Matt and Nicci

I turned a whoopin 25!

2012-01-29T14:33:00.000-08:00

For dinner we went to Jose Peppers. I got the grilled chicken Fajita wrap, which Katie introduced me to and love.
San Fransisco 49ers were playing the New Orleans Saints and it was a neck and neck game! Here is dad overly excited about the win! The restaurant would go crazy when the Saints would score and then when the 49ers would score. Dad was the most supportive 49ers fan there! He was the loudest, "Yes, Yes, Yes!" You know what I am talkin about Katie! He is so entertaining when he gets this excited!
The famous cake my mom makes me every year! I love it!
We went bowling later that night. My dad killed us with my mom coming in second. I came in third and Matt and Sarah close.

Christa took me shopping earlier that day. We went to Charming Charlies. If you haven't heard or been, its worth coming to Kansas for! Great news: Rita and Werner are coming the end of Feb. to visit from Germany!!!

Christa's Surprise Party!

2012-01-29T14:26:00.001-08:00

Christa had a big birthday this year! I don't know if she would kill me or not for putting on here how young she is now, so she turned 29! Here birthday is on the 1st of January and since Matt and I are stake youth dance/activity couple for the stake and were in charge of putting on the New Years Dance for the youth (let me tell you, I regret not telling my leaders how much I appreciated their hard work and dedication when I was a youth) worked with Micheal weeks before to throw her a surprise party at the Tea Garden, the Friday before. Sorry that was a very long sentence. The Eppersons', Coxs', and my mom and two sisters came as well. I think she was pretty surprised!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-29T14:18:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve we gathered at the McKendrick's house and had a big, yummy dinner! That night Matt and I went back to my parent's house and slept the night. I think we got up around 8:00 am. I was the first one up and got up Katie, Sarah, and then Scott. Can you believe they wanted to sleep longer? So we opened presents and then had the missionaries over for breakfast. Elder Robertson is from Draper Utah, and Elder Claire is from Gilbert, Arizona. Can you tell they have great personalities? We love to be with them. We later attended church with both families (it helps that they are in the same ward). We visited Christa and Michael and friends. Later that night we also played Zumba on the Wii. It's really fun!

Welcome Home Scott!

2011-12-11T10:19:00.000-08:00

Scott has been serving his mission in Piura, Peru for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He came home on Tuesday, December 5, 2011. So glad to have him home! We have been counting down the days. Grandpa Coon, Robert, and Brigham Coon flew in on Friday to hear his homecoming talk on Sunday. It's always fun when family comes to visit.

We rushed to the airport because we heard his plane was early. We get there and found out his plane had to circle a couple of times in the air due to President Obama arriving in Kansas City around the same time. We had no idea. So here we are standing around anxious for his arrival.

He made it!

Just some cute things he has done since being home:

*Sarah bought some new tennis shoes and couldn't decide if she should keep them. Scott quoted Moroni 7 to her, all men have the light of Christ and can choose good (something along the lines of that).
*Took Scott shopping at Oak Park Mall. What did he wear? Dress shoes with jeans and a tee-shirt. He stated he can't get away from the dress shoes. Thankfully he now wears tennis shoes with his jeans.
*Went and got Sheridans with him. When dropping him off, he leaned back and shook my hand and then Matt's hand. I guess it's a custom in Peru to shake people's hand when meeting them and departing. We are enjoying having him home!

Breaking Dawn!

2011-11-18T20:36:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Christa, we were able to get wonderful seats at the 8:00 pm showing of Breaking Dawn. She was there in line at 1:30 pm. She said some people showed up at 9:00 am to get in line. Susan, Mom, Janae, Christa, Rachel, and another sister from third ward are in the picture of above. More women came, and we had a blast. Nothing is being than being in a theater full of Twilight fans, gasping, wooing, and whistling over Edward and Jacob. I thought this was the best one yet. There was humor and sizzling moments. Can't wait till the next one!

KU Womens Volleyball Game

2011-11-18T20:30:00.000-08:00

November 16, we attended the KU Womens Volleyball Game! KU played OU. We had a blast. During games they had the audience serve over the net and try to hit a tee-shirt. Kate and I tired but did not succeed. Allison Mayfield, standing at six foot two, dominated the court. She is amazing.

Dad's Birthday

2011-11-18T20:22:00.000-08:00

One thing I will always remember about my dad is his popcorn. He has it at least twice a week, on the weekends. I took this picture because in one hand he has my mom and in the other, his popcorn, his two loves.
As a joke, Michael gave my dad a switch blade comb and pomade. We laughed so hard. Michael took the pomade and made himself a mustache.
My dad's work had a costume contest and so he dressed up as Captain America. He ended up winning some moo-la and best costume! We were all laughing!
Katie trying out the comb.
The pomade.
Matt and I gave him some are warmers (gear) to wear when he rides his bike to work.

Gloves he wears when he goes shooting.

Pumpkin Carving with the Wilsons

2011-11-18T20:16:00.000-08:00

On Halloween evening we got together with our friends, the Wilsons. We carved pumpkins on the 29th of October and watched "The Village" on Halloween night. I saw the movie way back in the theaters and thought it was pretty scary, however the second time around, not so much. Our pumpkin is on the left, two ghosts!

Utah Trip

2011-10-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

On October 11, Brett and Whitney Royer were sealed for time and all eternity in the Draper, Utah temple. The spirit was so strong during the ceremony. Hearing the sealer talk to the couple reminded me of our special day and the covenants we made. I'm glad we were able to make it. Matt has known Brett since they were two and have been good friends ever since.

Jer, Marcy, and Lucy at the reception.

Matt and Brett, with Greg in the back.

My best friend Justina and I. I am so glad she came down from Rexburg to see us.

I thought the cake was really cute!

Brett and Whitney with some friends. It was so windy that day and of course the photographer had to get me with my eyes closed.

Brett's family.

Matt and I in front of the Draper temple.

Coming out of the temple as husband and wife!

Monday night Kelli Jensen had us over for a delicious dinner. Eating out gets old! The best part was playing karaoke. David by far won the competition singing in sentence style. Here is Rachel. We enjoyed spending time with the Jensen family.

During the day on Monday, we spent time at Boondocks, a fun zone, in Draper.

Justina and I. Before this picture, we were on the bumper boats with spray guns. Needless to say no one left dry!

Matt, Greg, and Curtis.

Justina and Taeden.

Matt and Curtis went on a flight simulator. Can you tell Matt had a blast?

Taeden, a tank. He is such a cute little boy.

We went with Brett and Whitney to the Jordan River temple to receiver her endowments on Saturday.

My Aunt Kelli and Uncle David Jensen met us at the temple and did a session. Afterwards we went and got shakes and fries! We had some good laughs.

We stayed with my Uncle Paul and Aunt Melissa Coon in Highland. We went to church with them on Sunday and I thought the boys looked so cute in their suits. Here is Tyler right after church. You can tell he has had enough of his fancy duds.

This is their youngest, Riley. He looks so grown up here. He would take a bite of a peach and ask for another one. Sunday we went down to my cousin Naty's house in Springville and had a wonderful dinner with Aunt Cathy, Brenda, Emily and her family, and Paul's family. It's always fun when we get together.

Fall Wreath

2011-10-02T19:05:00.000-07:00

With the leaves changing, I wanted a fall wreath for our place. I didn't want to spend a fortune so I decided to make my own... with the help of my mom. I was to make the wreath for under $25 with the help of coupons and sales. I'm really happy how it turned out!

Winter Quarters Temple

2011-08-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

July 22, we drove up to Omaha, NE to attend the Winter Quarters Temple on Saturday. We enjoyed eating out, attending the temple, and seeing a play. The play was about when the saints came to Kainsville before they headed out west. The pictures below are at the Vistors Center right by the temple. I'm kicking myself for not getting a picture of the temple. I love attending the temple and performing ordiances for those who have passed away. While driving home, it occured to me that words can't describe the beauty of being in the celestial with Matt (and my parents) and being so incandescently happy. No car, house, or material item brings greater joy than being in the temple with the ones you love. Wish Christa and Michael could have come as well as Kate. What a great day it will be when all of us can be there together. Oh by the way Scott comes home in 4 months! My mom got to talk to him on the phone yesterday! His companion needed some money so Scott called my mom asking for some. He is doing really good and working hard.

My mom always looking so stylish.

Sarah's Diving

2011-08-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Sarah did diving again this summer and did AWESOME! I wish I could do half the dives and flips she can. We went swimming a couple of weeks ago at our neigbors and she was trying to teach me how to do a back dive off the diving board. She would stand in front of me and put her hands on my waist and say, "Now Nick, just fall back. It's easy!" I just couldn't do it with her standing there. Here a fourteen year old is trying to help her twenty-four sister on the diving board. Needless to say I was providing entertainment for everyone.

Katie's Graduation

2011-06-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

On May 22, Katie graduated from Olathe South! She decided to graduate in December, but wanted to walk as well. The ceremony was great, but just a tad bit long! When I asked Matt to take a picture with me, I think that is why he made a funny face. After sitting for hours and hours on the uncomfortable bleachers, he was ready to get out of there! Maybe by the time Sarah graduates, he will have forgotten! We love you Katie and so proud of you!

Kansas City Temple Run

2011-05-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

In celebration of the Kansas City Temple, a 5k was held. Last time I saw it, they are had just poured the cement. It was amazing to see how its progressed and beautiful. I've heard its suppose to be done in November! Matt and I are so excited to have a temple closer and be able to go more often. To read about the event and see more pictures (see if you see three foxy ladies in one picture) check out this website: http://kcldstemple.blogspot.com/2011/05/run-chasers-run.html.

Matt and I with Elder Jensen. He is also one of our favorites.

Fred Clarke supporting his Peru shirt! Scott comes home in December!

Sarah, mom, and Elder Cox. He served in our area for more than a year! He is one of our favorite missionaries.

The New J-O-B!

2011-03-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

After graduating from college I was able to secure a job as a Preschool Teacher. I graduated with a degree in Child Development and knew from a very young age that I wanted to work with children. I am very proud of my degree. The knowledge I gained from my courses, will also help me to be a good mother (hopefully). While growing up, my mom always preached to me, "Get your degree. Get your degree." I set that goal and told Matt right off when we got married that I was going to get my education and was able to achieve my goal. So anyways, after being a Preschool Teacher for almost two years, I decided it was time for a change. I started praying and doing some research. I know the job market is in the slumps right now but I had interview after interview and even received a job opportunity but I didn't feel right about it. Well a position came up through Johnson County Government and I knew I wanted to nail it! Our bishop was kind enough to give me his father's e-mail/phone to help me with my resume. His dad was a CEO of a corporate company and interviewed many individuals to get into medical school. He was able to look over my resume and give me helpful suggestions. My first interview was over the phone due to the wonderful winter storm. The interviewer informed me that she had another folder of applicants, my heart sank. After I hung up, I felt peace and felt really good about it. The next day I left for Florida for six days and didn't hear anything. So I quickly wrote a "Thank You" note to the company/interviewer when I got back. A couple of days later, I received an e-mail notifying me that I was one of four individuals qualified for the next interview. I was so thrilled! I went to the second interview and it went great! They called me within a couple of days asking if I would accept the job, of course!!! You are now looking at the newest Child Care Facility Center Specialist. My job entails going to Child Care Centers and making sure they are in par with State Regulations and performing compliance checks as well as complaints. I really like the people I work with. Everyday is a different day. I love meeting new people and still get to see/interact with kids. I enjoy going to see the classrooms and how creative teachers can be. I set my own schedule. No more running to the library to find books for my kids or creating lesson plans at home after I have put in a full day. Oh did I add I get my own cubicle/computer?! I love kids and making sure they are in a safe and healthy environment! I owe all this to my Heavenly Father. He heard my prayer and knew there was something bigger and better out there for me, I just had to work hard at it, have patience, and trust in him. Sometimes our time lines are different but in the end it all works out.

So this was my first day. Matt laughed when I asked him to take my picture but I worked really hard to get this job and was very excited!

Three Years!

2011-03-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

Wow does time fly! On the fifteen of February, Matt and I celebrated our third Anniversary! First he surprised me with a dozen roses at work and had lunch with the kids and I. Later, we decided to go out to dinner. I planned on surprising Matt with his favorite restaurant, The Peach Tree down on Power and Light District. However, while at work, I found out they went out of business! So we decided to go down to the Plaza to the Cheese Cake Factory. I had a delicious Prime Sirloin Steak and Matt got the Salmon. We then took home a Reese Peanut Butter Cup Cheese Cake. I was so full that I could have only one bite and learned my lesson... don't expect to get a bite the next day! I love Matt more than the day I married him. Our trials have made us stronger and I am so happy that he is my eternal companion! Everyday he makes me laugh!

Trip to Florida

2011-03-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

January 20th we boarded a plane and headed for warm, sunny Florida. We joined Paul and Melissa and there cute four boys and stayed in a house. While we were in Florida we visited the beach, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, and Wet N' Wild! Wet N' Wild was by far the best! It was suppose to be rainy that day but we decided to take a chance. It was in the late seventies and I bet there were ten other people at the park, we basically walked on to the water rides. One of my favorite rides was the Disco! While riding on a tube with three other people in this huge funnel there was a disco ball hanging from the ceiling with disco music playing. Carson was hilarious! We also celebrated Katie's 18th birthday at a Mexican Restaurant where a band sung and played for her. We visited the Orlando Temple, which was beautiful! We also visited the Manatees. Matt was unable to come due to school, hopefully next time he can come!

I'm 24!!

2011-01-16T11:41:00.000-08:00

Friday, January 14th I turned the big whoppin 24. The kids are work sang Happy Birthday to me and then asked me where the cake was...oops! I told them it was at my mom's house and they asked if they could go to my mom's house! They were really wanting some cake! Sarah then came and brought me roses at work. After work I beat Matt home and saw a present on the kitchen counter. When he got home I opened it and saw a TREK manual and thought "Wow what am I going to do with this?" He then walks out of the bathroom with the bike! He had it hidden in the shower! I was really shocked and excited! Kansas has great trails to ride on in the summer time. Now we can both go together or when I want to ride with my mom, I won't have to borrow Matt's bike. We then went out to eat at Texas Roadhouse, I love to get the steak and mashed potatoes, plain. Afterwards we went back to the Tietjen's for cake and presents. My mom makes my favorite strawberry cake! When she cut the cake she put a big chunk of a chocolate bar. The best part too is she does these chocolate curls on top of the cake!

Matt even put a cream bow on the front... how cute is that!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-16T11:08:00.000-08:00

This Christmas, just the girls, we went to see the famous New York Rockettes! It was so fun! I was amazed at how high they can kick their legs and their dances. One performance they were dressed up as soldiers and slowly did a domino effect. Then Christmas Eve we went over to the McKendrick's house and had a wonderful dinner. Sadly I didn't take any pictures. Christmas we spent over at the Tietjen's house.

My dad got this Utah Jazz belt buckle for his birthday so we gave him the Utah Jazz Jacket. He was pretty thrilled.

Matt got a tool kit.

My dad got a bike trainer, which everyone had to test out, even the Elders. The four Elders came over and had breakfast with us. My mom makes a quiche every Christmas morning, I love it!!! We then did a white elephant gift with the Elders. My mom tired to give away my grandparents old typewriter that they inherited when my grandparents died. My dad however wasn't able to depart from it yet!

After being married for almost three years, I got my first set of scriptures with my name on the front. Matt is such a good gift giver (say that three times).

The girls and the clothes we gave them.

K-State Basketball Game

2010-12-26T21:18:00.000-08:00

Erin's Visit to KC

2010-12-26T21:08:00.000-08:00

My good friend Erin came to Kansas City for Thanksgiving to see her family. Matt and I met up with her and her husband, Devin at Jack Stack's BBQ. It was so good to see her! We lived together in college for three years! She was a fun roommate! We would plan fun dates together, stay up taking pictures, talking about boys, and enjoying the college life! Can you tell it was a windy day?

Eyeballs for Dinner!

2010-11-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

A family in our ward invited us over for a Halloween Dinner. They asked us to bring some Devil Eggs and this is what we came up with, Scary Eyeballs! We also had crescent sandwiches that looked like snakes!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-11-08T08:09:00.000-08:00

On October 30th, my dad turned 48! We had dinner, opened presents and went to the movies. We saw Secretariat by Disney. It was a really good movie and better than I thought it was going to be. We then came home and had chocolate.

Shooting with Grandpa

2010-11-08T07:32:00.001-08:00

Grandpa Coon came out in October to help my mom put her kitchen cabinets in and while he was here, we went shooting! I have never been shooting so it was really entertaining and educational. When grandpa is around there is never a dull moment! We drove out to Eudora, Kansas to shoot some clay disks. We missed Katie, she was waitressing.

Sarah aiming at the disk.

The orange disk I shoot at.

My mom was very proud of herself!

Matt shooting

Sarah modeling the fun glasses!

Grandpa Coon handing the gun over to me. I think he looks a little nervous.

I love this picture of Grandpa Coon with his hat and gun!

Funny side note: Everytime Sarah shot she would swing the gun around fully loaded, aiming at us! We would all yell, "Sarah put the gun down!" Grandpa was escpecially funny towards Sarah, "Sarah you're killing me, you gotta keep that gun pointed to the ground. " One time Matt was out in the field putting out the clay disks for us to aim out and shoot. After Sarah shoot, she forgot to put the gun down again, I could have lost my husband!

The Newest Addition to the Family

2010-10-09T16:41:00.000-07:00

So after many months of Matt searching and searching we found the one! The car is a Mazda 6, the grand touring! We sold my little red car back in August, who we named Vuna. We put it one craigslist on Wednesday evening around 6:30 p.m. and it was sold by 7:30 p.m. So Matt has been busing me around and hasn't complained once. I've decided you can make it work with one car, it just requires alot of communication and patience. When we first got married, Matt taught me a very valuable lesson, "If we don't have the money for it, we don't need it!" So we have really tired hard to live by that principle. We've been socking our money away and eating beans and rice for dinner, just kidding. We really liked this model but everytime Matt would go to the auctions, some other dealers would out bid him. Matt found this car in Florida on a Wednesday and bought it. Then the following Tuesday surprised me with it by picking me up from work in it. I was shocked he was able to keep it a secret from me for that long! It was like my night in shinning armor galloping on a black horse, except it this car! I was literally jumping for joy! When I got in the car the first thing I said was, "Is this ours?" "He replied with, "Yes Nicci this is ours, I wouldn't be pulling your chain!" It has leather seats, push button start (which is really amazing, I just have to have the control in my pocket, push the button, and tadah it starts), blind spot monitoring, and many other fascinating features. I need to thank our Heavenly Father because I strongly believe he had a hand in this, I am so grateful for it. Don't ya think Matt deserves the husband of the year award?

Jared Coones 5k Run

2010-10-09T16:35:00.001-07:00

Every year, our community does a 5k in remembrance of a little boy who died of cancer. His mom also died of breast cancer. This is the twelfth year! There was a total of 3,500 people who either ran or walked the race. Christa had the great idea of doing it but hurt her foot earlier this week. Here is my friend Liz and I right before the race. We were the first wave of runners.

Sarah's 14th Birthday!

2010-10-09T16:23:00.000-07:00

On the second of October, Sarah turned the big 14! I remember when I was fourteen and how excited I was to attend the Stake Dances. Sarah's first dance is coming up and she says she's going to turn the dances around and get everyone to dance! We've given her a heads up on they youth now of days just stand around and talk and the girls typically ask the guys. I don't know, hopefully times have changed. So Matt and I kidnapped her and took her to breakfast at I-Hop! Matt ordered pancakes and hashbrowns. Sarah had twelve girls over later that night and we played Minute to Win it games! It was really fun! My mom typically makes us a home made cakes for our birthdays, well this year Sarah asked for a chocolate Costco cake (which surprised my mom, because what child wouldn't kill for a home made cake)! Sarah and I both got crepes with fruit. I love you Sarah and hope you have a wonderful year!

More Pictures from the Reunion

2010-07-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

Grant and Jill Coon

Mom

Paul and Melissa Coon

Elizabeth Jensen, Sarah, Joe Coon, and Ryan Coon

Brigham Coon, and Miriam Jensen

Cute baby Ike Coon!

Dad, Gloria Coon, and Hannah Coon. The two little girls are pretty funny. Hannah calls wedgies, "snuggies!"

Matt and I out on Kelli's front porch. She has a wonderful view of Utah Lake along with the mountains.

My two beautiful sisters! I love them so much. Sarah will be fourteen in October and Katie is seventeen starting her senior year! We sure missed Scott. He has been out for seven months and was just asked to be a Trainer. He was pretty shocked! On Thursday everyone went to Lagoon. Matt and I met up with Matt's friend Brett Royer, and had lunch and then went shopping at the Gateway in downtown Salt Lake City. It was great to see the temple. Oh speaking of temples, we went to the Draper Temple on Tuesday! What a gorgeous temple! To finish up our trip, we stopped in Buena Vista Colorado and floated the Arkansas River with Buffalo Joes! Bob was our guide and one of the experienced ones. I wasn't feeling to great so I didn't take any pictures but we had a blast on the rapids. Half way through we stopped and had steak, corn, and salad. The second half was more exciting compared to the first half. Overall we had a wonderful vacation!

Donut Falls

2010-07-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

Wednesday we went up Big Cottonwood Canyon to see Donut Falls. Well of course we had to be some Donuts along! It's named Donut Falls because within the water fall, there is a rock with a hole and water just pouring through it. Matt and I first hiked the wrong side of the falls and weren't able to see it until my cousin Adam took me up.

Here is Aaron Jensen enjoying what is left of the chocolate! Ha ha, I died laughing when I saw him doing this, I just had to get a picture of him getting the chocolate off the box with his finger and then licking it.

Hiking to the falls. Notice Matt with the Donut Box!

Katie, I, and Matt on our way to the falls.

Mom, Katie, and I.

Gloria Coon, Jill, and Sarah.

The family enjoying their donuts!

Miriam, Sarah, Elizabeth, and Tiffany

The two Katies!

Here is Kelli Jensen running from just being in the fall.

Donut Falls! There was no way I was going to get in the water with a white tee-shirt! I don't know what I was thinking.

My cousin Adam.

Right before you enter the cave or the falls.

Adam Jensen

Me when Matt and I climbed the wrong side of the falls but the view was beautiful! Although I hated climbing down, it was very steep.

Matt and I. It was so beautiful up in the mountains.

Kelli Jensen and Jill Coon.

Cute Cousins!

Adam lookin good in the hat.

Family Skits

2010-07-19T19:38:00.001-07:00

Each night we had an activity. Sunday night we ate at Kelli's house in Saratoga Springs and had talent night. Some of the talents were singing, playing the piano, ballerina toes, card tricks, stomach roles, jokes, and story telling. Monday night we did skits. Each family was responsible in presenting a skit.

Here is a picture of Grandpa Coon and Aunt Cathy laughing their heads off with David giving the thumbs up!

Paul's family, with Jay and Jordan, did Helen Keller's men choir and sang "Stop in the Name of Love." It was pretty hilarious! The crowd was roaring!

Kelli's family were all sitting on a bench and when the last person came along, they came to find out that it was imaginary! So they fell down.

Ron was a crazy cub scout and Debbie was an old lady. Afterwards they sang a beautiful song!

Niki and Rob made up a song about each aunt and uncle and their funny traits. It was really cute. I think one of Paul's trait was come ride his toys and stay at his house!

I think one thing about Grant's was he would help you out in anyway!

What they said about my mom was, "She will hold your baby!"

They said Brenda will make you some delicious Texas Sheet Cake!

Here is Grant and Jill and their cute family. At the end of their skit, everyone got sprayed with a spray bottle. Each of them did spitting acts.

Here we are! Matt found this hilarious video of ballerina dancers on youtube. Matt was Seymore Butts, Laurie was Mary Ann Humanette, and my dad was Amanda hug and kiss. Katie, me, and Sarah were behind them providing their hands. Matt was the announcer and told the audience it wasn't hard to be a ballerina and you didn't need to have a special body.

Mom made the tu-tus and dad agreed to wear a flower in his hair. We had a blast doing it.

Family Reunion out in Utah!

2010-07-19T19:17:00.000-07:00

Friday, July 2, we traveled out to Utah with family. This year for our family reunion we decided to serve my Aunt Brenda. Brenda's husband Evan passed away thirteen years ago this summer and was in need of some help. My uncles put on a new roof the week before and we started painting the house on Monday. Matt and I both love Brenda! She has a great sense of humor and is an incredible hard worker! We were grateful for the opportunity to serve her.

Before the paint job.

Crazy Uncle Rob wore nylons on his head and arms to protect his skin from the paint.

The finish product with everyone that helped!

Matt's Tin Man

2010-06-19T12:37:00.001-07:00

Today Matt, Brother Aulick, and Brother Meirr did the Tin Man today in Topeka, KS. Matt decided to do this about a month ago and has been training ever since (This also requiring us to go out and buy Matt a bike). Matt's mom, Christa and I drove up to cheer him on. They swam 500 meters, biked 12 miles, and ran a 5k. Matt started at 8 a.m. and finished at 9:25 a.m. I was so proud of him! I am really happy he didn't drown! The selection of people were pretty hilarious, old men with beards, a twelve year old girl, and a man that thought he looked pretty dang sexy in a speedo the whole race! Oh and did I add that is was hotter than a sauna! Christa and I were tired afterwards just from standing out in the sun. Sorry the pictures are from the end of the race to the beginning.

Matt, Craig Aulick, and Brother Mierrs

Matt and Christa

Right after the race!

Yeah he did it!

Matt coming into getting transition to run after biking 12 miles.

Matt getting ready for the bike, right after the swim!

Just finished the swim and heading for his bike.

You can see his arm, right there in the middle of the picture. Afterwards he told us that he got kicked in the face.

Matt with his white googles, waiting for the horn. He is the fifth guy in. During this time, I just thought to myself, I am sure glad this is him and not me! I can't swim to save my life. The swimming wasn't Matt's strength besides the biking and running so my sister gave Matt some helpful advice, "Matt just doggy paddle!"

30 and younger men heading to the dock, Matt in his g-money shorts. I was grateful for them, he stood out like a sore thumb. Christa and I could tell it was him throughout the race by those greeen shorts.

Matt patiently waiting.

Easter

2010-04-05T16:05:00.001-07:00

Matt and I are so lucky to have both set of parents in the same town and be friends! This year we all went to the McKendrick's house. We watched conference, had Easter dinner, and had an egg hunt.

Matt sharing his eggs with Sarah bean.

Matt gathering as many eggs as he could.

My mom and I.

Mom, Matt, and Christa preparing the amazing food.

Papa bear enjoying conference. He's a great spectator.

Visiting Celinda

2010-04-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

The end of March my mom, sisters, and I went up to Nebraska to see my cousin Celinda and her family. She has three cute girls. While we were there we went shopping, to the temple, and ate out. We had tons of fun and hope to see them soon! Its nice to have family only three hours away.

Lindsey and Kelsey

Linds and I

Cute little Sadie

April Fools!

2010-04-05T15:53:00.000-07:00

Today at work my friend Becky and I decided to pull a prank on one of our co-workers, Kim. I guess when she went to pick up her daughter, her daughter told her about it but she didn't believe her, she thought she was pulling a prank on her. Finally she pulled over and got out and went to check it out. The funny thing is... she's not single. I don't think she got a whole lot of hunks but oh well...

Two Years!

2010-02-17T18:09:00.000-08:00

On Monday, Feb. 15, we celebrated our second anniversary. Matt and I decided every year we would switch off. So I agreed to take on this year. I was searching and searching for an idea that would blow Matt out of the water. I finally found some Buddy Guy and BB King tickets on craigslist.com. The tickets were $130 each and I personally am not a huge fan of them both but I knew Matt would enjoy seeing them. However the day after I purchased them, Matt made the comment that he wouldn't pay a whole lot of money to go see anyone in concert here in KC. Well as you can imagine, my wheels started turning. I decided to break the news to him and really find out if he wanted to see them. Needless to say we sold them days later. I was frustrated and a little ticked with him. So I told him he could plan our anniversary. So he did and sure surprised me! We first went and played volleyball with the elders and women from the Olathe stake. Afterwards he gave me two choices to eat; 5 Guys Burger and Fries or Stix. We hadn't been to either. We headed to 5 Guys Burger and Fries. I laughed at first but we wanted to see what all the uproar was about this place. Matt and I would have to rate it an 8 out of 10. The french fries were from Shelley, Idaho though we smiled when we saw that, only Shelley, Idaho. You could taste the potato in the french fries and the hamburger was good but not amazing. After having dinner Matt pretended to miss the freeway and take this side road which led to the Chateau Avalon by Legends, which is a themed room hotel. I was really shocked. We checked into the Egyptian Palace.

This took my breath away as I walked into the bedroom. Matt had made prior arrangements with the hotel to put rose pedals all over the bed with one single rose. Cute, huh?!

This tub was so relaxing! Someday Matt and I would like to have one of these in our home. All day I kept flashing back to our wedding and remembering all the tender moments with family and friends. It was the best day of my life and am grateful Matt choose me to be his eternal companion. I am one lucky girl! Next day we did a little shopping. I think I have found my new favorite store, Banana Republic Outlet.

My new love...

2010-02-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

Matt's aunt Rita from Germany, was so kind to remember my birthday that she sent me some extra mula. I've been wanting to paint or make some curtains for our aptarment for awhile. Needless to say I was thrilled when I received her gift in the mail!!! I owe all the credit to my mother. I picked out the style and the fabric while she basically sewed them up while I "supervised." I enjoyed making them with her, we laughed and created memories. It's amazing what a little fabric can do to a place. The curtains brighten up the room and make it look more homier. I also love red, I think its so bright and cheery which is needed right now in our lives, we are so sick of the snow!!! Matt and I always joke and say that snow is one of the many reasons we were excited to leave Idaho.

Katie's Birthday

2010-02-06T14:12:00.000-08:00

For Katie's birthday we went to an authentic mexican restaurant called Mi Ranchito. Afterwards we came home and had a yummy mint chocolate ice cream cake made by my mom!

The employees sang Happy Birthday (hopefully it was a Happy Birthday song) to Katie in spanish and made her wear this blue sombrero hat. It was pretty hilarious. We all had to try on the hat afterwards.

Happy Birthday Katie!

2010-01-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my sister Katie's 17th birthday! She is such a funny girl. I remember when Katie was little and what a funny little girl she was. Katie was a very obedient little girl (she still is) she had to always be in bed by 9:00. I also remember riding bikes with her in our neighborhood in Poky and her yelling, "Wait for me Nicci!" I use to love to tease Katie. Katie also tagged along with Matt and I back in high school and most of the time leave us cracking up. I love you Katie and Happy Birthday!

I'M 23!!

2010-01-18T16:10:00.000-08:00

January 14 was my birthday and I had a wonderful birthday! Matt came to my work and we had Panera for lunch. After work we met up with my family at Texas Roadhouse. I love steak!!! Next we went back to the Tietjens for some cake. My sweet mother made my favorite strawberry cake. Christa joined us as well for some cake. I love living so close to family!

This picture was taken at Crown Center on the ice rink. The woman next to my mom is our hilarious friend Rachel. She is the funniest girl to be around. The ward has the tradition to go ice-skating every year around Christmas time. It was really fun.

Kids Say the Funniest Things...

2010-01-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

I love working with children. Its so fun to see them development and progress. They also say the most hilarious things, for example...
One little boy called me over to where he was playing and said "Ms. Nichole, he's aggravating me!" For a 3 year old to say such a big word, pretty impressive. I was blown away when he said that and so I asked him where we learned to say aggravating and he said, "My mother, she sometimes says that to me." Ha Ha
The boys in my class are just fascinated with the transformer characters they could tell you everything about Bumblebee and Optimus Prime. Well one little boy came in with a transformer back-pack and watch today and he says, "Ms. Nichole, do you like my transformer watch? It's made by Rolex!" Ha Ha... I'll have to look into that one.

Watch out Peru!

2009-12-02T17:54:00.000-08:00

Monday Scott flew out to Utah to enter the MTC today! So weird to think he will be gone for two whole years! We know he will be a great missionay and will bring alot of souls happy as they come unto Christ. There was not a dry eye (well except for Matt) after he hugged us all and said goodbye. One thing Scott said to me was "Don't have any kids while I'm gone." It will be interesting to see how our family changes in two years. I admire his courage to live in a third world country. I couldn't do it.

Matt's Birthday

2009-12-02T17:36:00.000-08:00

Matt's Birthday was on the 22nd of November. He now can drive a Budget truck without paying $100. Christa had us over for dinner and I said I would bring the cake. Matt said he wanted white on white. Weeks before I decided to make him a guitar cake. So I researched it and went on to youtube and watched the video of this TV woman making this guitar cake. Afterwards I thought, piece of cake! Wow afterwards, now I know why so many wives/moms go to the bakery and order a cake! Matt kept saying, "I really don't have to have a guitar cake, just a cake will do." Nope I was going to do it. Overall I hope he had an awesome day. I am so grateful for him. He makes me laugh and is so kind to me. One thing that I appreciate about Matt is he is the brains of our marriage. He is taking some bio classes and occasionally I quiz him, the material just goes right over my head. Oh I just have to brag about this one thing. I came home from work one day and he had dinner going with laundry started. WOW!! It made my day. I am so grateful for him. Love you babe.

(Sorry this pictures are random, I had a hard time putting them in order)

Matt's aunt was here from Germany and asked for a live performance. Isn't he amazing??!!! He doesn't read music just goes by listening to it and from memory.

NEW MOON!

2009-12-02T17:32:00.000-08:00

Christa, Rita, Rachel, eight other women from church, and I went to the midnight showing of New Moon. First we saw Twilight at 9:00 while others waited outside in the cold and then waited. It was so fun and worth it. I think the second one is ten times better than the first one. Everytime Edward or Jacob would come up the audience went wild. I can't wait for the third one in June!!!!!

Nauvoo

2009-12-02T17:26:00.000-08:00

Back in October we went with Scott to take out his endowments in the Nauvoo temple. Matt and I went up the night before and stayed with Christa in a cute little hotel room across from the temple. Then my parents came up with Scott the next day. I LOVE the Nauvoo Temple!!!!! Everything about it is just beautiful, words can not describe it. It was so nice to get away and go to the house of the Lord.

My Sweet Grandma

2009-10-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

On September 25, 2009 on Grandma passed away. It happen very fast and unexpectedly. I was very close to my grandmother and am glad that I was able to attend school near her. I know she is happy and with my grandpa. I am so grateful for Heavenly Father's great eternal plan and I know I will see her again.

Here is my grandpa's headstone.

Here is my dad with my cousin Travis.

Katie and I at the burial.

My beautiful sisters and I.

My grandmother had been working on this for a surprise graduation gift for me. She had talked to my mother and said, "Don't tell Nicci because I want it to be a surprise." I think something inside of her knew that she was going to pass because weeks before she had told a friend that she had to get it done! These are the flowers (I have been wanting to do something with them anyway) from my wedding and the Salt Lake temple is when her and my grandpa were sealed in the Salt Lake temple along with my father. She went to the craft store and picked out the shadow box along with the satin at the bottom. On the little card it says, "Matthew and Nicole, Married on Feburary 15, 2008 in the Salt Lake Temple." When we arrived to her house from traveling all the way from Kansas and I saw it and couldn't believe she had done this. The gift really touched me and made miss her more. I love it and wish I could have told her in person how much it means to me. I will always cherish it. Matt wasn't to thrilled to have dead flowers in the house, oh well.

Eddie Money is in the house!!

2009-10-12T16:58:00.000-07:00

Yes we're living in the past. Eddie Money, need more be said. Matt and I were looking for some entertainment Friday night and we came upon a free concert at Crown Center. When it's free it sounds a lot better than it really is. There was only two songs we really knew, "Take Me Home Tonight," and "Two Tickets to Paradise." It was fun to see some of the 80's in 2009.

Then I just have to add this little side note because I am so proud of my father. My father, mother, Sarah, and I all ran a 5k in September. All of us made the goal to do it weeks before and "trained." It felt good to finish and accomplish a goal. My father has quit drinking pop and has started exercising. He has lost quite a bit of weight. Yeah!!!

Recently...

2009-10-12T16:04:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since I last posted but here is what is going on in our world...

Matt just finished his application for the KU nursing program. It was this big ordeal where he had to write essays on why he wants to be a nurse and some of his qualifications. He then had to get three letter of reccomendations to include in his application. I am so proud of him for getting it done while working and going to school. It was due this month and we will find out in Feburary. We both can't believe we won't find out until Feburary to see if he gets in or not. In the meantime he plans to apply to other colleges in the area. Matt quit doing banquets because we never saw he each other and is currently working for his parents selling used cars. It has been quite the adventure for me. Orginally he bought me a Nessian Maxima 2000 however found someone that was interested in it and made a good profit from it. Then he went to the sale and got a killer deal on an Infinti G20 I love it! It has leather seats, sun roof, and seat warmers which is so nice to have with the weather getting cooler.

I stayed where I did my internship as a preschool teacher. I am really enjoying and love working with that age group. A funny story is one day this little boy's parents asked him who worked with him that day and he replied, "Jicole." They were thinking, "Jicole? Oh does she have blue eyes and blonde hair?" He smiled and said, "Yes." So now whenever his parents see me they call me Jicole (I came home and told Matt and we both agreed it sounds like an African American name). Most of the children are so loving and one little boy will come up and say, "Mrs. Nichole, I love you."

Children love to learn and are so inquiste about the world around them. This past week we were talking about acorns and squirrels. So on Friday I brought in an acorn and had the children use a magnifying glass to see it up close. Then I went around and asked them what they thought was in the acorn. Some of them said a nut, or a dinosaur egg!!! Then one little boy pipped up and said "Well lets find out!" So I got out a hammer and let the children take turns on taking a wak at the acorn! One little boy laughed and giggled each time someone hit the acorn. When we got done to the nut part, one little boy shouts out, "It's A Peanut!" This of course cracked me up! Days like these I just love my job.

Being close to family has been really fun! In a couple of weeks we will be going to Nauvoo with our families to be with Scott as he takes out his endowments. It will be a glorious day when Katie and Sarah make sacred coventants too. I recently got a calling to be the CTR 6 teacher and Matt got called to be the Priest Quorum Advisor.

Another day we are looking forward to is when our Aunt Rita comes all the way from Germany! She is coming in November and will be staying for about two weeks. We wish the rest of the family was coming.

Oh and I can't forget to acknowledge what movie is coming out in November.... NEW MOON! My mother-in-law (also pictured with Rita) got us midnight showing tickets!!! I am so excited. Both Christa and I are excited to see Robert!

Scott's Mission Call!!!

2009-07-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

My brother Scott received his mission call yesterday! He is going to serve the people in Piura, Peru!!!!! We are so excited for him. He is currently in Alabama selling security systems so he opened it there. My family, Matt's family, and us were all crowed around a computer so we could see him on skype! He leaves December 2! Matt and I are doing well, we move into our place on Saturday so we are thrilled about that.

*Twilight**

2009-04-17T12:49:00.001-07:00

My mother-in-law, brought up the movie Twilight when she was here and we watched it and of course I have my mother's disease, I feel asleep during it. Well she then left me the book and I have become infatuated with it! I read the first book in two days, then I got the second from the library, and read that in two days and now I am on the third book eclipse. When they first came out, I didn't know why everyone was obsessing over them but now I can see why. I have watched the movie all the way through and think Edward is so good-looking and mysterious! The second book was a struggle because Edward went away. I told my mother about my newest obsession and she wanted to know if I was still fixing Matt lunch and dinner, so don't worry I haven't let our marriage go down the drain. We are moving next week and I have almost all the packing done and I figure its better then me out spending poor Matt's hard earn money. Every time Bella is with Jacob, I just want her to leave that boy alone and stick to Edward. I plan to have the 3rd book done by Wednesday so I can return it to the library. The books are so good!!!! I can't wait for the 2nd movie to come out in November. Is there anyone else that loves this series?

Graduation!!!

2009-04-17T12:27:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 10, 2009 was graduation. Our family came up Thursday. It was so fun to have them here. Scott was down at Provo and had class so he was unable to make it. Katie is taking some tough class this year and felt like she couldn't miss school. Commencement was at 9 a.m. and then the receiving of the diplomas was at 11:00. It feels so good to be done. In a way I am going to miss BYU-ID but glad to be finished with tests, finals, and projects. I think I will miss the learning aspect. It was great to have the newest apostle there, Elder Neil L. Andersen as our guest speaker. President Clark addressed us to stay close to our Heavenly Father, serve, and to not get caught up in the world. Then Elder Andersen, referred to Wisdom. He also disussed turning our hearts to the Lord and not to the World. It was such a wonderful day! I am so grateful for my family, Matt's family, and escpecially Matt's support. I couldn't have done it without them. (Sarah, I am sorry I don't have any pictures with you, they must be on Christa's or mom's camera.)

My cap was driving me nuts all day. I felt like my hair was being killed by it. Matt was a real sweet heart and gave me these beautiful pearl necklace and earrings for my graduation gift.
This gown made me look like a large marge!

Some fun girls I had some classes with and gott to really know!

An Amazing Week!!!

2009-03-27T18:09:00.000-07:00

So Monday Night our ward had Family Home Evening with President and Sister Clark. It was more of a question and answer session. We just happen to move in to the right wards. Last year we were able to have Family Home Evening with them in our old ward and then in this new ward. It was really good!
Then Wednesday night was Grad Night with President and Sister Clark. Sister Clark spoke first and then President Clark. They both did an excellent job. She discussed some people having fear and some people are just ready to hit the world hard after they graduate. I have been a little fearful because I always thought I would get pregnant and be a stay at home mom, but that is not what Heavenly Father has in store for us right now. No more school but hitting the workforce, kind of scary. I plan to work so I can help Matt get through school when he applies to KU. But Sister Clark read 1 Nephi 22: 25 which states, "And he gathereth his children from the four quarters of the earth; and he numbereth his sheep, and they know him; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd; and he shall feed his sheep, and in him they shall find pasture." Heavenly Father knows your name and my name. He has a plan for me! It might be a different plan than what I am imagining but he will guide Matt and I. Just from that scripture I gain greater confidence, hope, faith, and strength. President Clark also talked about holding onto the Iron Rod by reading our scriptures, going to the temple, having Family Home Evening, and many other important principles. Then he discussed whirlwinds of dust and mists of darkness and how it is so important to grasp the iron rod. Then he told us to beware of the inner circle of people in the work force. They might or believe they have power. He said within ourselves we will see a change and start seeing work, hobbies, and extra curriculum activities are more important then family. I hope Matt and I can always remember family comes first. We will have darkness in this world, but President Clark remarked how that as darkness increase their will be more light in this world. I strongly believe that, look at the gospel spreading and temples being built! Students at Brigham Young University-Idaho will be a light unto the world and employees will wonder where they came from. President Clark said something to the effect of how wonderful it has been to live in "Zion." I am grateful for this University, and for the power it has had on my life. I am grateful that I could receive secular knowledge as well as gospel knowledge here. I know the Lord will bless us!

Then today I had the promoting to go to the temple this morning. I didn't have any assignments or projects due so I did and it was amazing! I love the Rexburg Temple, it is so beautiful. I love the feeling I get everytime I go, the spirit! I can't wait for our family to come and hopefully we can go! Then later today, I got an e-mail from a lady in KS telling me she received my resume and wants to interview me!!! The Lord truly does bless you when you listen and follow the promptings of the Lord. Only 2 more weeks till graduation!!!! Whoot Whoot!!!

Erin's Birthday and the New Do

2009-03-02T15:56:00.001-08:00

Erin's birthday was awhile ago and her husband Devin, threw her a surprise birthday party! Erin and I are both from the Kansas City area. We have gotten to know each other through stake dances, girl's camp, and fun sleep-overs! We then decided to live together when we found out we were both coming to Brigham Young University-Idaho! I think we lived together for 8 semesters! I have many fun and adventurous memories living with Erin. Our apt. days came to an end when we decided to get married, which was perfect because we got engaged and married around the same time! I am glad I didn't have to room with anyone else! Erin continues to be a great example to me and I am grateful for her friendship.

These girls (Shar and Jenny) were our other two roommates of fall 2006 semester! We also roomed with Heather and Katie however they are currently on missions. I think that was the best semester! We had so much fun together! We each took turns cooking 1 night a week! They are amazing cooks! Another found memory is each of us getting a date and having Chinese night! Our apt. was decorated with Chinese decorations. We had Chinese food for dinner with chopsticks while setting on the floor and watching Freaky Friday (which related to our Chinese night).
Shar and I. Shar just recently had a cute little boy while I was pretending to be prego at the time with her.

My neighbor cut my hair and she did an excellent job! I love it! Short hair is so much eaiser to do!

February 15

2009-02-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

So I am a little late but Sunday was our 1 year Anniversary!!!! We celebrated it with Valentine's day. We decided this year that instead of giving each other gifts we would go and get massages! We called all the places here in Rexburg and they were all booked. So we found a lady in Idaho Falls that could do it at 10:30 and 11:00. The funny thing is her name is Shockte! We were a little surprised by the name and wondered what this lady was like. However her name didn't stop us, Matt and I were so excited! I have had one before but Matt hadn't. With Matt working physical labor and me going to school, we were looking forward to it! So Saturday rolled around and we headed to Idaho Falls. We arrived at her house with her weiner dog going crazy (I think little dogs can be cute but they can also be very annoying, the funny thing is she had a little bed in front of her big window in the living room for the dog, with steps going up to the dog's bed. Shockte told us she had to train the dog to use the strains, ha ha). Her house was very eclectic. Matt volunteered me to go first. Before we left we decided to make up little signs. If I came out of the bedroom with my arms folded, that meant she wasn't very good. If they were down to my sides, she was good. So she had this room set up just for massages. She had done a good job at decorating and setting the mood. But let me tell you, she had some pretty strong hands!!! The whole time she kepting talking to me, which is unusual because my last lady didn't say a word. So here I am trying to talk to Shockte and she is rubbing my neck which hurts but feels good at the same time. In the mean time I asked her what her husband and her were going to do for Valentines, well they are getting a divorce. So what do you say after that, "I am sorry." Her reply was that there is something in his brain that doesn't click or work right. Then she says, "I think all men have this problem!" I didn't know what to say to that! Sure men and women think differently, we are suppose to! Just think how crazy and emotional the world would be if they thought like us! I just kind of did a yep and changed the subject but she kept coming back to that! But she reassured me that she will remarry. I am so grateful that I have the gospel in my life and know that Heavenly Father loves men and women both and wouldn't leave out a wire in men's brain! Then Matt went for his massage. She did a good job at getting the knots out of his back. She told him to go and get tennis balls and to put them on the floor. Then lay on them, yeah I can just see my husband doing that! Ha Ha We asked her about her name. She said her mom is from Germany and her dad was in the military but her original name is Sandy. However she obvious didn't care for it so she decided to go with Shockte. As matt and I left, we joked and said how we are going to name our first child SHOCKTE! We think its got a nice ring to McKendrick, just kidding. We probably won't go back to her again since we are moving out of Idaho here soon but it felt nice and relaxing. Later that night we went to Stockmans, which is a steak house. Matt got a salmon and I got the famous steak, it was so delicious!
A couple days before, my brother Scott called and was wanting to come up for the weekend. He is currently attending BYU. So Sunday we went down to Blackfoot and brought him back to Rexburg. I think he was a little bored because all day he kept saying, "So what do you guys do on Sundays?" I forgot how being married is so much different then the single life. Being single you go and mingle with people next door or acroos the way, especially on Sundays. I told him we usually watch a Disney movie, take a nap, prepare our lesson, go to church, eat dinner, and read scriptures/have a thought. I think he was a little bored but it was good to be with him. On Monday we went sledding at the Sand Dunes, which was such a blast!!!! Scott one time went down the dune and off a jump, he was literally flying in the air! Then missing some bushes. I then took him to Poky Monday afternoon. He is such a funny boy, he is sure enjoying the college life and dating all the ladies. He told us, "I just can't get enough of those tennis girls! They are so hot to watch while playing tennis!" He plans to put in his mission papers here soon, I hope real soon! On Sunday (our anniversary) Matt and I watched our wedding video. It was such a happy day for the both of us. I wish we could go back and relive that day! It was so fun to be with family and share our joyous day. I will always remember the feelings I had that day and the love I had/have for Matt. My mom was a great help to me and getting ready for the big moment. I am grateful for temples and that we can be sealed forever. Oh and I won't forget about the luncheon we had at the Lion's House. The food was a delight and so were the speaches, yes Scott just be prepared for your wedding! We have been very blessed to go to all the places and do all the things that we have done our first year of marriage. Matt and I joked though, when Scott settles down, we are going to call him and his wife and see if we can come and celebrate their 1st anniversary together. No it was fun to be with family on our anniversary and grateful he came up, we had a good time with him!

Cross Country Ski trip

2009-01-25T10:31:00.001-08:00

So I figure since Matt and I are living in snow country I might as well take advantage of it. The school offers so many activities to do in the snow and one of them is cross country skiing. When my family and I lived in Pocatello, Idaho my mom would take Scott and I skiing every once in awhile and in elementary school I went cross country skiing too. So I decided to try it once again. I got one of my good friends Justina to go with me. We went up by Targhee at a place called Harriman. We had a BLAST! It was so fun (a workout let me tell ya, I am also a pro now at getting up after falling)! There was so much snow!!! It was so nice to be out in nature, we saw moose, and ducks. It was so nice to get away and realize how grateful I am for Heavenly Father's beautiful creations. The trees were covered in snow, it looked like a winter wonderland. It was also fun to have some girl time.

Matt totally cracked up when he saw me in my sexy ski bibs, I know I look like a dork but hey they kept me warm and from getting wet!

My Birthday

2009-01-25T10:08:00.000-08:00

So I am a little late but January 14 was my birthday. I turned 22. I can't believe I am that old. It just feels like yesterday I was getting my divers license. Matt was really sweet, he got up made me a fruit smoothie and blueberry muffins. He then was so excited about my presents he made me open them before he had to go to work and I had to go to school. I received a cute sweater and an exercise ball with a workout dvd. Christa and Michael were kind and gave me a fun winter skirt with a sweater. My family gave me a belt with a cute blue jacket. My sisters were sweet and gave me fun Valentine Place Mats with hearts on it. Then when Matt got off work we went to Applebee's for dinner. We had to rush a little bit because I have a 7-10:00 (I know shoot me!) class every Wednesday night. When I came home to my surprise Matt had gone to DQ and got me a Reeses Cup Ice-Cream Cake!!! It was so delicious!!!! I had a wonderful birthday and am so blessed to have a good husband!

Christmas in Kansas

2009-01-12T16:27:00.000-08:00

My family has the Wii and so for Christmas they received from Santa Wii Fit. One of the fitness activities is doing the Hula Hoop. I am here to testify that after doing it for a minute you are tired! You have to go as fast as you can or you loose!
Here is Katie, she looks like she is raising the roof, go Kate!

Here is my mom, she is probably going to laugh when she sees this, but I thought her family might get a kick out of this!

I love her! She makes me laugh!

Here is Brett
Sorry the order got messed up, for more laughter, scroll down!

Christmas Day at the McKendrick's home. At the last moment Angus decided he wanted to be in the picture. Katie and Sarah are my sisters.

Ha Ha, I love this picture of my babe. He is really swinging those hips!

Here is Greg

Here is my dad

The Sunday night before we left, we had some friends come over. Here is Matt's mom Christa playing Catch Phrase.

Katie, Matt, and Greg

Brett trying to get his team to guess the word!

Brett's friend, Sarah, and my mom

Even though Matt didn't go to the ballet (he was heartbroken) I grabbed a picture with him

Cute House my mom and Sarah made.

After the ballet with Grandma. It was wonderful!

All the girls that went to the Nutcracker Ballet!
Sarah, Me, Katie, My Mom, Grandma Tietjen, and Christa

More pictures are soon to come they are on Matt's camera and its currently dead.

Christmas Break!

2009-01-07T13:05:00.000-08:00

For Christmas Matt and I got to go home to Kansas!!! It was so nice to get out of Rexburg. I loved spending time with family and just relaxing. After traveling down to the airport, Matt and I have come to the conclusion that we NEVER want to live in Idaho again!!!! We left Monday, December 22 at 5:30 in the morning thinking that would give us enough time to catch our flight at 10:45 a.m. However the roads weren't plowed in Idaho (but they were in Utah) and we ended up missing our flight. We usually can make it to SLC in 3 to 3 and 1/2 hours. However it took us forever, a couple of times we were in a white out. However the airport was great and we arrived in Kansas around 9:30 p.m. that night. We decided to break it up and spent the first week with my family and then the second week with his family. Tuesday night the girls got to go and see the Nutcracker at the Music Hall in downtown KC. My mom's Aunt Catherine had the great idea for all the aunts, and girl cousins to go to the ballet. So everyone in Arizona went and all the Tietjen girls along with Christa (Matt's mom) went. It was AMAZING!! Time flew by, we all throughly enjoyed the ballet. Its amazing how they can stand on their toes for periods of time. For Christmas Eve Matt's family have the tradition of going out for Chinese Food. Then we came back to my house and watched the movie, "Joy to the World." My mother gave a beautiful testimony along with my grandmother, dad, and Matt's dad. The spirit was so strong and it was wonderful to be with everyone. This was probably our last Christmas together since my brother Scott will be going on a mission this coming year. Then we all got to open one present. Then my family has the tradition of all the children sleeping in the same room, so we can all wake up together and open presents. However Matt wasn't totally thrilled with this idea, so we slept in the basement. Christmas morning was fun, we opened presents, and had my mother's famous breakfast. Later that day, we went over to Matt's parents house and opened gifts. Then we all got back together and had a big Ham dinner. I am so grateful our parents live so close to each other so we can spend the Holidays with my parents and Matt's parents.
We had a great time in Kansas, the weather was beautiful, in the 60s. We got to go out to eat at the Peach Tree and see Matt's aunt Erin and her family. We also got to see some old friends and have a great time playing games. Matt and I flew out of Kansas Tuesday and arrived in SLC 12:00 that night. It was 4 a.m. when we arrived in Rexburg and I had my first class at 10:15 and Matt back to work. Back to real life. Pictures will be posted soon!

TAGGED!

2008-12-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

So my friend Kortney tagged us and I have never done it before. Plus it's Sunday afternoon and I thought it would be fun to do with Matt. We had a good time doing it and laughed about a few things. Even though its cold outside and we are in Rexburg, its a fun time in our lives.

8 Shows that Matt and I enjoy watching:

1. The Office (that's what she said)
2. Seinfeld (Matt loves this show, he has the whole series)
3. The Cosby Show (Again this one is Matt)
4. Everybody loves Raymond (Matt once more)
5. What Not to Wear (Matt and I both enjoy watching this show, even though we dress like slobs)
6. Animal Planet (I like this, some of the shows are intriguing)
(6 is good enough)

8 Things that happened yesterday:

1. It snowed like the dickens
2. We bought a down and a devout cover (LOVE IT!!!), the bed spread we originally had was tearing at the seams.
3. Made BBQ Chicken Pizza for dinner, Yummy!!!
4. Looked for Scott's Christmas Present, no luck.
5. Bought my Dad's Christmas Present.
6. Cleaned the apartment, Matt is a super helper!
7. Did Laundry, I know pretty exciting.
8. We sat a traffic light for literally 12 minutes!!!!!

8 Things I am looking forward to:

1. Christmas in Kansas!
2. Leaving Rexburg for Good.
3. Graduating in April.
4. Matt says, "Nicci to have a job." Thats right I will be his sugar momma after April.
5. Someday have kids and Matt says, "Grandkids."
6. Our one year anniversary :D!
7. Getting Matt's Christmas shopping done.
8. Seeing where Scott goes on a mission.

8 Things I love about Winter:

1. Hot Chocolate
2. Christmas and Nativity sets
3. Christmas Lights
4. Sledding
5. Jumping on the tramp with Sarah, snow flying in the air.
6. Spring is around the corner.
7. How pretty the earth looks, when its covered in snow.
8. Playing in the snow, except Matt likes to take me to the ground and rub my face with snow.

8 Things on my Wish list:

1. To make it to Kansas the same day we leave. We are praying for good weather that day!
2. To exercise more.
3. To be more like Christ.
4. Draw closer as a couple.
5. To do well next semester.
6. To go ice-skating at Crown Center in Kansas City
7. To have healthy children
8. To find an internship after I graduate.

8 People I tag:
1. Erin Garner
2. Daleen Royer
3. Alisha Siddoway
4. Niki Coon
5. Jill Coon
6. Katie Coon
7. Amy Moore
8. Sharlene Bitter

Round 2 of the casa

2008-11-29T17:38:00.000-08:00

Hot stuff cooking

Our new love shack

2008-11-29T17:18:00.001-08:00

Three flights of daily workouts

Wreath that I decorated

Christmas decorating without a tree

Soon that barn will be ours (in the window)

Beef, it's what's for dinner . . . isn't it?

A new skirt, and BIG news!!!

2008-11-26T15:49:00.000-08:00

So here is the big news... (no I am not pregnant) I am graduating in April now instead of July!!!! I am so excited! The only thing I am nervous about is I will be taking 17 credits, which I have never taken that many. I usually go to school in the summer and fall but I was able to get on fast grad. After I graduate, all I will have to do is my internship. Matt will just be working since he will be done with his Associates here at BYU-Idaho in December. Matt and I have enjoyed living in Rexburg but excited for some new adventures!! Matt will be applying for schools here in the future.

A little while ago, my mom was kind of enough to send me this fun skirt and some new shoes. She has been wanting to see it on me, so here is a picture mom. What girl doesn't love to recieve a new outfit in the mail!?! Thanks mom, I love it! It was very thoughtful and kind of you. That is one thing I miss rooming with Erin, sharing clothes! I felt like I had a whole another closet! (Don't mind the mess in the back, we were moving into our new apt. the next week so life was a little crazy for us!)

Happy Birthday Matt!

2008-11-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

Matt turned 23 on November 22. All day he kept saying, "I'm so old!" I would just roll my eyes and say, "No your not." Ha Ha but I will ask him when he is 80 and see what he says. I woke up and made him waffles with a strawberry and banana smoothie. He then opened his gifts. His mom gave him the sweater and jeans he is wearing along with some Brian Regan DVDs. I gave him some dress shoes that he has been wanting for awhile, some cologne, and then his favorite cereal is Cinnamon Toast Crunch (he loves it, he will just sit and eat it by the box alone). We then went out later with Justina and Curtis Checketts to Stockmans. Matt ordered a delicious Salmon and I had the fajita salad. Michael, Christa, and my family, we have decided we are going there when you all come up for my graduation. Its out of this world kind of food! Then we went and saw the new James Bond 007 movie! Matt is such a great husband. He works so hard in school and in supporting us. He always makes me laugh and brings a smile to my face. I am grateful we can be together forever. I truly married my best friend.

Matt's Aunt Rita, gave him Uno Spin! It is really a fun and gives the regular uno a little spice!

Letter from Grandma Tietjen

Happy Birthday Matt!

2008-11-26T15:11:00.001-08:00

Matt is a big fan of Seinfield. His parents over the years have given him all the seasons. So if you think you know your Seinfield, we are looking for some competition. He would slaughter me!

The package from my parents!

The cute letter from Sarah bean

Some cologne I gave him from Banana.

I think he had a pretty good birthday!

The Happy Meal...

2008-10-30T21:10:00.000-07:00

Matt and I went to the ward Halloween party on Tuesday. Matt and I were trying to figure out what we could be. I had the idea of Matt being Dwight and he then said I had to be Angela off The Office however my friend Kortney saved us with these amazing costumes! They were pretty funny! Thanks Kortney!

All we need is the drinks and shakes!

Monday night we made sugar cookies and wanted to decorate them and deliver them to our friends, however the batch made like 60 cookies! So by the time we made them and cooked them it was to late! I told Matt we aren't making cookies for a long time! I am all cookied out!

I love my big Mc Mac!

Shorter and Shorter!

2008-10-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

So I am a little behind but I got my haircut a few weeks ago. Its a little shorter than I wanted it but its growing on me and eaiser to do! Another bonus is Matt likes it alot!

Proposition 8

2008-10-24T14:18:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine and I recently created a blog in support of proposition 8 for one of our classes. It has been me research the topic and the effects if it doesn’t pass. I can’t imagine what society will be like for my family and future generations if it doesn’t pass! I truly feel strong about it! I hope that it will pass and the definition of marriage will only be between a man and a woman. I am so grateful for my Heavenly Father’s plan and know that he ordained marriage between a man and a woman. I am grateful for Matt, and for our extended family. If you have a moment, check it out and please tell members of California to vote in support of Proposition 8!

Here is the website: http://www.marriagemw.blogspot.com/

Matt in Heaven

2008-10-08T13:23:00.000-07:00

Matt had been looking at flat screens online for awhile. I could tell he really wanted one. During the seven week break and after we had gotten back from vacation he was working alot. He would leave at 8a.m. and I wouldn't see him till 8:30 at night. Well one day as we were strolling through the store we decided to check out the flat screens (first big mistake!). Next we noticed that K-Mart was having a sale on televisions and Wall-Mart will match prices(2nd big mistake). After much debate and evaluation I gave in and we ended up walking out with one. We really did get a good deal on it! I have never seen Matt so giddy!

Have you ever seen a man so happy? :D

Ha Ha, this cracks me up! This is how esctatic he was!
I think he has found a new love!

Paris continued...

2008-09-17T19:13:00.000-07:00

We saw this old car and it only gets better....
Someone really loves and cares about this car, so much that they use a club to prevent anyone from stealing it! In reality Matt says it would only delay them a few seconds from stealing it! Ha Ha
Matt learning to knitt! First his grandmother tired to teach me and Matt was teasing me, so I challenge him to try! That was a mistake, he was better than me! I am glad someone will be able to knit our kids some socks! Aunt Rita helping. (Notice where Matt has the string/yarn, in his mouth!!!)
We all got a good laugh watching him!

More of Paris!

2008-09-17T16:41:00.003-07:00

Matt is savoring every bite!
Mouse dessert that was to die for!
Arc De Triomph
The stairs we climbed to get to the top!

New York City

2008-09-17T16:41:00.002-07:00

Statue of Liberty

Us in Central Park
New York City Temple!

More of Europe!

2008-09-17T16:41:00.000-07:00

This is in Aalen where Matt's relatives live.
I thought this was very creative!

Entrance of the Castle!

Matt and I by the entrance of the son's castle

This is the son's castle he decided to build

it on top of a hill overlooking his daddy's castle. The son's castle is twice as big and bad.

This is the father's castle
Overlooking the Alps!

Norte Dame at night!

PARIS

2008-08-31T17:15:00.000-07:00

On top of the Tower

The designs inside were just worth seeing!

The Louvre

2008-08-31T16:55:00.000-07:00

Christa, Rita, Matt, and I at the Alps!

The Stage on Water

Before the Opera

Later that evening we went to an opera called Tosca. It was wonderful! The stage was on water while the audience was on land. It was in Italian and the music was beautiful. The eye would move throughout the opera.

EUROPE!!!!!!!

2008-08-31T16:07:00.000-07:00

Matt and I left Sunday, Aug. 10 to Utah. My grandpa Tietjen had been sick for a long time and knew he would passing soon. He had a tumor or cancer on his pancreus. To me he didn't look like the fun and loving grandpa that I knew. He passed away on Monday around 6:00 p.m. and I was glad to see him before he went and to be with my grandma. I know he is in a better place and will be missed greatly! We left for Europe that night around 12 p.m. It was hard for me knowing I wouldn't be able to see my family and to attend his funeral but happy to be going to Europe!! Matt has family who live in Germany. His mother's mom, sister, brother-in-law, and his cousisns, Robert, Julianna, and Teresa. We flew into the New Jeresy Airport around 7:00 a.m. We had a 14 hour layover and decided to see New York City! We got a hotel for the day to store our luggage and to try and take a quick nap but we were to excited! While in New York City we saw the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square. We then left for Frankfurt, Germany. It was a long flight! We were greeted by his Aunt Rita, Teresa and his mom Christa!! After a 3 hour drive we arrived in Aalen were they live. Its so different then the U.S. It's so green, like the east coast! I will include pictures! The next day we left and went to the southern part of Germany, near Austria and saw the Alps!

Matt and I on one of the Alps!

The Lift that took us up!

Christa's sister Rita, with daughter Teresa

Heise Swimming Pool

2008-08-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

To beat the heat, Matt and I decided to go swimming! We drove 25 minutes to a place called Heise, it is heated by hot springs. They have a diving board, waterslide, a pool, and another pool heated by the springs. It was fun to get away and cool down.

Matt doing the gangster lean.

Matt loves the pool!
So I learned that Matt is a better swimmer then me and everytime I would swim close to him, he would swim off and I would end up chasing him all around the pool. Boy did I get my workout!

2008-07-17T13:17:00.000-07:00

Wedding

My dress was so beautiful, I loved it!

2008-07-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

My parents along with Matt's parents!

2008-07-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

My family-Tietjens

2008-07-08T22:28:00.000-07:00

Everyone!

2008-07-08T22:22:00.000-07:00

Yeah we are married! This pose was so fun!

2008-07-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

Hawaii!

Kihei Bay Surf is were our condo was! We were able to stay for a week!

2008-07-08T21:41:00.000-07:00

Matt and I loved drinking these "Lave Flows!"

2008-07-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

It was mating season for the whales so we got to see them up close!
The females liked to swim underneath the boat to separate themselves from the males!

2008-07-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

Matt and I in Maui on our honeymoon! It was so
beautiful and fun! We hope to retire there someday! Ha Ha

2008-07-08T20:54:00.000-07:00

Matt and I with my new do! My hair use to be down to
the middle of my back!

Our Engagement Story

2008-06-18T12:03:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, Matt and I were married in the Salt Lake Temple on Feb. 15, 2008! I chose to be married in Salt Lake because we figured five generations on my side had been married there. Matt proposed to me October 27, 2007. A couple of weeks before, he had gone back to Kansas to see his family. His family from Germany was visiting his parents. He called on his way to Rexburg and I asked him if he had brought back a ring and he told me, “No.” My hurt sunk. We had talked about marriage but never really finalized it. We were in Utah seeing my family, and an old roommate, Heather Aulick, off on her mission. Matt informed me before we went down that he wanted to take me to a nice restaurant (for those who don't know Rexburg, there are none). I packed a ruffled blue shirt and a skirt my mom and Christa had given to m. That day he said he was going to see an old roommate at Provo. He later came back with a dozen roses and when I asked what they were for; his reply was, "Because I love you!" Next we headed off to the restaurant. We were both dressed up and looking smashing. We ended up at a restaurant called La Caille in Sandy, Utah, which is hidden up in the mountains. As you drive up to the restaurant, lights guide you to the restaurant on a brick drive way. A butler took our car, and we entered the restaurant. The food was amazing! We had the whole meal, appetizer, entree, meal, and dessert. Matt was so funny during the meal. I apparently was quite and he kept asking me what was wrong. I was wondering why in the world were we at such a nice restaurant. I thought to myself, “If its like this now, what is he going to do when he proposes?!” After the meal we walked around the restaurant watching the swans and holding hands. Next we drove to Salt Lake City. Matt stated we were going to go and listen to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing. Which I thought was odd because Matt has never been one to go to a choir concert but I thought I was just happy to be with him. As we were walking towards the temple, Matt is carrying this box with his coat on top. He wouldn’t let me peak or tell me what was inside this box. I also have to add we got lost and the two of us became very frustrated. After complaining, Matt at one point said, “Let’s just turn around and go back to the car.” I replied with, “Fine.” However, he was determined to find the temple. Next we stepped onto a carriage ride with the horse and buggy. He sat across from me, which I thought was weird, and asked him to come and sit next to me. He told me to wait awhile. I felt weird sitting by myself, with this good looking hunk sitting across from me, so he finally when I wasn't looking handed me a build of bear. The bear was in a tux with a red rose in his claw. Then I noticed that the bear was down on one knee. It didn't click and I said, "Matt I think this bear’s leg is broken, I'll fix it." So I fixed the bear! I straightened the leg (which he had put a whole hour into safety pinning the leg back) I next looked up and he was on one knee. Oh boy! He then said a couple of things, which I had him, repeat it twice because I was so caught up in the moment. Of course I said “Yes!!!” We then rode around on the carriage ride talking, kissing, laughing, on cloud nine!

Matt and Nicci

I turned a whoopin 25!

Christa's Surprise Party!

Christmas 2011

Welcome Home Scott!

Breaking Dawn!

KU Womens Volleyball Game

Dad's Birthday

Pumpkin Carving with the Wilsons

Utah Trip

Fall Wreath

Winter Quarters Temple

Sarah's Diving

Katie's Graduation

Kansas City Temple Run

The New J-O-B!

Three Years!

Trip to Florida

I'm 24!!

Christmas 2010

K-State Basketball Game

Erin's Visit to KC

Eyeballs for Dinner!

Happy Birthday Dad!

Shooting with Grandpa

The Newest Addition to the Family

Jared Coones 5k Run

Sarah's 14th Birthday!

More Pictures from the Reunion

Donut Falls

Family Skits

Family Reunion out in Utah!

Matt's Tin Man

Easter

Visiting Celinda

April Fools!

Two Years!

My new love...

Katie's Birthday

Happy Birthday Katie!

I'M 23!!

Kids Say the Funniest Things...

Watch out Peru!

Matt's Birthday

NEW MOON!

Nauvoo

My Sweet Grandma

Eddie Money is in the house!!

Recently...

Scott's Mission Call!!!

***Twilight****

Graduation!!!

An Amazing Week!!!

Erin's Birthday and the New Do

February 15

Cross Country Ski trip

My Birthday

Christmas in Kansas

Christmas Break!

TAGGED!

Round 2 of the casa

Our new love shack

A new skirt, and BIG news!!!

Happy Birthday Matt!

Happy Birthday Matt!

The Happy Meal...

Shorter and Shorter!

Proposition 8

Matt in Heaven

Paris continued...

More of Paris!

New York City

More of Europe!

PARIS

EUROPE!!!!!!!

Heise Swimming Pool

Our Engagement Story

*Twilight**