Once Upon A Time

I came across an old photo of one of the more well known "Mouseketeers." Namely, Annette Funicello.

She was popular as a teenager and had a career in those early years of her young adulthood. However, as she blossomed in those times, I was in Junior High and some in my circle thought I resembled Ms. Funicello. It is humorous now to recall and I post a photo of her and me to see if there is any agreement to that resemblance.

You be the judge.

Scriptures and What They Mean To Me

II Nephi 31:20 Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.
21 And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the away; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen.


This scripture and chapter are some of my favorite. I appreciate the messages of the scriptures and the lift they give my Spirit! Chapter 32,, 33 are some I can pick up and read and enjoy as I pass the time waiting for a appointment or at the temple.

The words penetrate my soul and give me great peace. I feel the love of the Savior for me, and it blesses me to share and give that love to others. God bless you all, who read this as well, I pray. Anna aka Grandma Mattie : )

Fine Entertainment

I wanted to take a few minutes to comment about the performance I attended last evening at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City.

David Archueleta was guest entertainer and it was a lovely evening and the crowd was wowed by this fine young man. He stood there and sang his heart out. He spoke with such confidence and humility. One of the things he said was that he never dreamed that he would ever be standing in front of the (huge) crowd singing like he did.

He expressed his gratitude for being able to be there. His innocence was so sweet! It looked like he was having a good time and I was so impressed at his ability to sing and the quality of his talent and performance.

He sang a number in Spanish. It was beautiful and the crowd loved it. Our seats were not in the main auditorium. The number of tickets given out was over booked and so many people showed up that they had to use the overflow in the Little Theater to hold the many guest who wanted to see David Archueleta perform!!

Imagine that. There were people everywhere waiting in lines that should have been inside already. Only thing was that too many tickets were given out and people actually showed up!!

We went away filled and glad to have been there. We had two great seats on the upper terrace and second row balcony seats. Th screen was marvelous and we were able to see the concert even better than if we were IN the Conference center.

It was truly a fulfillment of the promise President Gordon B Hinckley gave when he dedicated the center itself. He said it would be "a place of enjoyment and entertainment for the world to come to see and witness." [paraphrased] I felt that to be true. Thanks to President Hinckley for his insight and dedicatory prayer.

Even though it took so long to get seated and to get out of the Church office parking garage, it was worth the wait and inconvenience for what we experienced and enjoyed to see and hear David Archueleta sing!

A Good Man, Great Leader's Example Recalled

This short obituary does not even come close to describe the man represented here. He was a leader, father and example as I was growing up. I knew him, his wife, Dell Marie and first three children as a twelve year old babysitter. They lived down the street where I grew up. They were my first experience with a Latter-day Saint family. Brother Barlow was an energetic, hard working man in the insurance business.

Recently I made contact with the couple and was glad I did. I will write about it on another entry. Here is the tribute to him in the newspaper.




Howard King Barlow

1925 ~ 2010

Howard King Barlow, age 85, died December 2, 2010, in Springville, Utah. He was born July 15, 1925, in Tremonton, Utah, to Ona King and Fielding Burton Barlow. Howard was a World War II veteran and practiced estate and tax planning until his retirement. He served as Bishop of the Santa Ana 2nd Ward, as Mission President of the Boise Idaho Mission, and in many other callings in the LDS Church.

On March 6, 1952, he married Dell Marie Rose in the Logan Utah temple. He is survived by Dell Marie and five children: Kathryn Miner, John H Barlow, Paul David Barlow, Robert K Barlow, Mary Agrelius Davis and was preceded in death by daughter Ann Marie. He also leaves 23 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Thursday, December 9, 2010, at the Springville Utah 7th Ward chapel, located at 1785 E. 400 S. Viewing will be from 10:00 to 11:45 a.m. with the funeral at 12:00 noon. For those who may be inclined to send flowers, Howard has asked that you make a contribution to the Perpetual Education Fund instead. Contributions may be made online in memoriam at www.ldsphilanthropies.org/perpetual-educationfund/. Interment will be in Springville, Utah.

Elijah the Prophet, the Promise & Story

Elijah raised a child to life

Elijah had been staying in the home of the widow of Zarephath, and her son. There had been a famine, and God had provided food for them through the prophet Elijah. However, one day the son died, and Elijah raised him back to life. This is described in Kings 17:17-18:1

"One day the woman's son became sick and died. "Oh man of God," she cried, "what have you done to me? Have you come here to punish my sins by killing my son?" "Give him to me," Elijah replied. And he took the boy's body from her and carried it upstairs to the guest room where he lived, and laid the body on his bed, and then cried out to the Lord, "O Lord my God, why have you killed the son of this widow with whom I am staying?" And he stretched himself upon the child three times and cried out to the Lord, "O Lord my God, please let this child's spirit return to him." And the Lord heard Elijah's prayer; and the spirit of the child returned, and he became alive again! Then Elijah took him downstairs and gave him to his mother. "See! He's alive!" he beamed. "Now I know for sure that you are a prophet," she told him afterward, "and that whatever you say is from the Lord!"

Imagine The "Rush"

This last Saturday I went to the BYU-Arizona game at Energy Solutions in Salt Lake to witness the game where this picture was taken. There was a excitement there that the crowd was ecstatic and electrified by the players. Kay had four tickets for the game and had Aaron and Candice go with us. Actually we rode with them and had a great evening, then went to dinner afterward.

It is fun to be able to go to the BYU basketball games. It has been way too many years since I was last able to do that. I remember the fun times when our family had the privilege to go see Tanise play basketball in her high school and college career years.

Go Cougars!!!! Rah, Rah Rah!!

This I Know . . .

There is such a wondering awe in going up to see the North Visitor's Center at Temple Square. I still feel like a four year old might feel in going with great anticipation to see the Christmas lights displayed there in Salt Lake City on the temple grounds at night. Several choral groups were there to perform and added to the beauty in song.



The weather was perfect and cooperated as thousands, literally were there to see the same thing we were there to see. The (recorded) message from President Thomas S Monson was uplifting.

I loved every moment. Please be sure to take a few hours to go with your families if you are in Utah and enjoy the Spirit and message of the Christ child and Savior of the world.

Amazing Presentation

The show was great. We all had a great time and loved the feeling of the Spirit of Love and the Savior that permeated the show. Michael McClean outdid himself and had added so much to the story for clarification. It has been about ten years since I had seen it.



I like the way the story flowed and how the music was so amazing. The sound effects and background was incredible. I like how at the end of the show the sweetness of the occasion left of all of us with a calm and joy of the Christ-mas spirit.

We all had a great time and enjoyed a fun evening together. A special thanks to Kay, too.

Forgotten Carols~

Michael McLean's touching Christmas tale has become a timeless classic. It tells the story of a nurse whose empty life is changed by her patient, John, who expands her understanding of Christmas. The Forgotten Carols are original songs from the perspective of characters such as the innkeeper who turned the young couple away or the shepherd who slept through the angel's announcement. Their personal accounts, until now, have been overlooked or ignored. Together, John and Constance discover what the world has forgotten about Christmas.

Going to see this with my family this evening....watch for more comments.

Grateful for my Scriptures

27 Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself.
28 And now, my sons, I would that ye should look to the great Mediator, and hearken unto his great commandments; and be faithful unto his words, and choose eternal life, according to the will of his Holy Spirit;

If you have not read your scriptures today, you just did.

I am thankful to be re-reading the Book of Mormon. The light and truth I get from it each day brings thoughts of truth and light, (knowledge) to my mind and heart.

I know my Redeemer Lives!!

Anna aka Grandma Mattie, etc,

Being Thankful for Our Trials

A man who is thankful for his illness--

He attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, was always physically active and usually met others with a wry smile. Even-tempered and kind, he is a genuine, good man who loves his family and they love him. We use the expression "firm in the faith." It perfectly describes Paul.

Sunday when he stood to bear his testimony to our ward he was, inevitably, a changed man. Cancer — brain cancer — has a way of doing that to you.

Paul walked slowly to the stand at a determined pace. As he clasped the podium, he struggled to find and deliver the words he so desired to speak. He explained that the tumor was pressing on his brain and wrecking havoc. Occassionally, after garbled words, he chuckled. Then he would bear down in a gallant attempt to capture and deliver his message. He spoke slowly, simply, powerfully.

"I am thankful for my cancer." Can someone truly be grateful for a disease that is ravaging both body and brain, impairing speech and thought, and capable of taking life? Recall the Prophet Joseph Smith's affirmation, "(Afflictions) have been my common lot all the days of my life; ... and I feel like Paul, (the apostle) to glory in tribulation."

I admit, I often question the purpose, the meaning of suffering. Is there any value in adversity?

Paul, deliberately and methodically continued, "It (my cancer) has allowed me to draw closer to my Savior, Jesus Christ."

Remember the survivor of the Martin Handcart Company who, after listening to others criticize the venture, stood and described, "I ... looked back many times to see who was pushing my cart, but my eyes saw no one. I knew then that the angels of God were there. Was I sorry that I chose to come by handcart? No. Neither then nor any minute of my life since. The price we paid to become acquainted with God was a privilege to pay, and I am thankful that I was ... in the Martin Handcart Company."

In 1853, Brigham Young stated, "Joseph (Smith) could not have been perfected ... if he had lived a thousand years and led this people and preached the gospel, without persecution." Addressing the crowd, "Do you think that persecution has done us good? Yes ... let it come, for it will give me experience. ... Do you suppose I should have known what I now know, had I not been persecuted? ... (In adversity) we have seen the works of the Lord." Suffering allows us the privilege of seeing the Lord active in our lives.

Adversity also has the power to bond us to Christ through his example and through shared experience. Wilford Woodruff described "our Savior ... as an example for his followers. ... The Son of God ... (had) to descend to the earth and pass through what he did — ... persecuted, afflicted, scorned, a hiss and byword to almost all the world. ... There is something about all this that appears sorrowful; but it seemed necessary for the Savior to descend below all things that He might ascend above all things. So it has been with other men."

Paul's testimony continued, "(My suffering) has allowed me to glimpse eternity. I can never be removed from the love of my Savior." Brigham Young witnessed, "Were it not that the Lord turns us into these difficulties, and leads us into these trials, we could not know how to be glorified and crowned in His presence." Orson F. Whitney affirmed, "No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude and humility. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable, more worthy to be called the children of God."

With short, simple phrases, agonizingly drawn, Paul delivered a profound and commanding tutorial: Adversity has the capacity to propel us into the arms of Jesus Christ, to help us come to know him as our mentor, our comforter and our exemplar. I admit, I share President John Taylor's sentiments, "I do not desire trials; I do not desire affliction." Yet, he adds, "Let it come, for we are the Saints of the most High God, and all is well, all is peace, all is right and will be, both in time and in eternity."

The Cranberry

The Cranberry Cure

The cranberry bush (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is a low-growing evergreen shrub with leathery leaves and bright red berries. This member of the heath family grows in mountains, forests and damp bogs from Alaska to Virginia. However, most of the commercial berries are produced in Massachusetts and Wisconsin.

Native Americans used cranberries for both food and medicine. The berries were enjoyed either raw or sweetened with maple sugar. In addition, they used them in sauces, breads and puddings, and used cranberries in poultices for treating wounds. Cranberry leaves were typically used for diarrhea and urinary disorders. The sailors during colonial days used cranberries to prevent scurvy.

Today, cranberry is available in a variety of products such as frozen cranberries, cranberry juice and juice cocktails, cranberry sauce and capsules containing cranberry powder. Cranberry sauce or jelly are commonly used during the year-end holiday season. The most popular form of cranberries is the sweetened cranberry cocktail that contains about 30 percent cranberry juice. Apple cranberry and other cranberry drinks only contain about 10 percent juice.

Cranberries are distinguished by their extremely sour taste, due to their low sugar and high acid content.

Cranberries are rich in citric, malic, quinic and other acids. They also contain flavonoids, anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and vitamin C. Because of their tannin content, the berries possess a natural astringency.
Help for Infections
Cranberries have longed been considered valuable for maintaining the health of the urinary tract. The juice has been widely used for the prevention, treatment, and symptomatic relief of urinary tract infections.

It was commonly believed that cranberry juice was effective because it acidified the urine. The high acidity was believed to prevent bacterial growth.

However, recent research supports the notion that cranberries contain substances that prevent the adhesion of E coli and other bacteria to the lining of the urinary tract. The bacteria adhere to the urinary tract by way of many fimbriae, hairlike projections on the surface of the bacteria. This allows the bacteria to colonize in large numbers and produce an infection. Recently, researchers identified proanthocyanidins in cranberry juice which inhibit the E. coli from adhering to the lining.
Common Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) pose a serious health problem affecting millions of Americans every year. UTIs are more prevalent among women than in men, and many women will develop several UTIs in their lifetime. The risk of a UTI increases with advancing age, and is greatest among institutionalized older women. In addition, people with diabetes are at higher risk for UTIs.

Symptoms commonly experienced with a UTI include painful urination, the need to frequently urinate, a cloudy urine, and lower back pain. If a UTI is untreated, more serious complications may develop. If they occur during a pregnancy, the infection may cause a pre-term delivery.
Clinical Studies
A group of 153 elderly women living in a nursing home experienced on average a 50 percent reduction in the bacterial load and white blood cell count in their urine after daily consuming 10 ozs. of cranberry juice cocktail for six months. The elderly women also had a greater possibility of being free of the infection than similar women not using the cranberry juice. Capsules containing cranberry concentrate can also be effective. Women who took two 400 mg capsules of cranberry powder for 3 months experienced a significant decrease in risk of UTIs.

Cranberry juice is also effective in reducing urinary odors in bedridden patients who have urinary infections and are incontinent. Nursing home personnel have observed a decrease in urine odor in the geriatric wards of a nursing home following the regular drinking of two glasses of cranberry juice by the patients. In addition, patients complained less about a burning sensation when they urinated.
What About Other Fruits?
The blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), a close relative of the cranberry, is also a good source of the proanthocyanidins which inhibit the colonization of certain bacteria. On the other hand, orange, grapefruit, pineapple, guava, and mango juices do not possess any anti-adhesion properties.
Other Protective Effects
Cranberry appears to possess other benefits for human health. Helicobacter pylori is the major cause of gastric and duodenal ulcers. This bacterium penetrates the mucus lining of the gastrointestinal system and adheres to the underlying epithelial layer. Recently, it was found that a cranberry fraction disabled some strains of H. pylori so that they could not stick to the epithelial surface. Through this mechanism cranberries could help prevent ulcers. A cranberry fraction also reduces the stickiness of oral bacteria and may be useful for delaying the development of dental plaque and gum disease.

Cranberry juice may also prevent the formation of certain types of kidney stones. A glass or two of cranberry juice every day for 1 to 2 weeks will increase the acidity of the urine, and decrease the risk of a kidney stone forming. In addition, cranberry juice does not contain high levels of oxalate, a substance which can promote the formation of kidney stones.
Protection Against Chronic Disease
Cranberries are rich in polyphenolic antioxidants which protect against cancer and cardiovascular disease. The proanthocyanidins and other compounds inhibit the oxidation of LDL cholesterol while cranberry powder has been observed to decrease the LDL cholesterol levels of animals with elevated blood cholesterol levels. The proanthocyanidins in cranberry and lowbush blueberry are known to inhibit tumor growth.
Safe Dosage
For the prevention or treatment of UTIs a daily glass of cranberry juice, one to three cups of cranberry juice cocktail, or 10-12 capsules of cranberry powder are recommended. Generally there are no side effects. However, drinking 3 or more liters of cranberry juice per day can produce diarrhea and other gastrointestinal effects. Lesser amounts may increase the frequency the bowel movements. It is important that a patient with a UTI see their physician.

Author: Winston Craig, MPH, PhD, RD.

Great Comfort, Great Knowledge of Sacred Things

I Nephi 22: 2525 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.

I know that we are led by our Savior, Jesus Christ in his Church and that his living prophet, Thomas S Monson is his chose servant to bless us with his words to bring us unto Jesus Christ.

I also know that the words of God's servants are true given by his prophets, seers and revelators are called of God. My testimony is strengthened and fortified through the Holy Scriptures. I love the Conference messages of the brethren and recognize how reading these things daily or listening to their talks give me the boost that my Spirit hungers and thirsts for. I know their words are true also and are Holy Writ.

I know God and his Son loves me, and that my Savior Jesus Christ is his only begotten son, and Redeemer of the world. That God and Jesus live. I am so indebted to them for ALL that I have been blessed to have. I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true from the first day I heard of it existence in August of 1967 while visiting Temple Square. I never doubted even then that Joseph Smith is and was a true Prophet of God and chosen to restore God's true Church. I have a strong witness and know that I was born with my talents, and gifts of the Spirit were given to me before I came to earth and I promised to my parents, siblings and children that our relationship with my family is a continuation of when we lived with God, and Jesus Christ when the world was organized and created here on the Earth.

My blessings are many, from having found a good man in my life, and having my posterity and ancestors. I know with out a doubt that I have enjoyed so much and so many blessings because of the sacrifices my ancestors made so that I could come in these the latter-days. I have a firm witness of the Spirit and I know I was given the charge to gather my genealogy and find/remember my kindred dead to weld the link that binds me to them for their own eternal blessings that I now enjoy.

I know my Savior and am so often embraced in the arms of His and Heavenly Father's love as I serve them in his Holy temples. I am a daughter of God, and Jesus Christ. I love them with all my heart, mind and soul.

My gratitude grows each day and the Spirit of the Holy Ghost testifies to me and brings many truths to my memory to live by and be an example of the believers.

To this I so testify, in the name of Jesus Christ.

Anna Maria Rodriguez McIntire--

New Cold Remedy Find~

Newly Discovered Cold Remedy... Right in Your Pantry
Natural Cures from Bottom Line Newsletter 11-9 2010

Last December, I blogged about onions as a home remedy for insomnia, colds and more. In fact, I've had more comments posted for that blog than to any other so far. Here's a link if you want to check that out: http://margiesblog.bottomlinesecrets.com.

Shortly after I'd posted the Onion blog, my youngest daughter had a cold and so we had the opportunity to try it ourselves. I sent her to bed with sliced onions in her socks and on a plate on her night table. (I am lucky that my children love me and trust me, given the wacky things I sometimes ask them to do.) Within minutes, Lily's symptoms were noticeably better. We did it the next couple of nights as well, and her cold resolved much quicker than normal.


From Anna:
P.S.I have found that if you saute' an onion in butter at the first sign of a sore throat, you can remedy it and nip it in the bud. Also the garlic works too. It is a natural antibiotic. Garlic and onions in homemade soups work wonders as well. Grandma Mattie

Learning By and From My Own Faith in God

I was reading the scriptures this morning. I look for nuggets as I read of knowledge that have helped me along the way in my life. I recalled an incident that happened almost forty years ago. The scripture that was emboldened in my reading was in I Nephi 18:21

"And it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord; and after I had prayed the winds did cease, and the storm did cease, and there was a great calm."

I was traveling by car from California to Utah. I had just been back from a visit to my mother and father when my brother, Robert had just returned from an extended time away. I think I had three little ones with me driving alone, by myself. We were driving back and it was evening because it was dark outside.

All of a sudden the winds had increased along with sand, and the car rocked from the force of nature. I believe we had suddenly come upon a sand storm in the desert between the two states. I had never been in a sand storm before to know any better than to just stop along the road and wait it out. However, that thought did not occur to me. I think I was driving our 1970 White Volkswagen in early 1971 and I had faith I/we would be protected, regardless.

My child like faith and the Holy Ghost told me to "pray away" the strong winds and sand. So I did. I offered the prayer in my mind as I drove. I asked for the winds to be lifted so we could get home safely. Then, the most incredible thing then happened. The winds stops long enough for me to get through the storm as kept on going. The wind seemed to stop and the sand as well. I never thought otherwise and gave a prayer of thanks for the answer came as the winds ceased and we were was able to proceed forward.

I think back on that now and am amazed at how that happened with such ease. I know my unwavering faith allowed me to ask and seek and knock for Heavenly father heard my prayers asking for his help. I know he is aware of all of us at any given time. I know that he lives and cares about us. I just have to ask for his help whether it is to stop the wind and sand or to be healed according to His will.

I know that no problem is to small nor too big for Him to hear and address in our behalf. The song "A Child's Prayer, speaks to me and strengthens my faith each day. You can hear the words here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIuphB7nyVg

I know I am a child of God.

Special Day of Celebration for Two Grandchildren

Today, two of my grandchildren were baptized, Kaleb and Madison. Kaleb is my twentieth grandchild, born September 20th. Madison, aka Madie was born October 21st. She was my 21st grandchild besides. I thought that was unique and mentioned it before I gave the opening prayer. I knew I would not have the opportunity to say it any other time in the service. The Spirit was so sweet and I could feel our family on the other side who had come to witness the two baptisms.

I know the veil was thin for those there and some mentioned it as well in the comments throughout the service. It was an honor to be asked to give the opening prayer and included in the program. Kaleb and Madison looker so angelic and as pure as two children could be who just turned eight.

Madie looked so cute in her whites and so did Kaleb. Each was baptized by their fathers. It is such a joy to me, a grandmother to see these rites of passages come to fruition in their lives at the appropriate times.

There was a well planned luncheon and it was such a joy to have all the family present who participated and attended. I appreciate the support of all the extended family in organizing this event. I felt the love and unity of the guests and family who came to support the two children being baptized. It was a special time to share it with the two. It as so kind for Kaleb to wait to be baptized with his other cousin, Madison.

He is such a fine young man and so sensitive to spiritual things. He has a tender side to him that is very Christlike and endearing. Madison is energetic and shows to be a hard worker, like her mommy and willing to do whatever is asked of her. She is a beautiful little lady already. She is growing up so fast and looked so sweet with her smile and braces on her teeth.

Congratulations to both of them.

New Assignment, New Time

One of my assignments to serve here be able to stand in this heavenly room for a half hour today. Such a pleasure and joy!


This week I started back to work in the temple. The last ten weeks I had taken a leave of absence and was so eager to get back and serve there. The shift change was so that I could go and be rested and not worried over the amount of sleep I had the night before.

The early morning shift was more difficult to settle down to sleep with the anticipation of getting up at 4:00 a.m. Now that I need to be at the temple by 9:45 a.m. it is easier to get myself settled and wake at a normal time for the day.

My experience on the new shift was wonderful. The sisters were so welcoming and many expressed their gratitude and gave a me a warm reception to join them each week. My trainer, Sister Rowe was so complimentary. She had me pass off the ordinances and praised me and it made me feel good in that I still knew them well enough and was able to get right in to be assigned for the positions in all the posts.

The temple president, President Brown visited our prayer meeting and shared a message that I felt was like drinking from a well of living water. He taught us the five heresies of the gospel. I was so touched by the information he shared and how he presented it that fed our spirits before we went to our assignments.

It was a great day. I look forward to going each week. However the next two weeks the temple will be closed for their semi-annual maintenance closing.

Commemorating A Traditional Custom~

Article from Provo Daily Herald--

Much like Memorial Day in the United States, Mexicans and Mexican-Americans have a three-day celebration called Dia de los Muertos remembering family and friends who have died.

The celebration begins on Oct. 31 and goes to Nov. 2 each year. Family members build and decorate altars with pictures, flowers and favorite foods of the deceased. Family and friends often spend the days praying and singing.

"It's very much like a family reunion," said Arly Diaz, owner of Delipan Bakery in Provo.



One of the common foods of the holiday is Pan de Muerto, or Bread of the Dead, which is a sweetened soft bread shaped like a bun and decorated with a cross symbolizing bones. Even though the bread is eaten at other times of the year, they enjoy it dipped in chocolate for the holiday.

The holiday is often mistaken as similar to the United States celebration of Halloween because it occurs near the same time, but they are quite different. Dia de los Muertos is very much a celebration and a time for parties. The first day of the celebration is usually to honor the death of babies or children and is called "Day of the Little Angels." The second day is to honor adults, and is the "Day of the Dead."

Mourning "Fluffy"

A few weeks ago, the kids' little precious bunny, Fluffy suddenly got sick and died.

He was their furry friend for a year. The tenants who moved from the Lindon house left the bunny with them. Aislyn and Ella dearly loved their new found friend. He was their first animal to have as a pet, with the exception of Maximo, their fish.

Fluffy had his own cage and on occasion was allowed to hop around the back yard on the grass. He was so fun with them and he looked forward to the times he could run free in the yard. One day he got out of the yard last year and came back a little chewed up, by who knows what. Maybe a cat? He survived the war wounds.

Aislyn cried when she found his almost lifeless body in his cage just before school. Her tender heart broke as she cried and pleaded for her Daddy to please give "Fluffy" a priesthood blessing. What could he say, other than respond to her request.

The bunny survived until the girls returned from school. Prayers were said and they knew Heavenly Father was in charge and that his will would be done, if that is what he wanted for Fluffy.


Aislyn had come to understand that if it was Fluffy's time to go back to heaven and be with heavenly father, then she knew her bunny would be okay and she could accept whatever happened.

The girls were very open to understanding how much Heavenly Father loves all of his children and the little animals too. Aislyn cried and was sad for a little while, but she knew it was not up to her to decide what was best for her bunny.

Sometimes these kinds of teaching moments are learned through their experiences rather than reading about it or hearing stories. Even though she was sad, she understood how we have times to be thankful for the time she was with them, and look ahead to brighter times.

The bunny looked just like the Velveteen Rabbit in the story, with the same coloring. Her bunny was truly loved and was real.

Primary Sacrament Meeting Programs

Today I was invited to not one but TWO Primary sacrament meeting presentations. Our ward, thankfully had theirs a month ago. It went very well and I was so touched by the message that I asked for the script. Our ward has a small Primary, of less than thirty children. They all participated of course. I wrote thank you notes to the counselor who wrote it, and also to a few of the teachers. I know that without their support none of the Primary would function as it does.

This Sunday I had the privilege of going to son, Hank's ward, Sunset First Ward, Primary program. There must have been about 100 children in their Primary. Hank conducted and always has some uplifting thoughts to share as we prepare to take the sacrament and for the Primary children's program.

I noticed that he stayed up on the stand when the children all came up to the front. The stake presidency visitor offered Bp Hank his seat so his two older Primary age children K6, K7, could sit by their Dad. They loved it. I also noticed that Hank knew all of the songs and sang with the children. I thought that was commendable for their bishop to be as involved and participate. The Spirit was so sweet and strong, I felt it and notice Hank's eyes tear up that he had to take off his glasses several times too wipe away the tears. It was a richly blessed meeting with the songs and messages of "I Know That My Redeemer Lives!"

Later for the second invitation to attend Bountiful First Ward Primary sacrament presentation. I went with Kay C, my friend, to his daughter, Kara's ward, with his granddaughter participating. The theme is essentially the same, but the program is streamlined for the individual wards. It was also a spiritual feast. Children bring that sweet spirit to their songs and recitations. I observed the children sing a song about the Holy Ghost and all of them stood up to sing it and "signed" the entire song as they also sang the words. I loved it. It told me that their chorister must be someone who knows ASL and taught them how to sign and sing at the same time. I also felt what an impact the words and signing would have on them and make a deep imprint in their minds and hearts feeling the Spirit as they sang. I know I felt it.

There was also Kay's grandson's ordination to the office of priest. His dad, Richard gave him a very nice Father's blessing to David before the meeting since all the sets of grandparents were invited to attend the program presentation. They did the ordination before the meeting, and that made it so David could administer the sacrament for his first time. I complimented him on it after the meeting. He said he had practiced it a lot to be able to do a good job. He did indeed.

After the meeting we left and headed down to Utah County and had dinner with Hank and Lori and the family. Grandma Linda(and Lynn) prepared a wonderful meal of ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, broccoli and green salad, Rhodes rolls and homemade blackberry jam. Everyone enjoyed that and the new baby, Korbin was so good and slept on the couch most of the time while we ate. I was able to hold him during the morning sacrament meeting and shared time holding him with his other grandma, Linda.

New Grandson Welcomed

This is my new grandson, Korbin William McIntire! Born, October 7, 2010, he weighed in @ 6 lbs. 14 oz. He was about two weeks early, but he is healthy and handsome. His coloring is light and has a lot of hair, almost like peach fuzz! He is so perfect, and a sweet little bundle of joy.


Grandma with friend, Kay and Korbin.

Congratulations to his parents, Hank and Lori, who welcomed their number twelve!

Gratitude Journal Entry~

Things I am grateful for:

A sweet Sabbath~The Primary Sacrament meeting made my day. And it got better and better all day!
Sunday School was amazing. R.S. was too. A sister gave the lesson on Patience in Waiting by President Uchtdorf.

I had a great nap after Church, went visiting teaching. Had dinner with one of my son's and his family.

Then went to another son's for a birthday celebration for his eight year old. Baptism coming up down the road. He will be baptized in November with a cousin when she turns eight in October.


My daughter who had surgery two 1/2 weeks ago is getting the staples out tomorrow, Monday.
Hope you have a great day. It is a great time to be alive!

Afterthoughts--

“For a man to be great, he must not dwell on small (i.e. petty) things; though he may enjoy them.” Joseph Smith—



"Life is too short and too precious to fill our allotted mortal minutes with minutiae and triviality. So many consume their lives with petty thoughts, idle gossip, and the mundane matters of mortality. The world crowds upon us, beckoning us to partake of its allurements and enticing us to spend time on things of trifling importance. Power, prestige and possessions are what matter on the worldly scoreboard, and the small things of mortality can crowd out thoughts of the mansions that can await us in eternity if we are humble and obedient.


"The Lord, ever encouraging us toward Zion and treasures in heaven, admonishes us to “lay aside the things of this world, and see for the things of a better.” (D & C 25:10). The things that matter to the Lord are the things that should matter to us. The Master of the universe is not impressed by wealth or celebrity. He cares about the integrity of our hearts, our willingness to love and to forgive our selfless service to others, our obedience, our truth." Let Him Ask of God


This is from a daily thought book of Joseph Smith quotes and comments. It has a great message. I like to read it for the messages it brings to feed my spirit. My Father used to read from a daily thought book, and it comes naturally for me to do that from time to time. He would read while we ate our meals.

Too busy To Sharpen the Saw . . .

The last several weeks have been very busy. I made the observation about how hectic life is and what it is that makes things go more smoothly. The one thing that brings that to me is (temple)service. It is a time to focus on something else, other than self.

It looks like I learned to appreciate the gift of serving in the temple is just that. A gift, to myself! Last month I felt I needed to take a short leave of absence, so I did. Then, I went today for the first time to the same time and shift where I have been for the last two years. The sisters there had become a part of my life each week. I would see them come and go, and have conversation with them and see their busy-ness as well in their lives. I miss that even so.

Living is not standing still either. Life continues and goes on. It depends on how we choose to do the things we do that shape our overall being on a day to day foundation.

I ask myself,"Am I really going in the direction I want to and need to go?" "Do I enjoy the things I do?" What am I doing to change the results?"

It's all up to me. The individual. The time we all have with one another is precious. The older I get, the more I am aware of that. So, why not make the best of it? Carry on and do what is right and let the consequences follow.




Yesterday, I finished up some unfinished business. Just that one task was put off long enough. Last month I finally went to register my car to get the current tags for the year. Unaware, I did not notice I needed to get an emissions test for the car prior to registering it. Last time two years ago, I did not need to do either a safety inspection or emissions. So I just thought that was again the case this year. Not so.

Anyway, I paid the fees plus the temporary extension fee until the emissions is complete. One thing and then another got in my way, and I had been driving about a month over the temporary expiration. Granted, I had paid the fees and was up to date on that, but not on getting the actual new "11 tags. For a while I prayed to be invisible to any law enforcement officers to avoid any impounding for driving on an expired temporary registration on my car window.

I breathed a sigh of relief once I got the test done, and went back to the state registration office in Provo to get my new '11 tag for the license plate.

It was a great burden lifted in doing the right thing and feel totally right with the world. It is how we live and make those choices. I drove for a month, with unnecessary guilt for not taking the time to just take care of the details.

I know it was the Holy Ghost prompting me, to do the right thing and lift that burden and abide by the laws of the state. I covenant each week when I take the sacrament to keep the commandments, which includes to honor and obey the laws too of the land. (Articles of Faith,) It may have been a minor infraction, nevertheless I still felt the need to do it, and make it right.

Silly as it may seem, I did have a conscience to tell me to get it done.

I also felt that going back to work in the temple meant for me to consider going to a different time, and work a day shift. It is not easy to get myself settled down early enough to get the sleep I need to be on task at 4:30 am and make it through the day with little sleep. Seeing the sisters again from my shift gave me pause to think again, if that is what I need to do. It is my choice. I will be a better person whichever time I decide to work at the temple again. The answer will come as I ponder, decide and make that change over the next few weeks a matter of prayer.

Motivational Poem: A Bag Of Tools

A Motivational Poem
A Bag of Tools
Poet: R. L. Sharpe

Isn't it strange
That princes and kings,
And clowns that caper
In sawdust rings,
And common people
Like you and me
Are builders for eternity?

Each is given a bag of tools,
A shapeless mass,
A book of rules;
And each must make,
Ere life is flown
A stumbling block
Or a stepping-stone.


This poem comes to mind after I visited with a former neighbor today. I had not seen her for about ten years, maybe a few more.

How our lives have unfolded since we last had been neighbors. We had a very interesting conversation. I noticed that we each have our "bag of tools." I came away appreciating my own trials and experiences. It is an eye opener when knowing what others go through their losses of close family and their relationships in family are strained, how I would rather have what I have in my own life. I would chose to keep my own "tools," and use them as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks like the poem states.




Those tools are part of our lives, and are the things that we learn from each day through all the experiences we have had in the past. It is a refinement at best when those trials bring us the lessons of life that we were sent here to learn.

I opt to have the smaller bag of tools if those are indeed my trials. Wouldn't you?

Going Back to My Roots?

I don't know for sure, but this field of Texas Bluebonnets really make me "homesick." Maybe it is recall of when I lived there as a young child. This last time I was there in 2007, I saw a lot of the open spaces when I visited one of my maternal line cousins, Irma Foster and her husband, Glenn. I took a lot of pictures of the fields.

This photo reminded me of that connection perhaps. How I long some days to go see some of my extended family. Their hospitality is addictive and they love to have me visit with them. However, reality bites. She remembers my grandmother, Anita, who was her grandfather's sister. She was called "Tia Apache."

Those familiar bluebonnets are indicative of the fields of wild flowers of Texas.

If I get nostalgic for Texas, this is a good reason.

I saw this photo of an article online of great small towns in the U.S. to explore. This one was near Austin, Texas, called Cuero, Texas. I believe "cuero" means, (raw) hide. It has less than 2,000 residents, and yet a very beautiful place. It was chosen as one of ten in the United States. My cousin lives about 60 miles or less north west of Austin, in Jarrel, Texas.

She lives where a lot of tornadoes have been known to hit and destroy some smaller homes. She took me for a tour there and showed me where an entire mobile home park was demolished and a baseball field was put in after in its place as a memorial. Sad, huh.




It kind of reminds me of the story of the three little pigs. You know, where the big bad wolf huffed and he puffed and was only able to blow down the one made of straw and wood. The brick one stayed standing. Maybe that is why they, (Irma & Glenn) live there in a nice home, a brick home there.

Miracles In Our Lives--Just Believe~

My heart is full of gratitude for the miracles of life. The blessing of healing for my Tara and her recovery from her surgery. Each day she improves and is nothing short of a miracle. (see her current updates: fryer7.blogspot.com

God bless you, my sweet daughter. I thank all of you for your faith and prayers in her behalf.

Love, Mom aka Anna

Gems Of Thought

Mature Spiritually

Posted: 13 Sep 2010 12:00 AM PDT
"In the marvelous experience of Brigham Young in February of 1847, when the Prophet Joseph appeared to him in a dream or vision, Brigham pleaded to be united with the Prophet. Brigham Young asked the Prophet if he had a message for the Brethren. The Prophet said:" 'Tell the people to be humble and faithful, and to be sure to keep the spirit of the Lord and it will lead them right. Be careful and not turn away the still small voice; it will teach them what to do and where to go; it will yield the fruits of the kingdom. Tell the Brethren to keep their hearts open to conviction, so that when the Holy Ghost comes to them, their hearts will be ready to receive it.'"The Prophet further directed Brigham Young as follows: 'They can tell the Spirit of the Lord from all other spirits; it will whisper peace and joy to their souls; it will take malice, hatred, strife and all evil from their hearts; and their whole desire will be to do good, bring forth righteousness and build up the kingdom of God.' (Manuscript History of Brigham Young: 1846–47, Historical Dept., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, pp. 528–31.) . . ."I testify that as we mature spiritually under the guidance of the Holy Ghost, our sense of personal worth, of belonging, and of identity increases. I further testify that I would rather have every person enjoy the Spirit of the Holy Ghost than any other association, for they will be led by that Spirit to light and truth and pure intelligence, which can carry them back into the presence of God."

James E. Faust, "The Gift of the Holy Ghost—A Sure Compass," Ensign, May 1989, 33

Children Learn Chirst's Atonement Every Day

This morning there was a discussion and a difference of opinion with two of my granddaughters. I listened to them in their attempt to get the other to yield to their point of view.

It is not easy to sit back, listen and say nothing. Their Mom attempted to give sound advice and help the situation along. Neither side would budge. Each one felt they were in the right for even though they disagreed. Apparently there was a negotiation over $2.00. One was saying they agreed on less. No, the other insisted it wasn't. So, either way, they came up short. Real frustration filled the air. What to do?

My goodness. I thought to myself that they definitely needed a mediator. I started to walk away from where they were sitting talking. One had already left the room in tears and didn't want to talk about it, slamming a door on her way out.

Then as I walked, a prompting came to my mind. "Make up the difference that one was willing to do that the other wasn't willing to accept. I thought, right! What would Christ have done? He would make up the difference.

I ran down to my room, and brought back the difference for them, in His behalf. The first one agreed to accept the difference and take the full amount to the other one. She explained what happened and it made them both happy and they were able to forgive one another and vowed never to let anything come between them again.



Don't we, when we fall short of what we agree to do, whatever it is then the price is more than we can "pay," He makes up the difference! It was so simple and beautiful. Beautifully simple that even the children understood it.

I cannot take the credit for the outcome. It was the Atonement that did it for each of us. If we but apply it in our every day situations, wouldn't we be a lot happier like the two children?

They quickly forgave one another. They each had what they set out to do, they also were happy with the outcome, and forgave each other with hugs and kisses. So can we. I hope they will remember this little story as they grow up and become moms with children of their own.

Hungry For A New Recipe--?

I wanted to find some new ways to add fresh ginger to my recipes. I found this and think I will try it this week. I really was impressed with ginger/lemonade at BYU Education Week last year, with Chef Brad. He added a touch of fresh mint and it was scrumptious! He sweeetened with with Agauve, from cactus. It looks and tastes like honey buy is glycemic. That means your body absorbs it and does not go to fat like sugar sweeteners do.


French Carrot Ginger Soup
by Cooking With Some Single Guy's Blog I found online

Ingredients:
1 lb. French carrots or 1.5 lbs. regular carrots, diced into small chunks
1 leek (bottom white portion only), diced
2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup water
2 t grated fresh ginger
1 T extra virgin olive oil
salt
crème fraiche or sour cream and pine nuts for garnish

Dice leek (using only the bottom white portion) and wash thoroughly. Heat oil in saucepan over medium high heat and add leeks. Saute for about a minute to soften. Then add carrots (peeled and diced), broth and water. Bring to a boil and immediately reduce to a simmer. Cook until carrots are tender (when you can poke all the way through with a fork). About 30 to 45 minutes. When carrots are almost done, add grated ginger.

Remove pot from heat. With hand blender, puree carrots and other ingredients into a silky soup. (You can also place small batches into your blender.*) Add salt to taste.

Garnish with a dollop of crème fraiche or sour cream and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts.

Makes two servings. Serve with French toast with Herbs de Provence.

* Do not place hot liquid in blender. Let the stock cool first. And never fill blender or food processor by more than half.

TIP: The thickness of your diced carrots will determine how long you cook them at a simmer. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll become tender. In this recipe, I used baby French carrots. After I simmered them, the resulting puree was quite thick and creamy so it was fine as is and didn't require any heavy cream or milk. (I also knew I’d be adding a spoon of crème fraiche to my bowl of soup so that helped make it creamier.) But if you puree your carrots and you feel the stock is too thin, then you can either add a slurry of water and flour or fat-free half-and-half to thicken your soup.

TOAST WITH HERBS DE PROVENCE: To keep with the French theme of the French carrot soup, I took a baguette and sliced it diagonally to create long, angled slices. Then I spread some unsalted butter and sprinkled it with Herbs de Provence and sea salt. I placed the slices in my oven at 400 degrees for a couple of minutes until golden brown.

Wisdom and God in our Lives

Quote of the Day
It's easy to make a buck. It's a lot tougher to make a difference.
Tom Brokaw

Have You Ever Wondered How God Makes It All Work?

Have you ever thought of the tremendous amount of knowledge and power it would
have taken to organize and create the earth. Think of what it would have taken to put
it's movement and laws into place. To have worked through to process of creating the
seasons, the rain, the wind and the air. The details of things like top soil with it's depth of 16 inches which allows us to grow our crops year after year. The energy, light, heat,from our sun that makes it all work, traveling millions of miles from its source just for us.

Think of the intelligence that would be required to know that we would someday be
in need of oil, gas, electricity, metal, bricks, radio waves, boats, cars and plains. To be filled with the wisdom to put all things in order and know the needs that would come for all people in all places and in all times. To ponder even more look up into the heavens and try to understand all the wonders that you see, knowing no end, finding no beginning, and being there forever. Then stop and think, that all you know and all you see dose not even begin to describe the magnitude of His glory.

All that we see and know and do is just enough to give us just a little faith so we can carry on. Just a glimpse, with so much more to follow .................

Earth life is a blessing that few find the full value of, but none the less the lessing remains the greatest gift of all. For God is there,......... to make it work.

By Dennis Dillingham

From broken bones to a scholarship for Georgia Scout | Mormon Times

Click below:

From broken bones to a scholarship for Georgia Scout | Mormon Times

Remembering Grandma & Grandpa McIntire

What I remember about Grandma and Grandpa McIntire: September 2, 2010 Heber Valley Camp Family Reunion:

I first met them on a Sunday afternoon at church in 1960. Yes, Hank, who I was seeing at the time, introduced me to his parents after church services. I think it was a Methodist Church. I noticed how tall Grandma appeared as she had on some very classy high heeled shoes. She wore them much higher than I ever would.

She dressed in a nice suit, and had her hair colored a medium brown. Grandpa was wearing a suit and tie of course, being church day. But he wore a suit to work every day of the week that he commuted to San Bernardino at the time. He worked for the Air Force at the air base there. Grandma worked at Autonetics, in Anaheim.

Even though your dad and I chose to elope, they were always kind and loving toward me. I always felt welcomed and accepted into grandma’s heart. She and I became very close over the next twenty years.

Grandpa was more quiet but had a smile and toothy grin, especially when he would crack a joke or make a teasing comment now and then. He was always busy, working on some project around the house that he finished and made to perfection. He did wood work as a hobby and fixed everything himself, practically in the house.

I remember grandma had an old, old, old, now did I say OLD, Kirby vacuum. He fixed it a gazillion times. That was one thing Grandma Betty never had new. Then when she died, he goes and buys a brand new HOOVER!

Grandma always like to work in her yard, and trim the roses. She would take bouquets of flowers daily to work for her co-workers. I know she brought a lot of sunshine to her colleagues at work, who respected her and who considered her a good friend and confidante.

She was extremely excited to become a grandmother. So, on her birthday in January 21, 1964, we told her we had a present for her, but she would have to wait for it until mid-August. She didn’t guess right away, that we were having a baby after two years of being married.

She was the kind of grandmother she never had, she said. She lost her parents at a young age, and never knew her own grandparents. Grandpa McIntire had lost his parents before they had children, so there were no grandparents to spoil Hank and Mary Beth, the way Grandma and Grandpa Mc did theirs, you guys.

I know some of you feel a little a little left out not having known Grandma McIntrire. But, I know she is very aware of ALL of you and your accomplishments, your joys and sorrows, and what you are going through ALL the time.

I am forever grateful for her kindness, unconditional love and her mentoring me, while she was alive and her influence after she died. I could feel her around us at times and knew she never stopped caring or giving me input on what to do or how to handle different situations.

After many years I had wondered if she still checked in on me or if she still was around to help me through life. It was just a thought like a prayer. That night I had a dream, where she and grandpa came to visit me, from the other side. They came and stayed a little while. We talked as grandpa sat on an overstuffed chair with Kameron on his lap. I turned to grandma and told her to look at how sweet her great-grandson was with his blonde hair and blue eyes. She said, “Yes, I know. I am with you a lot of the time with the family and see and now of their accomplishments, talents and gifts.” She also said, she “knew all of you grandchildren and said she helped prepare them before they were born”.

That idea really did not surprise me, somehow. It gave me peace and comfort to know how much your grandparents, on both sides love you and look after ALL of us. I am very blessed to have all of you and know Heavenly Father’s hands are in my life and the details of all of our lives. I know my Savior lives and is our Redeemer. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Love, Grandma Mattie

Lesson on Listening to Counsel

Church History Gems


What Have I Lost?

Posted: 27 Aug 2010 12:00 AM PDT
"Brother [Thomas B.] Marsh was one of the first modern-day Apostles . . . . He eventually became President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles."While the Saints were in Far West, Missouri, Elizabeth Marsh, Thomas's wife, and her friend Sister Harris decided they would exchange milk in order to make more cheese than they otherwise could. . . . They agreed that they should not save what were called the strippings. . . . Strippings came at the end of the milking and were richer in cream."Sister Harris was faithful to the agreement, but Sister Marsh, desiring to make some especially delicious cheese, saved a pint of strippings from each cow and sent Sister Harris the milk without the strippings. This caused the two women to quarrel. . . . The matter was referred to the home teachers to settle. They found Elizabeth Marsh guilty of failure to keep her agreement. She and her husband were upset with the decision, and the matter was then referred to the bishop for a Church trial. The bishop's court decided that the strippings were wrongfully saved. . . ."Thomas Marsh appealed to the high council, and the men comprising this council confirmed the bishop's decision. He then appealed to the First Presidency of the Church. Joseph Smith and his counselors considered the case and upheld the decision of the high council."Elder Thomas B. Marsh, who sided with his wife through all of this, became angrier with each successive decision—so angry, in fact, that he went before a magistrate and swore that the Mormons were hostile toward the state of Missouri. . . ."After 19 years of rancor and loss, Thomas B. Marsh made his way to the Salt Lake Valley and asked President Brigham Young for forgiveness. . . . Said Brother Marsh: 'The Lord could get along very well without me and He . . . lost nothing by my falling out of the ranks; But O what have I lost?! Riches, greater riches than all this world or many planets like this could afford' (Thomas B. Marsh to Heber C. Kimball, May 5, 1857, Brigham Young Collection, Church History Library)."

Thomas S. Monson, "School Thy Feelings, O My Brother," Ensign, Nov. 2009, 68

By a Small and Simple Thing--

"14-year-old Scout believed missing in the Uintas is found at home"
I read an article in the Deseret News, online. I could not help but to respond and make a comment.

It seems that a fourteen year old boy, a Venture Scout very likely was on a trip with his father who was the leader. He told him to "go away" because he was having a disagreement with one of the other five boys on this trip.

The boy decided to walk out of the camp in the Uintas, call his mom and go home. Well, the boy was missed and the area was searched. The boy, in the meantime was picked up by a family and taken to where he could call his mother to pick him up.

All this time, though no one knew where the boy was. His father, by now was probably frantic and not wanted to call his wife to tell her, his son was missing, right?


Well, reading this article brought back a memory of an experience I had with one of Michael's Venture Leader, David Broadbent. The following comment tells briefly my recollection.

I can remember as a single-mom, one scout leader telling me when my boys were that age, "Dead or Alive, we will bring back your son." That was NOT funny, (to me). This was the day before a 14, 15 year old group of boys were going to Wind Rivers.

I woke up the next morning hearing those words in my mind. I bolted out of bed and told my 14 year son. I told him how I felt, but left it up to him to decide of whether to go or not.

He knelt by his bed and I went to my room. He came back about ten minutes later and gave me his answer. It was to get a priesthood blessing from his oldest brother. I called him and we went @ 4:30 am to the brother's house.

He was safe,and felt much divine guidance,a great experience after all.

This was a spiritual experience for my son and he learned to listen and pray over his life situations, and his mission.


Michael told me that he felt his grandpa McIntire there with him on his trip. He wore Grandpa's hat on the trip to protect him from the sun. I think Grandpa did more than protect him from the sun. I know he watched over him and gave him guidance as Michael told me, he knew where to make each step as his group moved up and down the hills and steep inclines on the trail. The clouds were circled around leaving an open space for the sun to shine and not rain on them a lot of the time.

I am grateful that my prayers were answered, my son was safe and had a great spiritual experience at the same time. Michael grew a foot taller that day spiritually and I was so grateful I let him make his own decision of whether to go with his leaders and friends on that trip.

"Discipline is the Soul of An Army"

The above quote was stated by General George Washington.


What General Washington would look like in a military uniform today. . . Would we recognize him if we saw him like this? Wig and all.

Introduction from The Power of Discipline
By Brian Tracy

Why are some people more successful than others? Why do some people make more money, live happier lives and accomplish much more in the same number of years than the great majority?

I started out in life with few advantages. I did not graduate from high school. I worked at menial jobs. I had limited education, limited skills and a limited future.

And then I began asking, "Why are some people more successful than others?" This question changed my life.

Over the years, I have read thousands of books and articles on the subjects of success and achievement. It seems that the reasons for these accomplishments have been discussed and written about for more than two thousand years, in every conceivable way. One quality that most philosophers, teachers and experts agree on is the importance of self-discipline. As Al Tomsik summarized it years ago, "Success is tons of discipline."

Some years ago, I attended a conference in Washington. It was the lunch break and I was eating at a nearby food fair. The area was crowded and I sat down at the last open table by myself, even though it was a table for four.

A few minutes later, an older gentleman and a younger woman who was his assistant came along carrying trays of food, obviously looking for a place to sit.

With plenty of room at my table, I immediately arose and invited the older gentleman to join me. He was hesitant, but I insisted. Finally, thanking me as he sat down, we began to chat over lunch.

It turned out that his name was Kop Kopmeyer. As it happened, I immediately knew who he was. He was a legend in the field of success and achievement. Kop Kopmeyer had written four large books, each of which contained 250 success principles that he had derived from more than fifty years of research and study. I had read all four books from cover to cover, more than once.

After we had chatted for awhile, I asked him the question that many people in this situation would ask, "Of all the one thousand success principles that you have discovered, which do you think is the most important?"

He smiled at me with a twinkle in his eye, as if he had been asked this question many times, and replied, without hesitating, "The most important success principle of all was stated by Thomas Huxley many years ago. He said, "Do what you should do, when you should do it, whether you feel like it or not."

He went on to say, "There are 999 other success principles that I have found in my reading and experience, but without self-discipline, none of them work."

Self-discipline is the key to personal greatness. It is the magic quality that opens all doors for you, and makes everything else possible. With self-discipline, the average person can rise as far and as fast as his talents and intelligence can take him. But without self-discipline, a person with every blessing of background, education and opportunity will seldom rise above mediocrity.

In the pages ahead I will describe seven areas of your life where the practice of self-discipline will be key to your success. These areas include goals, character, time management, personal health, money, courage and responsibility. It is my hope that you'll find a few "nuggets" that will help make your dreams come true.
Mac Anderson