Only a week ago. . .

Wow, it is hard to believe it has been just a week ago that we got together with family while Matt & Beth were here. One can live a lifetime in a week, you know?

I was super busy with work and attended three days of intense training to learn more about the new i-health system I am doing. There are many possibilities that are materializing for that system that will be life changing for those I will be helping.

I recognize the hand of God in my work and know I am blessed to serve and bring hope and change for others. I see how it has helped me as an individual and the possibilities are limitless. Persistence is as important being consistent.

The scripture, "Be not weary in well doing for ye are laying the foundation of a great work," comes to mind. I bear witness this is true. I look forward to serving my family in the process and blessing everyone along the way.

You can do a search or Link: ihealth America or ihealthsolutions.com

Patriotic Sacrament Meeting, Patriotic Fireside

Oh Beautiful for Spacious Skies

Our ward choir sang and a narration was given of a tribute to the founding fathers and the prophecies of the ancient prophets in the Book of Mormon. I really loved the songs we sang, "My Country Tis of Thee," "America the Beautiful," "God of Our Fathers," "Star Spangled Banner." These songs were stirring to my soul and I had tears flow as we sang. I moved my lips some of the time since I couldn't sing when I felt the spirit. I was very glad I voluntarily participated in the choir. Our choir director told us at practice to move our lips even if we couldn't sing, so I did with her permission.

The speaker was a WW II veteran and Korean War veteran gave a talk after our patriotic presentation. He told about George Washington and his soldiers at Valley Forge. Interestingly enough, the speaker at the Freedom Festival Fireside also spoke of President Washington. There seemed to be a connection and the spirit was very stirring at both meetings.

The speaker in my ward mentioned that his son did his master thesis on the religious persuasion of George Washington as he was the first president of the United States after gaining freedom from Great Britain. I learned many things I was not aware of about the war for independence and I want to know more about Bro. Brightenstein's son's thesis. He must have done a lot of research on the subject and it is timely.

Glenn Beck was the fireside speaker at the Marriott Center at BYU. He gave a stirring talk and gave it his all. The audience was thrilled to have him come speak to us there in Provo. He was given a standing ovation before Stephen Covey introduced him as speaker. Then when he was finished with his speech, everyone stood up again. Me included.

Glenn Beck's talk also spoke of George Washington. Ironically, his talk complemented the ward speaker's talk. I know Beck was very direct and didn't mince words. He was compared to Paul of the New Testament, and another honorable hero. If I can remember who it was he was compared to I will fill it in later.

This time of year, I am especially grateful for my ancestors who went across the Mexican desert in a freight train to San Antonio, Texas. My father had not yet been born, who was born almost three years later. My grandfather wrote me a letter that I have when I wrote to him to thank him for coming to the United States. He recounted his journey with my grandmother, Maria Refugio and their eleven month old daughter, Consuelo, (Chelo). The rest is part of our family history.

In case some of you haven't seen the family website, email Hank for information to be invited to visit the site.

No new pictures for a week now

In case anyone wonders, my camera has filled the memory and I don't know how to erase the "stuff" on it to make room for new memory. There was a concert I attended at the LDS singles conference; now that it consumed the rest of my memory in the camera I don't know how to correct the problem.

I want to take more pictures, but need to start fresh and delete when I know I have my pics backed up.

I don't make the Rules,. . . God does.

I had an interesting week. As I look at what I was about most of this week I realize how important it is to stick to our standards as designed by the Lord and follow Him.

My friend Kay called me to see if I could go up to visit her and her cousin this week and help them get ready to move on Saturday. I had other commitments but thought I could work that visit in and perhaps have a place to stay instead of driving back and forth each day to Farmington. But things just kept coming up for me and I felt badly to not be up there to help out sooner than Friday, today.

I had some training Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. I ended up riding with someone else and didn't have to consume gasoline with the whole burden each day. We took turns driving. I learned a lot and am so grateful to have been a part of the training.

Today, after class was over I drove straight to Kay's and her cousin, Mary Lee near Sugarhouse. Kay invited me to go eat after I went to pick her up from her work place. We chose Mimi's in Midvale, near 5300 South and State Street.

After dinner we went over to the house to help pack the rest of the kitchen. Her cousin's friend, and guest was staying over too. I didn't feel comfortable with the situation, and chose to drive back home and not stay over after all. I talked it over with Kay, and she had expressed her concern with them being there and had a non- married sleepover. I kept feeling it was not right for me to be there so left when we finished with our visit.

It felt like the right thing for me to do and leave. Kay had already told me and her cousin what she thought about it. Even so, the cousin is a non-member and leasing the house she was living in and like a sister to Kay. I know they told me his name, but for the life of me I can't recall his name. He is twenty years younger than her cousin from Honduras, doesn't work a steady job being undocumented and seems to take advantage of the situation. He was also bleary eyed intoxicated and reeked of cerveza or beer. He is what some would call a "gigolo," and uses women like hookers use men.

My friend Kay understood how and why I felt to leave and said several times she is looking for a place of her own as soon as she is on her feet. In the past the man has not stayed at the house when her cousin was out of town like when I was there before. She and I are still friends though regardless.

I was pleased to know Kay is getting active in her ward since her move to Salt Lake City. She also followed my suggestion to ask about getting her patriarchal blessing and will be attending a temple ready class. She wants to put her life in order and move forward after so many years.

I know she has always had a strong testimony of the Savior, and the church. Her LaKota Sioux roots are strong and she cherishes her membership and speaks of putting the traditions of her forefathers aside. She has the desire to help her tribal people on the reservation and I applaud her. She talked to me about how we can help her people to bring them change and hope. I am honored to be her friend and to be included in her future plans. We will let the Lord guide our paths and go where he wants it to go with it.

There will be more about this later and I'll take the possibilities one step at a time.

Perhaps this blog may sound somewhat judgmental today, but I really don't make the Rules, God does. It is so common for the world to live like that, but I am under a different umbrella being a member of the true Church, and choose to be steadfast and immovable.

I have an obligation to live what I believe and stand up for it. I just did that and felt no embarrassment in doing what is right and let the consequences follow. I decided it was best to Choose the Right.

Today is also June 27, 2008, a mostly uneventful day. And the anniversary of the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith, and my youngest sister's birthday, so Happy Birthday, Linda! I called her and left a short message on her cell phone.

"Count your blessings, not your worries"

House at Portland Rd-- Photo of me and my siblings and Mom about the time we received in the mail the chocolate candy from my dad while he was in the Army.

The above title quote is off a chocolate almond Dove candy message inside the wrapper.

Here are a few more:

"Believe in and act on your dreams"

"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"

"Think without limits."

"Success is the sum of many small efforts."

"The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate."

"Write a real letter, not just an email."

I admit I am a little behind in my letter writing and thank you notes. I really have no good reason for that. Just how it is sometimes. I forgive myself and move forward, with intent to do better.

Besides the quotes I really enjoy the contents. There is nothing like a small square of chocolate to lift my spirit. I recall when my father was in the Army when I was just a few years old, he would send us by mail from wherever he was, a box of Hershey Almond candy bars. I still remember my mother opening a package from Daddy and sharing the contents with each of us.

I found out later the significance from Bro. Don Norton when I wrote about that event from my early childhood. Chocolate bars were rationed and just the military men were allowed to buy this commodity at the base post exchange. Do you have YOUR year supply of chocolate? I don't.

Great Afternoon for extended Family Home Evening,

At Tracie and Jared's

Matt and Beth got together with all the rest of us who are living here in Utah. We gathered at Tracie and Jared's, who hosted this family event. I am so appreciative of their hospitality and openness to have us invade them once in a while.

Friends, Jan and Craig A., paid us the honor to visit with us as well with the family. They are good friends and I am grateful for my children and their willingness to help them feel welcomed. When we have these get together times it seems they gravitate in our midst. Jan's invited me to her family reunion in early July in Sugarhouse.

We have a recipe book craft that Tracie so graciously compiled and had all of us contribute our best and most favorite recipes. It is a lot of work for her, and I appreciate her taking on such a big project. It was a real success and everyone seemed to love the finished product. Jan made one too.

Candice and I worked on ours last night until 1:00 am. It turned out really nice. I will take a picture of mine and post it later. Thanks again for all your support and the kids enjoyed riding the horse and pony in their back yard. Thanks Jared for taking the time and effort to make it fun and exciting for the younger ones.

It was nice to have Matt and Beth here and get to see everyone and be a part of the family activities. We miss you being so far away. It is always good to be in your presence and see the boys growing up so fast. I hope you have a good trip home since I know it is not easy driving and entertaining two boys under three years old!

The food was well planned and we had McIntire heritage food, Steaks, fries, corn, and baked beans. The brownies and ice cream topped the evening and everyone seemed to love the watermelon too!

Multi-Stake Singles Conference, Busy Sabbath

McKay Events Center Relief Society, speakers were Susan & John Tanner--Conference theme, "Prepare every needful thing."
My notes from the conference were an outline of Sister Tanner's talk were about how since she was released in April, she was catching up on things that were put aside for a while and had closets, food storage, and re-reading the Book of Mormon. She applied the theme to herself personally and passed the torch to us, the audience and asked, "Are you prepared to meet God?" She quoted Alma 5. Her list included cleansing the inner vessel. "Have you received HIS image on your countenance?" that is always a good scripture to begin to ask as Alma does, "are you stripped of pride?" She went on from there and gave an excellent, well prepared talk. I liked the points she made and quoted Neal A. Maxwell, "Charity is a important to have it as the ordinance of baptism." Charity is true forgiveness. She told a story about a family in her neighborhood who showed true charity in a time that could have really been a challenge to anyone and justifiably upset at the outcome. She read a thank you note from someone at the end of her story. This is a synopsis. A young couple were sealed in the temple on a Thursday morning and had the day's festivities well thought out and planned ahead. The temple sealing was simple beautiful, the brides mother was deeply touched by the ceremony and the spirit they felt as a family that day in the temple earlier. The bride's mother had carefully planned every detail for her daughter's reception at their home.

The time came and went for the caterer to arrive and no one showed up when the reception had begun. They left messages at the caterers home as well. Then, a few of the neighbors, (Relief Society sisters) pulled together tables, and table cloths, table decorations, punch and cookies etc. in short order. Still no word from the caterer. The ladies in the ward all pitched in and helped make a difficult situation better at the last minute.

Then, just as the last guests were leaving in comes the caterer so embarrassed and apologetic for not having been there when she was supposed to be. She had accidentally written the date of the wedding for the next day (Friday)instead of the day it actually was on Thursday. The bride's mother, put her arms around the woman, and told her not to worry about the mistake. She said they had such a beautiful day in the temple and felt such great love fill them that it did not matter that she had forgotten. The mother had such Christ like love remain with her throughout that day, that she didn't give it any anxiety and was filled with the spirit of forgiveness.

Now that is true charity! If I didn't write anything else here in my blog entry today of what was said the rest of the day it would be just fine.
Brother Tanner spoke also, but I will not take any more space here of what was said.

Sacrament Meeting speaker was Kent Worthen, the former dean of the BYU J. Rueben Clark Law School. He now is an assistant to President Samuelson.

I had dinner with the Ks. Chimichangas, rice & Guacamole. Mmmmmmmm. It was great to be able to help Lori and Kris make the chimis. We had a good time.

Fireside speaker was Daniel K. Judd. He is Ancient Scripture professor at BYU. He also had a great talk. I enjoyed myself and got to get acquainted with a lot of new people. I look forward to perhaps getting to know some of them better.

I know there are not a lot of these kinds of events but once a year. Nevertheless my spirit was filled to overflowing, my cup runneth over. I had a blessed sabbath.

Sacrament was passed in the McKay events center, and there were twelve men who stood sat at the table, one blessed it and they all broke the bread and blessed and passed the water. It was very well organized along with the prayer over the sacrament were very meaningful. I had a spiritual experience and witnessed the organization sacrament time there that day. We took no longer, in fact less time to pass the sacrament than at a regular meeting. The elders did a great job and were very efficient to make sure it was done well.

For the sake of keeping this blog short; I didn't want to be long winded today and lose all of you while you fell asleep reading a long laborious blog entry.

Night & Day

I have to admit my Friday night social was SOOOOOO much better than Thursday's. I guess it could only get better, right? Thank goodness. I hadn't really planned to go at all from that first "fun" night, dance. One of my friends who is single encouraged me to go with her since she was down in Utah County anyway. She bought my ticket for the concert that was before the dance.

The concert was delightful. Alex Boye' was the entertainer for the evening and his musical group. He sings in the Tabernacle choir as well. He put on a great show and everyone in attendance loved it!

He bore his testimony of the church and told us his missionary conversion. He had such hardships from the age of 16 as a young convert in England and was practically an orphan upon joining the church. He is also black but born in London, England. He speaks like an Englishman too.

My heart was touched by his spiritual strength and made me realized how blessed I am and was being a new convert. You name it and he went through it. He was abandoned by his uncle whom he lived with, and was homeless when he realized what he had in being a member of the church. He said he found out that when you join the church things don't go great or smoothly. He learned the hard way. He was well past thirty when he married his wife, who is younger, American and Caucasian.

I was inspired by the things he said and was very humbled by his testimony and his dependence on God, and the Savior. It was an incredible evening to remember as he told his story. His bio that was written up in our program told how he was challenged by his Elder's quorum president to hand out a Book of Mormon to someone and report back the next week.

He went to an event where Queen Elizabeth was and got close enough to Prince Charles to gave him the Book of Mormon. The press were all watching and they got it on film as it was broadcast on the evening news the same day.

The Elders quorum president at first didn't believe Alex that he had handed out a Book of Mormon to the prince. He thought Alex was teasing, then to his amazement on the late news he saw Alex giving the Book of Mormon away. He apologized and believed him after seeing it on TV.

The dance was great this time. It turns out that those two fellows who asked me if I was going to be there at the dance were there, I just didn't see them. I was able to dance with one of them several times, so that made up for the faux pau that I just didn't see them or wasn't where I could be seen. I think it was more about me actually not seeing them than anything else.

So I will close this entry for now and maybe need to write a new page about tomorrow's later on Sunday, or write two entries for Saturday's blog. I can hardly wait to tell more good stuff about my experience attending the workshops and Saturday night dance.

And the beat goes on. . .

I went to a fireside earlier this evening and it was a very uplifting message given by Sister Cheryl Lant. She is the General Primary President. I liked her spunk and zeal. It was about being prepared, and used the text and theme of the conference, "Organize yourself, and prepare every needful thing."

The talk dwelled on spiritual preparedness. At one point she quotes Sheri Dew, who was then in the Relief Society General Presidency. She said Sisterr Dew overheard herself complain about all the new things she needed to do in her new General Primary calling. Sister Dew turned to her and said, "Get over it!" It intimidated her a little bit at the time but she knew she was right.

So, I agree that life can be challenging but it doesn't have to be if 'we go with the flow' kind of thing. My own suggestion to others who say similar things is accept it and go with the flow. The resistance is removed once things can take a natural flow to resolution. We get to do things rather than have to do them.

Sister Lant's talk was indeed an inspiration and I was filled. I am glad I went.

I will share briefly what the rest of the evening was like.

It is an understatement to say going to the singles dance was a disappointment. Two of the four men who asked me yesterday if I was going to the dance attended but didn't ask me to dance. But the music was lively and I was there to have fun, and did, kind of anyway.

I danced a couple of dances, ladies choice. I also engaged in the cha-cha-cha line dancing. Fun, but a bit awkward trying to follow and keep up with everyone going the same direction at the same time and facing the wrong way and my feet were not as fast as the music was playing. It was fun though. Next time I go, I will get into the line dancing crowd sooner and see where that goes from there.

I come to a conclusion that one of Jan's sons told her once, "Men are like buses. There will be another one along in fifteen minutes."

And the quest continues.

P.S. I got in just almost at the stroke of midnight; notice in time to write this on Thursday's date.

Well, La Tee Dah--

That's about all I have to comment about my first singles activity I have been to in almost a year. I went to the beginning of a week's activity for a Multi-stake Adult Singles Conference at the Wilkinson Center. I decided I needed to mingle a little more than just sitting at my computer, checking out the single's websites.

Someone (a well meaning friend, Julie W.) told me recently, that unless I got up close and could see them eye to eye, or maybe tell what they smelled like it didn't count. Duh! Good insight, right? Yeah, she really said that unless I could tell if they used deodorant or after shave lotion how could I tell if I would even like the person. Good point.

I usually don't publicize incidents such as this, but I actually had fun and met some very nice people--men and women. I went to a fireside a couple of months ago and sort of mingled afterwards; but I was with Mary Gwen, and she was kind of "closed" about meeting new people so I just didn't hang out talking to people like I could tonight.

There is an activity tomorrow night sort of like a fireside at a chapel by Costco in Orem, with a keynote speaker and then a dance at the McKay events center. People asked me if I was going to be there to the dance so I think I will at least check it out and have fun. It is good for it to be light, nothing serious or a planned date or anything, I will just go to get acquainted and socialize.

And in case anyone is wondering, there ARE quality men out there. I met several and believe me, they are not the 'loser' types. I consider myself a winner, so I think that is something going in my favor and will draw the same kind of individual to me.

What amazed me is that both younger, same age men and older than me talked to me
and were comfortable to just sit and chit chat. I must have either really made an impression or I am in a better space than before which is about the best way to describe it.

Not much going on today. I was home most of the day and then ventured out to go over to Hank and Lori's to get some Kangen Water. I appreciate drinking the best water anywhere and their generosity. I get to see them and the Ks often which is rewarding.
I used to have to buy the water at a couple of health food stores.

I also went over to visit with Matt and Beth at her mom and dad's. They came unexpectedly from Seattle and are sadly here to go to Beth's nephew's funeral. He was about five years old and suffered from a fall and died this past Saturday. It was tragic. My heart goes out to her brother and wife, the parents, Byron and Monique and Tyson their older son who is only seven. The services will be on Wednesday when they say their last goodbyes.

Cole and Ethan were napping when I got to Wilson's. So we visited for a while before the boys woke up. Cole was a little shy and Ethan was clinging to Beth, and a mama's boy. That is just fine and a good thing really. Matt helps out a lot with the boys and is a good father, as Beth is also good mother as well.

We hope to have some family activities while they are here like a mini-reunion. We have a few things planned for next week to get together too.

Family Night

Aaron and Candice had family night, and Aaron and Ella taught the lesson about the three degrees of glory. They also talked about the plan of happiness. He also talked a little bit about Cadein, Beth's nephew. The girls understand enough to know he has died and Ella talked about resurrection on her own.

I am pleased that all my grandchildren have been taught by their parents and used their agency to teach their own children the gospel principles. It is a joy for a grandmother such as myself to see my children and grandchildren walk in truth.

We all make a conscious effort to cling to the Iron Rod and look to the Savior embracing his atonement and sacrifice for us. We know we will see our loved ones again who have gone before and it is through Christ that makes it all possible.

I am thankful to have the gospel in my life and know it is God's plan for all of us to be happy and we can perfect ourselves and become like Him.

Father's Day & Blessings of the Sabbath--

Today was Father's Day. I thought of my own father and miss him greatly. My lesson in Relief Society was about missionary work. It is a subject near and dear to my heart. I learned a lot. I asked Aaron for his help to come speak to the sisters and he agreed. Aaron participated and made some comments about his mission and how it has blessed his life serving as a missionary. He did a great job and I know the sisters enjoyed it. It made an added contribution to my lesson.


Yesterday, our neighborhood had a block party. It was a nice "get acquainted" get together. I recognized a lot of people, but finally could put names with faces. A very cordial group too. We had an enjoyable time. The food was delicious. Someone made a guacamole dip with chips along with homemade salsa. The new neighbor from Guatemala made it. The couple were very welcomed, and attend their own Spanish speaking ward.



When I walked over to the party my right knee felt kind of strange. I noticed I favored it and had a slight limp. But by the time I walked home, I could hardly put any weight on it. The pain got progressively worse and it hurt so bad I took extra aspirin to try to get it to feel better. Nothing seemed to help. I wrapped it with an ace bandage and went to bed. I couldn't walk on it at all to go have breakfast this morning so I sat backwards on the stairs to go UP the stairs and then back down.

Matt and Beth came into town yesterday, so I called him at Beth's parents and had him come so he & Aaron could give me a priesthood blessing. I managed to shower and get ready for church since I needed to teach my lesson in Relief Society today. The blessing promised me the pain would go away quickly, which it did while I was at church and even noticed I could walk normal without an obvious limp. Granted, I walked slower, but no noticeable limp!! I was able to stand to teach and everything went well as far as the lesson went.

I came home from church and rested the rest of the day. It seemed to help and my knee felt better, not great, just better. I am thankful for priesthood holder sons who can bless me when I need it and helped me in my time of need. Tara commented that how unusual it is for me to be "sick", and I have to agree with her. I am grateful the knee problem was short-lived and I am pleased to report, I am definitely on the mend!!

History Flag Day---June 14

Traditionally June 14 every year commemorates Flag Day. The Red, White and Blue represents the freedoms we enjoy as citizens in the United States of America.

I found this article on the history of Flag Day. I hope you take the time to read.

The History Of Flag Day

The Fourth of July was traditionally celebrated as America's birthday, but the idea of an annual day specifically celebrating the Flag is believed to have first originated in 1885. BJ Cigrand, a schoolteacher, arranged for the pupils in the Fredonia, Wisconsin Public School, District 6, to observe June 14 (the 108th anniversary of the official adoption of The Stars and Stripes) as 'Flag Birthday'. In numerous magazines and newspaper articles and public addresses over the following years, Cigrand continued to enthusiastically advocate the observance of June 14 as 'Flag Birthday', or 'Flag Day'.

On June 14, 1889, George Balch, a kindergarten teacher in New York City, planned appropriate ceremonies for the children of his school, and his idea of observing Flag Day was later adopted by the State Board of Education of New York. On June 14, 1891, the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia held a Flag Day celebration, and on June 14 of the following year, the New York Society of the Sons of the Revolution, celebrated Flag Day.

Following the suggestion of Colonel J Granville Leach (at the time historian of the Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the Revolution), the Pennsylvania Society of Colonial Dames of America on April 25, 1893 adopted a resolution requesting the mayor of Philadelphia and all others in authority and all private citizens to display the Flag on June 14th. Leach went on to recommend that thereafter the day be known as 'Flag Day', and on that day, school children be assembled for appropriate exercises, with each child being given a small Flag.

Two weeks later on May 8th, the Board of Managers of the Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the Revolution unanimously endorsed the action of the Pennsylvania Society of Colonial Dames. As a result of the resolution, Dr. Edward Brooks, then Superintendent of Public Schools of Philadelphia, directed that Flag Day exercises be held on June 14, 1893 in Independence Square. School children were assembled, each carrying a small Flag, and patriotic songs were sung and addresses delivered.

In 1894, the governor of New York directed that on June 14 the Flag be displayed on all public buildings. With BJ Cigrand and Leroy Van Horn as the moving spirits, the Illinois organization, known as the American Flag Day Association, was organized for the purpose of promoting the holding of Flag Day exercises. On June 14th, 1894, under the auspices of this association, the first general public school children's celebration of Flag Day in Chicago was held in Douglas, Garfield, Humboldt, Lincoln, and Washington Parks, with more than 300,000 children participating.

Adults, too, participated in patriotic programs. Franklin K. Lane, Secretary of the Interior, delivered a 1914 Flag Day address in which he repeated words he said the flag had spoken to him that morning: "I am what you make me; nothing more. I swing before your eyes as a bright gleam of color, a symbol of yourself."

Inspired by these three decades of state and local celebrations, Flag Day - the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777 - was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30th, 1916. While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson's proclamation, it was not until August 3rd, 1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.

Friday, the Thirteenth!!

It is a matter of opinion whether this is a lucky day or otherwise.
I have known it be lucky. I have a niece and nephew born on Friday the 13th.
Michael was born on Friday, February 13, 1976. Aaron and Candice were married on Friday, August 13th 2001.

So I have been blessed throughout my life and know the hand of God prevents me from being the least bit superstitious. It must be a matter of attitude. Enough said.

In Awe of the Incredible, Amazing Ear from the Inside

Did you know there is a tiny coil inside the inner ear?It is housed in a shape much like this snail shell. The tube that looks like a coil holds the smallest of crystal-like particles. The crystals hold the sound we hear and are magnified with hair-like fibers that transmit sound. Those crystals are sitting in a gel inside the tube. When trauma occurs, those crystals are shaken and move from the safe chamber in which they were. Equilibrium is compromised and makes the person feel like they are falling. When those crystals are back in place the dizziness diminishes gradually to restore the balance and everything goes back into place. Permanent damage is not likely if those crystals are intact where they belong.



Anyone ever study what the human ear is all about? I was able to extract the above explanation from the young resident doctor. So, today I had a crash course in learning what makes the human ear hear. I took Kay, my old friend to visit her ear, nose and throat specialist. Some of you may remember Kay Clown who lived with me and was my room mate while we were both going to BYU. I met her in one of my classes and we've been friends ever since.







She is the one from South Dakota, and a full blooded Lakota Sioux. Kay called me the other day out of the blue. She saw Hank on a press conference announcement about soldiers returning home from Iraq last week-end. She said she remembered he was my son, so tried to call me through dialing 411 (information) with no luck. She then got Hank's phone number and left a message. She had been in Salt Lake City visiting her cousin for over four months, recuperating from a bad fall injuring her head with a concussion. She was experiencing dizziness and has what is called vertigo and needed the opinion of the ear specialist. I listened to her dr. and learned all about what that is, and the cause of it in her fall.

The resident, (young Dr. Yang) explained how we hear after he examined her and showed us a bigger than life-sized drawing of the ear. I was in awe at what makes it possible for us to even hear, and what prevents one from hearing or her not having equilibrium due to her injury. I came away without doubt and recognized the hand of God and how intricate we all are when/how we are formed in the womb so perfectly--a miracle in and of itself.

It makes me appreciate all my five, (and sixth) senses, believe me. My hearing is precious to me, as well as my sight. It was still not determined if her condition is temporary and will improve as it heals, or if she will have permanent damage which causes the dizziness or vertigo. I count my blessings!!!

Then I pondered rather quickly how the EYE is also so intricate and what helps us actually have vision, besides the heart and how it beats besides the sense of touch or taste along with the BRAIN. We are all walking miracles.

I know, "My Heavenly Father Loves Me"

Whenever I hear the song of a bird or look at the blue, blue sky,
Whenever I feel the rain on my face or the wind as it rushes by,
Whenever I touch a velvet rose, or walk by our lilac tree,
I am glad that I live in this beautiful world Heavenly Father created for me.

He gave me my eyes that I might see the color of butterfly wings,
He gave me my ears that I might hear the magnificent sound of things.
He gave me my life my mind my heart: I thank him reverently--
For all his creations, of which I'm a part.
Yes, I know Heavenly Father loves me.

This songs says it all and how I have always felt, and is one of my favorite Primary songs.

I am pleased the pictures downloaded just fine. The camera I received for Christmas is worth it's weight in gold! I love it, by the way. Thank you.

LDS Church Announces Plan to Open Restaurants

Did you know. . . .??

LDS Church announces plan to open Mormon-themed restaurants


Rumor has it that there is an idea floating around out there for a chain
of non-pretentious Mormon-themed restaurants called The Steak Center
(Where There's Never a Dry, Boring Meat-ing!).

Each Steak Center will have one enormous dining area with basketball
hoops at either end and folding metal chairs and long tables covered in
plastic tablecloths. The Steak Centers will not have hostesses, but
greeters, men in their seventies who will meet you at the door and talk
like they have known you all your life.

The main menu items will be: Porterhouse Rockwell Steak, Primary Rib and
the Poor Wayfaring Pan of Beef, garnished with Parsley P. Pratt Funeral
Potatoes. They will also have, when in season, Eliza R. Snow Crab.

And let's not forget a whole line of 'And It Came to Pasta', including
Kraft Maca-Moroni and Cheese.

Additionally, they'll have breakfast items, including Pearls of Great
Rice and Frosted Minivans, as well as Adam-ondi-Omelettes. Also
available, 'In Our Lovely Desserts', including Fast Sundaes, Gadianton
Cobbler and the sinful Laman Meringue Pie.

The waiters will be 12- and 13-year-old boys wearing white shirts and
their fathers' neck-ties. At the end of the night, all customers will be
asked to help fold up the chairs, tables and vacuum the floor.

Franchises are selling faster than Sunbeams on Skittles!
Reserve yours while they last!

(I hope you are laughing) I got this as an email and I couldn't resist using this photo from the birthday bash last Saturday.
P.S. I think someone forgot to include all about the Lime Green Jello/Carrot salad for the buffet table!!!

Wow, Blogging for six months...180 Days

Today was a very non-productive day. But the intent was there for it be productive. What I had hoped to accomplish was not what really played out ultimately. However, I know there are days like this.

I actually left my cell phone at the store and mentally traced my steps. I thought I left it at a friend's house. But it was late at night that it was discovered (not literally) that it wasn't were I thought. So I called the store service desk about ten p.m.

"No," they said. It wasn't turned in. I took them at their word, but just knew something wasn't right. Ever just know that the "lost article" was at the last place you were was where it could be? It really threw me and didn't know what to do.

After an hour, I got a call from the friend whose place I originally thought I left the phone. She said Smith's called her to tell her her phone had been found! She said she didn't lose her phone, but her friend did. Hmmm. Interesting. (Her number was the last one dialed on my phone log. They told her to let me know it would be at the front of the store by the self-check out.

I decided to just go get it by then, and wouldn't be able to sleep anyway so I drove to Orem at midnight and got back before 1:00 am. I just shook my head and didn't really get too upset. I had less than an hour of minutes until the minutes start again on Wednesday. So that is the good news in all this. I won't go over my limit in minutes, and that could be the best thing about this phone fiasco.

That last trip to Orem just past midnight made it my third trip there for one day. No need to explain, it just describes how my day went, when one trip should have been enough.

I guess someone is looking out for me...right?

"Come Unto Jesus"

Our ward choir performed the song "Come Unto Jesus," which we have been practicing for several weeks. I really have enjoyed the spirit of choir and it is all I can do to stop from crying feeling the sweetness of the spirit as we sing. Believe it when I say the words are so much more meaningful with the spirit. I love this new experience with the choir. I guess in the past I was never really into to it...since I felt I was so untalented and inadequate.

It feels good to be in choir now ,and follow the lead of the choir director and let the rest flow. I no longer feel untalented or inadequate. I know there is a voice there, that with some practice can contribute to the choir. It even sounds like my own voice has gotten better and blends with the other choir members.

The choir is now practicing for our next project--a patriotic program and we are singing songs dear to my heart, "America, America," "America, The Beautiful," "Nephi, Seer of Old," "God of Our Fathers," along with a narration that is very well done. I look forward to seeing and hearing that one when we sing it in sacrament meeting the last Sunday in June.

This morning after choir practice, I went to Hank's ward since he invited me as he was speaking on "The Title of Liberty." It was wonderful. I took a lot of notes and appreciated the points. He looks like a natural up there and very well prepared in his public speaking skills. Must be his work and past Toastmaster'e experience. Grandpa Rodriguez would be very pleased and proud.



It was K3 and K4s birthday dinner celebration today. I as able to go visit with them and took Aislyn and Ella. They love it when I take them to visit their cousins. They are great friends and enjoy one another's company. They had so much fun, they wanted to stay longer when it was time to leave. K6, K8, and K9 begged to let them stay longer. But it was getting late and close to bedtime so we called it a day.

My meetings were all uplifting. I love Sundays even if I don't get a nap. I get to sleep in sometimes so that makes up for no nap later in the day. I count my many blessings to be doing what I am doing. It just doesn't seem possible for it to get any better than it is! I look forward to a great week ahead.

I will download some of the pictures soon that I took of Hallows' at Kaitlyn's baptism yesterday, and some from today.

Family Time Together--Kaitlyn's Baptism

Kaitlyn was baptized this morning and we gathered to give our support on her special day.


Turning eight years old in this family means baptism and a celebration. Today was not exception. After the baptism we went over to Hallows' and had some cinnamon rolls while we waited to go to lunch at the traditional Brick Oven in Provo. Both sets of grandparents were in attendance along with lots of cousins' support.




It was a sweet experience to see Kaitlyn go into the waters of baptism and have her daddy, do the honors. We are all so pleased with you Kaitlyn as you are growing up so fast, and are very talented. Keep up the good work and your piano lessons. You will be an outstanding pianist and a contribution to your peers and the Lord.


Love, Grandma Mattie :)

Devja'Vu

The other day I happened to meet Traci at Wal-Mart to give her something I had intended to return. She was at the store which was closer to where I was than her house. As I met her, the usual sibling rivalry was going on in full force.

I looked at Maddie and saw myself as a child. She was whining about something. I whined, a lot. My mother used to tell me I would tell her about my brother, (Bob) and tell her (whining of course) that he was looking at me." She would then tell me, "Well, DON'T look at him!" I don't know how many times that happened. It was just part of growing up, I guess.

But I look at the lovely young lady that Maddie is, and know there is hope. Hope that she will turn out into a beautiful person inside as well as out. And that she will know for herself of her own worth. That is another thing that used to really hurt when my brother constantly told me how "ugly" I was when I was also growing up. To a young woman, so sensitive as I know I am, how that really scarred me for many, many years.

It wasn't until I was a new member of the true Church that those feelings about myself changed dramatically. It was from reading the Book of Mormon. Now that is an astounding remedy. It worked and still works for me to get my personal bearings of just who I am, and what my heavenly Father thinks of me. I know it will work for anyone else as well. The hand of God is at my finger tips, by reading and my daily sup from its pages. What more can I ask?

Sleep escaped me last night, couldn't sleep a wink!

When I wrote those few comments last night it was through eyes that felt like sand and I could hardly keep them opened. You know that feeling. Well, I crawled into bed and fell asleep but only for a few hours. After waking up about 2:00 am, out of mostly a sound sleep, still in much need of rest-- my brain wouldn't shut off or let me go back to sleep!

It was one of those times that I gave up trying to sleep so I got up and put my eye patch on which was nearby my bed. I started to sort through some papers and a couple of boxes that I had put things into just to get out of the way temporarily.
Before I knew it, a half hour had passed and I was going like gangbusters! I had cleared out those stacks of papers and threw away most of it. Yes, aren't you proud of me?

Then, I glanced over at the table and there was my book of writings that were compiled into that First Book of Anna that sat next to my computer begging to be noticed. I had actually left opened the book to the page that I had written some thoughts about the priesthood and consecrated olive oil.

A week ago, one of the sisters at choir had asked if anyone had a poem or something written specifically to husbands for Father's Day. She was asking to use it to sing it. But, I remembered I had some verses that had I originally written as a Father's day tribute back the year son, Hank was getting ready to leave on his mission in 1983. Imagine, those verses were written twenty five years ago.

Well, being the late hour that it was, I decided to work on the verses since everything was so quiet, no TV or phones going to distract me. I wrote a revised edition of it and think it is even better than I expected it could ever be. It must have been the "eye patch" that opened up my creative sense and I let it rip (flow), as they say!!

And here it is, the finished product:


A Tribute to the Priesthood holders in my life which includes my SONS (and sons-in-law)

Fathers, Husbands and the Vial of Faith—

Power in the Priesthood

One day I was pondering the significance of
Consecrated olive oil. The thoughts occurred to me that something was much greater than the tiny vial of oil which I held in the palm of my hand.

To Fathers, and Husbands: Vial of Faith

This tiny vessel of oil which you hold represents countless blessings and power untold.

This same power formed the Earth,
And made the rushing waters divide—
And placed the moon and the sun, which gave us night and day,
It made the stars that glow so brightly at a distance so far away,

The Earth was created and blessed with beautiful plant life that brought forth flowers of every kind, followed by the animals that walk upon this blessed land.

This wondrous power created life and other worlds, creatures, and Adam and Eve.
This, your sacred charge given by God himself before time began--in eternity,

The Savior, Jesus Christ has taught us and said:

Heal the sick, the wounded, the widow edify,
Feed the poor and care for the fatherless child.
Bless your little ones, and your wife,
Keep my commandments and give praise.
For this sacred oil is an instrument of faith.

This holy, sacred power to thee He gives,
Bear it with honor all thy days, He commands.
And know that it links the heavens and earth, worlds without end.

We honor you, dear Fathers and husbands too, this day,
May this tiny vessel of oil remind you to honor it always, we pray.


By Anna McIntire revised June 5, 2008 All copyrights reserved

If you see any errors that need correcting please let me know, I am half asleep by now as I send this out for your eyes to decide. Any suggestions, welcomed.
Here I am being long-winded, again. My apologies. Oh Well.
Love, Mom

Lots to share, I just need a catch up day!

Been keeping a few notes of what to write in here, of times that I notice those oh so tender mercies. I know who is in charge here. So I will not leave anyone hanging who is interested in what I have to say. Me too.(interested in what I have to say) ;)

Do you like the slight changes in the colors etc?



Later, Love. Mom.....

Busy Grandma days-going here and there

I had several errands to run and went over to Aaron's office to make copies. He was there so he showed me how to get the printer to work with a password. I went about my task and finished it. Then as I was leaving to go to my car, I usually check my purse and get my car keys ready. I noticed no keys to be found. It was fortunate I was where I was (at Aaron's office) since he has an extra key to my car too. He tossed it down to me from the balcony in front of his office door. I was grateful for the tender mercy to be able to go about my day without a glitch to call someone to open the door, or have a locksmith come tackle the problem. So I was thankful for a fine son, who took care of me in the moment. Thank you Aaron for being there for me, not just today but always. I love you and appreciate the privilege it is to be where I am with you, Candice and the children. The hand of God is so obvious in my life
even if I did leave my keys in the car and locked myself out.

Recital performances tonight. Tara called to remind me about Jacob and Erin performing at their teacher's home in Spanish Fork tonight. I invited Aislyn and Ella to go along so that they could experience seeing their cousins using and developing their talents in music. It turned out that I left a few minutes later than I would have had I gone alone. The girls' car seats needed to be transferred to my car in the meantime before we left for the recital. I called Tara so she would know that I would be arriving a few minutes later than the beginning. Jacob and Erin were first on the program. She then called me as I was just getting off the Price-Manti off ramp. She said they would wait for me to arrive and then the kids would perform as soon as I got there. I had the impression before she called to not stress over the time we left. So I relaxed and knew something would work out, eithre they would start late, or have some of the other students go before Fryers and Hallows. Kaitlyn was also a student of the same teacher so I got to hear her play also. Erin looked so pretty in her dress. She had her hair styled so nicely too. Jacob looked handsome in his Sunday attire. He did a great job too with his teacher doing a duet with him playing the top part of the songs he played. He seemed to enjoy his pieces and he did a great job. I noticed that both Erin and Kailtlyn played their piece by heart without the sheet music in front of them...Way to GO girls!!

It was a pleasure to see them all excel and succeed with their musical talents. I watched their teacher listening and watching each one performed and she was very pleased at the results of her students. She has a darling personality and I can tell the students and parents all love her...her name means love too, Amy.

We had some light refreshments and enjoyed the company of Tara and Tana's families. The other grandparents, Fryers were their as well. Tara took pictures. I asked her to email me the ones of the kids playing. She got some great shots. I left my camera on the car seat and since we arrived a little late, I didn't want to make a spectacle getting up to go get the camera to take pictures. Tara had a front row seat, so it should all be fine when I can post some of those photos. I like to include some visuals on my mostly daily blog. I know Tara took some excellent shots, so when she emails them I can insert them here.

Bless your day!!

No title as yet,

Too sleepy to be able to see straight tonight...will fill this in later...when the flow comes into intelligent thought.
Mom

A Milestone Marker of the Strength of Zion's Future

Just a short thought today, (famous last words) about the baby blessing of my first Great-grandson, William K. Chung Hoon. I think there may have been another name added after his middle name, but I didn't quite catch it. Sorry. Maybe Tanise, you can comment of that full name, Ok?


Well, my impression of that beautiful blessing was that the Church's future is in good hands. I know that little William, even though he is just a babe in arms today, will be a great strength to his parents, grandparents and his leaders. He will also become a great leader himself, and know the Savior whom he has just left such a short time ago.

Ben, his father, gave a blessing that was very sweet and I felt the spirit so strongly and am pleased the Lord is pleased with my little great-grandson. God bless you and your parents, and please remember how much I love each of you and pray for your well-being and success.

Love, G-Grandma McIntire