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Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T13:21:00.000-08:00

We were so lucky to have Grandma and Grandpa King and Auntie MeLisa come out to meet Caden over Christmas.

Caden loved being held by everyone, and Kylie loved all the attention from her Auntie and Grandparents.

Jackie loved getting the help with the house and kids, and getting some much needed R&R.

Tyler loved being able to have some competition playing games and being able to chill with his family.

It was the best Christmas ever now that Kylie is old enough to open gifts. And it was even better to have Tyler's family be able to share her excitement with us.

We are so blessed to have such an amazing family.

Other good holiday times w/ the Fam:

Our Christmas Card and Letter

2011-12-25T14:50:00.000-08:00

Dear Family and Friends,

We hope you are doing well this holiday season. As Christmas approaches, we are reminded of the birth and life of our Savior, Jesus Christ. His atonement enables each of us to repent from our sins and become pure again through his grace. Although there is no better gift than that, we’ve also thought of ten other blessings we’ve been given this past year and wanted to share them with you all.

Ten ways we’ve been blessed during 2011:

10. Our prayers have been answered regarding dear friends and family being able to find jobs this year even with the difficult economy.

9. Tyler graduated from George Mason University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science.

8. Tyler started working full time with Blackbird Technologies as a computer programmer.

7. We were able to afford to let Jackie stop working this year as a RN for Inova Fairfax ER and become a SHM once Tyler went back to work.

6. Tyler’s testimony of the Savior and the restored Gospel increased as he shared it as a ward missionary.

5. Jackie’s did as well through reading the BOM with the youth this summer, and teaching the Miamaids on Sundays as the Miamaid advisor.

4. We were able to take trips to visit with dear family and friends in Utah, Texas, and NYC.

3. Our house survived tornadoes, hail storms, floods, and earthquakes.

2. Kylie remained safe even though she constantly loves to climb to the highest heights. Hearing her tell you she loves you and giving us kisses and hugs is one of the greatest joys we’ve ever known. Her pure love and joy for life is contagious, and we are blessed to have her in our lives.

1. We were blessed to have Caden Michael join us on November 28th, and there is no better blessing than a healthy baby. He adds such a sweet spirit to our home, and we are grateful God entrusted us with the responsibility to raise him.

May we continue to strive to pattern our lives after our beloved Savior, and be filled with his charitable nature this holiday season.
Love,
Tyler, Jackie, Kylie, & Caden King

Happy Birthday Jac!

2011-12-04T01:22:00.000-08:00

So I decided... not because it is Jackie's birthday... but because she is awesome that I am going to do something completely original and has never been done before. Make a list of top reasons that Jackie is awesome! I also decided that the magical number would be 30 reasons, for no reason other than I can't express in 29 reasons how awesome she is!

30) Hottest woman alive!
29) Lets me repeat my stories over and over
28) Puts up with(and I think secretly enjoys) my marathons of watching awesome things... Phineas and Ferb marathon anyone?(That one is for Kylie...)
27) Most patient woman alive to put with me
26) Likes cheese almost as much as I do
25) Loves to spend time with family and friends
24) Pushes herself in all aspects of life(sometimes too much, take a break and rest you just had a baby!)
23) Encourages everyone(mainly me) to develop my talents and really push myself to accomplish great things(Still working on the whole great part :D)
22) Rescues Caden from me when it takes me months to change his diapers
21) Has the ability to make everyone feel special
20) Listens to my rants about completely random and trivial things(even though based on my rant you would think it was the most important thing in the world. I still say cell phone providers charge too much for text messages!)
19) Keeps our lives and home well organized
18) Compassionate
17) Worked her tail off so we could have a home, family, and let me finish school
16) Is patient with me when I go to the store to get newborn diapers and comeback with not newborn diapers
15) Loves to have fun
14) Has the ability to talk/communicate with anyone including people she has never met... possibly more challenging sometimes is communicating with me
13) Lets me repeat my stories over and over
12) Protects Toby from a raging Tyler when Toby is just looking for love
11) Incredibly smart and talented nurse who actually understood the doctors and nurses when they would talk to us about Cadens condition
10) Doesn't judge me for liking the muppets :D
9) Makes me feel like a comedian(not really a good thing as it turns out I'm not nearly as funny as she makes me think I am)
8) Best mom ever who loves her kids so much and whom is loved by her kids(One day maybe Caden will smile at me like he does at her)
7) Knows how to work it in all the right ways :D(This one is actually good enough to be on here several times)
6) Crazy good work ethic, she knows how to get things done(again take a break you just had a baby)!
5) Sees the best potential that everyone has and helps people realize what they can accomplish
4) Somehow manages to do everything that needs to be done(Don't let her tell you otherwise she really is a super woman. The only way she could do more is if she could be in 2 places at once... Don't even think about trying it Jackie)
3) Has a special relationship with God and helps other to feel Gods love
2) HMSWTHELWIWTMSLTF
1) Best friend ever!

You really are the greatest, most bestest support/best friend anyone could ever ask for. Thanks for everything you do and everything you are, not take a break and let me help out. :D I love you and you really are the best!

Welcome Caden Michael King!

2011-11-28T12:57:00.000-08:00

Craving more ultimate cuteness?

Check out his blog by clicking his picture on the left of your screen.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-25T12:00:00.000-08:00

We were able to spend our last Thanksgiving before the new baby with my parents, sister, and her fiancee. It's was Sarah's and Scott's first Thanksgiving together so they had the assignment of making the turkey. With their powers combined we had a fantastic feast. Since I was eating for two, I had no reserves for going back for thirds. :)

Thanks Mom and Dad for driving down to see us for Thanksgiving.
I was hoping you'd get to see the baby born, but it was more fun to be able to hang out with you all. I loved getting to go out to lunch with each of you.
I am thankful to have such fantastic parents and family.

Happy Birthday Tyler!

2011-11-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

This year will be the best year of your twenties. Why? Because I'm going to do everything in my power for you to end your twenties with a bang. You continually make my dreams come true, and I want nothing more than to return the favor to you. You can do anything you but your mind to, and I want to remind you of your awesomeness.

Top 29 reasons why everyone should love Tyler King:

29. He'll wash dishes
28. Chases his daughter around the house just so she can laugh
27. Wrestles with Toby, the highlight of our dog's existence
26. Loves eating cheese almost as much as I do
25. Laughs at even corny jokes, just to make someone, aka his wife, feel funny
24. Will stop and help people get their cars out of snow or change their flat tires
23. Eats anything I cook, which is very brave
22. Stops playing a video game if I need his help
21. Puts up with a never ending "To Do" list
20. Can talk to him about ANYTHING
19. Loves road trips
18. Thirst for life and adventure pushes me out of my comfort zone and lets me experience all life has to offer.
17. Has supported me in any endeavor I wish to pursue
16. Can make me laugh, even when I am mad-which is so frustrating ;)
15. Will wake up in the middle of the night to help Kylie
14. Mad artistic and creative genes
13. Never ending patience
12. True friend to all those lucky enough to be his friend
11. Athletic with great sportsmanship
10. Optimistic
9. Still takes my breath away with a kiss
8. Intelligent
7. Keeps chivalry alive
6. Knows me better than I know myself
5. Always strives to be better in everything he does in life
4. Loyal
3. Loves God and his family
2. All those non G rated things you do that I can't write on a blog :)
1. That someone so hot and amazing could love me as much as I love them and wants to spend their life with me.

I love ya babe, and hope you have a wonderful birthday!!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T17:55:00.000-07:00

I honestly can't remember a better Halloween. We got to go to the community's trunk or treat and she got to get candy from a fire truck and from police officers. Kinda cool.

We went to our friend's little girl's costume birthday party and had a BLAST. Kylie even got to try to break her first pinata.

Alice being led by Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum

Who's got the bigger belly?

This was the first year that Kylie really got to go trick or treating. At first she was timid going up to the doors, and then by the end of our row of townhouses she was trying to run door to door like the other kids. She learned quickly by saying "Twick or tweet" and "Bye" she can get candy in her basket. We were amazed how quickly Kylie figured out how to do it. By 4 houses she was a pro, and we were overcome with joy and pride as we watched her learn something new.

The rest of the night was spent handing out candy and watching Tyler's favorite Halloween movie, The Nightmare Before Christmas. Kylie is her Daddy's girl, because she sat watching the whole thing and even tried to sing along.

We can't wait to go again next year, especially Kylie. The rest of the week she kept wanting to take her basket out and go back to our neighbors houses. She still doesn't quite understand why she can't just get all dressed up and get candy every day. :)

Cox Farms

2011-09-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

Our annual tradition is making a trip out to Cox Farms. There are tons of slides. My favorite is the potato sack slide, and I could actually go on it pregnant. Woot! Pregnancy also has its perks because I had to go up to the front of the line to get on the hayride first. They even gave me a barrel of hay to sit on.

Although I loved the chance to rest for a few minutes, Kylie was clinging to Daddy and burrowing into his shoulder during the whole ride. I guess aliens jumping out from behind stalks of hay isn't really age appropriate for a 21 month old. She also had to go down with Daddy down every slide after the first slide scared her to death.

Contrary to all the above comments, Kylie did have SOME fun. She LOVED petting the goats and seeing all the other farm animals. She also got to play with one of her favorite girls, Olive. So all in all the day was still fun. We'll just have to see how it goes next year.

9/11/11

2011-09-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago, I was sitting in a physics class as my professor turned our attention to the television in the class. We watched as a second plane crashed into the Twin Towers in NYC. The video seemed surreal. I almost expected it fake, a commercial for a new "end of the world" movie. As the reality of the pictures we were seeing set in, a panic settled into the room. The students at my high school were sent home early since there were rumors that Dallas could be hit as well by terrorists.

Talking to friends and family also brought a sense of helplessness. There was that desire to help, give blood, do something for those families that were suffering while we just watched on television the horrific events unfold. "What could I do?" I thought. Pray for our suffering fellow Americans as well as myself to not be fearful and trust in God was just one way I responded to this horrific event. To have courage to face another day, and strengthen one another was another way I tried to cope with the uncertainty of the future. President Gordon B. Hinckley helped strengthen my faith in God as he bore his testimony of how God will always be there to support us through any trial.

Now ten years later, I haven't forgotten. War continues. Natural disasters continue. I've tried to prepare for these trials by studying emergency medicine, preparing my family for emergencies, and strengthening my faith in God. When more disasters occur, for we know they will, I want to be a support to others spiritually and temporally. I want to continue the legacy of charity that all of those selfless heroes that sacrificed their lives on Sept 11 and since then portrayed. As others have said, "We will never forget and we will forever be grateful!"

Massanutten Vaca

2011-09-09T16:48:00.000-07:00

Over Labor Day we got to take one last family vacation before the new baby. We went to Massanutten and Sarah, Scott, and the girls got to come up for a bit. We all went to Luray Caverns, and I forgot how much I love caves, especially ones with stalagmites and stalactites.

Tyler barbecued for everyone, while Scott got some good pictures of us playing on the playground, playing soccer, and throwing the frisbee around. Perfect day in the mountains.

Anytime Kylie or I had cabin fever, we went to one of the parks or went swimming. But most of the time we just chillaxed at the condo, enjoyed the view and wildlife from the deck, and soaked in the tub.

There were some easy hikes too that Ky and I could handle. Love the mountain air. It was great to unwind with relaxing strolls or exercise surrounded by nature. This was our first vacation where we planned to do nothing but RELAX, and I would have to say I enjoyed it so much. We did nothing but rest or play games at times, and those were some of my favorite times. It was just so fun to be away from responsibility before the new reality of two kids comes :)

Kylie chased EVERYTHING. I think she thought the deer were dogs cuz they looked like Toby. Either way KYLIE IS FEARLESS

A CLIMBER AND HIDER

Baby Lilliana is HERE!

2011-07-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

My sister just had another healthy, beautiful baby girl! Her name is Lilliana and she is a doll. So much luscious, shiny black hair. Oh and she's a tough girl. Everyone got sick right after the birth, except the baby. Phew. I got to go out for a week and help with the baby. My camera died, and I had no way of charging it so I'll post pictures from my mom's trip out there when I get some from her. It was so much fun seeing Kylie play with all her cousins. We also went to a Texas rodeo. What fun! I also have much more respect for my sister after seeing her raise six children so well. The kids are such hard workers and everyone helps out around the house. I went to help clean and those kids were working just as hard as I was on their summer vacation! What great kids! It also gave me courage that I could handle two kids. We'll just have to see. :)

Stacey & Damien's wedding

2011-07-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

Our friends got married down in Charlottesville, and we were lucky enough to go. The wedding ceremony was beautiful and the reception afterward was a blast. Kylie got to play with all these new kids and strut her stuff on a dance floor. Check out her attitude.

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T12:21:00.000-07:00

Who gets stabbed by a nail while sitting at Outback? Tyler. And to not sue, we all got free deserts. Awesome. Luckily Ty's tetnus is up to date, so we were able to stay with our friends Ryan and Jackie to watch fireworks instead of going to the ER. Due to all the excitement, I forgot to take pictures. :( Shout out to all the brave soldiers still fighting so we can enjoy our safety and freedom!

Trip to Utah!

2011-07-02T13:19:00.000-07:00

Ty's grad gift-going to Utah for a week to see his whole family!
It was such a great trip!!

His sister Maren had her baby shower so tons of family came to celebrate baby Ava's soon arrival. It was such a cute summery pinwheel theme. It was fun being there and getting to help decorate and prepare. Tyler & his Dad got to take the kids away so we could have some girl time.

We got to go down to Beaver to see his Great Grandmother Blackburn and Grandma & Grandpa Christensen. We got great 5 generations pictures.

Ty, his Dad, and Grandpa King got to all play some golf, which was some much needed guy time away from all the shower planning and shopping us girls did.

We had a fun trip to Seven Peaks. It made me wish I could go on the waterslides, but they frown on prego's riding the rides obviously :) Daddy got to take Ky down a real slide and she did GREAT. Then on the baby slide she freaked out cuz she bumped her head-go figure.

Tyler's best friends all met us in Provo and we went to a nickle arcade and won Kylie a stuff animal. Thanks KC for driving down from Idaho to hang with us!

We had tons of yummy barbeques and family hang outs which included mini golf and tons of games and movies.

Don't forget the fun day at the book fair at BYU...

His cousin Ryne got married so we got to see even more cousins and G&G King.
The week was SO jammed pack with activities that it went by WAY TO FAST. If only we lived closer!

Father's Day 2011

2011-06-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

Tyler's best friend's mom and family were flying out to NYC over Father's Day weekend, so what do you think we did that weekend? Yep, we did a NYC trip that weekend, and had a blast even with a toddler in a city. Kylie was spoiled by KC's mom and she loved the attention.

Kylie's definitely a lil New Yorker and loves downing thin style pizza and hot dogs with relish.

and strutin' round the city

We only got to see one play each since we had to take turns watching Kylie, but it was definitely worth it. Saturday we got to do all our plays/shopping and a LOT of walking which tired us out. Ty walked 40 blocks back to our car just to realize I had the keys and so he walked back to me while pushing Kylie in the stroller and met me during my play's intermission. Then he walked back to the car realizing I gave him the wrong set of keys. So when I got out of the play Sat night, I walked to him instead of making him come back to me. That night I pampered him, and let him sleep in. When he woke up he surprised me with taking a picture of us girls getting ready.

So all Ty wanted to do on Sunday was relax and play with Kylie-who would blame him? What better place to spend Father's Day and play with your child than Central Park?

We got to take her to the Central Park Zoo, which isn't nearly as good as DC's but it was a perfect treat for Tyler and Kylie--I don't know which one likes zoos more.

Another highlight was going to Carnegie's Deli and having the triple bypass sandwich. Even though we are huge carnivores, we definitely had left overs.

All in all, a fantastic trip for the best Dad ever! Hope you enjoyed it Ty. I know I did.

Tyler's Graduation!

2011-05-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

The long awaited graduation is finally here! Thank you Tyler for sacrificing for SO many years by working and taking classes part time so that I could finish school first. You are the best husband, and you deserve this break now from school. You are done!!! I think I was more excited for this graduation than my own. Now the stress level in our house has decreased, and for once in our marriage you can just come home from work and relax, not study. YAY!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-08T10:12:00.000-07:00

Best Mother's Day EVER. Granted I've only had two, but this one was even better than last which I didn't think could happen. First I got to sleep in, AMAZING! I awoke to the sweet aroma of breakfast which always tastes better when you don't have to make it yourself. Breakfast in bed was not the shocking surprise in my room. I saw a new rocking chair in my bedroom with a gift on the seat! Woot. I never had one with Kylie, and Tyler new I wanted one with the next baby. Now I can't say that he never listens, because he certainly got me the best gift in the world after remembering all those hints of how nice a rocking chair would be. Points for Tyler!! And then it got better, because he invited my Mom and sister over for dinner so we could all hang out on Mother's Day. I just might have the best husband ever...yep, I think I do.

Easter!!

2011-04-24T08:19:00.000-07:00

This Easter season was quite the blast. It started off teaching the girls in activity days about the Atonement by doing a scripture scavenger hunt around the church. It kept me focused on the real meaning of Easter.

My parents and sister were able to come over for an Easter dinner after a splendid church service about Christ's resurrection. I know the Savior died for our sins so that we may use his merciful gift of the atonement and one day live again. It's great to spend this day with family, and build relationships that we believe will continue after death due to the atonement.

Kylie got to do her first egg hunt. A helicopter dropped eggs for the kids to run and get, and of course Kylie didn't get any without Mommy's "help". Kylie even got to meet the Easter Bunny, and was just as terrified as when she met Santa. :) Yes, we like to terrify our children.

We ended up doing our own hunt at our own house for her. She loved opening up the eggs, and didn't realize there was candy in them, so Daddy got to eat her candy for the first and last time in her life I'm sure.

Love love love the Harbor

2011-04-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

Isn't sad that I've lived here this long and haven't been to the harbor? Thanks Lisa for taking us to Alexandria. We ate at fun restaurants, window shopped, pet some cute dogs, chased seagulls, and of course laughed a lot. All around good day!

Chloden's 8 week appt

2011-04-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

I love the 8 week ob appointment because that is when we first get to see baby Chloden...Chloden is our name for this baby because we don't know if it's a boy or girl yet, so we blended our boy name Caden with the girl name Chloe and bam you get Chloden. We were tired of saying peanut or baby. Here's the first glimpse though of Chloden, fetus style.

Cherry Blossoms!

2011-04-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

Yes we are locals that brave the cherry blossom festival every year. It takes us at least an hour to find parking, but once we are finally out of the car it is always worth the wait. The blossoms are beautiful, and this year Kylie actually noticed them. How can you miss them? Their smell is intoxicating and their beauty makes me wish we could enjoy their blossoms year round instead of only a week.

David's birthday

2011-03-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

For my brother's birthday we went down to Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's house. The house tour was difficult with Kylie because she wanted to run around and touch everything...typical toddler. Yet, the beautiful grounds gave her plenty of room to run. She even got her first cut after trying to run top speed downhill. What an adventurous girl I got, and a wonderfully supportive and fun family!

Park Day!

2011-03-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

Going to the park can be such a crazy event chasing a toddler around solo; but with grandparents around I never knew how fun it could be. There were enough of us to corner Kylie and keep her safe as she ran like the wind. These are the precious moments in life that you wish you could freeze. There's nothing more enduring than watching others, especially your parents, love and play with your children. Families are AWESOME! Thanks Mom and Dad for such a fun day at the best park, Clemyjontri.

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2011-03-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

Watching Kylie learn to slide down slides and climb on playgrounds without injuring herself is the kind of Irish luck I wanted this St. Patty's Day. Feeling up on some warm Cornish beef and potatoes after a family trip to the park, made this St. Patty's Day quite memorable. I learned that all I need in life is the love of my family. That's my pot of gold!

There's a bun in the oven!!

2011-03-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

Made Tyler his favorite cinnamon rolls tonight. As the sweet aroma filled the air, I let him know we had something baking in the oven. He wasn't quite as shocked with this news, because he kinda suspected something was up. I'm not very good at keeping surprises. But we indulged in sweet treats and we sat talking about our sweetest gift, a growing family. What a special night. Oh and had to capture the proof. Behold the stick:

Best Date Night Ever!

2011-02-25T17:04:00.000-08:00

Gotta love company perks. Nothing beats getting to watch a Wizards basketball game in box seats without having to pay for it. Tyler works for the best company ever! If they don't have another use for their seats they will let the employees have them. He's also got to see a Capitals game like this. Soooo jealous. It was such a fun night meeting Tyler's coworkers and chill-laxing without Kylie. More date nights will definitely need to be worked into our schedules. :)

President's Day

2011-02-21T15:24:00.000-08:00

Presidents Day we went to Mount Vernon to celebrate good ole George. His view from his backyard was breathtaking. I would have enjoyed the grounds a little more if I hadn't foolishly worn boots with heels to a farm :) Live and learn.

Valentines Day

2011-02-14T06:57:00.000-08:00

Tyler spoiled me this Valentines Day, and showered me with flowers and candy and jewelry. Then when I tried to return the favor I learned how difficult it was to be romantic with a one year old running around. Somehow we managed though, with the help of black lights and highlighters. It was nice just to have some time alone. SOoooo nice since we have a friend staying with us temporarily while he tries to find a job/place to live out here. So we made sure he was gone this weekend. :) However, the cutest valentine I got was by far this...

She definitely has our hearts by their heartstrings!

Snow storm 2011

2011-01-29T14:21:00.000-08:00

This year I loved being trapped by snow. Last year, not so much since I was stuck working at the hospital for three days while I had a two month at home. But alas, that was last year, and this year Kylie is old enough to play in it. Toby still loves snow more, but he doesn't look as cute running in it as Kylie :)

Since Kylie is obsessed with pandas she had to have a panda hat. Oh too cute!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T14:02:00.000-08:00

2010 is officially over! I've never welcomed a new year more. This last year was extremely busy and stressful. Tyler finished his last year at George Mason!! He had the summer off and watched Kylie while I worked. Yep, I went back to work in Feb and have been working full time as an ER nurse so Tyler could finish school. Rotating days and nights is difficult by itself, but and in a newborn and lets just say this year I was a tiny bit sleep deprived. I couldn't tell you if it was day and night. I was soooo grateful for this year to end. I was actually counting down the days. Why? Because Tyler officially starts working at the beginning of January, and I will no longer work full time. WOot woot!

The plus side of this year, is Tyler now knows how much work it is to stay at home with a child, and I understand the weight of responsibility of being a bread winner. We understand why the other might need a break. This next year I will be able to be a stay at home mom out of choice. I am so grateful for my education. It is so vital in this day of age for me to be able to provide in times of unemployment, illness, or death of a spouse. Yet, I choose to put our family life first before a career. If one thing being an ER nurse has taught me, it is that life is short. I will never regret spending the time watching my child grow up, but I would regret the time I spent away from her working. We are fortunate that we can afford for me not to work, for many couples are not in this position. Although I will keep my nursing license active, I am looking forward to now nursing my families illnesses only. :)

So bring on 2011. A year of less stress and homemaking. Finally I can put our house in order and we can just relax, not work and school, school and work, study, study, study. Can't wait!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T11:38:00.000-08:00

This Christmas season was a blur of activities.

Tyler was finishing his finals, while I was gone for a week in Massanutten resort with my family. I was working four shifts a week to make up for my week vacation that Kylie and I spent sick with the flu. Thanks to my Dad for being the only one with me that whole week. He made me breakfast as I was coughing up a lung on him.

When I wasn't out of town, Tyler and I got to do some "traditional" Christmas activites.

We saw the lights at the Washington DC Temple. I was sad to see they got rid of the live nativity. I'm glad we got to participate in it before it was gone.

We saw the lights at the DC zoo and warmed up afterwards with cocoa and funnel cake. Yum. Tis the season to gain weight right?

We also saw the National Christmas Tree, and it was BITTER cold. As you can tell Kylie wasn't having too much fun so it was the quickest trip to DC ever.

Kylie FREAKED OUT when we saw Santa

Christmas Eve and Christmas I had to work. Luckily I got to go over to my parents house before work Christmas Eve to have a nice dinner and hang out.

At work I saved lives as Rudolph. Why is it that every Christmas a patient dies? It was quite the stressful Christmas day shift. But no matter our valiant efforts at resuscitating the patients heart could not be revived. Luckily I have the belief in the Atonement, and that this life is not the end. It definitely helps when you work in an occupation that deals in life and death. It was so nice to be able to come home from work and celebrate Christmas and the birth and life of Christ. That was pure joy.

2010-11-09T19:19:00.000-08:00

Trauma Fellowship

Last spring I went through trauma training, and I forgot to post pictures from it. Part of the training included following patients through the whole spectrum of care. That meant we spent days with EMS, riding along on the ambulances to their calls. But the best part was the extraction training. We got to demolish a donated car while some of us were inside to get an appreciation of the shock patients go through while waiting to be rescued by the jaws of life. After being on the scene of accidents and knowing the tools rescue teams work with I can better understand why it takes so long for patients to come to us. I have a great appreciation for the work they do since they bring us patients already nicely packaged on a back board, while they had to extract the patient from a car wrapped around a tree.

The crew

Jaws of Life

After cutting the glass, I got to break the window that shattered immediately. FYI Corners are the weakest point. I never realized how much fun it is to bust in a window, especially when I don't have to pay to fix it ;).

I also got to use a chainsaw for the first time, and I was too giddy to capture the moment.

We all shadowed for a day the flight crews that bring patients via helicopters to our trauma center. Here's some pictures from my fly alongs during a grand opening of a new hospital. Don't worry we did not have any patients with us while I was taking these.

Not all of the trauma fellowship was easy sailing though. 12 hours of class time in addition to working full time. Taking care of 4-5 patients and then going into codes and being away from your patients for an hour, and then being behind in their care while you're taking care of some one else in a high stressful situation. Poor Tyler won't be able to get a motorcycle out here after this. We also shadowed in TICU and then followed patients in outpatient rehab. I'm proud to have been able to help save lives at Fairfax, but too often than not we grieve with the families that loved ones are not as lucky. I won't ever forget all the heart wrenching screams family members make when they first hear the news. God bless our social workers! Yet those memories of shattered bodies and lives, make me grateful for the gospel and the days I have with my family. Life is too short and precious to be so stressed!

Cookies and Hamburgers

2010-11-09T19:00:00.000-08:00

I try to be thankful every day for my husband, and let him know how much his support and help means to me. Yet, too often than not, I find myself slipping into that rut of a nagging housewife whom utters the familiar chimes of "I need you to do..." or "Can you help more with..." I feel like it's taking a year just to learn to balance motherhood with working full time while maintaining a household. Anyone who knows me knows that the latter is usually what gives. Who wants to spend an hour cleaning when you've had no sleep when I could cuddle up and read books with Kylie instead? Or I have the time to vacuum but it's at 0300 am when I'm wide awake since my body is still on a night schedule.

This is where Tyler comes in. Although he is crammed with school work, he got up extra early so that he'd be home when I got home at 0800 am and started vacuuming. With our powers combined the house took a third of the time to clean up. Did it end there? No way.

Kylie took a nap at 1600, and I feel asleep since I only had four hours of sleep-gotta love nap time! As I stirred on the couch, I felt like I must be dreaming since I smelt the sweet aroma of chocolate coming from the kitchen. It awoke me from my deep slumber, and I was surprised to see Tyler with oven mitt in hand. Instead of getting mad because dinner wasn't ready when he got home, he let me keep sleeping and made dinner AND baked chocolate cookies all within 30 MINUTES. His quick delicious meal put me to shame! A hamburger has never tasted that good before! I think it's the little things like that, that make me want to do anything for him. THANKS Tyler for being my best friend, and the greatest support EVER.

William/King visit!

2010-09-05T06:43:00.001-07:00

We've been anticipating Tyler's sister and brother in law and parents coming out from Utah for a week this summer. Of course that also meant trying to get the house ready to have so many people over. We tried to buy new bedroom furniture to make the house "more presentable" and ended up not being able to get the amoir upstairs and leaving a hole in the wall showing the valiant attempt. Instead of showing off our new bedroom, there was a huge mess of clothes and dresser drawers covering our floor with two beds fitting into one bedroom. A mess no one saw. Ironic right?

It gets better. So I had a week off of work, excited to show his family the sites of DC. However, their flight got delayed and so they flew into Baltimore instead of Dulles. So I left off from work to go pick them up instead of going to the grocery store for food for the week. No big deal, I can wake up early and get groceries, right? Wrong. I woke up early but not to get groceries, I woke up with my veneer in my mouth and spent the next hours calling an emergent dentist to try to get it recemented that day while everyone went to the zoo. Crisis adverted, so I thought.

The next day it popped off AGAIN as soon as we got to DC. So I left the Holocaust Muesum to go back to the dentists to get an emergent crown. It was also the HOTTEST week of the summer, and the humidity finally broke with a thunderstorm. That kinda ruins an out door baseball game so his family and extended family came back to our place, and I left the dentist drugged and aching to attempt feebly to make a barbeque dinner all indoors since it started raining again when we started cooking. REALLY? It's like we always have teeth emergencies and drama when everyone comes and visits. What made it worse was having no sleep and carrying Kylie outside in the heat all week. Yep, she spent all day touring DC and NYC. We are now experts on taking a baby EVERYWHERE. And the sweet angel endured it all. We are so blessed with a perfect baby. Also we couldn't have made it without all the help of family all week entertaining her. THANKS!

Now that all the drama was out of the way, the rest of the week was a BLAST! We were so happy everyone came out to visit, I just wish it was any other week of the summer, because it was SO HOT!

DC FUN included the
National Zoo

DC was a whole lot of walking, and Kylie LOVED walking around with Grandma or just being with Grandma!

National Monument

Nice views from the top

Father and Son, King legacy continues

The Capital! DC is so much fun with family!

NYC was a blast and his family got to see Wicked-which they loved and then they watched Kylie, THANKS AGAIN, so we could see the play, In the Heights.

NYC Highlights!
Staten Island Ferry

Daddy showing Kylie the Statue of Liberty

Times Square

Going to church in the Manhattan Temple

On top of the world in Central Park

Tyler has always wanted to take his baby girl on the merry go round in Central Park, and today the dream came true!

Kylie LOVES pandas!

FAO Shwartz playing heart and soul w/ Maren

Getting serenaded at Ellen's Stardust Dinner and Kylie loving the lemonades-go figure.

Getting purses in Chinatown!
The whole week was jammed pack with seeing the sites, and although it was a blast, it made us want a vacation from our vacation when we got home so we could relax. We couldn't see it all of course, so everyone will have to come visit again!! :)a

Our Canadian Adventure

2010-09-04T08:24:00.000-07:00

Our awesome friends Rachelle and Aaron let us come visit them in Canada, outside of Niagara Falls. They have the cutest three month old name Terrah, and everyone thought her and Kylie were twins since Kylie's so small. They live out in the country, and it was so peaceful there. It was a much needed reprieve from the stresses of work.

Getting there was supposed to only eight hours but our road trip dragged onto ten as we took accidental detours through Omish country. However, I got to see a cow mount another cow which was very educational. It was GORGEOUS countryside. And I became more grateful for motorized engines as I drove 5 miles behind a horse and buggy. I loved the friendliness of the humble, kind country folk that helped us fix our pressure in our tires or would help direct us back on course. It was a nice reminder of how goodness can be found all over the world, but don't look for it in border patrolmen-they don't appreciate humor!

The Glanfields graciously allowed us to stay with them and be our personal tour guides and chiefs. They even let us borrow a camera when ours broke!

Highlights:
Tasting REAL Canadian bacon with Canadian Maple syrup and buttermilk syrup with waffles. YUM!

Wings with a secret sauce that you'd die for, created by Aaron's brother. He should trademark his sauce. It's really that good!

Tubing in Lake Erie and Tyler driving a boat

Tyler and Aaron golfing on an exclusive golf course due to the kindness of Aaron's stake president who also happened to be the resorts golf pro.

Walking on the glass floor on top of the CN Tower.

Trying Bubble Tea with Rachelle while pursing Toronto's Chinatown-NYC's is so much better.

Touching Lake Ontario-thanks Aaron and Rachelle for driving me to it even though it almost made you late for your tee time.

Casa Loma-beautiful!

Seeing the fireworks over the Falls, and getting sprayed by the mist and basking in the raw power of Niagara Falls via the Maid of the Mist. Thanks guys for watching Kylie so we could go on the boat ride! I felt like Tyler and I were on our honeymoon again.

Crepes! Tyler loved loved loved the French influence.

Most importantly relaxing in the Glanfields beautiful home and gorgeous gardens. Much needed R&R from work and a chance to catch up with friends we miss dearly!! Thanks for the most fantastic vacation!

Assateague Island

2010-08-05T08:05:00.000-07:00

We were going to do a family camping trip to Assateague Island, but it was too hot to bring a baby. So my mom watched Kylie so Tyler and I had a night to ourselves. THANKS MOM! It was SO beautiful. The island is a national park where wild horses run through your campground and on the beach. They kept Tyler up at night as they sniffed our tent, but I slept through it-big surprise. The horses are so used to people they came right up to our car, and it caught me by surprise.

It was so peaceful to sit out by the water on a private preserved beach, but Tyler had other plans. He wanted to catch all the crabs, while I was content to watch them from a DISTANCE. The next day we went to the public beach and it made us long for the privacy of the island. It went by way to fast, but that's how all vacations go I guess. It was our first night away from Kylie, and it made us miss her tons. I wish she was there so I could feed her in the morning instead of pumping. :)

July 4th

2010-07-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

I worked July 4th, so on the 3rd we went to Fairfax's celebration and saw the fireworks there. We took the bus over, and Kylie did great. With cotton in her ears she starred up at the fireworks with huge, stunned eyes, but never cried! We'll see how she does next year when she's big enough to be scared. :) On July 4th I rushed out of work to my parents house and we all parked off the 395 to watch the DC fireworks. This way we got back home quick and beat the rush of the DC traffic. It was perfect timing and quite the memory. Good times all around. I'm so grateful to be an American, and for all the soldiers and their families that sacrifice so much protecting our liberties. THANKS!

National Zoo

2010-06-03T15:49:00.000-07:00

Best way to spend a Wednesday off, take the family to the zoo. It was a beautiful breezy day and all the animals were out and love was in the air. I've never seen so much mating going on in nature. Below is a pretty graphic video of lions mating. I kinda felt dirty even taping it, but don't worry the female lioness yelled for the lion to get off her back...oh how fitting.

The tiger didn't want to watch; he just wanted to go back in

And the girls just wanted to have fun

Tyler loved the cheetah

Kylie got her first panda bear since we became zoo members. She loved it.

It's crazy that our family has changed so much since our last visit to the zoo.

Who is that guy?

2010-06-03T11:59:00.000-07:00

No one at church recognized Tyler after he chopped off ALL his hair.

Can you tell it's the same guy?

Cherry Blossoms!

2010-04-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

Strolling around the tidal basin while the trees are in bloom is my idea of a perfect day. Mine and hundreds of others. I'm proud to say we mastered weaving in and out of the crowds with a stroller AND a dog. Toby stole the show that day. EVERYONE kept coming up to us and wanting to pet the cute dog ang he loved the attention. Meanwhile I loved that people offered to take our picture. It's not every day you get a family shot, and today we got tons! I love springtime!

St. Patty's Day

2010-03-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes this holiday creeps me out. For example, we were all sitting in the car outside of Giant's grocery store when I glance out my passenger window and jump a little in my seat to see a man peering into our car. Decked out with a dyed green beard and hair donning a green suit, a fifty year old man/wannabe leprechaun hollers, "Happy St. Patrick's Day" I didn't know whether to scream or return his salutation. Instead I just nervously smiled and nodded as he stepped into his car that had shamrocks taped on it from top to bottom. Guess I don't have that much Irish spirit. Our friends Wendy and Larry do though, and invited us over last night for a traditional Irish meal. We all decked out in green, but Kylie looked the cutest:

Sunday Drama

2010-03-18T15:30:00.000-07:00

So on Sunday we experienced what every parent dreads. Kylie started getting fussy and crying right as the room became dead silent during Sunday school. I planned my escape out of the pew with the congregations eyes peering at the crying baby. But Kylie was determined to be heard. As I grabbed my baby out of her car seat, she decided to grab her musical pink elephant toy that we forgot to take off her car seat. I had a nice 2 minute musical number playing in the background as I quickly exited the chapel, leaving Tyler trying to muffle the singing elephant. By the time we got home though, Kylie was all smiles, and so we had to capture her cuteness in order to erase the earlier drama. :)

Blizzard 2010

2010-03-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

Of all times to have a blizzard, we had to have one when I was scheduled to work all weekend. I was locked in the hospital from Friday night to Monday morning which meant I had to sleep there! Luckily my mom stayed at our house with Tyler to help with Kylie all weekend long. Kylie's milk supply was dwindling by day two, so Tyler spent 2 hours digging out tracks for our car to get to the main road so he could drive to my work and pick up the milk I was pumping. He survived the horrible roads and made it back safely with plenty of milk for Kylie. He also took Toby out since they both were getting a little stir crazy house bound. Here's a long, but funny, video of Tyler and Toby exploring the snowy world outside. Boys will be boys:

Meanwhile, back at work, no patients could make it to the hospital at first. Sadly, I was supposed to get an code blue CPR patient, but by the time the medics could dig out a path to get to the patient he had died. I could barely talk to the patients I did get, because my face had swollen the last night due to some allergic reaction to the pillows at the hospital and I got mastitis from not pumping when the roads were cleared and we got slammed with patients.

Kylie had a great time with Grandma and Daddy, but I couldn't wait to take her out to play when we got home. She was the cutest lil' snow bunny ever, and thanks to our friends Trina and James she had a big pink snowsuit that looked like it came right out of the Christmas Story.

Getting warm after playing in the snow

Wish I could have smore Valentines Day

2010-03-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

Being cooped up inside due to a snowy wonderland outside we decided to make the best of being homebound on Valentines Day. Tyler started a raging fire in our fireplace as Kylie and I got cozy under some warm blankets awaiting the feast of smores.

Kylie loved watching Daddy roast marshmellows. Her laugh and smiles beckoned Daddy to share some of the goodness with her, and she got her first "taste" of sugar that night. Of course we didn't really feed her any, but I know Daddy can't wait till she's older and he can share all the spoils with her.

Kylie's into grabbing everything now, and before I knew it she had taken my smore and smashed it into her face to get a good taste. It was too funny not to get a picture of, but sadly I had to take it away from her.

We made it up by giving her lots of kisses.

Toby even got in on the sugar, by swallowing up the burnt marshmellows.

2010-02-14T04:57:00.000-08:00

On our wedding day, you engraved our names into the sand. It was just one of the ways you proudly displayed your love for me. Five years later you are still etching our names out in sand.

People passing by might not even noticed this in the sand, but it brought tears to my eyes. I knew what it meant, and words can't describe adequately what this gesture meant to me. For all of eternity, you will have my heart and I will have yours. Thank you for the best Valentines Day gift ever. Going to the temple with you this weekend meant the world to me. It helped me to remember how much I want moments like this to last for all eternity. We've made it five years, and even though it's been crazy at times, my love for you has only grown. Thank you for being my greatest support, my best friend. I love you Tyler. Happy Valentines Day!

Ugh, going back to work.

2010-02-01T03:30:00.000-08:00

This post is dedicated to all those moms that have to work with a new baby. It sucks and I feel your pain. I have one more year commitment in my ER, so that means I have to work through Kylie's first year of life. I feel so grateful for all my family, friends and coworkers that have gone through the same roller coaster of emotions that rock you as you leave your baby for the first time and helped me to get through it as well.

I wondered if Kylie knew that as I hugged and kissed her goodbye that first time I was only being brave to not upset her, that tears gushed down my cheeks as I drove to work, that the picture of her in her daddy's arms tore at my heart strings. I was grateful that I was so lucky that only Tyler or my mom would watch her while I was away, but wasn't it suppose to be me holding her? I know there are sacrifices to be made this year. Tyler made plenty so that I could finish school, and now I need to pay him back by letting him finish. I just never realized how emotionally difficult it would be. I felt torn, because I felt guilty for having to work, and enjoying work. Yet, as self satisfying as nursing is, I'll admit, there is no better calling than motherhood. I get off work and can't put Kylie down. I want to keep her in my arms forever. I wake up before her, just so I can stare at her. I want her to know so badly that I love her, even though I leave her sometimes, she's never left my thoughts. Aside from Tyler of course, she's the best thing I have in my life, and I can't imagine my life without her.

That first night Tyler said she cried and cried and cried for 12 hours!! Refusing to take the bottle, hoping I'd come back home and breast feed her if only she cried some more. Poor Tyler and poor Kylie. Finally, strong willed Kylie broke down and took a bottle of pumped milk, and realized it wasn't so bad. My prayers were answered that Kylie would be able to adjust to this crazy schedule, and adjust to her many caregivers. She's loving life, most of the time, with daddy. She won't let him put her down, and is content to be in his arms ALL night. Tyler and her have such a special bond, and now Tyler appreciates me so much more. He never realized how difficult motherhood was; understandably, I didn't realize how difficult it was until I had Kylie. I think we were both grateful for family that helped Tyler and I through this difficult transition. Sorry for the frantic calls at midnight, but they prevented Tyler from LOSING IT after 12 HOURS of SCREAMING.

I was anxious to start work again, it had been two months and my nerves got the best of me. I have to express my gratitude for my Heavenly Father. He has blessed me with peace and comfort as entered through the emergency doors that night. The calm was the only thing that prevented me from running out of the ER when my first patient back off maternity leave was an intubated head bleed that was flown in from another hospital. Luckily, my coworkers helped me as I pick up the paced during this emergency. It came back like riding a bike, yet I felt I was slowly trucking around on training wheels at first.

All that matters now is that we all made it through. Kylie's taking bottles now, and usually doesn't cry when I leave now. Tyler juggles studying with burping, changing, making bottles, and soothing a fussy baby almost like a pro. He's already been drenched with milk leaking from a bottle, endured frequent clothing changes from Kylie's "accidents" and felt the warmth of urine soaking him during diaper changes. Yep, I think that would qualify him as a pro. Yet, all in all, we both live for moments like these:

There's nothing more beautiful then hearing your lil angel laugh with pure loving joy!
And sleeping bliss!!!

Welcome Kylie!

2010-01-30T16:16:00.000-08:00

We couldn't feel more blessed after welcoming Kylie Michelle into our family. Instead of a baby book, I've made a blog for her. That way family can see pictures of her, she'll have more detailed descriptions of her important life events, and I can always print out these pictures into a book for her later. ;) So if you want to know more about Kylie's adventures you can click on her picture on the right. Meanwhile our day to day adventures will be updated on this blog-don't worry there will still be plenty of pictures of Kylie here too!

The 2 most beautiful women in the world!

2009-12-29T02:13:00.000-08:00

So it turns out that labor isn't really all that bad after all. I mean don't get me wrong I think I had to take a bathroom break once or twice, but aside from that it was smooth sailing... Before I am crucified by every woman who has ever gone through child birth let me say I kid and I give full props to any woman who has ever felt any of those pains at all, because it is more than I would ever be able to handle. Now in defense of us male folk know that its not as easy as you would think to be the male counter part(again let me finish before you crucify me). There is nothing harder than being forced to watch the love of your life go through unmeasurable pain. There is nothing more frustrating than watching your wife curl up in pain because she hasn't quite dialated enough for the doctors to even want us at the hospital even though she is going through contractions almost every minute. There is nothing that sucks more than to have to hold your best friend and know that there is nothing but praying that you can do to help ease her suffering as her body is torn open to make way for new life to come out.(Jackie tells me that rubbing ice cubes on her back and counting through her contractions helped, but I have a hard time believing that. I think that is her way of trying to make me feel better about myself for trying to help but not really doing anything that really helped take the pain away.) Again I know that watching someone suffer does not compare by ANY means to actually suffering. It does not even begin to compare, but just know it's not easy for us either.
Aside from all of that and once Jackie was finally able to get and epideral it really was an incredible experience. It is crazy to me to think that Kylie just came out of Jackie, even right after the birth I looked at our little 8 pound 12 ounce baby and I just starred in amazement that Kylie was inside Jackie. The whole thing was just so unreal. From watching Jackie start to show a little more and more as the months rolled by(Although Jackie is one of those women who other women love to hate because from most angles you couldn't tell that she was pregnant), to watching Kylie dig her way out of her mother(Literally dig her way out, when her head was just sticking out the doctor had to do some cleaning up so Kylie got impatient and stuck her arm out to try and pull herself out... ), to watching Jackie hold her newborn angel in her arms, it was all just one huge miracle. And one that I would not trade for anything in the entire world. I am so proud of Jackie and the great character and strength she showed throughout the whole process. It wasn't easy for her I know. She worked full time doing her ER nursing responsibilities all the way up to week 39 I believe. I know God gave her the strength she needed, but I will never fully understand/always be grateful for her sacrifice. Even with God's help I know I would never have been able to handle what she handled, nor do it as gracefully as she did. The coolest part of it all is that I know even though Kylie can't speak I know she has the strongest love for her mother than anyone else in the world. When Kylie looks in my eyes and smiles I melt, because I can feel her pure love for me than can only be found through the savior. But when she looks into her mother's eyes I can feel their bond, and I can see Kylie's unspoken love and gratitude and I know that Kylie, even though she will probably forget, knows of the great sacrifice her mother made for her(probably even watched some of it) and that bond will always be there.
It's crazy because it's only been 5 weeks since Kylie was born, but I can't imagine our life without her. And when I hold her life's problems seem very little and it's easy to focus on what really matters in life.(What's even cooler is holding both of my girls in my arms at the same time. Stealing from Jack Johnson: When the whole world fits inside of your arms, do you really need to pay attention to the alarm?)

Birthday Surprises

2009-12-04T03:12:00.000-08:00

Tyler's mom came out before my birthday to help with the baby. She was such a GREAT help, and we loved getting to see her.
My sister, Becca flew in from Seattle on my birthday to help with the baby after Tyler's mom came and helped. It was my sister's first time out to VA to see us and the first time in years that my whole family was together so of course we celebrated by eating and taking pictures.
My mom stayed with the babies as everyone went to see the Christmas tree in DC. It was a blast.

My girlfriends also came over after all my family left to see the baby and through me a belated birthday party. It was so much fun! I can't wait till Kylie can enjoy scrumptious Coldstone cupcakes that dye your mouth hot pink. So hot.

3rd trimester highlights

2009-11-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

Urgh, Day before my due date and I'm only 1 centimeter dilated. It's so frustrating just waiting. I stopped working at 39 weeks. Last week it felt so weird to not go to work, but it felt so good to get the house clean and ready and SLEEP. I've been having braxton hicks contractions and cramps, but so far no labor. I feel mixed between wanting the baby out NOW, but also dreading labor. It is so easy to carry her around now, and my errands are SO much faster now than they will be once she is here. Yet, over all I CAN"T WAIT for her to come out and play.

The third trimester highlights:
Tyler rubbing the HUGE belly nightly. Kylie and Tyler already have such a sweet bond. She goes crazy, kicking in my stomach as soon as she hears his voice and he touches my tummy. I blame not going early on their "deal" He's whispered nightly for her to stay in until his tests are done, and she obeys. I actually woke up last night at 3 am when Tyler came to bed after studying to him rubbing my belly. You can see her hand reach up to his. Though emotionally touching, it also hurt physically as the hand tried to push out of me and into his. She is definitely a daddy's girl. I couldn't be more lucky to have a husband who can't wait to be a daddy. He'll be amazing. I know because he already is!

Baby Showers! So much fun! Oh and picking out clothes for Kyile is so much fun. Baby girl stuff is too cute. Getting old stuff from friends who no longer needed it has been such a blessing. We've been able to have so many prayers answered, and the things we still needed to buy we got at our showers. We are so lucky and blessed. Also. Kylie has been spoiled by getting handmade blankets and clothes from grandmothers and great grandmothers. She is such a loved grandchild already.

Attention! Patients at work are so sweet, always asking about the baby. It brightens your day. Also, I've been SO blessed to have supportive co-workers who will help me whenever I need it. As a lot of women know, working up to your due date is rough, and I will agree that I was EXHAUSTED after 12 hour shifts in the ER. Yet, I made it to 39 weeks. Woo HOO. I am SO glad to not be working. I'm so tired. Yet, I still feel guilty not working or think I can-then I get up and start cramping and sit back down and think, "I must be crazy to want to work" Crazy hormones!

Nesting! Great boost in energy! Thanks to my mom and missionaries for help. We've done so many house projects in preparation for the new addition. I'm so tired of cleaning, and it's going to be non-stop cleaning from here on out so I better stop complaining :)

Sleeping in with Tyler! Once she comes, I don't know if we'll have such restful nights ever again. I LOVED my naps, but it's worth giving up right? ;)

My favorite thing though about this trimester is...it's almost over! Soon Kylie will be here to play, and her coming is MUCH anticipated!

Baby Showers!!!

2009-11-16T18:34:00.000-08:00

I've been SO blessed w/ showers. My work, nursing friends, and mom each threw me a shower. We were able to get so many essentials for the baby, which were much appreciated. We had nothing, and now we have so many things that people have given us. We feel so blessed by people's kindness and generosity since baby gear is SO expensive. So thank you everyone who supported us. You've been an answer to our prayers!!!

Oh and I have to brag about Tyler for a minute. My mom and sister Sarah threw me a beautiful shower, but Tyler's crepes were the hit of the shower. He had two pans going at the same time, and even showed off with being able to flip them in the pan behind his back. He's one hot frenchman.

Best gal friends ever!

It was a WICKED Halloween!

2009-11-16T18:09:00.001-08:00

This Halloween, Tyler and I were the scarecrow and the wicked witch, Alfiba, from Wicked. We're crazy Wicked fans, so they were the perfect couple for us. I even won best female at our ward costume party. I was painted green from head to toe and scared so many kids. I loved it. Oh and Toby was a teenage mutant ninja turtle. He was too cute before he would bite his costume off.

Williamsburg getaway

2009-11-16T17:46:00.000-08:00

Everyone's gotta do one last weekend getaway before a baby. 34 weeks and ready for some excitement, just not labor excitement yet. I want to let Kylie have a couple more weeks to get bigger, stronger, and healthier. Meanwhile, Tyler and I got to spend the weekend seeing Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg.

Highlights: Tyler's first time on a ferry, the cheese factory, going to IHOP at 3 a.m. for cravings, finding "hidden" beaches, and surviving nasty tasting peanut soup.

Poor Tyler had to endure a baby photo shoot of me, where he took a LOT of photos to capture Kylie inside my big belly. Which one do you like best?

Labor Day

2009-11-16T17:41:00.000-08:00

The only way to celebrate Labor Day is with a barbeque and a MASSIVE SLIP and SLIDE. It was a blast, but don't worry I wasn't sliding on my belly. There was no smashing Kylie, just smooth sliding on my behind.

Kayaking the Potomac

2009-08-27T16:02:00.001-07:00

The Potomac river surrounds DC and enables unique views of the monuments to be seen while on the water. I've wanted to kayak the river forever and take pictures. Surprisingly I was able to fit my belly around a life vest so I could go while pregnant. After an hour of paddling I felt the burn. Bring on buff mommy arms! We got off the water just in time before a torrential downpour. We snuck in an Indian restaurant in Georgetown to wait out the storm, stuffed our faces until we were sweating w/ curry, and chatted the afternoon away. It was another perfect summer day.

My 27 week NYC baby

2009-08-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

End of summer road trips are pretty much a tradition around here. This year we had loads of fun going to NYC w/ our Canadian friends, Aaron and Rachelle. I had to do some posing in Central Park, and of course we had sip some papaya juice while we snuck in 3 plays. Good Times. This baby has no chance on not being a New York baby. I was, why wouldn't she be?

Girl's just wanna have fun:

And boy's too...

I guess we're just kids at heart!

2nd trimester bliss

2009-08-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

More energy, MORE ENERGY! I couldn't ask for anything better. I'm amazed to look back and see how I had the energy to do twelve hour shifts on my feet all day and then come home and take car of my man, dog, and house.

Highlights of this month:

1. Finding out the sex!

Tyler and I had a bet going on about whether it was a boy or girl. Tyler bet girl; I thought it was a boy because I wasn't going crazy hormonal like I did on birth control. I couldn't imagine what else was making me feel calm and laid back like Tyler usually is, unless it was some dose of testoserone floating in my system. On the way to the ultrasound the song, "It's not my name" was playing in the background. (CLICK SONG IN SLIDESHOW BELOW TO PLAY IT.) Tyler proceded to change all the words of the song to all of our boy names, so the song went something like this, "They call me Caden, they call me Kaleb, that's not my name, that's not my name." Baby King WENT CRAZY when Daddy was singing or maybe because I was laughing so hard.

Either way, Baby King's cameo appearance was soon underway, and the baby kept flipping and flipping. It was difficult to find out on the ultrasound the sex. I've never seen Tyler more excited, his eyes more alive, as he kept eagerly glancing at the screen to my belly and back to my face. He was asking questions a mile a minute, and the love in his eyes was unmistakenable. The moment finally came and the ultrasound tech told us the sex. I held my breath. "It's a girl!!", she said. Tyler beamed. I pouted playfully. Even though I lost the bet and had to go buy Tyler ice-cream, Tyler's enthusiasm was too contagious. I felt a twinge of sadness though, just because I thought a mother should have some inclination of the baby's sex. I didn't. I actually had no clue either way. Tyler was always dead set on it being a girl. Maybe Dad's have inclinations too? Either way, we are soooo lucky to have such a beautiful baby girl coming into our home. Isn't she the cutest?

2. Getting the baby bump!!

The long awaited pictures of the belly. I love the attention I get at work now that I am showing. People really DO believe me that I am prego. Finally! Now w/ the growing belly, my best friend has become the belly band. I can still wear all of my pants unbuttoned w/out them falling off. Best invention ever; thanks Becca!!! Here's the product of 6 months of baby making.

3. 1st kick

I couldn't figure out what a kick felt like at first, so Kylie kept kicking harder and harder to make sure her presence was known. Tyler and I went to the pool every chance we got this summer. One day as we were sunbathing, Tyler started rubbing my belly, and she kicked, so hard I couldn't mistake it. Tyler felt it too and we had one of those looks that said a thousand words. Now Tyler's nightly ritual consists of his hand on my belly as he chats and sings to Kylie. I think he's guaranteed that she's a daddy's girl.

Good ole country barbeque

2009-08-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

My dad's work buddies have an annual summer barbeque w/ horse back riding, a pig roasting over a big, swimming in a pond, tractor rides, face painting, and live bands. I couldn't have been in more bliss, with tables and tables of finger licking grub that made my pregnant belly look even bigger-if that's possible :)

1st trimester

2009-07-20T13:46:00.000-07:00

Finishing the fellowship program was by far the most challenging aspect to my first trimester. I was SOOO tired all the time, and I felt like I had baby brain. I had a preceptor who would criticize me for not being fast enough, and I would look at her w/ a "Are you kidding?" look. Those months blurred together w/ sleeping in between 12 hour shifts, fighting back nausea w/ constant snacking. Cravings-these months ANYTHING w/ red meat. I was a complete carnivore. Probably anemic, but hey I'll give any excuse to have a steak. Chicken though just couldn't cut it. I guess it just wasn't bloody enough for baby King's taste.

Surprises of pregnancy: peeing all the time, feeling like you have to go NOW. Hunger pains, like you've been fasting for days. Fatigue, fatigue, fatigue; I get tired just thinking about how tired I was. Spilling on myself w/ EVERY meal-k maybe that's just me? Growing pains, do they ever go away?

Best times this first trimester:
Seeing Baby King for the first time. She's the cutest little peanut ever! Going to lunch w/ friends to share the good news has been the best times ever. All of those scrumptious meals definitely packed on the weight, but totally worth it. I actually left my first prenatal appointment and meet up w/ some friends. I was carrying the first sono pictures proudly until some wind whisked the paper away and I'm crossing EMPTY lanes of traffic running after these pictures. 1st experience as a crazy, crazy mom. Going to the beach on weekends w/ Tyler. Super fun. For once I didn't care if I had lil' stomach pouch, it was a baby pouch, and I have never been more confident to strut on the beach. Silly, I know. Or going to Manassutten, or mountain resort get away. Tyler was golfing and I could not hold my pee any longer. What ever you do-DO NOT get in the way of a pregnant lady driving a golf cart whose bladder is about to EXPLODE!

This baby has more nicknames than any other fetus out there. Everyone at work and friends all have their own name: baby K, peanut, ect.
Favorite-Baby King, Least Favorite-Lil' Parasite.

Best shopping finds:
Yes, I'm already shopping. I found a brand new, graco stroller and car seat combo for $35 at the military base out here that was having a 75% off sale. My friend and I assembled it in the store, her daughter tried it out, it works great and I LOVE it, especially for $35. YAY!

July 4th

2009-07-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

There's no better way to celebrate the 4th of July than at the Nation's capital. Sure it took hours to get home via the subway, but the fireworks and performers were definitely worth it. The best part was sharing the time w/ friends while having a summer barbeque-what is more American than that?

Only Sunshine in Seattle!!

2009-06-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

My beautiful sister, Becca, had the sweetest baby girl, and I was so lucky to fly out and throw her a surprise baby shower and get to hold precious Bella. She is absolutely breathtakingly gorgeous, and the BEST baby EVER. She never cries. EVER. I really hope we get that lucky w/ our baby. The best part of the trip was walking into her house and hearing Becca scream. The utter surprise on her face was classic. Kudos to her husband, Jose, for keeping it surprise for sooo long. The trip was over too quickly, but here are some of my favorite highlights.

fun in the sun at

The Baby Shower

Jose's baseball game was a blast, but I was having too much fun to take pixs!

GNO!!!!!!! Such a blast. Aliyah and Taylor are such great shopping buddies.

Bella's big moment:

Roadtrip to Forks! Yep, we ARE TWILIGHTERS. Becca and I liked to say it was for the Taylor and Aliyah, but we had as much fun posing next to Edward as they did. :) It was the kids first time on a ferry too, so it made the trip extra fun!

Forks, Washington here we come:

Overall it was a GREAT trip, and I hated leaving. I had to leave Edward and Forks goodbye so I could see my real Edward. :) But I can't wait for another Seattle trip soon. Hopefully next time I'll get to bring baby King and Tyler. Yay!

Weekend w/ the Kings

2009-04-04T19:10:00.001-07:00

Our cousin Rylan's court of honor and our other cousin Rex's mission farewell talk was this weekend so we went to MD to hang out w/ them this weekend. I will admit it was hard to leave Toby for a weekened, but it was so much fun to see everyone. Tyler's grandparents were even there visiting from UT so that was an added bonus. We even got to go to a track meet, where they thought Tyler and I were high school students. I didn't realize we looked THAT young. It was fun getting to tell Susan and Barid's family that I was pregnant. They were so excited for us, and they pampered me and gave me tons of tips. Strangely enough I found out that Tyler's grandma and his aunt never got morning sickness. Luckily, so far, I've been the same way. I've also found out that a lil' less than 50% of women NEVER get morning sickness. How crazy is that. I thought everyone got it, but apparently not. I'm just grateful because w/ how stressful and busy the ER is, I couldn't imagine throwing up all the time. It's hard enough going pee every five minutes. But anyway, I digress, here's some pictures of our wonderful family.

Baby King

2009-04-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

It was a lil' before midnight that I thought I'd go ahead and try one of those pregnancy tests since my period was a couple days late. I had a sense of awe and peace overwhelm me as I looked down and saw this.

I couldn't help get on my knees and thank my Heavenly Father for this blessing. Tyler and I have been feeling like the time is finally right to start trying, and I guess God agreed. :)

So here came the fun part: telling Tyler. I cleaned off the test, and hid it in his favorite bag of jelly beans that I left opened on the kitchen table while he was in the bathroom. He got out of the bathroom, and like it was right out of the movies, he told me how much he loved me and how beautiful I was, meanwhile I was eating it up and anxiously waiting for him to grab the bag of jellybeans. He kept complementing me as he reached for the bag, maybe he just wanted to keep "trying" tonight, either way I was in heaven. I have the most supportive husband and I'm pregnant, and I just knew he'd be thrilled at the news. I'm incredibly lucky woman. Just as I thought, he grabbed for some jellybeans and found the test instead. He pulled it out, confused at first, and then it dawned on him. He busted out in smiles, grabbed me, and kissed me. He kept exclaiming how excited he was, and then he was like, "We gotta pray!" How sweet is that.

That was the best night of my life. We just couldn't sleep all night, we were so excited. I've never felt more loved. Tyler makes sure to kiss my belly and the "lil' peanut" every night. He's going to be a great dad. He already is to Toby.

The next day we celebrated and went out to eat. I scarfed down soooo much food. I crave red meat, so the more steak the better. But no celebration is complete w/ out pics. Enjoy the first pic me w/ Baby King.

Popcorn popping on an apricot tree!

2009-04-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

There's a huge dogwood tree in front of our house that is now in bloom. Just like the cherry blossoms in DC, these blossoms only last a few weeks. Isn't God's creations beautiful. After a dreary, cold winter, spring comes and warms not only the earth but our hearts w/ these beautiful blossoms. I am absolutely loving the fact that I have a popcorn tree. That was the first song I remember learning, and I can't wait to sing that song to our kids while they play w/ their very own popcorn tree. How cool is life? Gotta love the lil' things.

Great Falls Park

2009-04-04T18:23:00.001-07:00

There's nothing better than enjoying a nice, spring day barbequeing at a park w/ the fam. On Saturday my parents, Toby, Tyler and I enjoyed the clean, spring air at Great Falls Park. It's DC's claim to fame, there own waterfalls. It's no Niagra Falls, but they are wide, and beautiful. We enjoyed TONS of food and played a lil' crochet, a fam favorite. Then we did a lil' rock climbing, and Toby proved what an expert climber he was around the falls. We even got to see some deer. It was too much fun, wait, can you ever have too much fun?

Let it snow!

2009-04-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday, weather sunny in the 65s, Monday, snowing. Global warming or just Virginia's wacky weather patterns? Either way, we grabbed our snow clothes and makeshift sleds and headed outside. We tried to see if Toby could pulled us. We yelled mush, but we just didn't budge. Oh well, there's always next year. Toby did try to "rescue" me when he thought I'd collapsed to make a snow angel. The results one big snowy mess. I also managed to drop the leash. I'm still learning this whole dog thing. We'll see how it goes.

Valentines Day

2009-04-04T17:50:00.000-07:00

I learned a real lesson in love this v-day: to be grateful to the lil' things in life AKA greatest husband in the world who works so hard to make me happy. I woke up that AM and Tyler and left chocolate and roses for me and my mom. He didn't want her to be left out. How sweet is that. Oh but it gets better. He even got me one of the books I've wanted, and Disney princess bubble bath so I could relax and read that night after work. Oh but it gets even better. I'm spoiled because the next day we went to the pound and adopted my dream dog. Toby. He's an american mutt, mixed w/ golden lab, retriever, huskie we think?? Maybe you can help.

What mix is Toby?

Well, we do know he's 45 pounds of lovable goodness.

There's nothing greater than watching Tyler play w/ his dog. He's such a great addition to our family, and I can't imagine life w/ out him. Tyler's wanted a dog FOREVER, and now he finally has the perfect dog. He retrieves balls, chases, wrestles w/ him. They are a perfect match. Meanwhile, he just plops his head in your lap, and likes to sit by your feet, no matter where you are. Too social for his own good, he'd like anyone who'd let him. We love Toby sooooo much, and anyone who wants to play w/ him, come on over!

Surprise we're in UTAH!

2009-04-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

As a late Christmas present we got to go out to UT and surprise Tyler's fam. It was so classic to see his sisters', dad's and mom's expressions as they saw Tyler. His sister- the classic red face w/ an expression of confusion, shock, and anger as she realized she was the only one who didn't know. If only we had the camera out. His dad as you can see from the clips below didn't even recognize his only son at first. Priceless. His mom though had ecstatic shouts of pure joy, with real tears streaming down her face. Total kodak moment. Enjoy the videos of this below.
Surprise Dad at office:

Surprise Mom at house:

Highlights:
ROADTRIP from Price to St. George w/ a must needed stop at the cheese factory and Grandma Blackburn and Grandma/Grandpa Christensen. Good times, good times.

We had a whole week of seeing our friends and family over great meals and played tons and tons of games.

One of the greatest moments though was when Tyler got to give his Grandma a blessing. That was awesome. The fun was over to quickly, and everyone had to get back to work and school. Yet the memories of fun will definitly tide us over till next year.

New Years 2009

2009-04-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

I didn't think anything could beat being in NYC last year, except maybe starting off the new year in a brand new house. Yay! Going to settlement feels a little like you are signing your life away. Page after page of initialing next to numbers I've never seen so big in my life. Yet all the fears melt away once you get those keys to your own place. We've never felt more blessed to have found such a bargain that was in our price range. After three years of saving and being in a basement apartment, it was so satisifying to be able to buy a place we've worked so hard to get. The sacrifice was definitely worth it. We want to thank Tyler's parents w/ helping us w/ some closing costs. We couldn't have done it without your help. Buying a house is so expensive, but so worth it.

We left settlement and went over to a friends house to ring in the new year, and then I got to get carried up the steps to our new place, in the new year to camp out in our new bedroom. I couldn't have been luckier. I guess I already got my new years wish!

Christmas parties

2008-12-20T13:27:00.000-08:00

I got to be my dad's guest at his company party since my mom is still in TX. It was fun to get dressed up for a night with my dad. It reminded me of all those daddy/daughter young woman's activities I did while in my teens. This was the first time I got to swing dance w/ my dad since my wedding. It was a blast. I realized I got my love for dancing, and rhythm from my dad. I remembered waltzing around the kitchen as a little girl, and I loved being able to do that again without having to be on his toes. It was a splendid evening, filled with many cherished memories, but it was also a very lucky evening. My dad won a $300 airline ticket so he can go see my mom for the holidays and help her move out here. Yay!!

Tyler and I got to go to another Christmas party this weekend with some of my friends from work. There was sooooo much yummy food. The had a chocolate fountain, cheese fondu, and my favorite, a cotton candy machine. Sweet! Tis the season to gain a couple pounds. :)

4 years of awesomeness!!!!

2008-12-18T13:40:00.000-08:00

Tyler and I officially have been married for 4 years. It feels surreal. These past four years have gone by so fast. There's been hard times, but the good times have made up for it and then some. I wouldn't have traded these years for anything. I've never been loved so much or loved so much before in my life. I'm very lucky to have had four years of awesomeness. :) My favorite word. I feel even more blessed though that we're in a position where we can get a house now. Tyler has sacrificed SO MUCH to help me finish school, and now that I am working he can focus on finishing his school. Together we can focus on building a family. We're not pregnant yet, but there's always new years resolutions coming up right ;).

We have LOTS to celebrate too. The bank has accepted our bid on the perfect starter townhouse and we are SO excited. We'll be moving in the beginning of January. It's 2600 sq., three story, 4 bedrooms/3.5 baths for only 175!! In this area townhouses like that go for 300,000. So we are sooooo lucky to have found this. We can't feel more blessed. Plus we have a jacuzzi tub and separate shower w/ a skylight in the bathroom. I'm SO excited. We haven't had a tub in years!!! I don't have any pictures of that yet but here's some other ones:

Wizards Game

2008-12-15T12:20:00.000-08:00

I love work perks. Tyler's boss was giving away two courtside tickets for the wizards game. Each ticket was $880. And we got them for free. Crazy huh. So as an early anniversary gift we got to downtown DC and watch the game. It felt we were sneaking into another type of life. One with free parking, private restaurants with free food during half time, and private rest rooms. I couldn't help but smile as I got to walk onto the court while the game was being played and directed to our leather bound seats. It was a completely different lifestyle than anything I've ever experienced, and we felt so lucky to have this experience, even it was just for a night. The game seems completely different up close than the $10 seats that we usually sit in up in the nosebleeds. Well you can see for yourself below:

Sombrero anyone?

2008-12-08T12:03:00.000-08:00

Some of my work buddies and Tyler and I went out to Chevy's for a b-day dinner. It's the same Mexican restaurant we took my dad to for his b-day. Really I was just jealous that he got a sombrero for his b-day and I wanted one for mine. So Tyler braved a night, totally outnumbered, with all the girls. He's so supportive he even offered dating advice to my single friends. And the LOVED the guy perspective on dating and the chase and all. Meanwhile, I just got to engulf a steak fajita burrito and marvel in the smooth, charming man my husband has transformed into and gossip w/ the girls. Perfect ingredients for a great dinner.

there and back again

2008-12-04T09:35:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for the b-day wishes!!! I got everything I could ever wish for a birthday, even a trip to Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Virginia Beach. It was a blast to get away for a weekend for some much needed R&R. There's so many historical sites within a short drive of our house, and we are always game for a road trip.

Here's a quick lowdown on a few of our destinations.

Disclaimer: Beware historical buffs-the following descriptions of sites will have little, if no historical relevance to actual events--

Jamestown Settlement

We drove around our nation's first settlement bombarded by signs such as this...

Did we really need a sign to teach us that the settlers cut down trees to build homes or use as fuel while we were IN the forest in the middle of winter? As we drove it was pretty obvious how this swamp, mosquito infested island killed 9/10 settlers. Doesn't this picture just scream malaria, typhoid fever come and get me??

Or maybe they all got the avian flu from eagles ;)

Or rabies from deer???

Either way it is AMAZING that the settlers even survived VA's humid, sweltering summers, and brisk cold winters. I was so thankful for our nice heated car, but we wanted to explore this disease ridden settlement on foot. So we dashed, skipped, ran, jumped, and every other action verb, through the forest until we reached the sea...

But alas we made it to the shore...the very shore the settlers first arrived on...and we fought for our territory...it all started when Tyler took off his belt...

But I told him to fight like a man...with STICKS...

Then there was some WWF moves...

And somehow those holds changed to hugs and kisses

I guess I gave up the fight quickly because like Pocahontas I feel in love w/ the hot, white settler. I blame my weakness on the romantic setting of a sunset across a deserted beach...

All this beach fun reminded us that we still had to make it to Virginia beach that night. So we left Jamestown and started our exodus to VB. Only to get stopped on the bridge for an hour...but we thought of fun things to do...no not that...this...

It seemed like everyone and there dog wanted to see the Christmas lights on the beach...but we luckily had a room facing the beach so we didn't have to wait hours more in our car in line to see the lights, we just went on our balcony:

Tyler's a smart one, cuz he got a room w/ a jaccuzi tub. I love him.

Next day

Woke up to the sound of waves crashing. Best sound in the world. I could just lay for hours listening to it. There's nothing more peaceful to me than the sound of water running.

Finally I dragged my lazy self out of bed to enjoy the breathtaking views.

The boardwalk was completely deserted. We're probably the only couple that CHOOSES to go to the beach in the middle of a bitter cold winter. But what better way to have a secluded, private beach. I loved it.

But we had to leave our little paradise to go to historical Williamsburg to see the Grand Illumination of Lights. It is the start of Christmas season and the town decorates with lights in all the colonial houses, set off massive amounts of fireworks, have performers, ect. It was the perfect start to the Christmas season.

Thanks to all our friends who suggested such fab restaurants to try. The Cheese Shop even impressed Tyler-the ultimate cheese conneseur. Enjoy some of the videos below. We cut them short because the songs and fireworks went on FOREVER. But we didn't mind, because we didn't want the magical evening to end. Thanks for the great b-day babe!

Happy 25th Birthday!!!

2008-12-03T23:58:00.000-08:00

25 and still kicking! Happy Birthday to the hottest and most incredible woman in the entire world! Here are 25 of the reasons why Jackie is the most incredazing(I said incredible before but that doesn't really do justice to her so I mushed amazing in there with it.) woman ever. These are in no particular order, I did the backwards countdown to add to intensity level of everything, but they are all the same. Each time I say woman it can also read as 'best wife in the whole world' as well...

25) Hottest woman in the whole world!
24) Hottest woman in the whole world x2!
23) Best listener ever.
22) Best friend a girl could have(I'm not personally a girl and what not, but if I was I would definately want her to be my best friend.).
21) Best friend a guy could have(Too late suckers!).
20) Incredible independant thinker.
19) Quick thinker.
18) Is incredibly incredible in pressure situations.
17) Has the uncanny ability to be able to lift anyone's spirits and make them feel good about themselves.
16) Is very positive(although she wont admit it).
15) Hawtest woman in the whole world!
14) Extremely understanding and forgiving.
13) Has the most incredible sense of humor ever(I've realized that this is almost a curse, because I'm not nearly as funny as I think I am when she is not there to get my jokes...).
12) Best Rockband band partner in the whole world!(Jaks n Kings 4 Ever!)
11) Hottest scuba partner in the whole world!
10) Best tennis player in the whole world(only reason she is not touring professionally is she wants a challenging profession)!
9) Best nurse ever!
8) Hottest nurse ever!
7) Quickest learner in the world... for anything and everything.
6) Very realistic.
5) Most all around talented woman in the whole world!
4) Most compassionate woman in the whole world!
3) Most loving woman in the whole world!
2) Most patient woman in the whole world!
1) Tyler(me)'s best frient in the whole world!

Honestly who else would put up with me for almost 4 years other than the most patient and supetastic(super/fantastic... its just better that way) woman in the whole world. Jackie, you really are the most incredibly hot/intelligent/talented woman in the entire world and I love you. Je t'aimais, Je t'aime, et Je t'aimerai! Happy Birthday!

Mexico City Rededication

2008-11-19T13:43:00.000-08:00

Tyler, my dad, and I got to go see the Mexico City Rededication broadcast on Sunday night. During all of the talks in Spanish, the spirit was so strong it brought tears to my eyes. I love how the Spirit holds no bounds, especially languages, and how you can feel God's love regardless of the words spoken. When we song The Spirit of God there were English words and Spanish words song in unison, and throughout the room we felt completely unified with our neighbors despite differences. I love this gospel, and am thankful to see my first dedication of a temple outside the US. The Church is just as much true here as it is in Mexico City, and we felt connected to people we have never before seen. I love the truths taught in this Gospel, and am grateful to see those truths taught throughout the world.

Forget Hugh Jackman; Tyler is the sexiest man alive!!

2008-11-19T13:29:00.000-08:00

Why? Other than the obvious good looks, amazing body, the other night I woke up w/ severe abdominal cramps. I am a crazy deep sleeper, and it takes a lot to wake me up. Meanwhile, my dear Tyler is a LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT sleeper, who obviously woke up when I tumbled out of bed towards the bathroom. My hero/best husband ever, proceeded to follow me to the bathroom, comfort me, get me meds, and massage me back to sleep. That's devotion. What's even better is today I'm not sick, I'm fine actually, but out of the blue he'll just compliment me and ask if there is anything he can do for me, ect. He's hilarious, and is amazing with kids. Do I need to go on? So if I'm doing the math right...sexy+funny+humble+romantic+dancer+singer+iron man+ athlete+hot+hot+hot=sexiest man alive. I don't know what the producers of People magazine were thinking? Hugh Jackman is nothing compared to Tyler King. Sheesh.

House Shopping!!

2008-11-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

After years of saving $$$ staying in a basement apartment while finishing school, Tyler and I are finally reading to go shopping around for townhouses. It's a crazy feeling to be preapproved after years of walking around one of the richest counties in the US and thinking, "How are we going to live here?" Yet, today we feel grateful, enormously grateful, that we are in a position to even look at houses. Below is pictures of a townhouse that we're going to put an offer on tomorrow. Cross your fingers that the bank will accept it. If not, we'll keep shopping.

Rec Room and 4th bedroom in basement

check out the crazy painted bedrooms

Shenandoah National Park

2008-11-08T18:09:00.000-08:00

After a crazed week at work, an escape to the "mountains" was desperately needed. Tyler and I got to show my dad the views from skyline drive as he showed us some pointers on fire starting and roasting hot dogs. Famished and freezing after our hike, I think I scarfed down more hot dogs than at any other camp out. The stillness of the leaves and freshness of the air rejuvenated my spirits and caused me to count down the days till a return trip.

One Republic

2008-11-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

No this is not another political blog; I save that for another website. One Republic is a band whose lyrics can be quite deep at times. If you haven't guessed yet, I'm a fan. We got to get cheap student ticket prices to their concert since it was at Mason. Gotta love the student perks. For your listening pleasure, I included some of their songs below.
my favorite song:

November 4th

2008-11-04T17:44:00.000-08:00

Election day was my dad's birthday which is quite fitting. I voted and then we went out to eat and discuss politics. My father was an active participant in the civil rights movement in his youth. He marched from Selma to Montgomery in protest. Now in his lifetime he was able to vote for and watch the first black president be elected. It was quite the all night celebration here in D.C. and definitely worth being tired the next day. It's completely surreal that all of this happened in just my dad's lifetime. I've gotten emails from friends in France who joined with us in chanting, "Yes, we can." The nation and world is again broadcasting hope in our President. This is a day I will share with the generations to come.

Happy Birthday Dad!! I hope I can live up to the legacy you have given me.

Tyler's finally 26.

2008-11-02T16:31:00.000-08:00

He's been counting down the days till he turned 26, for one reason and one reason only: 50% off after Halloween candy. Every year his birthday wish involves getting bags and bags and bags of candy. I wish I only could have captured his boyish glean as he ripped open 14 POUNDS of candy and swifted through the piles of candy and chocolate. And to show his gratitude, that night he prayed a thankful prayer that his birthday falls after Halloween so he could enjoy his sugary splendor.

Now will anyone contest that I have the sweetest husband in the world?? I think not.

His boyish tendencies do not stop there. Other than his boyish good looks which go unsaid, he loves to play-games, sports, anything. What better way to celebrate Halloween and his birthday than to go to Fright Fest at Six Flags. Other than getting soaked and scared all day and night we had a blast. Perfect day for a perfect husband.

But did the fun stop there, No. His birthday was actually on a fast Sunday which was soooooo difficult, since Tyler could see all of his candy all day and have to resist it. It almost killed him...

But after a nice steak dinner we got to go over to our friends house for his "brownie and ice cream" cake. His sister, MeLisa, also opted for brownies not cake. Coincidence, I don't think so. Little Maddie helped put the candles on the "cake." She's way cuter than both of us so I had to include it.

Now you can see the no longer 25 year old boy becoming a 26 year old man as he blows out his 26 candles. Now that the fun is over, I can get all emotional. Tyler is the most amazing man in the world. Je t'aimais; je t'aime; je t'aimerai. Enough said.

Registered Nurse!!!

2008-10-01T12:26:00.000-07:00

Yep that's right. I PASSED. Oh yeah! I'm so incredibly grateful mixed w/ swirling emotions of excitement, apprehension-I don't want to kill anyone-, and what was I thinking? I'm starting in the emergency department come Monday, in one of the busiest Level 1 trauma centers in the Nation. Take stress to a whole new level. :) But I'm not going to worry about that today. No way. Save that for another day. I'm just basking in the fact that today this picture I had drawn in my first week in nursing school has finally become a reality. I stared at this picture hanging up by my desk as I studied all night. It kinda drove me to keep going so that one day I would be that girl. Today I am.

PS THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to all my family and friends who supported me throughout this intense year. I couldn't have made it here without all of your love, prayers, and support. Thanks again.

Celebrate Phili/NY Style

2008-10-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

Although I took the test on Friday, I would not find out my results until Monday. To keep me from fretting about it all weekend, Tyler kindly wisked me away for his benefit and mine. :) As well as getting me my favorite things: flowers, taffy, and double stuffed oreos. Yum. Thanks sweetie!!! Best support ever.

We left Saturday and went up to Philidelphia to see Weezer-one of our favorite bands. Although we've both have been listening to Weezer since middle school, neither of us had seen them in concert, so it was definitely worth the drive. We found some dirt cheap tickets off craigslist that day, and then drove up. We got a artery cloggin' philly cheesesteak-yeah I know so cliche- for dinner that was scrumptious and dripping in grease.

The concert included Angels and Airways (old Blink 182 band members) which were okay, but Weezer was AMAZING. They even had local student musicians on stage to perform w/ them-how cool and did duets w/ angels and airways. How can u not think they are cool after that. Honestly. :)

My arm got cramped a lot recording the songs so they kinda blurry and out of focus a lot, but you can imagine what it was like :) Watch the last video though cuz it's the best.

Keep Fishin' I missed the first few secs but the end makes up for it!

Jonas

Sweater Song

Island in the Sun--MUST WATCH--Best encore ever!

This is only a fraction of the rockin' two and a half hours they played for. We got back to our car around 1:00 and decided we could drive home or to NY which was only an hour away...what do u think we choose? NY. Around 2 I started getting tired and so we stopped at a truck stop to sleep for the night. Why pay for a hotel room for 4hours really? So I slept for four hours as u can see from Tyler's great pictures below.

Then I woke up to finish the drive to NY to make it to church at 9 at the Manhattan Temple, but it was closed for reinnovations. What's the odds in both the DC and Manhattan temples being closed on the days we go. Oh well we tried. We strolled around the park and such and were able to grab student tickets front row to see the Sunday premier of The Tale of Two Cities. It was a mixed between Les Mis and Phantom, and is probably my new favorite play. It's remarkable. If you only have one play to see and you loved Les Mis, you must see this one. Either way we had great fun despite the rain as you can see from the pixs below. As you can see whe had the same clothes on in the pics as the day before. Don't you just love roughing it?

The Power of Prayer

2008-10-01T10:20:00.000-07:00

Pressure mounting, I was cramming the past month to take the NCLEX. It is the test you have to pass in order to get your nursing license. So much was riding on me passing this test. If I didn't, I wouldn't start in the ER in a week, but would have to wait till next year. Plus we really needed the extra money coming in to pay off our student loans and such. You'd think after taking tests for 20 years, I'd be able to handle this, but unfortunately I had overwhelming test anxiety.

After a priesthood blessing from Tyler, and countless prayers from concerned and loving family and friends, I was able to focus and study up until my test. I have never before prayed to my Heavenly Father like a friend and father nor felt his love as I have these past days. I have always prayed before tests, and Heavenly Father has blessed me with recalling what I have studied and been able to have peace, but this occasion was so much stronger. My description will not do this experience justice, but I felt completely at peace going into a test that had brought so much anxiety and dread just a few days previously. I was able to focus and recall, and felt the Holy Ghost strengthening me.

I've never felt so calm afterwards. I felt a hand over my shoulders and a warmth surround my heart. I knew God loved me more than I could fathom, and I knew that it would be all right. He was there. It was one of those experiences that I had to share. We are not alone, and God really does answer prayers. In the grand scheme of things, I know that this is just a test, but to me it was significant. A loving Father helped his daughter to know he always is there to support us in righteous endeavors. I'm grateful for His gentle reminder.

On Saturday, we tried to go to the temple, but it was closed due to Women's Conference. We got to check out the Vistor's Center which had photographs of Christ on exhibit. While walking around the corner, there was a picture of Christ standing on the water, and it brought me to tears. Imagine having that kind of faith to know that anything is possible through God. I feel like my faith was strengthened through taking the test yesterday. I had faith that God would help me, and he did. He has shown us what to do to strengthen our faith in Him so that I will not falter. It's like what Julie Beck said in the Relief Society Conference that, "We should strive to strengthen our faith." That was the greatest lesson I learned through all of this. I can not face life alone, or want to. While learning about medicine is my passion, these spiritual lessons were by far the greatest thing I needed to be reminded of. In order to not forget them, I share them with you all.

New Recipes

2008-10-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

Since I have the time on my hands before I start work in October, I thought it would be a great time to start experimenting on my cooking. I love to cook, but frequently make the excuse of not having enough time. Well I found some fab quick recipes that were delicious and healthy. Win, win combo. If anyone else wants to swap some recipes let me know.

Pesto Halibut Kabobs:
So easy just marinate any white fish in pesto, place on skewers w/ whatever vegetables (I tried red pepper and zucchini) and grill...the fish was flaky, tender, and scrumptious.

Mushroom, Spinach, Tomato Calzones:
Calzones are great because you can fill them with whatever your heart desires. This recipe was quick because I used premade Pillsbury dough, and then stuffed it w/ the veggies I had sauteed in olive oil and cheeses and baked. After 15/20 minutes of baking they were done. Cover w/ your fav sauce and presto you have delicious calzones.

They were so good I made Tyler cry...

Never Ending Bike Ride or Life Challenges?

2008-10-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

Trying to be adventurous, I biked an hour through the hills of Clifton. Trying new trails can be exciting, unless you're like me and decide to take the path that somehow is 45 minutes straight uphill, no matter which way you turn at intersections.

While I was biking uphill, thinking how I couldn't make it anymore, the most amazing thing happened. I passed jogger after jogger that all smiled at me. A simple smile completely revitalized me. It's that moment of complete understanding, knowing that other's tread this path, and overcome it. I had one of those moments were all the stresses of studying for the NCLEX melted away, and I felt God's love via the sunbeams through the trees. I realized how grateful I was for my trials, and how there will always be hills throughout my life that I will overcome. Yet, while I'm so close to giving up, God reaches his hand to strengthen us to make it over our individual hills. My joy and satisfaction knew no bounds once I reached the summit of the hill and started my decent. The harder the challenge the greater the reward I guess.

However, while I was musing at my life/bike ride analogy and cruising downhill, my bike chain got caught which stopped my ability to pedal. Just as I thought I had earned my downhill reward, life through another curve ball. Isn't that how it always happens? It was as if God was testing me to see if I could remain grateful for hardships and positive even when things don't quite work out to my expectations. It was a nice 30 minute walk back to my house, pushing my bike along. I realized I had two options: complain about my misfortune or try to see the benefit of the situation. Normally I complain; yet, today I thought optimistically that this walk was a great chance to have a nice cool down. It was nice for a day to have control over my reactions to life challenges...I just hope it'll last for another day. But that's tomorrow's struggle. :)

Cosmic Bowling

2008-09-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

For Tyler's best friend out here James' b-day we surprised him by singing happy b-day from the trunk of his SUV and then drove to a bowling alley for some good old fashioned fun. Actually they are our bowling buddies, and what's even greater is their daughter at two years old bowls as well. She's also OBSESSED w/ Tyler. I think I might have some competition. :) Won't he be the cutest dad one day? Okay enough w/ that. James ended up getting a turkey-3 strikes in a row. And Trina and I both got 2 strikes in a row. It was a great night. I recommend cosmic bowling to anyone, especially on base because there is no smoking allowed and there's COUCHES. Too cool.

Exercising Everywhere

2008-09-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

Wanting to break up the monotony of my regular exercise program, I tried to incorporate exercising into my daily routine. First attempt, Monday. I biked, instead of driving, 15 minutes to the grocery store. While shopping I did resistance training with the food loaded in my basket. Can't you picture me doing bicep curls w/ groceries as I speed walk through Shoppers?

I actually got the idea from Tyler's grandmother who speed walks through Walmart when it's too cold to walk outside. I have great aspirations to be like her, but I'm a long way there. After an hour of shopping/walking around aimlessly my biceps begged for a break. So I bought the food, loaded it into my backpack and onto the handlebars, and biked my way back home.

I've never felt such a sense of accomplishment after shopping before. Even after sales. Maybe I need to incorporate this more often...except not when we need milk.