The Todd's Life

2011-09-13T11:17:00.002-06:00

Last Thursday, Heather's oldest son-Tyler began his 8th grade football.   He is the quarterback. They played Glenns Ferry who had some pretty big guys. Tyler's team beat by quite a bit. It's the first time in 3 years that Filer 8th grade has won. Tyler was pretty popular the next day at school, especially with the girls.
Mom/Grandma Bodily had her remaining teeth surgically removed yesterday. She had to be at the hospital at 8:00 a.m.  They finally took her for the surgery at 10:10 a.m. About 30-40 minutes later, the Dr. came out and said she did fine. Not so. Her blood pressure was extremely high all day. PAIN WAS EXTREME ALL DAY.  She finally got to go home about 5;30 p.m. Hospital staff getting her dressed and helping put her into car were not very gentle. Finally, I told the man to let me do it myself because he was trying to force her bad leg to bend when it won't bend.  Her face is black & blue ane swollen. When her mouth heals, she will get dentures for the bottom. She already has dentures for the top.
Andy (Heather & Stephanie's 1/2 brother) and his girlfriend had their first baby. She already has a son about 2 years old. His name is Julian. Andy and Jessica's baby is a boy. He is named Andy Ricky Ebbs.  He was born on 9-11-11, sometime between midnight and 1:00 a.m. He weighed 9 lbs. and 4 ozs. His head was stuck in his mom's birth canal. Finally, a c-section was performed and he was pushed out backwards. I believe both of them get to go home today. I wish they lived closer, so we could enjoy him.

Our newst "grandchild".
He's not blood related to us,
but he is blood related to our daughters.

SOME CATCHING UP

2011-05-16T10:34:00.002-06:00

It's been quite awhile since I posted anything. I've been spending quite a lot of time on the computer. I've recently learned how to make movies --- combining mini movies together. It's fun, but time consuming. In fact, I just shortened a church video because of time to fit Primary schedule. The original movie is about an hour long. Time-wise, we couldn't pull that off . So, I edited the movie-taking out all unnecessary pauses. I just kept the narrative in the story. I was able to keep the movie pretty close to the original, but cut out approx. 20 minutes. I then made dvd's of the edited movie. We watched part 1 yesterday for Sharing Time and will watch part 2 next week for sharing Time. The full movie can be found on : YOUTUBE - MORMONMESSAGES ---THE TITLE OF THE MOVIE--- JOSEPH SMITH: PROPHET OF THE RESTORATION. It is a fantastic movie!
Another reason I've spent a lot of time at the computer is that I've recently started doing family search. Our ward is having a Temple day-actually time in June. The whole temple will be filled with our ward at 7:30 p.m. on the 11th of June. Our Bishop asked everyone in Ward Council who had ever done any of this. some said their spouses had, but no one including the Bishop had. 2 weeks later, I was proud to say that I had 14 names ready. Bishop had over 400 names. I haven't spent as much time doing that as he as, but I've continued doing a little. It's fun and interesting to find out that many generations of Rick's family (baptists) have their ordinances already finished. We knew his grandparents were, but we didn't know about others.

I've taken mom out for lunch a few times in the last few months. She really enjoys the opportunity to get out of the Nursing Home. I wish I had more time to take her out more.

Heather's kids have been doing track and volleyball. We were busy attending those events. Bekha's team (volleyball) ended up getting first place. They got that against a team from Burley that was cheating. They kept putting any girl from either team according to how they were winning or not. Only the girls that started each particlar game is supposed to play. Filer parents caught what they were doing and wrote their names down so they couldn't switch. That means Bekha's team won.

The video that you just watched was Tyler, Heather's oldest. He did long jump, hurdles, 400 yard relay, discus throwing and shot put. (Some of the time, he only did some of them-depending on his attitude I think.) Tyler got braces during track. Maybe that's why he didn't do all of the events.

Bekha playing volleyball - 2011

Mady and Arianna
2011 b-day celebration

Mady opening b-day card
from us-2011.

Arianna opening card
from us for 2011 b-day.

Andy came for a visit.

Andy's new girlfriend, Jessica.
They are expecting their first
child together in the fall.
His name will be Ricardo (Ricky).

This is Julian-Jessica's little
boy. He looks quite a lot like
Andy did when he was young.

Kari Otto's Sr. Picture.
Stephanie's oldest
step-daughter

2011-03-19T09:43:00.001-06:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY NIECE'S FAMILY-TODAY THEY BECOME A FOREVER FAMILY!
Danielle & her husband and daughter are being sealed as an eternal family in the Salt Lake Temple today. I so-o-o wanted to be there and support them. Rick didn't want to make the effort-because both of us hate driving in Salt Lake. I would have made the effort if Rick would have been more willing. I sent them a card, but it's not the same as being there.
I'm so happy for them. Blessings do come to those who are Faithful and patient.
Love you lots!

2011-03-08T11:46:00.001-07:00

THANK YOU TO MOM'S GRANDDAUGHTERS! I want you to know that Mom (and myself ) appreciate each one of you that remember Mom. Often, I go visit her at the Care Center and she has me read a letter from one of you. You often send letters with pictures of your families and keep mom informed about your lives. Yesterday, she received an invitation to Danielle and Jeremy and Kaylee's Temple day-the day that they become a Forever Family. She was so-o-o pleased to receive it. Danielle even had a special embroidered handkerchief that said: "Sealed with a Kiss" The Park Family March 19th, 2011. That was in an outline of the Salt Lake Temple. That meant so much to Mom.
Again, Thanks to each of you for remembering her in your busy lives.

2011-03-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

CONGRATS! TO Arianna. Stephanie's oldest biological daughter- Arianna- officially passed both of her driving tests recently. She is now legal. Mike & Stephanie even was able to buy Arianna a car from their tax returns. So, Arianna is feeling pretty special these days. I hear she's a good driver.

I'm, setting here at the computer, looking out the window. It is snowing right now. It's really wet snow, so it's not going to accumulate. However, it is sure pretty to see right now. The flakes are huge. I love that kind of snow.

2011-02-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

MOM'S BIRTHDAY (sort of) -- I had a Dr. appointment yesterday in Twin Falls. I decided since it was just a few days before Mom's birthday that I would just take her out to lunch today. That way, I wouldn't have to go back to Twin Falls tomorrow. She enjoyed going out. We had a nice visit. She wanted me to come back to Twin Falls on Thursday, but I said I just couldn't make it and besides maybe Grant and the twins would stop by and visit her tomorrow. (Grant called today. They are going.)
I didn't know that the day was going to turn into an all day event. My Dr. appointment was at 10:00. I went to the Care center and asked if she wanted to go out to eat. As we were leaving, the driver of care center came and told us that she (Mom) had a Dr. appointment at 2:30. She asked if I would go ahead and take mom. I said yes but that I had to be back in Buhl. I asked if she could pleas pick Mom up and take her home. Well, Mom wanted me to stay with her until she went in to see the Dr. Then, she wanted me to go in with the Dr. The Dr. wanted some blood work and an x-ray done on her shoulder. By the time she was getting done, I called the care center driver and told her it was time to pick up mom. She said it would be awhile because she was at the hospital. I said that I would take Mom home. Well, when I got her back to the Care center, mom went inside while I parked the car. When I got inside, I couldn't find her. Tuesday afternoons is Ice Cream Social that starts at 3:30. Mom wanted me to stay for that. Finallly, I told her that I had to leave at 3:45 because I had to get back in Buhl. I got to the bank about 4:15 and didn't finish with paying off our house until almost 5:00. I thought I'd be home closer to around 2:00 or 3:00.
I'm glad that I'm here to be a part of mom's life, but sometimes it gets old. I still have my life that I need to take care of. As it was, I never had time to stop and buy any of the things that were on my list.

2011-02-08T22:31:00.001-07:00

OUR NEWS! ! ! We paid off our house today! Yesterday, we owed $65.55. I tried transferring that amount from our checking account. It wouldn't let me do that transfer. It would let me transfer $65.00. This morning, we owed 55 cents on our house. I went to the bank this morning, but the lobby wasn't open. Later in the day -when life slowed down- I went back. We had enough in escrow that we we able to pay off the 55 cents and the $50.00 title transfer fee and still have $430.15 left over. We're going to apply in to our taxes.
We had refinanced it twice. We knocked off about 10 years and at least $20,000 in interest--at least we think probably that much.
Now it will be much easier to make our car payments. The last 4 or 5 month-paying car payments and house payments has been a little tight financially.

2011-02-01T10:15:00.001-07:00

UPDATE ON YESTERDAY'S POST.

The Dr. did acupuncture on me. It wasn't the traditional acupuncture with needles. It was done with electricity and also done in "key" spots in the ear. My back pain is mostly gone. My sciatic nerve that had felt like it was shortened by at least 4 inches feels better, but not all the way. I kept waking up last night and had to adjust. I am going back tomorrow for another treatment.

2011-01-31T09:27:00.001-07:00

PAIN IS NOT FUN ! I tolerate pain better than many people. Well last Tuesday, I was putting dishes in the dishwasher. My back went out. I couldn't move and I was in a lot of pain. I told Rick that if it didn't go away, I would not be going with him to our Temple assignment that night.
Rick brought me a chair and I set in the kitchen for awhile. I could tell the pain wasn't going away. I decided that if I was going to be setting, I might as well be watching t.v. I managed to get in the front room. Rick gave me an ice pack and thankfully, we had some pain pills. I didn't go to the Temple assignment. (Rick's mom went with him.) Wednesday was slightly better. I forced myself to go to my Primary Presidency meeting in the the evening. Thursday, I had an appointment with Mom's Care Center--(quarterly family review). I really wanted to cancel the meeting because the pain was terrible, but I didn't. The pain continued to get worse during the day. By the time I got home on Thursday afternoon, I was in excrutiating pain--probably the worst that I've felt in 10-12 years. I doubled up on the pain medicine. Friday, I felt a little better and was able to serve in the Temple. (I did temporarily get sick - I guess from too much pain and medication.) Thankfully, Heavenly Father allowed me to feel fairly well during the day at the Temple. As soon as I finished, I started hurting again. Saturday, I hurt more. Now the pain is moving down my leg. Thankfully, I felt better somewhat for Sunday and that allowed me to do my Sunday responsibilities. Today, my back is better than it was on Thursday-not well-but better. The muscle in my leg feels like it's about 4 inches too short. I AM GETTING AN ADJUSTMENT TODAY ! ! I'M REALY EXCITED ABOUT THE APPOIINTMENT. To be excited about going to the dr.--something must truly be wrong! When I talked to the Dr. this morning, he said that his initial diagnosis was that I'm allergic to doing dishes and asked if I wanted a prescription for that.

2011-01-24T12:51:00.170-07:00

This is a HUGE post of lots of misc. picturesfrom the last 1/2 year or so.

This is Heather's daughter-"Bekha"

Softball 2010

"Bekha" at bat.

Bekha out in field-softball-2010

Heather's oldest son-Tyler
pitching in baseball-2010
He's good, but gets nervous.

Tyler loves to steal bases.
Most of the time, he succeeds.

Tyler batting. Often, he hits
homeruns and is voted the
most valuable player.
He has potential.

Heather's youngest son- Jacob.
It reminded Alan when we were growing up.

Jacob posing for a picture. 2010

Another picture of Jacob as catcher
June 2010

Heather's kids did pretty good in baseball this summer. I believe Bekha's team got 2nd place. It was kind of a surprise. Jacob's team is still too young to go very far, but improved a lot. Tyler's team had a very good chance at getting first place. They had gotten themselves in the tournament as one of the favorites. Then, their coach got irritated (at the tournaments) and was thrown out of the game. The boys went in a spiral downfall after that.

Sunset coming home from baseball
in Filer-early evening-2010.

Another Sunset picture from the
same evening in 2010.

Stephanie's daughter-Mady
in drama class O'leary Jr. High 2010
Mady is the one with a blond wig
over dark hair with a huge smile.

Another picture of Mady.

This is Mady's 3rd year playing the viola.
I can actually hear improvements now.

A better picture of Mady
takeing her "bow" in Oct. 2010.

Thanksgiviing 2010

Twin Falls Care Center

My twin brothers and Mom
Terry & Jerry and; Helen Bodily

Thanksgiving 2010
Terry, Jerry, Diane and; Mom

Stephanie's youngest daughter Kennedi
"Kenna" and friend and cousin on 6th b-day Dec.2nd 2010

Kenna and friend

Heather's youngest son-by the coach-Jacob at his basketball
tournaments in Dec. 2010. His team got 2nd place.

Jacob's team picture at tournaments--Dec. 2010

Stephanie's family made mom a
Christmas present. Mom is
opeing it right here.

Stephanie and; Mom enjoying the present.

I love this picture!
Stephanie, Rick, Arianna, "Kenna" and Mom

Mom at our house on Christmas Eve
Grant, and the twins came also.

2010-10-27T11:07:00.000-06:00

As of last Thursday-October 21st, 2010-I am officially retired. the company that I have worked at for 29 years (Green Giant/Seneca Foods) is downsizing. They will no longer can corn in our area. They will freeze corn and peas. Half of the regulars were informed on Oct. 1st that their jobs were eliminated at the end of this year. Since my job dealt with "canned corn", my job is one the the eliminated. I'm a seasonal worker instead of a year-round worker. That means there is no severance pay-just a big Thank You for all of my years of service. Yes, I probably could get hired for next year. If I did, it would be dirtier and harder. I'm too old for that. Since Heavenly Father allowed a miracle to happen over a course of many years, (our house will be paid for very soon), I choose not to go back to work.
We now have a car ! ! Heavenly Father directed us to a car that we can afford and like. We found a 2003 Buick Century. It has 100,000 miles less than our old car and is 6 years newer. The payments are affordable and it will be paid for in 3 years. However, you won't recognize us when you see us. It is not red. It's listed as bronze. Rick calls it our chameleon. It changes colors with different lighting on it. Sometimes it looks bronze, grey, or silver all with tints of green, purple, and brown added. Thank Heavens for personalized license plates. It looks smaller on the outside, but almost the same size inside. It still has 6 seat-belts, and even has a larger trunk. Thanks Heavenly Father for always blessing us with what is right for us ! ! !

2010-09-04T05:14:00.001-06:00

IT NEVER FAILS.
Just when it starts to look like "things" are getting better, than something else happens. Our car pretty well died lastnight. The transmisssion went out. Thankfully, we have roadside assistance on our insurance. that paid for a wrecker to take the car home. (I was at the Temple when it died.) Also thankfully a family member is spending at least the next 9 months in Switzerland. We can use their car for awhile- until we decide what to do. Our car has 198,000 miles on. We don't know if it's worth getting a new transmission or if we try to get a different car. We don't know how long the engine will last-although, the engine was pretty well reworked 2 years ago when it died. I know Heavenly Father will watch over us. He always does.

2010-09-01T10:13:00.001-06:00

This last month in Primary-(church-for those of you who don't know), we learned that Jesus is a God of Miracles and the miracles continue to happen in our time because of our faith. I want to share with you a miracle in my life. For about 10-15 years, I've heard that many jobs-mine included-will be eliminated. I've been asking Heavenly Father to not let that happen until we could afford for me not to work. Well, the miracle happened this year. Just about a month ago, I found out that this year will be my last year because the jobs are being eliminated for sure. In fact, usually I've been working about 4-6 weeks by this time of year. I've only worked 1 day so far this year. The Miracle is this: Our house will be paid for this year. We owe less than $3,000 on our house. Heavenly Father allowed my job to continue as long as we needed it. Thanks Heavenly Father for always watching over us and blessing us according to our needs! It definitely is a Faith Builder when we can see that you are taking care of us.
I probably won't be posting much for awhile. It is time that I'm working most of the time-as soon as the corn gets ready. After work, I'll try to get caught up. I need to post other pictures when I get caught up.

2010-09-01T10:03:00.000-06:00

We went 4-wheeling last week in the South Hills, (in Idaho-for those of you that don't know where the South Hills are.) It is very rare to see these animals up there. I'm grateful that I had a camera. I wish that I had my better camera because they are not great pictures. In fact, when I took the color out of them-they turned out better. We saw 2 bull moose and 1 cow moose near Porcupine Springs Campground. I just had to post the pictures. Hope you can see them since the pictures didn't turn out great. 8-26-2010

I really liked this picture the best.

Self explanatory -I wish it was better quality.

The cow was running up hill.
Other riders in the area, said that they saw the cow
and calf walk thru their campground earlier in the morning.
We did not see the calf.

2010-09-01T09:23:00.005-06:00

I inherited the responsibility of being the high council companion speaker in Sacrament Meeting when I became Primary President. I want to thank Stephanie and her husband, Mike, for making the effort to come to our church that day to support me. Rick's mom came also. I'm going to post the talk-most of it-just because I want it for posterity. I like the idea of most of my talks being written done for others to have the opportunity to read. --- I gave the talk on the 15th of August. I'm just getting around to posting it.

ACT IN DILIGENCE
My assignment was to talk about President Eyring’s talk from the 2010 April Conference to the Priesthood Session. The title is: ACT IN DILIGENCE. President Eyring was inspired to talk about this subject because of the new booklets prepared by the church for the My Duty to God program. In reading these booklets, he realized they were describing what President Brigham Young had promised many years ago. President Young said, “to those that are diligent over a lifetime, and continues faithful to his or her calling, who delights in doing the things God requires, will secure for their selves not only the privilege of receiving, but the knowledge of how to receive the things of God”.---I looked up the word diligence in the dictionary. It is: hard working, putting care and effort into what one does. That goes right along with the information that President Eyring got out of the Duty to God booklet. President Eyring said that we are to learn what the Lord expects of us, make a plan to do it, then, act on that plan with all diligence. DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS SECTION 75 : 29 Let every man be diligent in all things. And the idler shall not have place in the church, except he repent and mend his ways.
I decided to go directly to the Duty to God booklet for information. The very first page has a message from the 1st Presidency of the church. They said that we live in a world of great challenges and opportunities. Heavenly Father has great confidence & trust in us & has important missions or responsibilities for us to fulfill. They said that as we turn to Him in prayer, listen for the promptings of the spirit, obey the commandments, and keep the covenants that we have made; Heavenly Father will bless us. In D&C 84:33-38, the Lord promises that if we fulfill our duties, we will be sanctified by the Spirit.
President Eyring mentioned that all of us know people that serve with diligence. He too, knows people that have served diligently. Because of their example, he has learned and wants us to know what he has learned. He has come to an understanding that we must learn who we are truly serving. In all truthfulness, we are serving Heavenly Father & Jesus Christ. When that is embedded in our hearts, that’s when we will begin to serve with diligence. President Eyring said we are to learn our duty from the Lord, and then we are to act in all diligence, never being lazy or slothful. Yes, there will be times when we will be tempted to rest from our labors. Sometimes when we come home tired, it may be easier to set down and watch T.V. instead of going to Mutual or the Primary activity or making the appointments that we were supposed to do. Sometime it may be easier to stay home instead of going to the Ward Activity that you’re in charge of. When we are tempted to rest from our labors, we need to remember what the Savior experienced on our behalf. Out of love for His Father and for us, He allowed Himself to suffer on the cross. None of us truly know the agony that He experienced there, but can imagine how bad it was for Him. The Savior’s example gives us courage to press on. He knew we would have trials. He knows our weaknesses and yet, He still trusts us. By our faithful service and through His Atonement, we can come to want what He wants and to become the person that we must be -to bless other people. The Savior taught His disciples, “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it” (Luke 9:24). President Monson believes the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others, grow and flourish—and in effect, save their lives." As we serve the Savior long enough and with diligence, our hearts will be changed. As we remember Him, we will be determined to perform our duties to the best of our abilities. That can become a pattern in our life that will increase our power to be diligent in every duty given to us.
For some time now, Rick’s mom has had the responsibility or calling to be the greeter at church. She enjoys her calling. She shakes their hands, asks how they are and sometimes even gives hugs. She makes them feel welcome. I know she makes every effort to be the best greeter she can be. She goes out of her way to do the very best she can.
Some of us have larger responsibilities than others. Does that mean that the rest of us do not have to act with diligence? No, it doesn’t. We can be diligent in obeying the commandments. We can be diligent in being a good example to our friends. We can be diligent in being reverent in Sacrament meeting so others may feel the Spirit. We can be diligent in studying the scriptures. Whatever we’ve been asked to do, we can and should be diligent. All of us should put forth our best efforts in the work assigned to us. No assignment is too small in the eyes of the Lord, for each has eternal consequences. DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS SECTION 75:3 Behold, I say unto you that it is my will that you should go forth and not tarry, neither be idle but labor with your might— President John Taylor warned us, “If you do not magnify your callings, God will hold you responsible for those whom you might have saved if had you done your duty”.--(D&C 58:6.) -- Behold, verily I say unto you, for this cause I have sent you—that you might be obedient,…I believe there should be consistent daily effort by every one of us. We should lengthen our stride and quicken our pace and try harder to do our duty diligently. We should make a renewed effort in doing our very best.
In 1989, President Hinckley was speaking to another Priesthood Session of Conference. He repeated the Scout oath: “On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout law, to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.” Then, he slightly changed it for the purpose of that meeting. I too, will slightly change it. “On my honor I will do my best to magnify whatever calling or duty I receive and serve diligently.” President Hinckley said that he understood the word magnify to mean enlarge and to strengthen. ----All of us have the responsibility of magnifying our duties. We are responsible for the welfare and the growth and development of other people. As we serve or fulfill our duties with diligence, we lift and strengthen and build convictions of righteousness in those whose lives we touch. To give less than our best effort to our duties, takes away from what God wants for us. Duty does not require perfection, but it does require diligence. Fulfilling our duties with diligence is a test of our faith.
I’ll finish with a scripture that President Eyring included in his talk.
D&C 107:99-100 says: Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence. He that is slothful shall not be counted worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved-shall not be counted worthy to stand.

PRIMARY PRESIDENT!

2010-08-02T10:22:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I was sustained as the new Primary President in my Ward. I know it will work out, but it's really bad timing for my life right now. This is the time of year that very soon I will be working 6 days a week, 10-12 hours a day. My Bishop said they told the Lord that I can't do this right now. Basically, the Lord said, "So". So, the Bishop reminded the Lord that I can't do this. Again, the Lord basically said, "SO". So, the Bishop asked me 3 weeks ago. I asked what to do. He said just get good counselors that can help me. I submitted 2 names. One accepted-1st Counselor. The other turned the opportunity down. Then, I had to pray for more guideance. I Submitted 2 more names. The Bishop turned down one name and then told me to pray about someone else. I did and still got the same impression of the first sister. All of us were set apart as the new Primary Presidnecy yesterday.
The 15th of August is probably the last day that I will be able to go to church until after work in October. I need to get all my "ducks" in a row before then. To add to the stress, I also got assigned to give a talk in Sacrament Meeting on the 15th-as Primary President.
THANKS HEAVENLY FATHER FOR YOUR CONFIDENCE IN ME! I WILL DO MY BEST EFFORT.

2010-07-19T11:32:00.003-06:00

Copied from L.D.S. Young Single Adult Gems: Posted: 14 Jul 2010 12:00 AM PDT
“Everyone needs good friends. Your circle of friends will greatly influence your thinking and behavior, just as you will theirs. When you share common values with your friends, you can strengthen and encourage each other.”
Thomas S. Monson, “Preparation Brings Blessings,” Ensign, May 2010, 65

2010-07-19T09:05:00.004-06:00

This last Wednesday, I officially had the opportunity to perform all of the ordinances in the Temple-speaking the Spanish language. Heavenly Father has blessed me to learn this work in a different language than what I speak, so that I can help others. I'm grateful for that. I have to sub on the Spanish night, because I don't get the oppotunity on my shift.
This last Saturday, we had the honor to attend the Boise Temple with my brother's family. (Gary's family) His youngest son-Kevin, got his Endowment - preparing to go on his mission. All of Gary & Debbie's kids and most of their kids' spouses were able to attend. The Prayer Circle was great. It was all family with the exception of one couple. (I'm not sure if Gary & Debbie knew them or not.) Rick & I were in the Prayer Circle with them. The look on Gary & Debbie's faces were wonderful. You coudn't pay them to look more proud and happy. It was a great moment to be a part of.
I had to give Sharing Time this last Sunday. Sharing Times are difficult for me. I honestly didn't feel prepared. I just did what was suggested in the Sharing Time phamplet that the church provides. This morning, I got an e-mail from one of my teachers-telling me that I did a good job. The following is copied from her letter to me: By the way, the sharing time activity you did today really involved the kids. They liked stapling the links together to make the chain. Good Job!
I'm so thankful that Heavenly Father continues to bless us -daily. Life is good, even when you have trials.

.

2010-07-10T10:22:00.002-06:00

MORE PICTURES FROM OUR TRIP. THEY ARE OUT OF ORDER. I TRIED PUTTING THEM ON THE LAST POST. FOR SOME REASON, I COULDN'T GET THEM WHERE I WANTED-NO MATTER HOW MANY TIMES I TRIED. SO, YOU ARE LOOKING AT OUR VACATION BACKWARDS -SORT OF. THIS IS PART 2

SOME OF THE WAGONS GOING AROUND
THE CORNER.

INDIANS POSING FOR PICTURES
(OR WAITING TO ATTACK.)

BART-T-5 MOUNTAIN MAN
(CHECK OUT THE BOOK: THE WHITE INDIAN BOY
BY WILSON AND DRIGGS. THE TOWN OF
WILSON NEAR JACKSON IS NAMED AFTER HIM.
HE IS A RELATIVE OF THE FAMILY THAT
OWNS BAR-T-5 CHUCKWAGON DINNERS.)

THERE WERE 3 OF THES IN YELLOWSTONE.
THIS WAS THE BIGGEST ONE. THE OTHERS
WERE HUGE, BUT NOT AS HUGE AS THIS ONE.
THEY WERE RIGHT BESIDE THE RODE.

THIS BEAR WAS RUNNING ALONG THE ROAD
TRYING TO GET AWAY FROM TRAFFIC.
RICK LET ME OUT OF THE CAR. I WAS TRYING TO KEEP
UP WITH IT-ALWAYS AWARE THAT IT IS A WILD
ANIMAL-AND THINKING I WOULD JUMP IN THE
FIRST CAR AVAILABLE IF IT GOT TOO CLOSE.
(THIS PICTURE IS A STILL PICTURE TAKEN FROM
MY VIDEO OF THE BEAR RUNNING IN FRONT
OF THE CAR. WE WERE IN THE CAR WHEN
IT WAS TAKEN.)

WE SAW THIS BEAR EARLIER IN THE MORNING. I WAS HAVING
TROUBLE GETTING MY ZOOM TO WORK. I WAS
PLEASANTLY SURPRISED TO SEE THAT THE PICTURE WAS SO GOOD.

THIS PICTURE IS FUZZY-TAKEN OFF OF MY VIDEO.
IT WAS SORT OF STANDING UP ON IT'S HIND
FEET. I HAD TO POST THIS PICTURE
JUST BECAUSE !

DRIVING OUT OF YELLOWSTONE, A PATH THAT
WE DON'T NORMALLY TRAVEL, WE SAW THIS.
IT WAS RAINING "CATS & DOGS" AT THE TIME.
I MADE RICK TURN AROUND, SO I COULD GET
A PICTURE OF THIS WATERFALLS.

A MOMMY MOOSE AND HER CALF.
I WASN'T ABLE TO GET A TERRIFIC PICTURE
OF HER CALF, BUT YOU CAN SEE BOTH.

WE FINISHED OFF OUR VACATION BY DRIVING A LITTLE OUT OF OUR WAY TO GO TO REXBURG. WE HADN'T SEEN THE TEMPLE AND THOUGHT THIS MIGHT BE OUR ONLY OPPOTUNITY FOR SOME TIME. (I ACTUALLY WANTED TO DO A SESSION, BUT I KNEW THAT RICK WOULD NOT BE HAPPY ABOUT THAT, SO I DIDN'T EVEN PACK CHURCH CLOTHES.)

WHENEVER WE ACTUALLY GO INSIDE A TEMPLE,
WE HAVE SOMEONE TAKE A PICTURE OF US BY
THIS SIGN. YOU NOTICE, WE ARE NOT IN
THE PICTURE.
(WE HAVEN'T GOTTEN OUR PICTURE FROM
THE TWIN FALLS TEMPLE YET.)

THIS TEMPLE IS SO MUCH BIGGER THAN OURS-
THE TWIN FALLS , IDAHO TEMPLE-
THAT WE HAD TO GET A LONG WAYS
AWAY FOR THE WHOLE TEMPLE TO BE IN PICTURE.

A DIFFERENT VIEW OF THE TEMPLE.
IT WAS AN OVERCAST DAY-SO
THE PICTURES AREN'T AS BRIGHT
AS I WOULD HAVE HOPED FOR.

2010-07-10T08:43:00.054-06:00

WE WERE DRIVING IN GRAND TETON PARK.
WE SAW 4 DEER TOGETHER RIGHT HERE, BUT ONLY
GOT 3 OF THEM IN THIS PICTURE.
WE DIDN'T THINK THIS PARK WAS VERY PRETTY.
HOWEVER, IT IS WHERE WE SAW
MOST OF THE ANIMALS.

WE RODE A CHAIR LIFT UP THE MOUNTAIN.
(I WAS A LITTLE NERVOUS. I HAD NEVER RODE ONE BEFORE.)
WE RODE THE LUGE PRACTICE SLIDE DOWN THE MOUNTAIN. THAT WAS FUN.
RICK KEPT TRYING TO GO FASTER.
I DIDN'T GO AS FAST AS HIM,BECAUSE
THERE SIGNS ON EVERY CORNER THAT SAID
CAUTION-SLOW DOWN.

WE SAW THIS FOX AS WE WERE RIDING THE CHAIR LIFT.
THE PEOPLE AT THE TOP OF THE CHAIR LIFT SAID
THERE WAS A FAMILY OF FOXES ON THE MT.

BART-T-5 CHUCKWAGON DINNER PROGRAM.
IT WAS FANTASTIC! WE'D DO IT AGAIN IF GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY.

BAR-T-5 HAD INDIANS RIDING AROUND &
WHOOPING. THE JAPANESE GROUP IN OUR
WAGON WAS REALLY IMPRESSED .

.

2010-06-28T08:44:00.002-06:00

Went on my trip (that I won in December). Had a great time! We went to Jackson, Wyoming.
First, we rode chair lifts up the mountain. I had never rode one before. I was a little nervous-but realized it wasn't bad once I got on it. As we were riding the chair lift up, we saw a fox walking the trail. I got a picture of it. Just as we were getting to the top of the chair lift, they took our picture-as a souvenir. We bought it. We rode the Alpine Slide down the mountain. (That's a luge practicing ride.) That was fun. We went to Ripleys' believe it or not museum. That was part of the trip that I won. It wasn't worth any money. We were glad it was free. Later, we went to a History Museum that cost $3.00 each. That was well worth the money and time. I love museums and could have spent a lot longer time there. We were on a schedule. That afternoon-early evening-we went on the Bar-T-5 Chuck Wagon ride and dinner and western program. That was terrific! We'd do it again. After that we went to a rodeo. (Sort of--We didn't want to pay $14.00 each for being a little late. We just watched and heard everything outside the chain link fence.) WE SAW A MAN GET KILLED. HE WAS RIDING A BRONC-WITH SADDLE. THE HORSE STOOD UP ON HIS HIND FEET AND LANDED ON THE MAN'S HEAD. The next day, the news said that he had passed away. The next day, we went to the parks. The entrance fee was paid for with the trip that I won. (Also, our hotel room for 3 nights.) There weren't very many animals in Yellowstone park. We did see some elk with fantastic antlers. We got some great pictures. In Grand Tetons park, we were lucky enough to see a Grizzly -twice and a cow moose with her calf.

2010-06-18T09:12:00.003-06:00

Look to the Holy Ghost
If we are wise, we will encourage, praise, and exemplify everything which invites the companionship of the Holy Ghost.”
Henry B. Eyring, “Help Them on Their Way Home,” Ensign, May 2010, 25

4 GREAT YEARS!

2010-06-14T08:00:00.001-06:00

4 years ago yesterday, Rick & I traveled to Boise on a Sunday afternoon. ( I had just given a terrific Relief Society lesson-which didn't happen often.) We had packed a lunch to eat in the car. We had to be at a Orientation/welcome meeting at the Boise Temple. We were starting as Temple Officiators. This was our trainging meeting. We were the first ones there. At first, we thought maybe we got the information wrong. We didn't really think there would be anything happening at the Temple on Sundays, because the Temples are closed on Sundays. When we saw another couple from our stake drive up, we were glad. They were becoming Temple Ordinance Workers also. It was a wonderful afternoon. We were able to watch all of the trainging films and met the Presidency of the Temple.
Both of us worked at the Temple together for 6 months. Then, Rick's health got worse. He wasn't able to go with me the next 6 months. He was officially released after a year. I continued serving in the Boise Temple by myself until April 25th, 2008. That's the day I was released from the Boise Temple, to prepare to be set apart as an Ordinance Worker in the Twin Falls, Temple.
Thankfully, after I started working/serving in the Twin Falls Temple, Rick got the opportunity to check recommends on the work/cleaning/service day at the Temple--Mondays. It's not the same as checking recommends on days that the Temple is open, but it's still giving Rick the opportunity to be where he can feel the Spirit.
In Boise, just after 3 months of serving, I was given the opportunity to be the Initiatory Coordinator. I did that until I was released. I worked at the Twin Falls Temple for a year, before I was made the Initiatory Coordinator. I love doing that. I love serving in the Temple. It is my favorite thing to do all week. I love feeling the Spirit that I feel at the Lord's House on a weekly basis.
I HOPE I AM NEVER RELEASED FROM SERVING IN THE TEMPLE!!
Thought for the day:
“When you were confirmed a member of the Church, you received the right to the companionship of the Holy Ghost. He can help you make good choices. When challenged or tempted, you do not need to feel alone. Remember that prayer is the passport to spiritual power.”
President Thomas S. Monson, “Preparation Brings Blessings,” Ensign, May 2010, 66

CATCHING UP AND SOME PICTURES

2010-06-08T14:41:00.003-06:00

Well, it's been quite awhile since my last post.
Heather & Stephanie's brother was in Idaho for a week during the week of Mother's Day. I didn't get a chance to visit with him, but Rick did. I asked the girls if they would get a family picutre of the 3 of them. I told them to act like they liked each other. By the time they got finished posing for pictures, I think they were tired. I think they could have smiled a little more. However, I'm grateful to have the picture anyhow.
Stephanie, Heather & Andy

Mady had a spring concert not too long ago. She plays the viola. She was setting behing a music stand. Because of that, I couldn't get a picture of her while she was actually playing. I had her pose for a picture.
"Mady" Rodriguez
Rick is doing much better than what he was. He seems to have some desire and actually is enjoying parts of life again. We're grateful for the improvements that we have.

For Memorial Day, Rick & I took Mom/Grandma out to eat. She really enjoyed getting out of the Nursing Home. I physically can't take her by myself anymore. I'm not tough enough anymore. So I have to wait for a time that Rick is willing to help me. Sadly, I've only been able to take her out of the home twice-now and during the holidays. (She would have gone one other time, except she got sick.) Anyhow, Mom thought it was a great day. I'm going to try and take her out more often. Rick & I went to a movie afterwards.

During the month of June, Heather's kids all play baseball. This year, they are on 3 different teams, different times, different days. Our month will be busy - trying to go to most of them. Last Thursday night, Tyler's team was losing. Tyler's team had last up. We caught up and the the game was tied. They played 2 extra innings. Tyler's team had 2 outs, and Tyler had 2 strikes at the bottom of the second extra inning. Tyler pulled thru and got a home run at the very last chance. They won. Today is "Bekha's" first game. The first two were cancelled. One of Jacob's games was cancelled also. We've had a lot of rain lately.
Well, that's all for now.

GOOD ADVICE FOR ALL

2010-05-11T08:34:00.000-06:00

This is copied from: L.D.S. Young Single Adult Gems
The Virture Of Heavenly Patience “Life is full of difficulties, some minor and others of a more serious nature. There seems to be an unending supply of challenges for one and all. Our problem is that we often expect instantaneous solutions to such challenges, forgetting that frequently the heavenly virtue of patience is required.”
President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints-Thomas S. Monson, “Patience, a Heavenly Virtue,” Ensign, Sept. 2002