Loni and Tyler

Our Holiday!!

2012-01-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

This is the loveliest tree yet!! Mostly because I love my decorations! They make me happy!

Our tree was only about 1/3 the size of my parents tree though... and oh boy is it a chore to decorate!

Grandpa turned 95 years old this month too!!!!!!! They are so amazing for their age. We celebrated at El Matador- one of his favorites!

Tyler's finals drug clear out until the 22nd of December!!!! It was terrible... so I spent a lot of time with these two little boys above! Oh my goodness I love them!

Happy 5th Anniversary!!! Tyler and I did get to spend the weekend of our anniversary together! We hit our 5th year on the 15th of December. I cannot believe it has been that long! I love him more than I ever could have imagined. I just adore everything about him still... and finding more things every single day to love! We spent the weekend in Boise seeing family, going to the Potato Bowl and relaxing at a nice hotel!

The Potato Bowl was quite the big deal!!! Tyler got the shirt he is wearing here the morning of the game for an anniversary gift. He kind of loves it and I just kind of love him!

I just think it's the cutest how devoted he is to the Aggies even though they are just not the greatest most of the time!

Ty's Dad and his nephew Mason also met us in Boise for the game. We froze our little bums off! But so worth it!

Ty had warned me about this very very blue field they played on! He told me that sometimes birds mistake it for a body of water... and it doesn't turn out so well for them!

My little sweetness! Happy 5th Ty- can't wait every day I get to spend with you!

Our Wendover tradition took a small turn this year- but a great one! On December 23rd, we all met at the Dollar Store. We then drew names and bought our secret someone a dollar gift we thought they'd enjoy! I was surprised how excited the little kids were to shop for each other! Definitely the highlight of the night for me!

After the adventurous shopping- we made our way to the Golden Corral for a delicious dinner!

The kids had a ball- Braden even made this funny little roll person!

Lots of messy hands and faces after we stuffed ourselves!

Then it was back to my parents house for the gift exchange! Everyone LOVED their gifts and it was so fun to keep it a secret from them! Here is little Ashy getting his gift!

And here is the whole gang enjoying each other's company! We did crafts afterwards while we listened to Christmas music, then finished off the night by watching 'The Grinch!' It was the best!

It was definitely different than our annual Wendover- jerky-shooting-hot tubbing- sleepover, but it was so much fun!

Here are the boys enjoying some pine nuts together!!!

Little Mason slept over with us that night- I just can't get enough of him lately! He sure makes me smile!

Christmas Eve is always a day I REALLY look forward to! We get to see relatives that we just adore! We saw Tyler's aunt Lori, her sister Sylvi and my grandparents!!! They are such a light to our lives and we are so lucky to have them!!

Above is Lex, Lori, Cali, Bri, me, Ty and Codes.

Then we made our way to Tyler's parents house for the evening of fun! The food traditions are really just the best! Chik-fil-A chicken platter, home made egg rolls, chips and avocado ranch from Chili's, cookies, veggies etc etc!! Then after the food, we open our jammies!!! This year was fun because we got to skype with Tyler's family! We saw Jess and Steph's fam via skype and got to see them open gifts and see their cute faces! Somehow we ended up watching several of the Rocky movies and even Swiss Family Robinson! Kind of strange picks- but a lovely series of great movies! Then bed time!

Christmas morning looked like this- sleepy but so happy!! Ty loved his stocking!

... and I loved mine! This is my favorite tradition of all- doing each other's stockings!

We went to my parents after we opened gifts at Ty's parents house. We were joyfully greeted by my cute festive Daddy!!!

Tyler got JUST what he's always wanted!!! I had to get him 3 because I just didn't know what size he needed- he has since returned 2!

And here is the ENORMOUS Reese's cups that Steph and her family gave to Tyler!!! Only 1200 calories per cup! Pretty disgusting!!

So this year we decided to re-gift some items for my dad! He has a ton of stuff downstairs that I thought for sure he had forgotten about... so we wrapped lots of it up trying to trick him! And turns out... he remembered most everything and caught on quick! Still pretty funny though!

Cute Liv, Brookie and Bren!

So good to see all of our family on Christmas! This is Jake opening his marshmallow gun!

And sweet Wes and his new semi trailer!

All the grand kids got pillow pets and they couldn't have been happier!

Some of the pets were even bigger than the kids they belonged to!

And that was our Merry Christmas! Lots of family, food, fun and laughter! Just perfect and much needed!

On the 27th we got together for a night of Bunco! Ty and I had not played it before but it was a blast!!!! We are with BJ and Angie in this pic!

Ty was loving the time spent with the guys, reminiscing about the good old basketball days! They are just the cutest!

Candice, Ang and me!

They dudes- James, BJ, Harv, Jordan, Brick, Brandon and Ty. Handsome bunch!

and the lucky ladies... Rachel, Laura, Candice, Angie, Alisha, Whitney and me. Thanks Laura and Harv for putting it together!! and Tyler was THRILLED that he won the grand prize! (a $25.00 gift card to the movie theater!)

We met up with an old neighbor of ours, Matt Bown and his wife Deborah for some dinner. Great to see them as always! We ate at El Matador yet again- a favorite of my family's!

And New Year's was a delight! Steak and crab... Yum! We went over the Jeff and Jessica's for the evening and rang in the new year with them!

And this is the first pic of the new year- kinda sleepy looking since it was at 2 am...! I always love the new year- a time for change and new beginnings. 2011 will probably be the most memorable of all years for us- we are so grateful for our MANY many blessings and for the joys of life. We are very thankful for a new year and we wish you all a very happy 2012!

That was fun!

2011-12-05T16:37:00.000-08:00

We made famous 'Myrtle's turtles' this weekend! This tradition has been going on since I can remember! Grandma Myrtle would have us all over to dip chocolates the day after Thanksgiving! It's one I've loved forever and will continue always! Tyler, Mason, Kacy and Jess helped me dip the yumminess!

What a cute crew!!

Here is the finished product! They always taste better than they look! Tyler finished off the chocolate with some strawberries. Always fun! -let the holiday pounds start adding up!

A wish come true!

2011-11-29T21:29:00.000-08:00

Cody has been BEGGING to see Santa this year!! I kept telling that she just needed to write a letter because she is getting pretty old to sit on Santa's lap. So I really had no intentions of making a special trip to take her... but a miracle happened and Cody's wish came true!

The three of us were walking into Wal Mart when the greeter said, "Santa will be here for 10 more minutes" and then pointed us in the right direction. Cody was grinning from ear to ear, bigger than she's ever grinned! And I've never seen her walk so fast in all my life! We made our way over to Santa, and he was happy to let her sit on his knee! He said, "Would you like a boyfriend for Christmas?" She loudly and half giggling said, "NO!" If you know her, you can hear just how she said it! Codes forgot to tell him what she wanted while we there so we had to make our way back and she whispered to him that she wanted a Christmas CD this year... but in all reality, her wish list is PAGES long and is not even close to being finished!

Mason was pretty happy about it too! He asked for 'drilling toys'... and pretty sure Santa's already made that happen! I'm not sure who was cuter to watch... Mason or Codes!! I was very grateful that Cody's wish came true that day. It was a very sweet moment that I'll never forget!

Let the holidays begin!!!!

2011-11-29T21:18:00.000-08:00

The hOLiDaYs are amazing and simply my favorite! I have just been soaking up any family time that I can get and somehow it's never enough!

I just love the little ones in my life that just let me snuggle them! Thanks Megs!

Here is my brother Derek and his cute family enyoying a yummy Thanksgiving dinner!

And my and my sweets!

My brother Matt and his adorable fam!

And us again! Love my Ty!

This was the buffet of delicioius food! My parents were so wonderful to let all 20 or so of us make a huge mess of their house on Thanksgiving day! My Mom did an amazing job with all of the food!

Yum!

These are the youngest babes on my side, Meg and Ashton! Just at the age where they love to give kisses!

And after dinner game of Clue with my sweet girls Liv, Cam and Brookie!

And save room for pie!! I know these boys did! Craiger, Ty and Derek... all stuffed to the max!

We had the pleasure of having my aunt Barbara over for dinner too! It had been much too long since I had seen her. Loved having her!

And the turkey did it's toll on us all! Black Friday ads and some holiday movie really did the trick!

Love this cute Brookie!

They were glued to the tv!!! So cute!

The day after Thanksgiving is probably one of my top 4 days of the entire year!!!! Cutting Christmas trees!!!

How cute is this little stinker!! So independent... wouldn't let anyone hold him... but kept falling and crying the entire 5 minutes he lasted while tree hunting! Cutie Wes!

A hunting we will go!....

Mason and Derek!

Me and my Daddy!

Matt and Ash!

Me and Honey!

Matt couldn't get enough of how cute Ash was all bundled on his back... he stole my camera and took tons of pics like these! He got a few cute ones I must say!

So sweet!

This is my parents 17 footer!

And this is where the boys spent pretty much their entire day! In the back of the car playing!

Our tree!! Perfect like usual!

And Bimbo's tree!

Happy hunting! Sure beats my cardboard tree I made last year!

We ate at Steph's diner in Morgan on the way home. We were all exhausted... but plenty of energy for giving kisses!

Love my Tyler!

This smile pretty much sums up Thanksgiving and tree cutting! Thanks Mason for capturing the feeling I felt all weekend inside!! JOY! Great to be home for the holidays with family!

Little baby Oaklee!!!

2011-11-29T20:46:00.000-08:00

We finally got to meet sweet little Oaklee!!!! Jesslynn and baby came from Arizona to be with the family for Thanksgiving and we are so glad that they did!!! Oaklee was about 7 weeks old when we finally got to meet her.... a very long 7 weeks but well worth the wait!!

Oaklee is the first baby in the Lackey family in seven years! Tyler was so stinking cute with her! They even look a lot alike!

Tyler was loving getting to know this little sweetie!!!

We are so grateful that she arrived safely into this world- what a sweet little spirit she already brings!!

We love you little Oaklee and we are so glad you are part of the family!!! Congrats Jess and John- she is an angel!

Night out with our friends!

2011-11-29T19:15:00.000-08:00

We met up with Liz, Jess, Jen, Leila and spouses a few weeks ago before Liz and Steve went home again. We ate at the Macaroni Grill in Salt Lake-yum! It was SO fun to be with you all!!!

Our cute cute honeys, Ty, Chad, Jeff and Steouven! We are some lucky women!!!

Thanks for the fun!

Liz and Steve- WE MISS YOU ALREADY!!!!!

October was just lovely!

2011-11-10T20:01:00.000-08:00

I sure liked the month of October! I really should post more often I know, but here it is... October in a nuthsell:)

Tyler turned 27 on October 12th!!!!! We are getting so old!!! He came and got his teeth cleaned at my office and after we made up for lost time at Training Table!!!! Then we ate dinner at Winger's with my parents! What more could you ask for?! Tyler got a Utah State hat which along with the Giants hat, has been preventing me from knowing the color or length of Ty's hair! He looks so cute in his new hat, mostly because it puts a proud smile on his cute face! Happy 27th hun.

If you didn't already know, I got my old job back! The girl that took my spot got prego and her last day was pretty much the day I needed a job. What a blessing! I have really enjoyed being back at this job and feel grateful every day I get to be there! This is a pic of me and my co-worker Kim, who is one of many that I LOVE working with! This was from picture day at the office- wish we looked this cute every day!

I've spent a bit of time with my sweet little nieces, above Livi and below Brookie! We spent the night together painting nails, watching a cute Halloween show and making these cute spooky pics!

We finally got to make caramel apples with our friend Brook and Brandon...

...and they were beautiful!!! Brook used to bring us each an apple to work and I would just marvel at how pretty they were- and not to mention they are also delicious! Kind of important I suppose!

So us ladies spent the evening making the apples while the boys enjoyed the sad game 7 of the World Series, Rangers vs. Cardinals. We all wanted the underdog... no such luck :(

Codester was out of commision with a head cold that she fought all weekend so she served as quality control that night!

Brandon and Ty thought they were SO awesome for their small contributions! The minute that game was on, they were out!!! They are just lucky we love them so much!!

Seriously aren't they the prettiest apples you've ever seen??! I'm pretty proud- and thank you Brook for finally teaching me!!!

My favorite part of the evening was when Codes thought she would ask Brook if she were 'too old to trick or treat!' (A conversation we have had SEVERAL times) Brook answered and said, 'Well Cody, I just know that if you came to my house I would let you trick or treat!' And there Cody went... out the back door... to the car where her sack of candy from her school party was... around to the front door where she managed to ring the doorbell!!! Code was SO happy!!!! I just kind of like this girl! She keeps us all young at heart!

The next night we had a pre-Halloween dinner party! I told everyone that if they wanted dinner they had to dress up... so they did! Michelle was a very pretty witch, and Wessie the cutest giraffe!

Naturally Ty was a Giant's player, Derek the Cat in the Hat, and my Dad- a bottle of ketchup! (Cody's costume from last year!)

All the ladies! Mom, Cody, me and Michelle!

Derek was adorable! He was pretty proud of his 25 cent hat he purchased!

Dinner was pretty delish!! Here are a few of the things we munched on that evening!

yum...

and yum!

Dinner was scrumptious, minus the fake spider webs I had strung across the table! I'm not exactly sure how, but the webs managed to make their way into everything we tried to eat; a big tangly webby mess! Lesson learned for next year!

Love this family of mine!

Mom looked hilarious in this little mask she got!

And oh boy, Mason was in LOVE with his vampire teeth Grandma gave him in his trick or treat bag!

On Halloween, the Ghost and I stopped at my sweet Grandma's house to be the first to trick or treat!!! She is just the best Grandma! She lost her sister the week before and really was having a tough time... but she never fails to continue to smile and be amazing and uplifting!

Cute, cute Gramps!!

We then stopped up to my brother Scott's house for a quick visit. Mom is holding sweetie little Meg!

Oh my cuteness!!!

After the family party we went to the Maruri's for Collette and Brian's annual Halloween chili night! It was so delicious as usual!! Here we are with Matt and April who were rockin in their costumes!!!

And that was October!!! Lots of fam friends and fun!!!!

FINALLY!!!!!

2011-10-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

!!!!!!UTAH STATE WON!!!!!!

...and I have a VERY HAPPY husband!!

I'm not sure if you noticed on my last post- the pic of just me and Brook... well not this week!!!! The boys were all smiles after the huge victory against Wyoming!

We both were SO happy that our husbands could finally go home from a game filled with the joy of a win!

Cute Ty and his Dad!... and the very cute old man sitting next to Steve :)

... sidenote... this is what I had to stare at the entire game! #1 Wyoming fan... can't imagine how cold he must have been!

GO USU!!

Let's keep it up!!!

LOVING the Fall!

2011-10-02T20:06:00.000-07:00

We had a great time fishing last Saturday morning! We went to the Weber river bright and early and fished for a couple of hours. I had forgotten how much I've missed the mountains and being outdoors with my fam! The fish were definitely biting and Ash was loving every minute of it!

Matt caught a few...

Derek caught a few...

Tyler caught... well... none! Maybe it was the orange glasses he still insists on wearing :) I've been trying to make him ditch those things ever since he bought them!! He's still my cutie though, glasses and all!

Oh my goodness I loved our fishing adventure!! Can't wait for more to come!

Later that night we went to the Utah State vs. Colorado State football game. Tyler was SO excited and had been all week. He admitted to me earlier in the week that he seriously couldn't think of anything except for the game! He sure loves his Utah State! It was a VERY disappointing game, they barely barely lost... and that is why Utah State's 2 biggest fans- Tyler and Brook's husband Brandon, were not in this picture below :( They were too sad to even smile! Still a great night!

And this weekend we made our way up to Mount Nebo to enjoy the fall leaves! Here are a few of my favorite pictures from today-

Oh my I love this man!

Mason, Derek, Wes and Michelle!

Mason is too funny- he is flexing just as hard as he can for us and giving us his biggest cheeser! He's got it down! He spent the entire day saying, 'Take my picture!'-which I did... He is such a cutie!

Mason was fascinated by a fuzzy little caterpillar that was crawling on the stump!

Pretty pretty leaves!

We picnicked after making the hike around the lake.

And took more and more gorgeous pictures with the fall leaves!

I LOVE family time! It has been so great to be back and making memories like these with the fam again. It makes me realize just how much I missed them this past year!

Conference time always helps me to reflect on all of the countless blessings that I have in my life. I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by those I adore! I am so grateful for such loving and kind parents, for brothers who are some of my bestest friends, and nieces and nephews that constantly brighten my life!

My Friounds!

2011-09-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

I LOVE my Jeouny and Liouzy!!

I got to spend some time with my bestest friends this week! There are not many things that make me quite as happy as being with them! Thank you both for always being there for me and for making me laugh no matter what!! I am SO thankful for you both!! I know I told you guys I wouldn't post the ugly face pics... but it really fit in well with another picture I just had to post... so who's pic is uglier... be honest :)

Jen, Liz and me...

vs.

Tyler and Matt...???

That's some pretty good competition if you ask me!! :)

Happy Ashton :)

2011-09-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

1 year ago this little cutie was born and I was trapped 2,500 miles away!!!! That was honestly probably the hardest moment of my entire Florida experience! I wanted to meet Ashton so much... but now I have all the time in the world with him!! He is such a special little person and even though he hardly knows me, I am his favorite aunt :)

Matt and Lace threw a little party for him in their backyard. I just smothered the little boys all night!! I cannot get enough of little Mason...

... and Weston...

....and Bimbo....

...and moments like these...

...and these...

...and especially these!

Ash is just a perfect little guy and I love him so much!!

These are definitely the moments that make me so happy to be home again with my family!

Ready or not!

2011-09-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

The changes this past month have been quite the whirlwind for us! Moving home was so unexpected and so exciting! During this past months adventure, Tyler and I were officially apart for 18 days... it was forever!!!! I'm not interested in doing that again! He had to leave me early to start his second year of law school and is loving it so far. My Mom and I made the 3 day drive together and got home on Sunday. Since then I have been trying my best to get my life kind of organized and settled. I start work on Monday at the same job I left and I am so excited to see all my co-workers again!!

So here is how the 3 day drive looks on a map... not so bad on paper but wow it is long!

We tried to get in everything we possibly could before we left for home. We spent as much time as we could with good friends doing the things we loved the most! I have learned from this experience that people come and go in your lives- but they are all put there for a reason! Nikki and Nick (above) were such special friends to us. We sure love them and and are so glad we got to have many adventures with them... hopefully more to come:)

Tyler spent some time fishing with his buds... he will surely miss these good times with them!

We brought treats to all the people who did so much for me in the hospital. We were only able to track down this amazing lady- Mila! She was the physical therapist who helped me to walk again. She was amazing! Her job required some real dedication- I was hooked up to about a million cords/IV's etc. but she patiently worked with me to help my body recover. Like her and many others who served me in the hospital, I will never forget them and their kindness to me!

By this time Tyler had left. Suzanne and Jake invited me to tag along with them to Miami for the first weekend he was away. Sure glad I went because we had a blast! Suzanne also had a friend visiting- Teresa! She is from Austria and she was a joy to get to know!

We spent lots of time walking the streets of Miami, eating yummy food, soaking up the ocean and just enjoying each other's company!

Suzanne's girls are just the cutest- little Kenna that I'm squeezing to death is so adorable!

Here we are at Coconut Grove right before we travelled back to Jacksonville. Thanks Suzanne and Jake for a wonderful weekend! It was much needed and very appreciated! Miss you guys :(

Lori and Jeremiah Sanderson have been some of the best friends we could have asked for! Tyler really hit it off with Jeremiah when they found a common love of the SF Giants! So as a very kind going away present, they bought me (but it was also for Tyler) the cutest SF Giants shirt that I have been sporting like every other day since they gave it to me! They also got me a Florida Gators shirt that is also adorable! Thanks so Sanderson's for your love and constant care for us! We will miss you too!

And these girls... I am starting to really sniffle now! We went on my last adventure to Taco Lu's for dinner and then went to see The Help (I highly recommend this movie) afterwards.

Love you love you love you girls!!!! Miss you.

Cute Casey invited me to go to the beach one Saturday morning! It was 2 days after the hurricane had brushed by us and the waves were HUGE- somehow they were not captured in this picture but there were a million surfers out! Casey- you are just the best! Thank you for being the BEST visiting teacher I have ever had- I mean it! Your friendship means the world to me! Miss you too.

Suzanne had a birthday on my last weekend in Florida. Worked out great because I got to see a lot of people that I love just one last time!

I will miss the hot hot days by the pool chatting about the funniest of things and talking about our cutie husbands in law school! Someone called us the 'Desperate Law Wives!" So true!!

Ash was sweet enough to take me to Fernadina where we ate at Barbara Jean's and then spent a little time on the beach!! It was so beautiful and I'm so glad we finally made it happen after talking about it for so long!

And this was my last day of work :( I had no idea I would grow to love my co-workers the way that I did. I just love my Ashley and appreciate so much what an incredible friend she is to me!

This is cute Amanda- I just adore her as well!

And this is everyone minus Gabbie! We went to Moon River for my last lunch. I love you girls so much!!!! I was so lucky to spend the last year with all of them! It was so great to have such a close relationship with my co-workers- I was very very lucky!

Ashley and I took about a hundred pics of us in the office! She is too funny!

This is me Sandy and Amanda enjoying my last moments in the front office:)

They were so kind and brought me a box of adorable cami cupcakes that were delicious!!!!!

I made one last trip to my doctor's office to thank them for a wonderful job!

I spent my last night in Florida at the Best Western. Megan came over and brightened my day!!!! Meg I love you so much!! This past year would not have been the same without you and I am so thankful that you were along side me during the journey!! I will miss you every day and thanks for everything!

So ready or not, we left Florida! My Mom was so sweet to fly out and sit on her butt with me for 3 days while we drove home. She is the best mom ever!

I am so thankful that both me, Tyler and my Mom all made it safely home. There were lots of prayers said for safety and protection and I know we were watched over. It's so good to be home and back with my Tyler... but I sure miss my Florida life too!! I didn't think it would be quite this hard but I will always cherish everything and everyone from the past year! We both agree that it was the best year of our marriage- full of amazing memories and tender moments that have really shaped us. My testimony of the gospel has increased more than I ever could have imagined. Being one of the very members of the church in Florida played a significant role in strengthening what I already knew. I was able to talk about the gospel like I never had before and teach others about the most tender parts of my being. I really thought I know that the church was true before... but now there is absolutely NO doubt that this is the only true church on the earth today! I am so glad we had the chance to live in Florida for one very fast year and to have such unforgettable and precious experiences!

Home for good!

2011-08-14T13:32:00.000-07:00

Tyler got accepted as a second year transfer student to the S.J. Quinney School of Law at the University of Utah! I am so excited for him and this opportunity! The application process was pretty tough and it didn't help that the due date was while I was in the ICU... but somehow he pulled it off! He finished the application and wrote an incredible acceptance paper! I am so proud of him!!!

So next Monday, Tyler will have another first day of school!!! (this pic was from his first day at Florida Coastal while we were living at the La Quinta!! He is so cute!) This change is so bitter sweet for us though because we have grown to love Florida but even more the people we've met here!!! Co-workers, church friends, other law students... it's going to be so hard to leave. This year in Florida has really changed us and helped us appreciate friends, family and each other in ways that we wouldn't have otherwise. Miss you so much Florida and friends but so excited to be back home.

Back in Florida!

2011-08-09T19:30:00.000-07:00

We got back to Florida two weeks ago today. I'm back to work and I love it! It feels so good... to feel good after all the June drama! We have stayed super busy with work and being with friends again! Here are some pics of an incredible weekend... beginning with the shooting range!

We went shooting with Suni and Chase and turns out we are all pretty dang good!

Suni and I were pretty proud of marks! Later that night we went to PF Chang's for some din and met up with more of our good friends. I highly recommend the honey glazed chicken:)

Sunday afternoon we headed up to a long awaited trip to Savannah with Nick and Nikki! We have been talking about going forever and we finally made it happen!

Savannah is seriously gorgeous!

This pic of all of us was taken on River Street. Perfect sunset :)

The alleys were so awesome to walk down.

And oh my goodness this pizza... that was only $2.50 a slice!

Not exactly how these candy shops suck us in like they do... we ended up with a caramel apple and ice cream!

And how about eating at Paula Dean's??!!! Delicious! We skipped breakfast and waited for our 11:00am reservation.

I was full after the deliciously greasy garlic biscuit and pancake so I got a salad. Ty got pulled pork, Nikki the buffet and Nick the chicken pot pie (the winner on my list!). Everything there was amazing though-clog your arteries amazing!

So glad we ate here and got to experience the southern cookin'!

The boys found this toy shop would let to about an hour of entertainment! Slap bracelets, sega games, ninja turtles figures, tomagachees...

the toy that makes you feel like you are looking through bugs eyes...

and trolls... did anyone else collect these besides me? I had a full shelf of them back in the day. Sure brought back some childhood memories by being there!

There were the prettiest parks every couple of blocks! The trees were so big that it offered huge shaded areas so with the blistering heat, we spent quite a bit of time there!

And on the way home we stopped at Bass Pro Shops for another adventure. Tyler indeed purchased this hat... don't worry, it was only $2.95! Pretty cute on him actually :)

Loved this weekend and spending time with good friends!

We also did this!

2011-08-02T19:13:00.000-07:00

So we are back in Florida and I keep finding myself flipping through my Utah pictures to see all the cuties! It's pretty ridiculous how much I love them! So, Braden celebrated his 7th birthday at the park on the 22nd! It's crazy to watch how quickly they grow! I just can't get enough of them! Little Brenley above and Ashlyn below are just the cutest!

Codester loved the party probably more than anyone!!! She got all of her favorites... to hold baby Meg, watch the parade and a diet coke! She also got in a silly string war with the boys... she lost! I love seeing her this happy:)

I ADORE these little girls! Brookie had surgery to remove her tonsils and adenoids a few days earlier but she healed right up and was cute as can be! Brookie, Liv and Cam are the sweetest nieces I could ever ask for!

My little Mason!

and Wessie!

and my Brookie!!

and the birthday boy, Braden!

Later that night we went to watch fireworks at Bountiful High and parked near the bleachers was this tractor. My Dad spent most of his evening just wishing he could drive away on it!

The next day we got to go to the Demolition Derby- what's the 24th of July with the derby? Jake and Braden came along and I loved spending time with them!

This was Jake's favorite pic!

Oh these boys... they have way too much fun together!

Jake and Braden had such a great time! It was so fun to finally spend some quality time with them!

And I just kind of love this guy.

Long long day... I keep trying to turn my head to the left so the picture will look right, but no, this was how he slept the whole way home! July is such a happy month for me- family family family. Can't get enough!

Miss you and love you family!

Bye Ty and night of fun!

2011-07-17T13:16:00.000-07:00

Tyler left for San Francisco today with his Dad and nephew Mason. They are going to 3 Giants vs. Dodgers games! It's a yearly tradition and even though I miss him like crazy... I am so glad he gets to spend the time and make such special memories!!

Last night we went to my brother Derek's house for some dinner and fireworks. These little cuties just light up my world! I am not supposed to hold anything over 10 pounds for a little while longer so I was definitely not holding Wessie (above) or Mason (below)! These two are the cutest brothers! I just adore them!

And this is sweet Ashton- I still can't get enough of him!

My Dad spent all day cooking another brisket, mostly for the boys! That thing must have been 7 pounds and between the 4 of them they pretty much polished it right off! This pic is after dinner was over and they were all in sneaking more and more!

Afterwards we all went on a little stroll around the block to work off the big meal!

My cutie little boys!

It is so fun to see Ty with these kids- they love him!

My amazing parents! They have taken such good care of me the last couple weeks! They are incredible!

And for the finale, we did fireworks!! The pops were a hit with the little boys! Mason ended up chucking them right at everyone and he was even brave enough to pop them between his fingers! Brave little 3 year old! Great night with the family! Love you all!

Let's skip to July!

2011-07-15T14:09:00.000-07:00

     I know it's been a LONG time since I have updated the blog... well let's just say that life is very unpredictable. June was a very interesting month for me. I am still not ready to blab all the details of June because I am still healing emotionally from everything and even though it was an amazing and much needed learning experience, I want to focus on now. A series of events landed me in the St. Luke's hospital in Florida for 18 days. My body had a terrible reaction to a medication I was taking and started storing lots and lots and lots of fluid in my lungs. It was really scary for several days and finally by day 13 (which fell on Father's Day- a very happy day for us all), I was off life support and on the up and up.
     We left a day and a half later and flew home to Utah. I figured I would have a better recovery if I were surrounded by family and friends... good decision! So in a month or so when I am not quite as emotional about the whole thing I will certainly give more details and pictures... but I need to put it all behind me for now and finish healing!
     More importantly though...THANK YOU to all who prayed for us, visited, sent letters, brought food to my family and kept us in your thoughts. I can't even form words to express my gratitude for the service and love that we experienced during this trial except for the most sincere, thank you.
     So here we are in Utah!!!! Have not done a whole lot yet but we still have 2 1/2 weeks left to enjoy! The highlight for me has been meeting little Ashton and Meg and seeing all the other little ones that have grown so much! We were here for my favorite day of the year, the 4th of July! It was like a coming home party for me and Ty and it was perfect! We hadn't been home for 11 months and it was surreal to see everyone again and feel their love again! Here are some of my very best friends that I missed so much!

I haven't taken any pictures since I have been home because I have such little energy (so thanks Jen for the pic above)!
This recovery is not allowing me to do hardly any of the things I wanted to do in Utah so I am so grateful I still have a few weeks to spend time with those I love! So much still on the agenda...! I was not planning on spending my vacation recovering so I apologize if I don't get to spend a lot of time with you! I'll keep you updated on all the Utah fun!

What we did this weekend...

2011-06-05T17:09:00.000-07:00

Went to the beach,
Tyler surfed for the first time,
got sunburned...

...Currently recovering!

All my bags are packed... I'm ready to go!

2011-05-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

We have our tickets to come home!!!

See you all in 4 weeks!

More family time!

2011-05-31T15:25:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I spent our Memorial weekend in Tennessee with his sister Steph and family. I just love these cutie pa-tooties, Tyson and Laney!!! Never a dull moment when these two are around!

Tyler overcame a huge hurdle in our marriage... liking Cold Stone! Cold Stone is very dear to my heart and for some reason Ty just can't get over his little misconception about the place. Back in the day he took some chica on a date to Cold Stone. He placed his order and watched them 'slap his ice cream on the stone' and 'mix in all the dust and hair that was sitting on it.' He is a weirdo and hasn't liked it ever since that. So the last 4 1/2 years have been quite the battle- but I think are making some ground. My life is much much better!

Steph took us downtown to the Opryland Hotel. Last year the entire hotel was under 10 feet of water from the terrible flooding in Tennessee but it's back in business and amazing!

Cutie Ty and Tys.

Oh cute! Had to get a picture of these orchids. They are one of my favorite flowers! Ty secretly gave me a white orchid for Valentine's day the winter before we started dating. I found out several months later that it was him... so sweet!

There are 5 different atriums in the hotel- it's huge!

Oh Tyson- loves the spotlight!

And I love these Magnolia flowers too! Hadn't ever seen one before and they were all over the trees! So pretty.

We also...
-went to the Nashville Tennessee temple and did sealings!!!!!
-went to the mall and shopped for cologne for my nephew Jake
(not in any pics because he was being a stinker)- he is going to
be in high school this year so cologne is pretty necessary!
-played LOTS of Jenga, Toy Story Memory and Battleship
-spent Memorial Day at the community pool swimming,
getting sunburned, suffocating in the sauna, barbequing,
jumping on the tramp, eating and eating more!
-got to listen to Jake and Tyler battling to see who is more
awesome out of the two of them...
-gained like 5 pounds from all the amazing food Steph cooked
all weekend long!

Another fantastic visit to Steph's! Couldn't ask for a better sister in law and family!

Love you guys- miss you already!

Can't get enough of Disney :)

2011-05-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

My boss treated all of us ladies to a weekend at Disney!!!

This is me and Savannah at the start of our Keys to the Kingdom tour. It was a 5 hour tour around Disney where we got to learn the secrets and magic of the parks! It was pretty awesome!

And this is Ash, me and Gab. We are the 3 hygienists at our office. I just love them!

Making our best pirate faces!!

And once again, a classic Splash Mountain picture! Gabbie (lower left) was riding it for the first time... classic face! And upper right, me... that's for you as usual Jen!

Last week at work we had a Disney potluck... when Tyler and last week I was inspired by these huge rice krispie treats and that's what I made for the potluck only much smaller and not quite as cute!

And how cute are these?!!

So we stayed at the Contemporary Resort, it's the one that the monorail goes through. Dr. Lee got us a villa where all 8 of us stayed! It was a blast! Somehow Savannah and I scored the king size bed in the master bedroom... it was wonderful!

Here is the Resort behind us ladies!

We ate at the Animal Kingdom Lodge at the buffet. It was so delicious!! And after, back to the park where we made it just in time to see the beautiful fireworks!

We ended up staying until the park closed at 1:00am! It was so much fun to be with these girls!

Me Goofy and Ash!

Thank you Dr. Lee for a perfect getaway to one of my favorite places! I am lucky to work where I do with such great people- it's been such a blessing!

Goodbye Disney... probably for a while :(

May- a month to be thankful!

2011-05-15T18:22:00.000-07:00

I am thankful...for the Bradshaw family- we LOVE them! Mason goes to Tyler's law school and he graduated this last week! They are moving back to be Arizona for good. They have been so amazing and such good examples to us this past year. They have taught me so much and we will miss them!

Me, Amanda and Meg.

These are just some of the awesome friends we have here that came to say goodbye to the Bradshaw's!

I am thankful...that finals are over!!! Which means I get a break from making frog eye salad above, creamed peas (the most disgusting concoction know to man), and seen below... Tyler overdosing on candy to keep him awake late at night when studying!! This picture captured a favorite moment of mine... Tyler sifting through the Jelly Belly's- picking out and eating only the fruity ones!

I am thankful... for Skype!! Last time I saw my little Wes, he was not even walking! I love being able to see my sweet family- it makes me survive being so far away! Miss you family and love you every day!

I am thankful... for the temples!!! Tyler and I spent all week getting interview appointments done so we could go to the temple! He picked me up from work all dressed up and ready, we hurried our buns trying to make it before 8pm, pulled in... and it was closed for cleaning!!! Of course! I would say 1/3 of the time we try to go to the temple it's closed. Well, it would have been the best to go inside and do some temple work but even getting to see it was incredible and much needed! There are very few things that bring me so much peace and happiness then going to the temple. I love being able to go and it's such a blessing in my life!

I am thankful... for quality time with my spouse! I planned a trip to Orlando about a month ago so we could use up our Disney passes before they expired. It was kind of a finals being over celebration and it was PERFECT!!!

Disney is pretty incredible... I have a million favorite things there! Honestly though, my favorite part was being with my Ty. I am so thankful to be married to the silliest, loudest, sweetest, caulkiest (however you spell that!), bestest friend I could ever imagine. He makes me so happy and there is nothing quite like being with him.

But back to Disney right?! Love the haunted mansion so much!

I am thankful... for memories and good friends that helped me make them! This picture is always inspired by my Jen who made this face possible with much practice! Love you Jen- hope you like our tribute to you! I also love that Tyler doesn't ever fight me when I make him make this ridiculous face!

I am thankful... for this cutiest face that Tyler makes that I love so much!

And this face too...

Not this one so much... just kidding!

I am thankful... for laughter! We had SO much fun and enjoyed every minute... Disney makes me feel little all over again and that's a special feeling!

We were so lucky to meet up with the Munk family! We had a blast spending the afternoon with them!

This was a candid little moment! Sweetie little Kenna holding Tyler's hand! So before the ride started the announcer said no food or drinks. I then passed out licorice to everyone and she immediately hid it between her legs. While the rest of us chowed the licorice down with no thought of it, she took small very inconspicuous little bites putting in right back between her legs so no one would see! Good little lesson for the rule breaking adults right? Can't believe a little 3 year old was so obedient to the rules and it didn't even cross my mind! She is adorable!

Such a fun family! Thanks for meeting up with us Munk fam!!

It was an amazing day at Magic Kingdom.!

I am thankful... for the beautiful moments in life. Whether captured by camera or not, I am so thankful for those sweet precious moments that make life so special and worth while!

Animal Kingdom was also amazing!!! This was our first time at this park and it too exceeded all my expectations... minus the rain!

This was after the Expedition Everest! Unbelievable ride!

This was in the line to the 3-D It's Tough to Be a Bug show.

And the tree of life? Really? Never seen anything like this before!

On our safari adventure we saw cutie rhinos, giraffes, lions, gazelles and much much more!

And this gorilla made me pretty happy too!

Just kind of wanted to take him home! Except that he was ginormous!

Gorgeous scenery every turn we made!

We rode the Kali Water Rapids and got completely drenched... which was nice because it was a million degrees outside!

And good thing we were wet because it poured at about 2:00! Every inch was soaked!

Goodbye Animal Kingdom! Special trip I would have to say!

And to top things off, while driving home we stopped at Wendy's for a bite... and just as Ty ordered more fries by my request, the power went out! Lovely lovely day!

I am thankful... for all of my many many blessings! May has been a special month for me, already full of memories and so many more to come! I have so much to be thankful for and there is no way to list it all :)

Thank you dreams...

2011-05-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

I started a dream journal about a month ago. It's quite amazing how much I dream about my nieces and nephews. At least 3-4 times a week! Dreaming about them has actually brought me so much comfort in being away. It's honestly a blessing to be able to see them even if it's not in real life! Last night I got to hug and squeeze little Brenley as she kept pointing at me and saying my name. I also got tackled with a hug from Braden! It was so sweet- felt so real! I've dreamed about all of them at some point and it's made sleeping one of my favorite times of my day! I think my dreams are maybe trying to tell me it's time to go home for a visit :)

Happy Wedding and Happy Easter!

2011-04-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

My sweet co-worker Gabbie got married last Saturday!! What an amazing day! I can't believe how quick the day came! I started working at this office back in August and it felt so far away... and now it's over just that fast! Here are a few other co-workers, Savannah, me, Gab, Ash and Jenny- I love them all!

The cute bride and groom, Gabbie and Joel Combs!

She looked so pretty for her wedding day! Every time I go to a wedding it makes me want to do mine all over again!

For her appetizer they had a mashed potato bar served in a martini cup, they had a fruit bar where you could get a cup full of chocolate to dip in, and a yummy selection of country style food for dinner! And it was such a beautiful day! Nothing could have been better!

My and my sweetness!

Jenny, Savannah, Ash and me.

The next morning was Easter and the bunny made it to our house! I would just like to point out that it has been 6 days since this basket arrived... and it is currently EMPTY. Dove chocolate bunny and all! I think it's probably been the key to helping Tyler stay up and study a few nights this week!

We had a wonderful Easter dinner at our place with a few friends! It was so great to have them over and celebrate Easter with them!

Now a side note: I love watching TV on Saturday mornings- so while laying in bed turned on the First Coast News. The were showing Mother's Day gifts for Mom and they were giving away a free cookie bouquet if you were the first and second caller! I woke Tyler up, we both dialed... and I was caller #1!!! I won a cookie bouquet!!!! Way to start my Saturday!

Be strong little weed!

2011-04-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

Hello...

stacks of open books, papers scattered everywhere, Tyler's other girlfriend... the library, coming to bed at 3am- sometimes later, napping any chance he gets, seeing him for 5 minutes a day...

Goodbye...

this :(

Finals will be over in May but until then,

I will miss you Ty!

So good to see you!!

2011-04-15T11:53:00.000-07:00

We finally got the chance to prove to my parents that there are actually turtles in Florida!! Last time they came the turtles were being shy... or maybe it was a little too cold! I was so great to see their cute faces and get to spend 4 whole days with them!

Feeding the turts NEVER gets old!

We took them to Ty's favorite, Gator's Dockside for some wings. If you like wings... then this is your place. We have all been craving them ever since!

We spent the afternoon shopping at the St. Augustine outlets. An unfortunate event occurred while we were there... Tyler spotted these very ugly shoes that he once owned in the 5th grade... the Scotty Pippins! He was convinced he needed to have them even though they were 1 size too small. We were stuck at the Nike store for at least 30 minutes while he tried to muster up a good hiding spot so no one would ever find them. You have no idea how grateful I am that they were 1 size too small!!!!

The Guana Reserve proved very eventful! My Dad LOVES animals/creatures so this was thee place for him! We spotted some land tortoises, snakes, creeping things, but we only heard one armadillo in the bushes but we never spotted him.

My Dad scared a tortoise right back into this hole he is pointing to! He was a little cutie! Too bad the mosquitoes were plentiful... they drove us out a bit earlier than we all would have liked. Hearing that armadillo made us all eager to see one before my parents left again...

We took them to Taco Lu... deliciousness.

The busy day ended at the Clay County Fair! What is so special about a fair that sucks me in every time? Pretty sure it's the food... you pay an admission fee just to eat!

Dad loving on this tractor! He loves old tractors! It's a cute little obsession he has!

The two little pigs!!

This old man was cutting fresh sugar cane. Tyler said when he was on his mission in Brazil everyone would chew on this. He tasted it for the very first time here at the fair!

Tastes like watered down sugar... it's weird!

This little piggy slept....

And this little piggy's wife did not let him get this most unhealthy concoction! Krispy Cream donuts for the bun and a burger inside... heart attack!

Not that this deep fried cheese and funnel cake were much healthier! Oh fair food, I love you!

Here is my cute Dad standing by a taffy making machine! Kind of wish I had that machine... it was awesome!

This is our classic fair pic. We have taken one like it EVERY year since we have been married. We are kinda carnies... sad to admit but we love our county fairs!

And just to top the visit right off... we went to Taco Lu's again for yet another amazing meal! I was hoping to get my parents hooked on some of the yummy food here so they will visit more often! Hope it works!! On our drive home from the Lu, I spotted this little fella! Now my parents could really go home happy! They had seen it and done it all on this little adventure! Thanks Mom and Dad again for coming and spending time with us! We love you guys so much!!

My canteen is full for a bit!!!

2011-03-27T12:58:00.000-07:00

We had some company the last 2 weekends!!!! Tyler's sister Steph and her family came from Tennessee. We met them in Orlando and had a blast!!!! It was so the best going to the Disney parks with Tyson, Laney and Jake- I LOVE them!

We spent our first day together at the Epcot Center. I loved Epcot! This is cutie Tyson on Test Track!

Jake, Steph and Lanes getting ready for my favorite ride!

The end of an amazing day at!

The next day we went to Clearwater Beach in Tampa- gorgeous beach! We hit plenty of traffic on the way there and back but the company was the best so it didn't really matter!

Shell hunting!

Catching a few rays.

The brave one's who got in the chilly ocean!

So relaxing!

I sure love this man but the sun glasses are rather questionable!

The next day we went to Hollywood Studios!! This is the famous cookie from Honey I Shrunk the Kids... Ty said how as a kid he always wanted that cookie to be real... he finally got his wish!

Walking down the streets of Hollywood!

Loved the Rockin' Roller Coaster!

This is in the line going to the Tower of Terror... probably one of the most frightening things I have ever done!

We ended up riding it 4 times! Great ride!!

The Lights, Camera, Action show at Hollywood- pretty impressive!

We came back home for a long week of work and school while Steph, Ryan and the kids enjoyed much much more Disney! They stopped for one more day of fun this Friday. I am so glad that they did!! Ty took them to our favorite beach in Ponte Vedra...

We fed the cutie turtles at Ty's school...

Did lots more swimming...

and laughing...

And packed all 7 of us like sardines into our tiny apartment!

The boys watched some college basketball while the rest of us watched some 'Ramona and Beezus!'

Oh, how could I forget...Justin Bieber visited our house that night! You just might love it!

We must have heard that chorus a million times but Tyson is seriously the cutest ever! I miss them so much already! Being with family feels so much different since we moved away- I couldn't appreciate them any more! Love you guys! Come back soon!!!

Prayer

2011-03-06T15:12:00.000-08:00

Tyler got asked to speak in church next Sunday! I love when he speaks- he amazes me! His topic is prayer- best topic to ever be assigned to speak on!! This got me thinking about how lucky I am to have the blessing of prayer in my life. Prayer is incredible and being on our own here in Florida I have really had the opportunity to let prayer bless me. And it just so happens that one of my most favorite scriptures is about prayer... so I wanted to share it...

3 Nephi 18:20

And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you.

I have come across this scripture several times in the past few weeks and I love it! I am so thankful for prayer and the comfort and love I feel when I get to pray. It's amazing to talk to a loving Heavenly Father and know that he will listen so intently. I LOVE prayer and am so glad that we have been blessed with it!! Wish Tyler luck next Sunday (even though he doesn't need it)!!

I will never forget this week!!

2011-02-20T13:51:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day was amazing!!! I came home to this cute little set up! (he did make me wait outside for about 10 minutes before he would let me in the house though!) He is the cutest ever!!

I sent Tyler on a scavenger hunt around our apartment, to Five Guys for dinner, back to our apartment, and to the mailbox where he FINALLY got his Giants hat I ordered him for Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Pretty sure he loved it!

Oh cute!!! And below are some of the cute things he got along the way along with an up-close of the chocolate covered strawberries that he made all by himself!!!

Onto GIRLS NIGHT OUT!!! We all got together Friday night and went to the very yummy Taco Lu! I love all these girls!!!

Above- Kacey, Polly, Amanda below- Megan, Casey, me!

Most of the ladies!!! We had a great time and seriously the best meal ever!!! These girls have become the closest thing to family here is Florida. I am so lucky to know all of them!

HEATHER'S BAPTISM!!!!

So this pretty much topped it off!!! Heather is one of the most amazing people I have ever met. I met her here in Florida through a friend and I am so grateful I did!! She been an incredible example to me and watching her conversion has really been a miracle!

It's amazing to see how the gospel can change someone. She is SO happy and her spirit beams!!! I am so lucky to know her and her son Tripp! What an incredible experience her journey has been. Love you Heather!!!

and last but not least... a NATURE WALK!!!

Our friend Nick and his brother Anthony took us to a place near the A1A and St. Augustine to go for a 'hike.' Hiking in Florida is not really possible because of the lack of mountains but it was fun!!

Nature in Florida is so different than anything I am used to. I love the vines and drooping moss and how most trees look like they need a shave! We were hoping to see some gators but the closest we got were a couple of armadillo!! They are cute little creatures!!

Anthony, Ty and Nick.

When we were done with 'hike' we went over to the beach for a short walk. The beach is still pretty chilly even though it was 80 degrees yesterday! It never gets old to see the ocean... feels like I'm on vacation every time.

Turned out to be a pretty amazing week. One I will NEVER forget! Memories like these make me so grateful that I was brave enough to move away from family for a bit. I have loved living in Florida and I feel so lucky that I am here with my best friend, Ty.

Happy, happy me :)

2011-01-30T14:53:00.001-08:00

My parents were sweet enough to take Cody overnight this weekend.  She has been DYING to meet little Ashton (Matt & Laci's new baby).  I have never met a person that loved little babies as much as Codes.

Well, all her wishes came true yesterday!...
I can promise that this perm-a-grin hasn't left her face yet!  Matt sent me these pictures shortly after-  I'm a little jealous that Cody met Ash even before me!!  THANK YOU Mom, Dad, Matt, Laci and Ash for making Cody and I so happy this weekend!!!

Shells, pie, magic and more...

2011-01-23T12:10:00.000-08:00

January has been just lovely so far!! Two weeks ago we went to the beach at sunrise and hunted on the shore for shells. Afterward we had a delicious visit to the Donut Shoppe!

We bought some gloss to spray the shells with and they are now in a vase on my kitchen table! Kinda cute!

I made my first apple pie... not really words to describe! We downed the entire pie in 3 days!!
And this weekend we went with some friends (Jake and Suzanne) to Orlando. Jake got us some tickets to see the Orlando Magic play! Good thing because I LOVE DWIGHT HOWARD!! We also got to take a tour of the new Amway Center where they play.
On our tour we got to meet the general manager of the team, Otis Smith. He was awesome! Super cool guy.Tyler was feeling pretty cool down there on the court!!
This is an outside bar overlooking church street. Pretty chilly so not many people were out.And this is just a sweet pic of my babe! Couple of celebs were there! Carlton Banks (Alfonso Ribierio), Terry Crews and Anthony Anderson. Carlton even did this famous Fresh Prince dance! The mascot messed with them the ENTIRE game! They were all pretty funny!We stayed overnight at the Days Inn and got to go to the Orlando temple in the morning!It was so amazing to go to the temple. Living in Utah you sure take for granted how close and how many temples there are. I LOVED going to the temple!!
And last but not least... for my Tyler...
GO PACKER'S!!!!!

Finally!!!

2011-01-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

After 5 1/2 LONG months...

I get to be a Dental Hygienist again!!

To be licensed in Florida I had to retake ALL of the tests over. It was a very long journey but I did it!! I am so happy that I get to do what I love again... finally! I start full time hygiene on Monday and I am pretty excited!

Thank you for coming!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-01-02T17:44:00.000-08:00

This was the greatest holiday ever for me!!! Being away makes you appreciate family in ways that I just can't explain. My parents flew to Nashville on a whim and spent the next week during Christmas and New Years!!! It was AMAZING to have them with us!! They drove with us from Nashville to Jacksonville the next morning. It should have only been an 8 hour drive but it took us 12 because of traffic! Road trips are the best!
The first day in Jacksonville we went to a beach in Ponte Vedra. The ocean is a bit cold right now so it's not drawing the regular crowd... so the shells we found were incredible!!
These pictures make me smile from ear to ear!
Then we drove down to St. Augustine and spent the rest of the afternoon shopping, eating New York style pizza and catching up.Oh I love these parents of mine!!!
Along our travels we saw this guy who was a 'one man band!' He was really good!

The next day we attempted to feed the turtles that are in the pond at Ty's school but that didn't work out so well... they never came to the surface! We we went again later and they still didn't show up! I was way bummed they didn't get to see our little turtle friends!Then we headed out to the pier at Jax beach where we shell hunted again. My Dad found a live clam that they broke open- it was yucky!Oh cuteness :)Then the real journey began!!! We all packed up and headed for Orlando... you know what's in Orlando don't you???......MAGIC KINGDOM IN DISNEY WORLD!!!!!!!!!We all turned into little kids again as we spent the entire day (8:00 am - 12:00 am) at the very magical Magic Kingdom!We had lots of yummy food including this delicious turkey leg. My Dad even had to get one later to satisfy his turkey leg appetite!Loved the Disney Christmas parade that came down the roads!We enjoyed a lovely time at the 'Phillar Magic' 3-D show which was AWESOME!!Seriously a picture perfect day! My parents and Tyler and I went on our honeymoons to Disneyland and we were both married in December so it was kind of special for us to all be there around our anniversaries!Being with my Mom and Dad was so good for me! It filled my little family canteen full- but not sure how long it's going to last!!
So this is the ride we rode first and the ride we rode last... Buzz Lightyear! These two 'men' turned into the littlest of 'little boys' I have ever seen! I am so glad that they get along so well!Mom and Dad- THANK YOU for coming! It was so special to share that time with you!
This picture really sums up the holidays for me and Tyler...
perfect!

Christmas in Tennessee

2011-01-01T11:30:00.000-08:00

Turns out I did get to see some snow in Tennessee this year! It was the first time in 25 years that it was a 'white Christmas!' It was beautiful... made me feel right at home!

We had such a great time with family... Christmas eve Laney and Jake planned the Christmas program full of songs and scripture to get our hearts in the right place!

Everyone opened their new jammies! I think this is Cody's favorite part of Christmas. She looked so cute in them! Tyler and I did slippers instead of pj's this year!This was the cutest!!! Tyler pulled up google maps and they watched Santa on the map for a few hours!!! It was adorable!!Christmas morning began at 6 am. The kids ran downstairs and saw what Santa had brought! Tyson was especially excited... he got the drum set he asked for!!!! And we had the pleasure of listening to him play ALL DAY LONG!!! It was so cute to see how excited he was!Cute Laney made us this giant cute card. She is so creative!For Christmas Ty got this hat... maybe! It didn't ship in time and it's still not here so he 'might' get this hat! Ty gave me the BEST present of all time. He got me a web-cam and downloaded Skype to our computer!!! I got to talk to and see my family on Christmas day!! It was the greatest ever!Here are our stockings! Ty stuffed mine with Caress soap- my favorite!! And his was stuffed with chocolate and candy, naturally!We had an incredible Christmas dinner that Steph made. Ham, cheese potatoes, salad, rolls, creamed peas (eeew- but they are Ty's favorite!).It snowed all Christmas day! This is the day after, Sunday. Church got canceled because of 'weather conditions!' Cracks me up! Coming from Utah this was really a surprise!
Christmas was amazing!!! So great to be with family! Thank you Steph for having us for 10 whole days!!! Steph arranged a couple of really special events for us... we got to sing at a rest home and we got to serve food at the homeless shelter. It was so great. It was a special year for us!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

So... I saw Garth Brooks in concert last night...!!!

2010-12-22T20:29:00.000-08:00

We are in Franklin Tennessee with Tyler's sister Stephanie (and family) for the holidays!!! It's so good to be with family! Tyler has had a little surprise for me the last couple of weeks and for the first time ever he actually kept it a secret (thanks to me!) Tyler surprised me with tickets to Garth Brooks as an anniversary gift!! It was AMAZING!!!

I love country music and have always liked Garth Brooks... not a huge fan... only familiar with his real popular songs. Let me just say, he really made me a fan last night!!!

Tyler's sisters Cody and Steph came too!!I had such a great time!!!!!!!!!!!

So here he is... And he brought someone special along... Trisha Yearwood!!!!
What a fun concert! Thanks Tyler and Steph for arranging everything and getting the tickets!

4

2010-12-16T17:45:00.001-08:00

Tyler and I had our 4th anniversary
Wednesday December 15th, 2010!

Thank heaven for a kind boss who gave us a gift card to Morton's the Steakhouse by the river in downtown Jacksonville! It came at the perfect time!

Then they gave us a personalized menu, read the top line... 'Happy Anniversary Mr. & Mrs. Lackey.'

So first... they brought out a huge round loaf (I guess you would call it) of bread, crunchy on the outside and super soft on the inside! Then an iceberg wedge with bacon, egg, bleu cheese and Italian dressing. Next the entree: asparagus with hollandaise, huge steak fries, Ty had a 20 oz. new york steak and I had 2 giant king crab legs!!! Words cannot describe how incredible this
meal was... if only I were a richy... I would live at Morton's!!After dinner they came around and took our picture, signed it and let us keep it for free! This was the best dinner of my entire life!!!You know it's amazing how much more I love my Ty each and every year that passes. We talked at dinner about some of our favorite memories we've shared and there were so many! I could not be more thankful my Tyler. He is the best kind of person there is and my very best friend.

Happy 4th Ty!
I am loving this journey together!

13 Days til Christmas!!!

2010-12-12T16:12:00.000-08:00

It's not feeling quite like Christmas yet... but it's only 13 days away!!! Tyler and I are going to his sister Stephanie's house in Tennessee for the entire holiday. I can hardly wait to see some family!! It's about a 9 hour drive from Jacksonville... 4 days and counting til we leave!

____________
So, Tyler finished his first semester of law school on Tuesday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so proud of him! I am so glad I get ho have him back for a month! But I would like to reflect back on the last 4 months for a minute...Tyler was either asleep...
...or at the library! And then there was also a lot of this... losing everything! Phone, wallet, keys, papers... and then finding them in places you would never think to look!!

I am SO glad that he is done!!! He has slowly been redeeming himself since Tuesday though! This is a cute note he left me on our mirror before work one morning.

And here is our Christmas tree!!! Brought to you in part by Dollar Tree! I made it from poster board and some hot glue! This is my VERY first year without a real tree... it will do!

We also had my work Christmas party this weekend. My boss took us to the Melting Pot. It was very yummy! I work with such awesome people. I am so grateful for a good job and good friends to be with every day!

Well, Merry almost Christmas!! It will be here in the blink of an eye!

My milestone

2010-11-29T16:01:00.000-08:00

...and the Boat Parade!!!

So Florida does their parades on the water!! Pretty awesome if you ask me. It was SO beautiful! This event marked an important milestone for me. When we moved here I was told about the boat parade and it sounded amazing! I remember thinking... 'if I can just make it the parade without giving up and letting homesickness get the best of me... then I could do anything!' Well, I made it... and it came SO fast! Thanks Ty for taking a few minutes away from studying to be with me on my important evening of making it to my milestone!!

Santa's sleigh... just lovely!I wish I could have captured the twinkling snowflakes falling from this boat!This was my favorite, it was a viking ship. The little white things inside the boat are people wearing viking hats and the horns are lit. They were all rowing in sync. It looked so cool!
This boat had its music cranked!Jackson, Jeff, Melin, Suzanne, Kenna and Ty.Very pregnant Polly, me, Suzanne and Amanda.Mason, Jeff and Ty.
Being here in Florida has been so special for me. I am so thankful for the good friends we have made here- they are incredible people and I have loved getting to know them. So thanks to all my new friends in Florida for making this become my home away from home.

Our Thanksgiving

2010-11-27T05:30:00.000-08:00

A whole lot of potato cookin went on at our place on Thanksgiving! I made mashed potatoes and the sweet potato pie!

Tyler did a lot of studying for finals while I cooked.

This is the sweet potato pie in the oven and the mess I made!

Here is the spread of deliciousness! A bunch of couples met up at our church building and did a potluck Thanksgiving.

And the happy couple about to eat the deliciousness!
All the ladies- Leesa, Suzanne, Megan, me, Kacey and Amanda! (and little Jack!)And the boy band.
Garrit, Jake, Clint, Ty, Reid and Mason.
Thank you friends for being our family this year! It was really special to share a Thanksgiving away with such great people!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING HOME!
We miss you.

Remembering the meatloaf!

2010-11-20T06:24:00.000-08:00

One overachieving evening I made 2 dinners... tacos and a meatloaf. I planned on putting the meatloaf in the fridge for dinner the next night. ...But, the meatloaf never made it to the fridge that night,

...or the next,
...or the next...
...or even the next...
This is the meatloaf 1 week after I made it... still in the oven! I am seriously losing my mind!
That was a smelly surprise!

Miami

2010-11-14T12:11:00.001-08:00

Last weekend I had my dental hygiene clinical boards in Miami. I'm not going to lie, it was a little stressful and I am sure glad it's over! Luckily Tyler was able to take a little time off to come with me and I am so glad he did!
This is South Beach which was amazing!!! Let me remind you that it's November and it's BEAUTIFUL in Florida!!! Trust me, I miss everything about Utah... except the snow, and lucky for me I won't even have to see a single flake this year!

Tyler chose where we ate lunch and obviously he would pick a hamburger place... but turns out I LOVE Five Guys. Best burger I've ever had.

Pretty sweet jacket right? (Luckily I talked him out of buying it!...sigh.)
After South Beach we made our way to Coconut Grove and did some shopping, sight-seeing, eating and enjoying some time together.

This is at the main shopping center that we loved!
Thanks again Ty for coming- I couldn't have done it without you!
Just about the right size!
We finally ended up at another hot spot called Bayside which was right next to the arena where the Miami Heat play. There was a game that night and it was super busy. We had a great time in Miami but now it's back to business. Ty has finals in 3 weeks so I'm glad I got to spend some time with him before the library steals him from me!
Oh yeah... I passed my boards!!!

Happy for my Tyler!

2010-11-13T06:49:00.000-08:00

So I bought Tyler a San Francisco Giants hat for Father's day this year and look what happened...
The Giants won the World Series!!
Tyler got the chance to go to game 3 of the World Series in Dallas, Texas two weeks ago. He and his Dad are obsessed with the San Francisco Giants and for the first time in 56 years... they won!

They also met Ty's nephew Jake and brother-in-law Ryan at the game. Their team is the Texas Rangers. Tyler and Steve vs. Jake and Ryan!! Their two favorite teams in the World Series... pretty awesome!

This is Tyler after one of the star pitchers, Matt Cain, pointed Ty out of a crowd of Rangers fans and threw the ball right to him!!! He was ecstatic!!!

This is Tim Lincecum, another star pitcher for the Giants!

The boys showed up to the park 3 hours before the game started and watched the players warm up.

This was during the national anthem.

After the game... the Giants lost... but they did win the series!
Ryan, Jake, Steve and Ty- the 4 happiest boys on earth!

And this is the final game of the World Series. We watched it at Jeremiah's house who had that day purchased this new flat screen!!! Good thing their team won that night!!!

Congratulations Giants and Tyler!
I couldn't be happier!
...and wish me luck trying to get him to take his hat off!

October came and went!

2010-11-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

Who knows where the time went? I have been so busy trying to get ready for my dental hygiene boards here in Florida that I forgot all about blogging!! Well I'm back :)My sweetie turned 26 on the 12th of October! I got him a basket full of fruit and a gift card to Gators- a place he loves to get hot wings!

Tyler shared his birthday with a friend we met here, Reid Mann. His wife Megan was nice enough to let us use her place for a little party that night! Thanks Megan!! and Happy Birthday boys! Here is their birthday singing... sing along! It's cute!

We did find time to spend a day in Old St. Augustine. It was BEAUTIFUL!! I love it there.
I saw my first real live dolphins- one of the best moments ever!!October has been the BEST! Gorgeous weather- full of fall activities- full of friends and good food!

I also got a new calling! Well, two... I am the Relief Society Newsletter lady- but in charge of the RS blog, and a Primary teacher!!! I love both of the callings and am so excited to serve in them both!

A random post for a Sunday

2010-10-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

General Conference is such a special time for me. It makes me realize how much I love the prophet and all the leaders of our church! President Monson is simply amazing. I am always so grateful for his kind and loving words and how he helps my testimony grow.

This is the school that has stolen my husband! Tyler took his midterms this week! 1/2 way through a semester already!!! Time is flying.

These are some of the creatures of Jacksonville. I Just love em.

And a very random photo I came across! This is Ty's family from the 90s. Love the big curly hair- but really love how cutie Tyler was!

And the last of random things... the couch we bought our first week here... and have since sold! It was a Craig's List special and I am SO glad it's stay with us was short!

I need to say 'thanks!'

2010-09-24T11:42:00.001-07:00

I just had a moment today where I missed my old job. My new job is really great- I LOVE the people that I work with. But, I spent 3 1/2 years at Glassett Dental and they were 3 1/2 awesome ones! So I just wanted to say thanks to all myold co-workers and doctors- you were all so great to work with!I don't have pics of everyone but these are just a few. This is cute Diana who works up front. She is AMAZING! She helped me be strong and have faith in the weeks before we moved to Florida. I cannot thank her enough for her words of wisdom and her love!

This pic was from my last day of work. This is Brook and Kim waiving me goodbye. Not only did they wave, but they chased my car as I was driving away! They are the cutest!

And this is my Brookie- She has been so cute to call about once a week to say hi and catch up! I miss you so much Brook!

We had some good times for sure! The day before I left, they had a goodbye lunch for me. Everyone put in some money and got Tyler and I bags full of road trip treats, drinks and giftcards. It was the nicest thing anyone has ever done! It still makes me choke up a little when I think about it! Kim even made me this incredible raspberry cheesecake!

Miss you Glassett Dental and thanks for 3 1/2 memorable years!

Not done cooking

2010-09-21T17:34:00.000-07:00

Ashton is just a little squirt! My brother keeps emailing me pictures of him and it makes me so happy! He has about 2 more weeks in the NICU until he is done cooking and can come home.

Look at his skinny little legs! Definitely needs more cookin! Love you Ash and thanks Bim for all the pics! Keep them comin.

The weekend

2010-09-19T18:18:00.001-07:00

I spent most of my Friday with some friends making these...

Later we went to the beach! (thank you beach again and again for being so close!)

Saturday morning we drove to Tallahassee.

We met Tyler's mission companion Blake, his wife Sarah, and their cute baby Olivia! The boys went to the Florida State vs. BYU game and Sarah and I shopped and visited some of her good friends Beth, Craig and their 3 cute girls. We went on a gator hunt around midnight, then slept at Beth and Craig's house. (Thanks so much for having us!) We got home in the late afternoon today and had dinner with some friends from our ward! After they left I checked my email and my brother sent me this pic of him and Ashton!

I sure loved this weekend! And I sure love my new little nephew!

The homesickness just got worse...

2010-09-16T16:36:00.000-07:00

Ashton Matthew Parkin

Born Monday September 13th, 2010

____________________________

My brother Matt and his wife Laci are new proud parents of this little sweetie... 2,209 miles away...!! He was 2 months early but he is healthy! It is absolutely killing me that I can't hold him and love him. They say his little head is the size of an orange, that he's teeny tiny, not even 4 pounds... Oh little Ashton, I love you so much already! Matt and Laci- wish I could be there more than you will ever know.

Utah is far far away

2010-09-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

Moving away has been one of the best experiences of my entire life. It really has been amazing to be completely on our own. However, this weekend the 'vacation' feeling kind of wore off and I have been really homesick! I was really counting on not feeling homesick so I could just enjoy every bit of this, but it came. It's just really hit me how far far away we are. Luckily we have some amazing people that have really helped me avoid feeling homesick, so thanks to all of you! I suppose I just need to vent so I can cope a little better this week!

I miss...

-my Dad's tight hugs
-my Mom's Sunday dinners
-lunches on Fridays with Grandma
-Cody calling every day and trying to reserve us for the weekends
-being with Cody
-listening to my nephew Mason say my name
-sleepovers with Jake and Braden
-watching Laci's belly grow and how happy it makes Matt
-all my Utah friends
-my old job and the bestest co-workers ever
-Cafe Rio...every single day
-oh dear the list goes on!

Yep, I am a little homesick...

Fortunately for me, my very best friend is here with me! I am finding out that home is where Tyler is. I am so thankful for him and boosting me up when I miss my family. So, let's hope this is just a phase. I hope it gets easier because this feeling is no fun. Thank heaven for airplanes right- so family, start planning a vacation to Florida!!!

Gross Tyler...

2010-09-04T04:43:00.000-07:00

I sure love this man... but the other day he made me question the love!

We were eating breakfast together; I had toast, he a package of strawberry poptarts. (Sidenote: He has been cute enough to make me breakfast almost every day since we got here!)

So, he buttered my toast,

put it on a napkin and gave it to me,

I started eating... and watching him...

then he pulled his poptarts out of the toaster,

and proceeded to butter the poptart...

on the side with frosting.

Tyler, you are disgusting- you are just lucky I love you so much!

Dear Jacksonville...

2010-09-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

Thank you for having the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen only 15 minutes from my house!

Makes me real happy!

Jacksonville Florida!

2010-08-29T11:25:00.001-07:00

I must first thank my sweet sweet mom for taking a week off, driving 2,300 miles with me across the entire country, for navigating, calming me down when I got a speeding ticket 2 hours into the trip in Wyoming, for apartment shopping for 2 long days, sitting in the car with the AC blasting for 2 hours while I was in an interview, providing several meals, visiting WalMart 4 or 5 times in 2 days etc etc etc! Thank you Mom! You are a special woman and we could not have done it without you, really. I love you and miss you more than you know!

Sniff, sniff :(

Well, we are here!! But we are in Jacksonville, not Miami. We switched schools at the last minute and I am very happy we did!!! This was after 3 long days of driving- 2,300 miles later! We stayed at the La Quinta Inn for 3 nights until we were able to find an apartment. It's called the Grand Aisle at Baymeadows and it's about 1 1/2 miles from Ty's school. It's in a great location!This was our first night in our little 1 bedroom apartment! Luckily we got a bed the next day.

This is my favorite room in the house because I spend SO much time here! It's a little kitchen but I love it!
This is looking out of our front door of the apartment...
... and this is looking at our apartment! The deck is screened in because apparently the bugs are terrible! I haven't seen too many yet... but I hear they are bad news!

What else is new...

1) Tyler is in law school- 2 weeks in!!!

2) I got a job as a dental assistant!

3) It's amazing how many people think it's crazy that we don't drink.

4) I am obsessed with french vanilla ice cream with cut up strawberries in it, obsessed.

5) I am also obsessed with the lizards that are EVERYWHERE!

6) Turns out I can cook, it's been a while!

7) We've made several friends that are awesome!

8) The beach is 15 minutes from my house and it's gorgeous. We still think we are on vacation.

9) I miss my family terribly...

10) My hair is out of control in the humidity and my straightener broke the day before we left.

This sure has been a great experience. It makes me so thankful for Tyler! Being away has made me realize how special he really is and how lucky I am to have married my bestest friend! I love him and am so glad to be here with him!

Miss you everyone!!!

Tyler is partying!

2010-07-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

For the past month I have had to stare at this emblem. I bought Ty a San Francisco Giants hat to kick off a trip that he is on this week and he has worn it EVERY day since. And finally... he is in San Francisco watching his beloved Giants! It's a boys trip (sadly that means I was not invited :( that is much much needed before he starts law school in a few weeks. So basically I am posting this cause I miss him... and I miss seeing this emblem on his hat.

A little late....

2010-07-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Jake!

My oldest nephew Jake was baptized in June. Jake has always held a very special place in my heart. I am so proud of his decision and I love him SO much!

Your poor feet...

2010-07-11T18:35:00.000-07:00

Oh Laci!!!

This is my sister -in law Laci's foot and behind is her husband Matt's little scrawny foot!

Laci is 6 months prego with a little boy- hope he's worth it! Jk, but really, she has got the most swollen feet and cankles I have ever seen!!! And she's so darn skinny too!!!

And cute Matt with the ginormous feet! Hope the swelling goes down soon Lace! You have sure been a trooper through this pregnancy!!

Love me some 4th of July!!!

2010-07-05T16:35:00.001-07:00

Oh I love the 4th... well the 3rd this year!

My parents are the best to have everyone over- we sure appreciate all they do! And the food was amazing this year- they did such a good job!

THANKS MOM AND DAD!

Here are a few of the boys waiting for the wings! Dad, Jordan, Matt, Danny, Ty's Dad Steve and Ty.
Ty, Chad and beautiful Leila
My brother Derek and Mason + a lot of oreo on his face
Matt, Laci (and little boy baby in tummy!), Ryan and Carrie! (who are getting married in August! Congrats love birds!)This is little sweetie Leila- I just love her Jen!!! So glad you guys could make it!

This is my nephew Wes aka Chuck Ladell with the new do!

Chillin' and eatin'!

A classic pic. My Jeouny and my Liouzy. Love you guys!

Liz, Jess, me, Marci, Candice and Rachel.

Cody's favorite person... Marci! Thanks Marc for being so sweet to her, she loves you!

Brenley and Cammee getting comfy for fireworks- you little cuties!

Liz's Steouven and Trey! What an adororable pic!

The cutiest of them all, my Tyler!

Kath, Jess, Angie, Jen, baby Leila and me.

_____________________

I sure love all the famly and friends that came. It was so much fun to see all of you!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

Announcement...

2010-06-28T09:45:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I are moving to

Miami, Florida!

Tyler starts law school at the St. Thomas University mid August. I am very excited and very nervous! It's going to be such an adventure and I am sure glad I get to go with my sweet Tyler! Start planning your trip to Disneyworld or to the beach and we will see you there!!!

TEETH

2010-06-15T20:25:00.000-07:00

Just got thinking tonight about how many sets of teeth I have cleaned in the last 3 years of being a dental hygienist... If I did the calculations right...
about 1,814 mouths

+ another 9 tomorrow.
That's a lot of teeth!

VACATION!!!

2010-05-23T12:43:00.001-07:00

We left on Thursday the 13th and made our way to Miami Florida. Love the weather in Florida!!
This is Tyler's very first cruise and he has been so excited! I must mention that we had a layover in Minneapolis Minnesota so we spent 6 hours at the Mall of America on Thursday! That's where he got that cute new blue shirt he is wearing!!
This is right as we were walking on board the Carnival Liberty!!

We set sail at 4 pm on Saturday!

We spent the rest of the day exploring this huge cruise ship and pigging out on EVERYTHING! Pretty sure I have put on a few lbs. I love this pic!

Sunday May 16th- Half Moon Cay

2010-05-23T12:34:00.001-07:00

We were tendered into the island of Half Moon Cay on Sunday morning. It's a private island that Carnival owns. There are only 35 people that actually live there. It's all beach and it was insanely beautiful!
Nothing better than some sand and some sun after a long winter in Utah!

We took a bike/hike tour of the island that morning which we loved! We went all over the island and saw several different beaches and ruins.

Here is cutie Tyler on his bike!

This could not have been a more beautiful start to the cruise!

Our guide showed us some sting rays but we were not able to touch them.

Gorgeous Half Moon Cay as we sailed away.

Us at dinner getting fat!

Monday May 17th- Day at Sea

2010-05-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

I love days at sea because they force you to relax! And that is just what we did! Played a little mini golf...
Explored the ship and found Ty's favorite baseball jersey!

Watched the ice carving demonstration...

Ty was in a basketball tournament...

And it was the first of two formal nights! I love dressing up and having the formal dinners!

We had lobster which was delicious of course!

My cute mom and her onion rings!

Sure loved day 3 of the cruise!!

Tuesday May 18th- St. Thomas

2010-05-23T11:53:00.001-07:00

St. Thomas was such a gorgeous island. We took a taxi to Coqui Beach and we snorkeled all day!
The water was perfectly warm and so clear! Snorkeling was awesome too!
I just love this picture! They look like platypus' or something!
I just love my Tyler!

I would have stayed here forever if I could have!

And the random HUGE iquana just hanging out in the streets!

Tyler was in need of some sunglasses since he does not own any... so he chose these huge pretty ugly orange ones and sported them the whole trip!!

And maybe the highlight... this dude who may have been a body builder back in the day just insisted on wearing this leapord speedo the entire trip. Couldn't help but stare!

Another beautiful day!

St. Thomas was our favorite island by far! It is full of tropical plants/trees and the people are very much islanders with dread-locks and strong jamaican accents!

Wednesday May 19th San Juan, Puerto Rico

2010-05-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

Our cute cabin steard made us darling animls out of towels every day!

We loved San Juan! SO beautiful. These are some ancient ruins and a very old graveyard to the right.
We took a bus tour this day and stopped at some beautiful sights.
I love this man!- but I only like his nasty orange glasses!

The gang overlooking the Atlantic ocean.

Certainly not like any graveyard you would see in Utah!Shopping the streets of San Juan. Tyler had a fresh mango off a mango tree and a fresh fruit smoothie- he is obsessed with fruit! When we got back from San Juan, we spent the rest of the night partying! This was the night of the cruise competition where we danced and cheered all over the ship for our team color, red! It was a blast!

The video shows how fun it was! This is a congo line we all formed on top deck around midnight!

Thursday May 20th- Grand Turk

2010-05-23T09:38:00.003-07:00

It started off to be a crappy day because it was just pouring rain! We made the best of it though!
We walked around the beach and the shopping areas.
I will still never understand how they get these huge ships to float!

We spent most of our time at Margaritaville where we watched a huge group of black women from Brooklyn do their thang! Boy they can shake it!

Tyler's on the left by the poolside bar. Even though we stuck to water and lemonade, it was a pretty cool little place to hang out and watch.

Still raining! WE headed back to the ship a little earlier than we would have liked because it was chilly!

We had our second formal night on Thursday. This is in the main lobby of the ship.

and they had an ice cream machine that we took full advantage of! Several a day to be quite honest!

And this is the theater that we went to every night for the entertainment.

Day 5 went fast and we only had 2 more left!!!

Friday May 21st- Day at sea

2010-05-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

Tyler was a participant in battle of the sexes! He is holding the 4.
Tyler also found his other true love... this chocolate cake!
Me overlooking the main deck.
Our cute cute waiters Agus (India), Genaro (Phillipines) and Manuel (Peru). We just love these guys!
Our last sunset of the cruise! Tyler keeps asking me what my favorite part was and I can honestly say it was being with him for 9 days straight! It was the best to share all that time together! I love him and I am so grateful we got the chance to go on this cruise!

And it's over...

2010-05-23T09:09:00.000-07:00

going home...

packing out our luggage... :(

last walk on top deck... :(
last sunrise... sniff sniff...
and one last look at Miami!

HE DID IT!!!

2010-05-10T15:10:00.000-07:00

Tyler got his Bachelor's degree in finance and graduated on Friday, May 7th, 2010! I could not be more proud of him! As a graduation present I surprised him a few days early with a little vacation...

We are going on a cruise!!!!!!

And we leave in 3 days!!!!!!!!!

It's kind of our last hoo-rah before life gets even more serious. Tyler starts law school in the September and then it's all business! We always talked about going so I secretly booked the cruise and we are just going to do it! I could not be more excited!!!! He really deserves it!

This is graduation day! These are all of sisters minus Cody. Cali, Steph, Jesslynn and Kacy. I sure appreciate all of their love and support. They made Tyler feel really special and loved and that meant so much to me! Steph even flew in from Tennessee to be there. These are some special women!

I love my grad!

He was feeling pretty cool even though he didn't want to walk... I'm glad he did! It was a special day and I can't wait to enjoy his graduation present with him!

2010-03-21T19:23:00.000-07:00

Grandma Willard-

95 beautiful years!

We lost Tyler's great grandma Willard on Tues. March 9th. She passed away in her sleep- what a perfect way to go! We were able to go to her funeral in Boise this past week and spend such precious time with family in her honor. What a life to celebrate!!! She was a beautiful person inside and out and I am so grateful to have known her for such short time. I will miss the very special way she'd squeeze my cheeks and pull me right up to her face so she could see me and tell me how much she loved me!

She honestly believed that Tyler would be a prophet and would tell me EVERY time I would see her- she sure loved Ty! She will be missed but know she is somewhere so much better than this!

LET'S GO AGGIES!

2010-03-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Tyler would be so proud to know that I made this post to cheer on his most favorite team from the little town of Logan, Utah. So here's to you Ty!

GO UTAH STATE AGGIES!This was at the USU vs. maybe Arizona? game that we went to two weekends ago. It was their last home game which they won and it was a blast!

Sure hope the Ag's win so I can have an extra happy husband this weekend!

A-B-C-B-B-D-mmm -hmmm

2010-03-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

Remember these guys!!! Oh yes, Tyler finally got enjoy his long awaited Christmas present last weekend... 2 tickets to BOYZ II MEN! It was a blast and really, what a show! They were so incredible live and put on such a fun show.

They started it off with a little Motown Philly... I swear they have not changed a bit! They even still have their moves and they are in their 40s! I have a crush on Wanya on the left. Nathan is in the middle and Shawn is on the right. These dude's rock.

This must have been during a slow romantic song because we look all lovey and chill!
And here are two amazing videos for your enjoyment! Being at this concert really made me wish there were more quality groups like them. No swearing, nothing vulgar, just some good old R&B tunes!

BOYZ II MEN singing 'Til the End of the Road'

... and their last song a little Motown Philly! I am pretty much in love with BOYZ II MEN and always will be!