The Sweetest Work on the Earth

Mt Timpanogos Temple from south side. Moroni is facing East.

Many are not aware nor embrace the truthfulness that is here upon the Earth at this time while we have a living prophet. It is wonderful to live in these the Latter-days. This morning I went to the Mount Timpanogos Temple to do some work which has to be the most rewarding and fulfilling of all there is on the earth to imagine. Matt, my youngest son met me there and we attended a session together. It pleased me beyond words to share that time with him, just like we did when he and Beth returned from their trip to Spain. Only that time we went to the Seattle Temple before I left Washington to come back home.

Families bound together forever is the ultimate blessing for those who have gone before to prepare a way for the rest left behind. We are given great promises that if we keep our part (covenants)of the promises, we are bound for eternal happiness linked as families forever. Heaven would not be heaven without everyone of our family.

A Day with the Kids at Thanksgiving Point

Aislyn liked the flowers on the lilly pads and picked one not knowing we shouldn't do that.


The lilly pond with fish underneath at Thanksgiving Point

Madie inside the play cricket in the Children's play area



The lovely well kept flower beds on the path around the gardens


Luke and Parker wading in the children's pond at Noah's Ark--



Beth, Ethan Matt and The Children's Gardens at Thanksgiving Point activity.

Taking Extra Time Out of the World

Ever get so bombarded by the outside world? There is so much going on, one hardly has time to think in a quiet place. But, I know there is the most calm and peaceful place that is a refuge from the world. It is actually a bit of heaven on Earth.

Is it any wonder how I feel about the many opportunities afford us in our busy work, work-a-day world to "get away from it all" place? It is no secret how I feel living in the shadow of the temple. Today, my son, Michael and I took a few hours to spend some time and enjoy the feeling of peace and tranquility there in the temple.

It takes such little time if you think about it and it makes such a big difference in how I go about the rest of my week. If there is anything, virtuous, lovely or of good report, let us seek after these things; paraphrased from the XIII Article of Faith and scripture of the admonition of Paul.

When there is so much to get done and places to be, just going to the temple for me makes my week so much easier and things just come together better. I also seem to get everything done that needs to be done and more. I firmly believe and noticed it is just like paying tithing but with my time, instead of money. It is a reward nevertheless to embrace Christ's love, atoning sacrifice and grace in my (our) behalf. I learn so much and the Spirit guides me through my daily challenges and makes those burdens lighter.

I just love how Heavenly Father does the math in all of this, that in the end, I am the one who is blessed all the more. There is just no other way to explain it. No explanation necessary. I am so blessed to live in this time and be where I am.

How blessed I am as a parent, daughter, sister and granddaughter and live for those promised blessings yet to come and be mine. I had the privilege of going this morning with Michael, my second son to the temple. It was good to share that time with him since he was leaving later today to go back home in Cincinnati, to be with his family. It was a nice five days to have him with us and share family time with his siblings and me. Thank you Michael, for taking the time and visiting with us. We look forward to see you next time when you come in October.

Visit to Oquirrh Temple & Tour

Family activity this morning took us to the open house for the new Oquirrh Mountain Temple. We arrived there just before our appointment time, which was 10:00 am. It was a beautiful morning, sun shining and a nice breeze. We gathered and waited for everyone to arrive. The grounds were so nicely cared for and the water falls near the entrance was breathtaking.


We waited a time for our last family members to arrive. It just did not see right to just go ahead without them. It somehow just didn't feel right to not wait so we could all experience it together. It made me think how we just can't be without anyone in our family circle and waiting for them was the right thing to do.

While we were inside the temple, the grandchildren were all well behaved. Luke and Parker held hands as they walked hand in hand up and down the stairs together and observed the large paintings on the walls of Jesus and his Apostles. The boys were in awe of them and were very reverent. I held Parker's hand and watched them interact as we walked the tour.

I was very pleased to see so many of my grandchildren in the temple. I showed the little boys the baptismal font and told them that when they were twelve years old, they could come to the temple and do baptisms. I also told them that Drew and Konner had been able to go since they were now twelve years old. The kids enjoyed themselves seeing the mirrors and sealing rooms. There was a special spirit there and was felt by the children and parents.

Afterward, there were cookies and water provided in one of the tents. That was a treat for Cole and Ethan as they asked for a few more. All the kids by then really needed a "pick me up" and water. It added to the event for the Church to provide that many cookies for the patrons attending the open house. It was in a make shift cultural hall inside one of those huge white tents they rent for wedding receptions and parties. It was top notch. I am please that President Monson approved the refreshments. They had them at the Draper Temple Open House too. It made a difference and allow the visitors to take some time to linger and visit after such a sweet spirit in the temple tour.

We look forward to attending the temple dedication on August 23, which would also be my mother's 91st Birthday.

Celebrating A Birthday Milestone For Matt--

Beth and I talked about doing something for Matt for his milestone birthday, (30) when I was there in Seattle a few months ago, in May. Since they live out of state, the opportunity to have a birthday celebration for him here was minimized due to the distance or logistics.

Planning such an event takes a lot of work behind the scenes to pull it off. Well, Beth claims this a victory since she states, she had NEVER been able to surprise Matt with anything that he doesn't somehow find out before hand for it to occur.

She has tried to buy surprises for him for the holidays, or for no reason at all and he is like a magnet to find it "out of the blue!" Well, this time something magical occurred. Beth brought some scrapbook pictures for me to scan and also emailed me some to include with his other pictures. I had put them on a disc and Aaron and Michael helped do the rest, that I didn't even recognize the final project. It turned out so good, I was amazed at what they had come up with and made it into a DVD!

At the spur of the moment I sat down to write a tribute to Matt. It started out and flowed that I was even surprised myself. I asked Aaron for a few insights of what he recalled about Matt and himself growing up. He told me several things that I had not known during the time he said they occurred.

The end of our Family get-together yesterday was a perfect time to make an additional feature to our celebration, pictures and brother David's memorial.

It was no afterthought believe me. It just took precedent at the end of everything else. I think it took Matt by surprise too. I was pleased the way it turned out.

I will add it here at the end for your review. It was fun doing it and even more fun making the surprise part a grand success. It may not have been the full focus for the evening's activity but it made an impression on Matt nevertheless.

For Matt’s Birthday~ August 29, 2009

These pictures tell somewhat of your story, Matt be that as it may,

Yet, doing a project such as this was no small task to celebrate your 30th Birthday.

We tried to work it in as best we could but such obstacles kept arising with the best of intentions,

Your mother is no magician but thanks to technology and modern inventions,

We have a short CD brought together from several sources and many directions.

Tracie had a stack of photos she had that we will view,
All those funny cute little antics as a child you used to do.

Aaron told me when I asked for some insight of what he remembered about you.

I found that he used to pay money to you just to clean up his room!

Now that is very enterprising as well as entrepreneurial if one would ask--

Earning small change for doing his chores was very creative for such small tasks.

He also said when he threw a big basket ball at your bike he was such a merciless tease--

And you flew over the end of your bike as if you were on a flying trapeze.

Brothers, just growing up together having fun and near misses, it’s a wonder you survived.

But we are so glad you did and have the memories of your childhood years,

Which have made you a better man that helped you overcome all your little boy fears.

The little girls in our neighborhood used to come and beg at the doors
If you would just pucker up and give them a kiss for just two quarters.

Our sidewalk would be chalked in many different pastel colors from all the little ladies who . . .

Wanted to express their affection and would write “Matt , “I LOVE YOU!”

Matt, even though you are the youngest in the family, you liked to helped out with the babies--

No one ever says that you were spoiled but always willing to take responsibilities.

Your character is highlighted by the service you give and are incredibly giving,

Your good attitude, says sister, Tana and that you’re always there to give a hand ,

So willing to help and were such a good “little” brother, son, father and husband.

Matt, there is something that really stands out in my mind is when Sister Michelle Broadbent once said,

“Anna, What did you do to teach your son, Matt how to do the wash, clean the house and make a bed?”

She was so impressed at how you helped out Beth so much of the times,

What did it most was even when you were already in school full time and working besides.

Now, Matt you know that your parents-in-law have always endeared you from the start,

They saw in you a good match for their daughter and you had definitely captured her heart.

We are all so proud of you and how you have turned out,

And know as you pursue and commence your master’s degree (MBA) --success is yours, without a doubt.

We congratulate you today for a Happy “30th” Birthday,

And wish you the best not only today, or now. . . but for always!

We love you….Your Mom & Family.

Nothing so Pure as a White Rose

A Symbol of Purity






I found this photo online of this beautiful rose. It remind me of being true to oneself and continue faithful.

Top of Bucket list to climb this . . .

--Antelope Canyon at Lake Powell Someday!




I woke up one morning with this thought in my mind. It gave me such a jolt to wake UP and MOVE ahead.

I know I have mountains to climb, canyons to explore and embrace the beauty of the world around me. Change comes from within and I am ready to let it happen.

MY Affirmations of my new day, life and adventure:

I have the ability to do ANYTHING I put my mind to do.

I have the faith to accomplish and receive the desires of my heart.

God is so wonderful and good to me, my blessings are overflowing in my direction.

Life is too short to stand still and wait for life to happen.

It is up to me and no one else.

I'm capable; ready to look ahead; embrace the present to NOT look back.

I welcome the opportunities with open arms and am full of hope...

God bless this day and always.

In My Element~

Today I went to Sunflower Market,one of my favorite errands to go grocery shopping. What I really like is why I am there! I was there to get ready for Michael's visit with us.

This store is like an organic paradise, like the quality of the produce from the food chain, Trader Joe's. I found cantaloupe 3 for $1.00, seedless watermelon for 4 lbs for $1.00! There was London Broil, and a roast for a specialty I make for family heritage food. Imagine what I will do with that and druel just thinking about it.



I bought a couple of packages of fresh chicken tenders, which I love to prepare all different ways like chicken salad, fried chicken in coconut oil, Chicken Mole. Not everyone likes that like I do, but that is ok. More for me....! One thing that is unique about this store is that the meat is not treated with hormones and has a wonderful taste. Michael barbequed the London Broil for dinner. It almost melted in your mouth, it was so tender, rare and out of this world. He is the cook extraordinaire with his experience in the meat dept from his management days with Kroeger in Cincinnati. Way to be, Michael!

Did I mention that the reason I like to go there so much is because I think one of my "love languages" is cooking for someone special, like family, etc. You get the idea. Cooking all day in the kitchen is heaven for me. Some people stay out of the kitchen . . . but, not me! Whether it is baking or making a new dish, I am like a fish in water, swimming in my element.

Chocolate chip oatmeal cookies are MY favorite. Next is chocolate chip cookies and brownies with extra whipped, light, meaning fluffy to the max chocolate frosting over those yummy HOT brownies. Shear joy. My family was always around me when I baked and I think that is why I liked it so much, because they could not wait for me to bake the cookies or brownies to be done. We sometimes at the cookie dough raw and never mind the baking once in a while. :).

Ahhh, those were the happier times for me as a mother. Still is as a grandma with Snickerdoodle cookies rolled in cinnamon sugar. Mind you I don't bake a lot now, but if and when I do, it is an occasion!

I have been blessed with the talent to cook well. I am so pleased Tracie helped put together out family's favorite recipes last year for the Reunion.

This year we are doing a group family photo with Michael as photographer. Not all the members of their family's will be here, so a few will be missing this year around. We will miss those of you who were not here. Please come next year, ok?

We already have some plans of what we will do and will talk about it on Sunday at dinner at Tara's house in Spanish Fork. I look forward to it all.

Words of Appreciation~Gratitude

Words of Appreciation! To my loved ones

The last several weeks have been very busy besides not the easiest to have to cope with the reality of my brother, David's passing. I have tried to keep focused but there were times I needed to grieve and embrace the love of the Savior for me in my life. I make note of appreciation for the one who called to give me the news of my brother's passing, by my youngest sister. I know this is very difficult for her as she and he were very close over the years.

I made note of the expressions of concern and sympathy from each of my children. I was very touched and want each of you to know how much that means to me, as your mother.

Hank, thank you for the phone calls and contact you made to me and with my sister at that time and shortly after. Your love and condolences were helpful to me get through those first few days. I know how busy you are and your concern for me to see how I was doing was so sweet. Thank you too from my heart for the beautiful blessing you and Aaron gave me the Sunday after he passed. It was just what was needed at that moment.

Tanise, thank you for the phone calls and the time we spent visiting, and I want to express my gratitude for the praise and support. What a blessing it was for you to share some stories that I gleaned from you about Elder Richard G. Scott and how sometimes there is no veil.

Tara, I appreciate your time and support besides the contemplation and insight you had to share with me as we visited. You need to know how much that helped fill my cup spiritually. Your observations are so protective of and I love you for that quality in you. Thank you for your continued concern and expressions of condolences at this time.

Tracie, you have been so kind and there to listen to me and be a sounding board. I feel your love and concern for me as always and especially now; and I thank you again for it all. You having lost one of your own little ones, who knows the sorrow one feels when losing someone so close. I am grateful for the plan of salvation for all of us.

Tana, I learned how kind and caring my children are when I need your love and be sustained through all this. I appreciate the time we could talk about it and the encouragement you gave me. I love you.

Michael, you are a dear boy. Thank you for taking the time at the end of your long busy day to call me with your concerns for me and my well being and making sure I was okay. Thank you for your words of comfort and condolences. I am pleased you will get to be here for our family reunion this week and for David's Memorial with the rest of your siblings.

Aaron, I thank you and Candice again for being here for me as it made such a difference that first evening after I was told about David. I apologize for waking you up when I broke down so late that night. Thank you for holding me like one of the children and the comfort it gave to me as I let the tears flow. I needed that and was so glad someone was there for me when I needed it most. It becomes a greater burden as I walk through this almost all alone by knowing my parents are around me and as are the angels. The physical contact meant so much in the moment. Thank you for letting me cry it out. It was so healing too.

Matt, thank you for your several phone calls and words of comfort as we spoke. I could feel your love for me and interest in what was happening and about your Uncle David. Some of this is a blur now, but as I remember it I am so grateful for you and your siblings for the genuine concern for me. I love you and miss you and Beth and the boys. I look forward to you all coming from Seattle this week for our REUNION, and short tribute for David.

All of you have blessed my life in so many ways. You have all helped me be the best I can be and set an example to all of you and my posterity to draw closer to the Savior.

I have learned much this last thirty days and feel the refinement and closeness of the veil to my spiritual eyes. It is too bad we have to go through so much for that price to be paid for the Spirit to touch our lives. Ironically, I can say it was worth it, even though it hurts so bad at times to become closer to God.

I am reminded of Helaman 5:12:

12 " And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall."

Charity--The Pure Love of Christ

Joseph and Hiram at Carthage Jail near Nauvoo, Illinois. I have been there and saw the place where Joseph's and Hiram's blood was shed and the stains lie on the floor of the jail, even today. It made quite an impression.


Moro. 7: 47-48
47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.
48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen.


I am teaching this week in Relief Society, and the theme of the lesson is this scripture. I have learned much this month to have more charity for others having had some opposition from extended family at the passing of my brother, David. I have unconditional love for him and them and pray for their hearts to be soften through the blood and the love the Christ has for all of us.

If We Only Knew--

Have you ever thought about how we all fit into the eternal plan of things? I did when I first found the truth that was restored up the earth.

It is my understanding that most people are clueless to who they really are! Seriously.

I refer to the Deity in all of us, by virtue of our presence here upon the earth, we come from a very incredible being, GOD!

Having said this, it gives me such hope and joy to know I have the potential to embrace all that God would want me to have in this life and the one to come. I know that this life is not all there is, either.

I ponder this often and am so moved to know for myself I am important to Him and that if he had a "fridge" he would post all our pictures on it, NOT just mine. I share Him with everyone else equally. He knows who I am, what I am, what I think and that I love Him very much.

I am his daughter, and have brothers and sisters whom I love very much too. Even if those brothers and sisters have excluded me and do things that are hurtful. I still love them because I love God, whom I have not seen, and can love them and Him anyway, no matter what.

Words to a song. . . My Cup Runneth Over With Love

My Cup Runneth Over
Sometimes in the morning, when shadows are deep,
I lie here beside you, just watching you sleep,
And sometimes I whisper, what I'm thinking of,
My cup runneth over with love . . .

Sometimes in the evening, when you do not see,
I study the small things, you do constantly,
I memorize moments, that I'm fondest of,
My cup runneth over with love . . .


In only a moment, we both will be old,
We won't even notice the world turning cold.
And so, in this moment, with sunlight above,
My cup runneth over with love . . .

With love . . .

~ from the 1966 Broadway musical "I Do I Do!"
Music by Harvey Schmidt and lyrics by Tom Jones

I never knew the source of where this song was used in a Broadway show. Now I learned something new today. It has a good tune and I really like the words.

I am such a romantic sometimes so I fill my life full of LOVE!!

Heroes and She-roes~

Ever wonder about your own heroes in life? Some are bigger than life. It depends on how you perceive what is important to you and the models to look to in admiration.

I love the prophets from the Book of Mormon. I look up to so many of them for the things they teach me in the pages they have written. There are also women who inspire me with their example and the few lines or words written about them in the scriptures. There are women in Church history who also have influenced and inspired me in the restored Gospel. Emma Smith, Mary Fielding Smith, Lucy Mack Smith, Mary Rawlins Lightner, Camilla Kimball, Marjorie Pay Hinckley to name a few.

Children have their heroes too, their role models. Most kids look up to their parents first and foremost. I do, always have and always will. Those early formative years so many patterns are set before us without even thinking about it.

I learned so much from my own parents and continue to appreciate all they did for me. They didn't just try, they DID! My parents instilled in me a love for family, my brothers and sisters, my grandparents,and all people. Even though I didn't live close to their parents (Texas & Chicago), I was still influenced for good by them. I pray I have had that kind of influence on my own grandchildren over the years.

Those heroes I look up growing up to in the scriptures were, Baby Moses, the adult Moses and his ability to command the powers of God to obey him. David, the young boy who fought the Giant fearlessly. Job. Yes, Job. His life and experiences were brought to my knowledge in my early teen years through Job's Daughter's. I memorized a few stories of his life as a "messenger" who told the initiates his story as a young woman. Those stories made such an impression on my life even so still today. When I see myself and others pass through incredible trials or trying circumstances I think of Job.

Ruth, in the Bible, along with her mother-in-law, Naomi are my she-roes too. Ruth's dedication and respect for God, her conversion and her mother-in-law's example have taught me much. I love Sister Abish, in the Book of Mormon and her missionary spirit.

Then of course, my parents were MY heroes too. Now, there are some things I have had to overcome and overlook in them, but I love them just the same. I learned to look past their human faults and continue to appreciate who and what they stood for. The older I become the more I realize their influence too were greater than I had previously known. I know I am not perfect and understand parents do the best they can.

All the prophets of the Book of Mormon. The more I read it, the more I appreciate the details of their journeys make me a better, me. I think the more I read the scriptures the better I am and draw even closer to my Savior.



So, I write these few paragraphs to let my posterity know, we don't all know everything at once. It takes line upon line, trial after trial to eventually become polished in the eyes of our creator, and Heavenly Father. I am thankful for what I know and learn each day to become a better me. God bless you all in that effort as well. I love you.

By the Hand of Mormon Written for Our Day

I am reminded of the great contribution the prophet of old, Mormon made for our faith and salvation. I read this chapter early this morning and make note:

12 And behold, I am called Mormon, being called after the bland of Mormon, the land in which Alma did establish the church among the people, yea, the first church which was established among them after their transgression.
13 Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life.
14 And it hath become expedient that I, according to the will of God, that the prayers of those who have gone hence, who were the holy ones, should be fulfilled according to their faith, should make a record of these things which have been done—

20 I am Mormon, and a pure descendant of Lehi. I have reason to bless my God and my Savior Jesus Christ, that he brought our fathers out of the land of Jerusalem, (and no one knew it save it were himself and those whom he brought out of that land) and that he hath given me and my people so much knowledge unto the salvation of our souls.

24 And as surely as the Lord liveth, will he gather in from the four quarters of the earth all the remnant of the seed of Jacob, who are scattered abroad upon all the face of the earth.
25 And as he hath covenanted with all the house of Jacob, even so shall the covenant wherewith he hath covenanted with the house of Jacob be fulfilled in his own due time, unto the restoring all the house of Jacob unto the knowledge of the covenant that he hath covenanted with them.
26 And then shall they know their Redeemer, who is Jesus Christ, the Son of God; and then shall they be gathered in from the four quarters of the earth unto their own lands, from whence they have been dispersed; yea, as the Lord liveth so shall it be. Amen.

I am blessed each day by the restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, not only for myself, but for my posterity as well. I pray that my posterity will continue to hold onto the Iron Rod and know that Jesus is the Christ, the son of the living God, and our Redeemer. We have a living prophet that is God's chosen prophet, even Thomas S. Monson in this the latter days. I know the Book of Mormon is true and the word of God.

Standing in Holy places--

31 And it came to pass that they did break forth, all as one, in singing, and praising their God for the great thing which he had done for them, in preserving them from falling into the hands of their enemies.
32 Yea, they did cry: Hosanna to the Most High God. And they did cry: Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty, the Most High God.
33 And their hearts were swollen with joy, unto the gushing out of many tears, because of the great goodness of God in delivering them out of the hands of their enemies; and they knew it was because of their repentance and their humility that they had been delivered from an everlasting destruction.




I am grateful for a living prophet, Thomas S. Monson, who has extended the temple dedication service to all the members in Utah to see via satellite on August 23. I am more than pleased to know my children and theirs old enough to see it will be there also. My heart is full.

A day at the Lindon Pool with the Grandkids

Candice helps the boys get ready for the sun shining on them.

A little bit of sunscreen goes a long way.


Miss Ella takes a minute to sit still to smile for the camera!


Parker and Luke playing in the 1 ft pool with their safety Life Jackets


Baby Joel even went in for a "dip" and loved the cool water.


Jackson Hallows poses for Grandma Mattie at the pool, Cool thing on a Hot day.


Madie poses for the picture at the pool side with her cousins.

Wind Beneath My Wings

Beloved doves in flight in the Sky with the Sun
Bette Midler from the movie, Beaches

Oh, oh, oh, oh -
It must have been cold there in my shadow,
To never have sunlight on your face.
You were content to let me shine, that's your way.
You always walked a step behind.

So i was the one with all the glory,
While you were the one with all the strain.
A beautiful face without a name for so long.
A beautiful smile to hide the pain.

Did you ever know that you're my hero,
And everything I would like to be?
I can fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings.

It might have appeared to go unnoticed,
But I've got it all here in my heart.
I want you to know i know the truth, of course I know it.
I would be nothing without you.
[ Bette Midler Lyrics are found on www.songlyrics.com ]

Did you ever know that you're my hero?
You're everything I wish I could be.
I could fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings.

Did i ever tell you you're my hero?
You're everything, everything I wish I could be.
Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings,
'cause you are the wind beneath my wings.

Oh, the wind beneath my wings.
You, you, you, you are the wind beneath my wings.
Fly, fly, fly away. you let me fly so high.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.

Fly, fly, fly high against the sky,
So high I almost touch the sky.
Thank you, thank you,
Thank god for you, the wind beneath my wings.

I let my Dad know he was MY hero when he came to live with me. I think he didn't know how to take that, since the words to the songs said it for me, but nevertheless I let him know he was my hero.

Enough said.

Look Alike Contestant, Parker McIntire vs Anderson Cooper

Well, does anyone else think he looks like Anderson Cooper too? Well, Utah Valley Magazine seems to think so too! Aunt Tara was the first one to point it out when Parker was about a year or so. He turns three in September.



Grandma Mattie can do some wild and interesting things (sometimes). Recently I saw a contest for a look alike a celebrity. I submitted one of my grand children's pictures that I took at the spur of the moment.

I received an email back saying my grandson as chosen as a good likeness, of CNN's News Anchor, Anderson Cooper. I have his and Parker's pictures here for anyone to compare or agree. It was fun, and he gets to have his picture taken and in the Utah Valley Magazine in a couple of months. I imagine it will be in the September/October issue perhaps.

I ask Parker if he is Anderson Cooper and he firmly says, "NO, Grandma, I am Parker Aaron McIntire!" I will ask another time if he is "AC". His answer does not vary. He IS Parker Aaron McIntire!"

My Hero

Growing up, I was a "Daddy's Girl." I, to this day, still see my Dad as my Knight in Shining Armor. You maybe know how little girls' do that, right? I captured his heart, and I was "the Apple of his eye," he used to tell me. He became my ideal as well. Even though he was not a member all his life, he was the best Dad I could ever have asked for. He was "The Wind Beneath My Wings."

I was just thinking how important a role a Father plays in his children's life. Mine was no exception. There used to be a popular song titled, "My Heart Belongs To Daddy." I will look for the lyrics and post it later...

This is the last picture I took of my father in Boise, Idaho. I went to visit him the first week in August. I knew time was precious. He passed away from a stroke, September 7, 2003 in his birthplace, San Antonio, Texas.

Baby Klarissa baby blessing by her Daddy

Big brother K8 with baby sister K11. She sleeps in his arms so comfortably.




This was an eventful day for the McIntire Clan. Baby sister, Klarissa was blessed by her father, Hank. She has the greatest brothers and sisters to all rally around her and help her as she grows up. She was blessed with good health and the ability to be an example to her brother's and sisters. God bless us everyone.

Lyrics to song, "Perhaps Love"

It was nice to finally find the words and share them here on my blog. I am an incurable romantic! My apologies if I am too "sappy" sometimes. Can't help it, it is just ME. I added to the songs on this blog. Enjoy it anyway while you visit.

Perhaps love is like a resting place
A shelter from the storm
It exists to give you comfort
It is there to keep you warm
And in those times of trouble
When you are most alone
The memory of love will bring you home

Perhaps love is like a window
Perhaps an open door
It invites you to come closer
It wants to show you more
And even if you lose yourself
And don't know what to do
The memory of love will see you through

[ Denver John Lyrics are found on www.songlyrics.com ]

Oh, love to some is like a cloud
To some as strong as steel
For some a way of living
For some a way to feel
And some say love is holding on
And some say letting go
And some say love is everything
And some say they don't know

Perhaps love is like the ocean
Full of conflict, full of change
Like a fire when it's cold outside
Or thunder when it rains
If I should live forever
And all my dreams come true
My memories of love will be of you.

John Denver, Greatest Hits, Volume 3

I really like the version where Placido Domingo and John Denver paired up to sing this song. Some day I will add it with them singing. It is beautiful. I like to listen to it while I work on my writing on the computer, so it is very therapeutic to say the least.

4th of July Provo Freedom Festival 2009

Grand Parade Provo Freedom Festival


Governor elect Herbert