent, the city has rebuilt and the people are stronger than ever. It was nice to drive around and see the "new" New Orleans.
  • Wiemers Clan

    Wiemers Clan
    Ft. Worth We are a close knit family and all live in San Angelo. We are able to spend time together quite often. Between the four of us we enjoy spending time on the Harleys, traveling, watching sports, cooking, and laughing as much as possible. These three people have taught me the value of loyalty, love, and committment. I don't know what I would do with out them in my life. To have the love and support of family members is the greatest blessing in the world.