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.