Wednesday, March 31, 2010

PICKING BLACKBERRIES

We lived in Oregon. Do you know what wild fruit Oregon is famous for? You should just by reading the title of this entry. Blackberries! They are everywhere and in some parts of the state they are considered a weed. Not in the Roderick house. We all love them, especially just picked off the vine and popped in our mouths. The girls ate them by the handfuls, juice running down their chins.

We would go with our friends, the Grubbs, and pull their truck right into the patch and stand in the bed and pick buckets of the dark red delicacy. The vine has lots of stickers so picker beware. Kids learn real fast how to be careful and strategic about their personal technique at obtaining the yummy berry. Lots of laughter and full bellies on those picking days.

Many times we would get home and have way to many berries to deal with so I had a plan for the girls. I saved the little baskets that strawberries come in when you purchase them at the store. I filled those little baskets with blackberries. I then took the little baskets and put them in the girls wagon. The girls went to our close neighbors and sold them for $1.00 a basket. They were so cute pulling their wagon and eating a berry or two while giving their sales pitch. They loved to go to Target and pick out something special with the money that they had earned.

That must be where they refined their skill in the retail market.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

THE CABIN

Kelsey was a little critter of about two when we went on our snowmobiling adventure in the mountains of Utah. I was pregnant with Addison and the journey was a stretch for me to say the least. Scott, on the other hand, was very excited.

Our friends had a rustic cabin and we decided that our small group needed a weekend get away with our families. We all piled in our cars and took off, not realizing what we were getting ourselves into. We drove for 2 hours, parked our cars and had to snowmobile into the cabin in the dark in below freezing temperatures. Once there, no heat or running water and no indoor bathroom facilities. The out house was about 25 yards down wind of the cabin. We had to build a roaring fire and have it burn for about 2 hours before we could even think about taking off our snow gear. We had to snowmobile all our luggage and food in on a little pull trailer behind one of the machines. The guys all loved it. The gals, not so much. I kept thinking what have I done to my sweet little baby girl.

You know what? We had the best time ever . . . no kidding! I have never had such a good nights sleep. I have never tasted bacon and eggs like that in my whole life. Even taking the little hike to the facility was invigorating.

Our small group time was like none we had ever experienced before. We all shared stories and found out a little more about one another. Being thrown together in a perceived crisis situation brought out the humor in many of us. I laughed so hard Addison was becoming annoyed at me. We came up with unique names for the new babies on the way (2 of us were pregnant). The kids loved the snowmobiles, the snow, running around in the cabin and no baths for two days.

God has a way of turning uncertain situations into something valid, real and unforgettable.

DESPERATE

It was a crisis beyond the expertise of any young mother. I was in the depths of despair and desolation. I was drowning in a scenario that can only be described as hades on earth. A screaming, unconsolable baby was in my care and I had nothing to sooth this little one's heart.

A headache as big as Houston was exploding in my brain and not a pacifier or bottle in sight. The child would not quiet and the throbbing in my head was not relinquishing.

I did what I had to do to survive the circumstances. I gently held the child in my arms and brought it to my breast. That's right. I was trying to breast feed a child that was a bottle baby. Hey, desperate times call for desperate measures. What kind of mother would continue to let a baby fuss? Not me. Worst of all, the child wanted nothing to do with what I offered. In fact, it screamed more.

Kelsey kept asking "What is wrong with that baby?"

Oh, did I mention the baby boy was a friend of mine's little guy and I was just baby sitting? I was pregnant with Addison and Travis was about 3 months old.

Don't judge me. You weren't there. You don't know what I was going through. Betsy forgot to leave a bottle. Travis was very unhappy. I was seriously desperate and ran out of options. So the breast came out . . . I would have done anything at that point. Truly.

Remember, don't ever leave your child anywhere without a bottle. The consequences will be interesting.

1988 OLYMPIC TRIALS

My due date was August 4, 1988. I was late with Kelsey so it was a calculated risk I was willing to take. I purchased tickets for the National Gymnastic Olympic trials to be held in Salt Lake City August 3-7 at the Salt Palace. I was very excited.

Then the unexpected happened. Addison decided to be born a little early and made her grand appearance on August 1. This was not the plan. This really messed me up. What was I going to do with my tickets . . . I wanted to attend these trials.

I gave two tickets to my obstetrician scheduled for the day we came home from the hospital. I kept the rest. I could do this. I felt great. It was the chance of a lifetime and I didn't want to miss it. I took Addison with me.

That's right. Don't judge me. I took my 3 day old baby to the national trials for gymnastics. She was the youngest one in the arena and people were amazed that I would consider bringing an infant to an event of this magnitude. What was I thinking?

She was a perfect angel. She snoozed in my sisters arms the whole time never making a sound. Dinner was on me so I would feed her and give her back to Shelly. We saw a few gymnastics celebrities. It was so cool.

We did not miss the chance of a lifetime . . . Addison and I.

Thursday, March 25, 2010

WHEN SCOTT COOKS

I love it when Scott cooks. He has several recipes that are yummy. One of those is eggplant parmesan. It is a messy and long process but well worth it when it hits the taste buds.

He made it for the family the other night and as usually happens at the Roderick's is everyone is coming and going at several times. Scott and I decided to eat while watching a soccer game on TV. He brought me my dinner, utensils included and I was delighted. Let the yumfest begin.

After dinner I asked Scott to run the dishwasher for me because I hadn't had a chance during the day. He looked at me quizzically and said "What?" I explained again that I had not run the dishwasher and could he finish loading it and run it for me.

He looked bewildered and said "I got the forks for our dinner out of the dishwasher."

Can I just say "Ewwww".

THE GRAPEVINE

Way back in the day we used to drive everywhere . . . not much flying. It was/is rough but there is always a memory created out of chaos and crisis. I am a believer.

We were on the 5 returning from a visit with our friends in Oregon. It was late in the evening about 7:00 and we stopped for a bite to eat and heard that the grapevine was closed (a curvy, mountainous part of the 5) due to ice and snow. I suggested we stop and get a hotel room, but Scott, being Scott, wanted to power on and take our chances.

Bad idea. We ran into the most awful traffic imaginable and were stuck for about 4 hours in a bumper to bumper parking lot. We finally were turned away at about 2:00 am. Now the trick was finding a hotel room. I can honestly say I have never been so frustrated with my dear husband in my whole life. Snowing, 4 little girls trying to sleep in car seats, cold and bored, thirsty and hungry.

We were able to find a room at about 3:00 am. I was so cold, I was shivering all over and so mad. I scared the girls to death. Apparently, the conversations I was having with their father led them to believe divorce was on the horizon.

We awoke the next morning and was able to complete our journey home. The girls were made secure about their parents marital situation and the roads were once again drivable.

Here's the thing . . . we could have avoided it all by getting a room when we heard the report about dangerous conditions. Scott was to stubborn to admit the elements were not in his favor.

Men, husbands, fathers. They all must conquer the road.

KIDNEY STONES

We received a call today from my dad in Salt Lake City. He has been trying to pass a kidney stone since Tuesday and has been in and out of the hospital. He goes in to see how it's progressing and goes home with morphine to manage the pain.

Hope was at home when we got the call and we explained to her what was going on with Grandad. She went merrily on her way to school saying she would be praying for him.

Shae came home from school and we shared with her what was happening. She wondered if there was anything we needed to do. We assured her there wasn't much to do but wait. She was quiet, but seemed to be coping well. Our kids aren't exposed to a lot of hospitalization and illness so it is sometimes a difficult concept for them to grasp.

Addison comes home from work and I give her the news. "Grandad is trying to pass a kidney stone." Addison's reply. "To who."

She's the Roderick who's in college.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

BLUE HAIR

Throw down a challenge and I will generally meet it, most of the time, some of the time, well, this time I did.

It was UGSFAW (Ultimate Gnarly Super Fantastic Awesome Week) and I was Captain of the Blue Team. We did everything blue and the other teams did everything red, orange and green.

So someone from the stage crew challenged all team captains to dye their own hair their team color. It couldn't be that bad, right? So I went out that afternoon and hit a local beauty supply store and bought bright blue temporary hair dye. Still not bad, right? Next step in my own bathroom sink I dye my own hair. I was blonde and it was blue, really blue, I can't tell you how blue it was. I was so thankful it was temporary.

Fast forward to the next day when I unveil my artfully tinted hair. I run down the aisle cheering on my blue team and all the sweet cherubs on it.

I am not lying as I share this disturbing story of trickery. The other captains had not dyed their hair at all, no, no, no. The bought the colored hairspray, allowing for one day removal. I apparently wasn't as intelligent as my competition. That will not happen again I assure you. I will have my revenge some day and you won't know where, when, how, or what. Stick that in your pipe and smoke it.

It took 6 weeks for my hair to be a normal color again.

STREET NUMBERS

Scott and I don't discuss every detail of maintaining our home. You understand, the day to day upkeep, repairs and cleanliness. When we see something that needs to be done, we generally just get it done, by our own hands or we hire a professional.

Yesterday was one of those days. A guy was painting house numbers on the curb so I had him go ahead and do ours. Apparently, it was a big problem for my sweet husband. Thirteen dollars. That's it, THIRTEEN DOLLARS was the total expense. I thought I had committed an act of domestic spending he was so ballistic. Seriously. I admit our finances are a little tight right now, but really.

The point was actually, not finances at all. It was that I intruded on his territory, his domain, his personal space. He is the go to guy for anything outside. The girls report to him on their flower beds. I am not involved with the outside other than the occasional sweeping, furnishing and potted plants. Truth be told, I don't want that job. I love flowers and plants, I just don't want to care for them. He's the gardener, landscape specialist, water consultant, trash engineer and street appeal guy.

By the way, he just had the street number painted on the curb a month ago. My bad.

SCHOOL TODAY?

Walking and coffee with my gal pals is generally how I spend my Wednesday mornings and today was especially interesting because we had so much to talk about i.e. health care. Let it be said that if our little girl friend political power house ran the country things would certainly be much different.

We stopped and got our cup of coffee as usual, chatted up the baristas, said "Hi" to some other familiar faces and regained our quick pace back to the church.

I saw them coming way down Main. These two young boys, HBHS age boys, walking towards us. We kept up our pace and as they approached I blurted out "Why aren't you in school?" with a smile. One young man said his cousin was visiting and we walked on by them as they headed towards the beach.

Kim and Sue are stunned. I was so abrupt and didn't mention a name. Kim said "Did you know those guys?" And I said, with a very sincere facial expression "No, Kim, I say that to all the kids I see ditching school." Seriously, Russell is a kid from church that I've known since he was a little guy.

Here's the thing. Kim knows me too well. That is something I would do and say on our walks . . . it is just so me.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

YOU'RE FIRED

Tuesday is always a busy day for us and this Tuesday was no different. Dashing around trying to get ready for FLEX, catching up on scheduling and lesson planning, picking up after a hectic Treehouse weekend. It was crazy.

Once the kids got to FLEX I could let down a little and relax. Not so on this ominous evening. Kurt came up to me and asked if we could talk for a few minutes and we went and sat down in a small kitchen off of the Lighthouse. Kurt micro waved some popcorn for one of the small groups as he talked and I listened.

He's talking about the staff and the aging process that is occurring before our eyes. We are all getting older, enough said. As he is talking, I am having an ADHD moment. I can not focus on what he is saying. I keep thinking what am I going to do? I start daydreaming about the girls and Scott. I have to find another hobby or I will go nuts. Who will take over? Does he already know what the new plan is? I am running wild with unreal assumptions.

Finally, I can stand it no more and I blurt out "Are you going to fire me because I am too old?" His face was priceless and he assured me that was not the case at all. He continued an explanation and I was able to focus and add to our discussion rationally.

I wonder if it's easier when Donald Trump says "you're fired".

TABLE KICKING

I work on Tuesdays up in the Treehouse, you know, catching up from the weekend, getting ready for FLEX, contemplating the next K-2nd lesson series, etc. Shae, Hope and Jake (Hope's bff) come up and are making buzzies for me. Buzzies are these little Perler bead pictures that we give the kids during weekend worship. I have to make a bunch of them so the kid's and their friends help me out once in a while.

Shae is in my back stage area chatting me up. Hope and Jake are out in the Treehouse laughing, talking and enjoying each other's company while building buzzies. You can learn a lot about high school during those kind of listening opportunities. Shae and I are talking about college, boys, school, boys, work, boys, clothes, boys, and you know.

Suddenly, there is a huge crash in the Treehouse followed by utter silence. Scared Shae and I to death as we jumped about 40 feet straight up. Hope had kicked the table leg and it collapsed. We all had a good laugh and Hope and Jake had to put the table back up.

No buzzies were harmed during the incident.

Monday, March 22, 2010

GREEN

I thought it was a festive idea at the time. I didn't know it could go so wrong. It wasn't my plan for the digestive systems to go all wacky. But sometimes bad things happen to good people.

I dyed everything green for St. Patrick's Day. Mayo, mushrooms, sour cream. No taste difference just green. Even our little dogs got in on all the green. They loved it and gobbled it down with great excitement.

Next morning we took our little pooches out for a stroll, making sure to bring the famous poo bag. Diesel was the first to let loose and can I just say "wow". It was similar to nuclear waste. Neon green and the aroma was . . . well you can imagine. We picked it up as quickly as we could, knowing that once it was in the plastic bag we would no longer have to endure the "perfume" of the canines. We were so wrong. We could still smell it and we couldn't find a trash can and had to carry it with us until we reached the Newland Center. Finally, we could enjoy the fresh sea air again.

We finished up our walk and took off the leashes and gave the doggies water and they just flopped down on the cool tile floor. Shae was getting ready for work and I ran upstairs to use the restroom.

Yep. Green.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

BED TALKS

There is something very special, at any age, about your kids coming in and talking to you while you are in bed. Our girls have done that since they were little. After dates, after bad days, before going out, after shopping just to show what was bought or plain read together. Good times. Cherished times. Memories tucked away in my heart.

It connects us as parents and daughters. It is so good to feel you are invited willingly to be a part of their lives. When Kelsey is home she will come up to our room and just lay on the bed and talk to me (or Scott). Addison will come in and share with me her latest male conquest. Shae will come in and chatter about her newest college acceptance. Hope will come in, snuggle down in the covers and read her book while I read mine. Being warm together and loving each other.

I've heard it said that children don't ever understand how much they are loved until they have children of their own. My heart bursts with that love.

I pray they will introduce their kids to Jesus just like we did ours. I pray that our girls will remember their family time in a cozy bed. I pray that our girls will continue with this Roderick tradition.

Love. A small word for a very big feeling.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

GOLIATH

Good times in the Treehouse this weekend. We talked about David and Goliath. No, not just talked about that true Bible story, we experienced it.

Skylar (our football friend who plays for the University of Washington Huskies) was in the house. Picture this. Children all sitting sweetly on the crates anticipating our special guest. Skylar walks out, just walks out and the kids are immediately quiet with awestruck features. Some comments I heard were "Is he a giant", "does he play basketball", "how big are you" and the ever popular "WOW". It was sweet. Skylar answered some questions from the kids, as well as me, in an Oprah style setting.

Following the questions, Skylar stood up and I brought the shortest child up to stand next to him. The result is obvious and lead directly into the story of David and Goliath. Perfect.

After our morning routine was complete the kids came up and talked with Skylar, some pictures were taken and general excitement was enjoyed. Every child in the Treehouse, particularly the boys, loved our football "dude" and they will not soon forget the story found in the book of 1 Samuel.

Maybe next time Skylar is in town we'll "tackle" the story of Samson.

PINGING RATS

Our home in Oregon was on a quiet cul-de-sac next to a green pasture full of several healthy and robust cows. Occasionally, a cow would escape and we would see him wandering up the street without a care in the world. Great teachable moment for the girls and a humorous change of scenery for Scott and I.

One day the pasture needed some draining, so the heavy equipment was brought in and the task was afoot. We were blissfully unaware of what was about to become Scott's challenge of the decade. Not a clue as to what was about to be unleashed on our household in all it's fury. No hint of the coming chaos and terror.

It started in the dead of night. I was sure I heard something crawling around in our heating ducts. A scratching and skittering sound that continued for several minutes. I would wake Scott and he heard the strange noise, but convinced me the sound was in the crawl space under the house and posed no threat to those of us living inside. I trusted his judgement and slipped back into slumber.

Next day I heard it again. It was in the ducts. I was sure. The minute Scott walked in the door he was directed to the heating ducts. He was convinced.

He went to the garage to grab his arsenal of tools. He did not come back. "What is taking him so long" I wondered. Finally, I could wait no longer and peeked into his domain. He reluctantly said he would be right in so I closed the door and continued my mommy duty.

Apparently he discovered what the noise was and he didn't have any idea how to remedy it. He would stand in the dark, wait a second or two, turn on the lights. There running along the bottom of the garage door were rats, big ones. It was like being in a carnival arcade, the shooting gallery. If he had a BB gun, he could have pinged them off one at a time. That was all the information I needed to know.

Next morning, first thing, Vector Control.

Friday, March 19, 2010

DO YA FEEL THE LOVE

Do ya feel he love?

We did our annual class on how to teach your kids about sex. That's right, I said S-E-X. We had almost 80 parents of all ages craving some semblance of information, books, suggestions, support. We gave them what we had and apparently it was just what they wanted and needed. Many positive comments were hurled our way as well as questions that we are going to have to further research. God has blessed Scott and I with no shame, embarrassment or restraint and we tell it straight up. Everyone knows a Roderick loves to be up front talking to whomever will listen.

It was the fifth and final week of our annual "Like a Kiss on the Lips" class, an overview of the Song of Songs, and we opened it up to all parents. We love leading these classes and believe us, we have a lot of stories to tell and mistakes to share.

It is such a riot to watch people come into this class. You have the ones who arrive early so they can score the best seats. The ones who arrive with just enough time to go grab a soda. The ones who are straight up on time, pens in hand and notebooks open. The ones who are sneaking in so no one knows that they are looking for help in such an intimidating topic. The ones who are being dragged in by their spouse. The ones who come alone while the other stays home with the kids. All kinds of faces, but all looking very fearful and very tentative. A few staring back at us anxiously waiting to get the show on the road.

Now they have the crucial information. They are ready. They can do it! God loves them and knows they can do this. We know they can tell their kids about God's plan for them.

Ready, set, go. The Roderick's are praying for you!

FERRY

While up in Seattle visiting Kelsey, we were entertained by a ride on the ferry. A big ferry. Big enough for several hundred cars. They have them all over the place up there and many people use them as if they were the subway in New York.

We pulled up all ready to get on and of course, we are Roderick's, and we were in the wrong line and had to turn around. As we made our "U" turn an elderly lady was with her daughter boarding the huge floating car lot. We had our windows down and she looked straight at us with laughing eyes and a smile that was nothing but genuine and said "Hey, I'm going on the Ferry!" We clapped and cheered her on and exclaimed that we too, were going on the ferry.

It is my hope and prayer that when I reach that age that I can be as thrilled about the simple things that life has to offer. Her daughter was just as excited to take her mom on that ferry. They continued boarding, hand in hand, as we searched for our line.

Note to girls. Take mom on a ferry someday when she is old, wearing a purple shawl and a red hat.

DOGS & COFFEE

Shae and I had a really great morning together. Shae just wasn't feeling school today. Everybody needs a break now and then and her grades are stellar so . . . we decided to walk the dogs and enjoy a cup of java together.

The weather was perfect, the dogs behaved rather decent and the stop at Starbucks, well, you know my addiction. We walked and talked and talked and walked. The glorious sunshine warming our shoulders and a cool breeze blowing our hair. Dakota and Diesel enjoyed a cup of water and we enjoyed our iced coffees. One dog passed us that they did not like, but other than that little incident they were good guys. Diesel is a bit slower than Dakota. He is a tad overweight and he likes to mark every bush that we pass. Dakota, Shae and I don't do that, ever.

I know that someday my girls will no longer be able to hang out with their dear old Mom. They will create families of their own. Until that time arrives, I try to take every chance I can to be with them when invited.

I love my Roderick girlies.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

HABITS

Everyone has habits. Good, bad and indifferent. I watch the girls and their "habits" and have to chuckle. Scott and I have habits, but this is not the forum for those. This is all about the blondes who have lived here over the years and call us Mom and Dad.

We shall start with the eldest child who is now 24 years old and her "habit" is still intact. Kelsey loves to have her hand in her pocket. She moves it the entire time it is in her pocket. She tears up paper, no shreds up paper in her pocket. Laundry is always fun with Kelsey around. Bits of paper are everywhere. Fortunately the drier's lint trap saves me.

Addison, now 21, loves her nails. So much so she bites them. Now I have to admit she has gotten much better over the years. We laugh at her on the soccer field, especially when the game is tight, because she is out there chewing away. She now tries to keep them manicured, she doesn't enjoy gnawing off expensive polish.

Shae, 18 years old, is a scratcher. She has eczema and itches a lot. When she is hot, anxious or angry, the itching begins. When she was playing soccer, she too, would itch all over the field. She does keep her itching under control with medication. When anxiety is high, let the scratching begin.

Hope, 15 years old and the baby girl, is a slob. Her room is always a mess and she simply does not want to clean it, ever. She shoves things under her desk, in her closet, puts clean clothes in the laundry. It is a feeble attempt to avoid cleaning. She must practice a new habit of picking up and cleaning. I will aid her in creating this new habit.

A few Roderick habits. Clearly, there are so many more.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

GOOGLE MAPS

So yesterday, Scott is searching Google Maps for someone at FCCHB's home address and he stumbles upon an icon located on the HBHS practice football field. He zooms in using the satellite link and discovers the name of a business. Sunny's Striptease. He is stunned and knows it is not possible for a mortar and bricks business to be in that location.

Scott arrives home for supper and shares this evidence with our family and we all decide to set a Roderick sting operation in motion. With our lap top in full charge mode, Hope volunteers to call the telephone number of said establishment using my cell phone and our close supervision. The moment is tense and the line rings once, twice and on the third a voice answers. She is connected with a recording that is indeed the insipid place of business. "How can this happen?" I am stunned. "I've got it," Hope says, "It's built underground." Silence. Followed by huge laughter. That's our Hope.

Hmm, perhaps it's a service organization. No matter. We will respond to this situation quickly. Shae went to school today and made the administration aware of the situation. Scott will be tracking the progress of this ongoing drama.

Ain't technology grand.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

JESUS VIDEOS

These videos are the funniest Jesus stuff I have seen in a long time. You may think it crass, you may think it inappropriate, you may think it disrespectful, you may think a little less of my spiritual maturity. That is okay. You do not have to like these videos. But humor me and take a look. And then make a comment.

These videos were produced by a church for teaching purposes. They were sound dubbed in today's vernacular and are similar to Saturday Night Live satire. I would not use them for kids. Middle school and older would be great given the right tools and the concept you are trying to teach.

I don't remember the name of the original movie, but I do recall seeing it at some time way back in my personal history. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDSj8sv0uKs

Comments are coveted.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

LISTS

I do not enjoy making lists. I have never had to make lists. I have always had a very good memory and never found it necessary. Things may be starting to change.

Addison has a list of how many young men she has kissed. Shae loves making grocery lists, lists of chores, lists of clothes, any list. Hope does not like lists. Kelsey makes lists and forgets where she leaves them. Scott, well anyone who knows him knows he loves lists.

I may start making lists for me. Not so much to do lists, but lists of things I've accomplished in life. Lists I can read to my grandkids someday about what I've done through the years. For instance, here's a few ideas:

Concerts I've seen
College classes I've taken
Cars I've owned
Movies I've loved
Restaurants I've loved
Good friends
Shopping trips that were fabulous
Best recipes
Vacations
Books I have loved

Just lists that someday might let family and friends know me a little better.

THUNDERSTORM

Who doesn't enjoy a good thunderstorm? I love to sit on the porch and just listen. Sometimes I can hear the lightening crackle. Sometimes I can feel the barometer drop. Sometimes I just sit and let the rain pour all over me. Thunderstorms, for me, are God's way of saying "slow down and know that I am God and you are not." Simple. Concise. True.

We were at the Ponderosa Dude Ranch just outside of Zion, Utah. The Randolph side of the family has enjoyed this facility for several years. They have every outdoor activity you could imagine for a mountain resort. All the girls love it.

We had the best dinner ever in the "mess hall" and were heading back to our "cowboy cabin". The sky was grey, the wind kicked up and God's power was unleashed on us. Our hair stood on end, our eyes squinted and our voices laughed. It was so awesome. The lightening was so close we could almost reach out and grab it. The thunder was so loud it was as if our ear drums would burst at the crash. The rain was so pure we caught it on our tongues for cool sip.

We all sat on the porch and watched in thankful silence.

Imagine. The Roderick's silent.

REMODEL2006

It will be four years in August. I can't believe it has been that long, but it has. Our remodel.

I won't forget sleeping in the living room.
I won't forget cooking and eating on the patio.
I won't forget sharing one bathroom.
I won't forget having some sort of hole in every room in the house.
I won't forget choosing tile.
I won't forget all the purchased appliances.
I won't forget the carpenters, electricians, plumbers and inspectors.
I won't forget the painting.
I won't forget widening the stair case.
I won't forget choosing all the hardware for doors, cabinets and other sundry items.
I won't forget the dust.
I won't forget contracting the flu in the middle of the chaos.
I won't forget searching for chrome fixture covers.
I won't forget the piles of junk in the garage.
I won't forget how my spiritual life soared.
I won't forget how close our family grew living on top of each other.

Was it all worth it? Absolutely. Another 6 years and it will be time to start again.

FRIENDS AND BIRDS

Everyone knows how much I enjoy walking with my dear, sweet friends. They truly keep me grounded and focused on what is important in this life God has given us. We have been known to laugh a lot, at each other and at situations that we are thrown into. Here's a tale of of health horror.

We were heading back from the Pier and waiting for the light at PCH to give us permission to cross. I was under the street light. We were talking and not paying much attention to the activity surrounding us. Suddenly, I feel something hit my cheek between my sunglasses, just below my eye. I was stunned for a moment, my dear friends scattering as I yelled. A bird had nailed me right on there in broad daylight. I just stood there bent over and out so the poop would not travel toward my mouth. "A little help" was a statement that apparently did not compute for my loyal friends. Kim and Anne Marie stood way back and were no support and the rest plain scattered. "A tissue, please" I said again, with a little more feeling. Anne Marie stood about 3 feet away and stretched way out and handed me the tissue. I guess Kim was praying because I didn't see her until after I wiped off my face. It was sick, in the bad way, not the good.

I believe my sweet friends assumed I was going to get poop on them, too. So they were reluctant to support the, uh, situation I was in and by the way, not enjoying.

After the whole incident was over, we all laughed harder than we had in a very long time. I love my friends.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

THERE'S ALWAYS ONE

Today in the Treehouse, I did something unexpected. I stacked about 1/4 of our crates in the back. The rest of the crates were in rows as is normal. We use crates in the Treehouse to sit on, amongst various other suitable benches and chairs.

As the kids arrived, I explained that they could sit on the crates in the rows. This instruction was followed without incident, until our last hour. There's always one child who just doesn't understand the importance of my verbal communication. This child did not hear a word I said. This child headed straight for the stacked crates and climbed up without missing a beat. This child was totally focused on the "wall" of crates. This child got a holler out from me. This child did exactly as I expected. I love this child. No surprise.

By the way, the story today was about Joshua and Jericho and our crate wall kicked it and the Treehouse kids dug it. I had their attention for at least 20 minutes, including a march around the wall. And no, it did not fall down, but it did get the story stuck in their brains.

I adore relaying God's word, I adore making it stick and I adore all of those kids.

I have the best job ever!

BLOGGING

I love, love, love blogging (thank you, Heidi). It has become a release for me. An alternative for expressing myself. A forum where I can allow myself to be creative not only in the present but in the past. Someday I may not be able to remember as well as I do at this point in my life, so I blog. Now it is in print and I will have no choice but to remember.

Believe me, I have numerous stories to share, tales to tell, experiences to ensnare your mind and sagas to let you know how much worse it could be . . . all in front of your eyes in black and white.

Someday you might see yourself in the Roderick blog.

THE SWING

I am so thankful that Shae got to grow up, you know, because she had Addison for a big sister. I have to say there were moments when I thought she was not going to enjoy the baby years, in fact, it is amazing that she lived through them. One day she was ready to be alone with mommy. Addi went off to school and she was free.

Shae loved her little swing. Back in the day you had to wind up the apparatus, not yet battery operated. I'd wind her up and slip her into the seat and she would be a happy little camper as long as I stood watch. There were those times when I would step away to complete some household chore.

Addi would always be on the look out for her chance to strike. She would come out of no where, stealth as a cat. She would slap that swing and it would go flying. Shae's eyes had fear like I have never seen. Addison would then retreat to her room knowing that her mission was complete. In her mind it was a challenge, in my mind, not so much. I can't tell you how many times poor Shae had to endure Addison's trickery, but it was many.

Next time you see Shae be sure and tell her you appreciate her struggle to reach adulthood.

CLIMBING OUT OF THE CRIB

We tucked her in her crib around 7:00 in the evening, praying that she would quickly drift off to sleepitown. We wanted to spend some much needed grown up time together watching TV and chatting about our day. We softly closed the door behind us and tip toed silently back to the living room for our own quaint party.

Tap, tap, tap. The tiny knock on the bedroom door told us that, once again, the little Roderick had climbed out of her crib. She had not yet mastered the art of turning door knobs. Her only means of quiet communication was to knock on her door hoping that we would release her from her prison and the prospect of going to sleep. Not gonna happen. We walked to her door and said firmly "Go to sleep." She didn't put up a fight, just a frustrated sigh.

After we turned off lights we went to check on our little angel and to place her back in her tiny bed. We tried to open her bedroom door. Something was blocking it. We gently kept pushing it open, little by little, so as not to disturb the slumbering 13 month old wedged behind it. We finally achieved our goal, picked her up and put her back in her familiar crib. We kissed her soft cheek knowing she would sleep the night away safe, warm and comfy.

We knew that Addison would never stay in that crib now that she so aptly could climb out, so we had no choice but to move her to a big girl bed at the ripe old age of, like I said, 13 months. She never fell out of the big girl bed. The girl has always had skills.

CANDYLAND

Kelsey loved to play board games when she was young. She would play with anyone who would sit down and throw the dice with her. Any game, any time, any where.

My sister and her husband came to visit us in Oregon and they were quickly challenged to a game of Candyland. They submitted to her will and the game began.

I was deliberately listening while preparing dinner and I kept hearing Kelsey repeat the same word. Gram it . . . it sounded as if she wanted someone to get something for her but not quite. She kept saying it so finally I went in and witnessed first hand what was occurring.

Every time Kelsey would throw a bad number she would say this inappropriate word. I asked Shelly why she let it continue and she said "I couldn't imagine Kelsey saying "that" word so I assumed I was misunderstanding her. Besides, she doesn't like to lose and I didn't want to agitate her further. We just overlooked it."

Shelly, now that you are a mom, what would you have done different?

Those wild Roderick girls.

RED CARPET COMMENTARY 2010

You knew it was coming . . . my favorites for 2010.

#1 Demi Moore - she looked liked Ashton is making her a happy woman. Fabulous.
#2 Maggie Gyllenhall - not many can wear a dress like that and look decent. WOW.
#3 Jennifer Lopez - loved that she was covered up for a change. Stunning.
#4 Sandra Bullock - it was her night and she rocked it. Glamorous.
#5 Helen Mirren - she was old school and taught us well. Unforgettable.

Now for my duds . . . 2010.

#1 Meryl Streep - she looked like she walked out of the Mormon Temple. Anemic.
#2 Mo'nique - liked the color, hated the style. Sad.
#3 Precious (can't spell her real name) - hated it all. Depressed.
#4 Kathryn Bigelow - boring. Ho hum.
#5 Charlize Theron - swirls on the breasts did nothing for me. Sniff.

Best dress ever . . . Julie Roberts when she won for "Erin Brockovich".
Worst dress ever . . . of course, the swan dress . . . can't remember who wore it.

This is my list and I am sticking to it.

SMOKING

We taught our girls from a very young age that smoking was not a healthy habit. They listened with curious ears and heard what we said and made that known on many occasions.

We were eating dinner out with my family who had come to visit from Utah. Our server grew very fond of Kelsey and Addison and doted on them throughout our meal. As we were leaving and gathering our personals, Kelsey wanted to say good by to her new friend so she slipped into the kitchen (I know, how could she get away from me). Scott went to retrieve her only to find her sincerely lecturing our server about smoking.

She had discovered the poor woman on her break and she was, yes, smoking a cigarette. Scott explained that Kelsey was only concerned about her health and meant no disrespect.

Hmm. We never did eat at that place again.

CHUCKIE

Chuckie, a seemingly harmless nick name for Charles. Not so in the world of Roderick. Allow me to further explain.

I tried, really I did. I didn't allow the girls to sit randomly in front of the TV watching mindless images burn into their tiny little brains. I monitored their watching, censored what they were permitted to watch at home and researched what the parents of their friends were allowing their children to watch. I was the ever vigilant mother.

We drove into the parking lot at Safeway, and Kelsey started crying. "Mommy, I can't go in there. I am afraid." "Of what, my sweet cherub," I replied with loving kindness. "Chuckie" was all she could say. Firmly, I took her by the hand and walked through the store quickly, just to pick up the groceries I urgently needed. All the while, Kelsey kept a wary eye through out the entire journey. She breathed a sigh of relief as I tucked her into her car seat. I couldn't figure out her fear. What was bothering her?

Again, we drove to Safeway, entered the parking lot and Kelsey explained she could not go in, this time with more fervor. Her fear was real and I didn't want to subject her to that experience again. I took her home to Scott and returned by myself.

Still thinking about her irrational fear as I drove in the parking lot, again, I glanced at the store windows. There, right in front of my eyes was a huge poster of the "Chuckie" movie that we had seen commercials on while flipping through channels. It didn't dawn on me that she was processing those commercials into fear.

Alas, once again I have proven myself to be a normal mother who can't do it all.

BARNEY

We lived in a small apartment, in Oregon, didn't know anyone, trying to enjoy two little girls in the limited space. I know, it's a sad story of stress, struggle and sanity. But many memories were created in that apartment. It was an adventure I would never change.

One late after noon, while waiting for Scott to come home, Kelsey was entertaining herself watching Barney. I fed Addison in the kitchen or rather tried to feed her. She never was one for eating and Kelsey was one for the TV. She was mesmerized by the appliance and as a general rule, I didn't need to check on her frequently. This was about to change.

I finished with Addison and was cleaning up and realized I should probably peek in on Kelsey. I peered around the corner and I was somewhat baffled by what I saw. Kelsey was sitting in the middle of the floor. A circle of blonde hair surrounded her. She was hypnotized and cutting her hair in a TV stupor, grabbing and shearing with no idea of what was occurring.

In her chubby little hand was the child proof scissors that claim to cut only paper. Boy, did they get it wrong. My four year old daughter was having no trouble at all clipping her lovely locks, clump by clump. Kelsey donned a hair style that could only be described as bohemian bad.

Another Roderick hits the salon for a repair that only a professional could achieve.

Saturday, March 6, 2010

BEANIES

Apparently, the beanies I make for the Treehouse kids are a hot commodity. I knit "Bible Beanies" for the anyone who memorizes the books of the Bible or several other tidbits I have on a memory sheet. Actually, I have several knitted items they can choose from up there. They are incentives and meant to grow the child spiritually. I have been known to give any one a beanie who can recite something scriptural for me.

Jake, a college guy at church, earned a coveted beanie and is often seen around campus sporting it. The other day, as the story goes, a kid came up to him and complimented his legit hat and asked where he got it. Jake replied "a church lady made it and I'll sell you this one for $10.00." The kid pulled out the bill and it was a done deal.

Scott, a high school boy came up to the Treehouse after church tonight. He is doing Worship for me next weekend and I just assumed he came up to check things out. I explained to him all the in and outs and asked if he had any questions. He didn't and I sent him on his merry way.

I arrived at home to Shae's delightful baking aromas and told her why I was a tad bit late. She said "Mom, I think Scott came up to pick out a beanie." Oh.

Scott, honey, come back up and pick out a beanie.

A FIGHT BREWING

Even when they are in SEATTLE far, far away, they still argue and contact me to be the referee. Of course, the dispute is about clothes and lack of funds to purchase said clothes. Or maybe it was about who paid the bill at dinner or who didn't. Could be it was about where they were going and with whom. Hmm, I think it may have been about the weather.

It could even have been a conflict in HB with the other two. A disagreement about whose stuff is on the stairs or who needs to weed their flower bed before the rain. Possibly, room cleanliness came into play as well as bathroom duty. Doggie poo may have entered their conversations as well.

I am so confused. It all gets jumbled in my feeble head.

I hope and pray, much prayer, they are all enjoying a carefree weekend of rain, sisterly love and family bliss.

Friday, March 5, 2010

A PUBLIC DESCRIPTION 1997

Every year during our "Like a Kiss on the Lips" class we ask the participants to write a public description of their spouse. This was the first one I wrote for Scott way back in the day. It is meant to be recited as a rap.

Hey Scott Baby, Your my one and only, You've got my heart and all my arteries!
You're the only man I can truly trust, Your a man of iron and I know you won't rust!
Your eyes are the eyes of a guy whose in charge and I love the color and they are not too large!
The tone and texture of your hair is so fine, I desire to run my fingers through it all of the time!
I adore your little quirks no, I really do, like that little china face oh, yea, it's true!
I am learning from you day after day and it's so much fun on the day you get your pay!
Your such a strong man that I'm often overwhelmed but I love you that way when you take charge of the helm!
You're such a Godly man you lead our family you are always in your Bible it's a joy to see!
You have a face that could launch a thousand ships and I love your beard it tickles my lips!
You are gentle with our babies I delight in watching you I appreciate your willingness to change those diapers with poo!
You do your job well and I've got to say that there are those times that you are too long away!
I am so secure in the simple fact that you will never leave me no matter how i attack!
You're a wonderful communicator that I am certain of you could talk the feathers right off that snow white dove!
Now we've come to the end of this rap and you know I love you, a-ratty-tap-tap!
Keep doing what your doing and keep loving me too, 'cuz I'd hate to have to live my life without you, you, you!

ANEMIC

My mom and sister and I all tend to be anemic at various points in our lives. I try to keep our girls on a daily multiple vitamin with some iron in it to avoid this little blip on the health screen.

Kelsey, being the dramatic gal she is, always thinks something is wrong with her. She was convinced she was anemic and takes her vitamins religiously so she can avoid future illness. One morning after taking her horse pill, she started complaining of a stomach ache. She kept whining and fussing. This lead to screaming at me to take her to the emergency room.

Now I admit, I am pretty calm with my kids and I usually try not to jump to conclusions. Kelsey was in fact, very out of character. She was actually rolling on the floor and using potty words I had never heard her use before. So I started asking her questions to get a better idea of her situation.

"Have you pooped?" "Are you having your period?" Do you have gas?" Have you been working out?" "Did you take your vitamins with food?"

"What? I didn't know you had to eat something with vitamins," she replied while writhing in pain. I shoved a cracker down her and suddenly she was healed. She was immediately herself once again. I know, hard to believe the power of the saltine.

I think she learned her lesson, after all, she is a Roderick.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

SISTERS IN SEATTLE

Addison just got on a plane with her good friend Kristin. They are heading up to the great Northwest to visit Kelsey. Some of their friends that they grew up with in Utah are going up too and they are all staying at Kelsey's apartment in downtown Seattle. It should be quite a party. Skylar is going to meet up with the crew. Maybe Kelly will come down from Canada too. They know people every where. I hope they take lots of pictures.

Scott and I have enjoyed putting our kids on planes to visit people. It gives the girls a sense of freedom and independence. Always non stop flights until they got a little older. When they were little they would fly with Grandad. My dad traveled frequently and racked up bunches of miles. He would fly down and pick them up and then fly back with them after a week with the cousins in Utah. Kelsey was about 4 when she went with Grandad to Utah. Grandad was able to upgrade and they flew first class. She and Addison got used to that when they were little. Dad retired and the miles disappeared and the girls started flying coach. Dad says the first time that happened Kelsey said, "I don't want to go back there . . . I want to stay up here." It doesn't take kids long to get it.

I dropped Addi off at Kristin's, her mom was driving them to Long Beach Airport. As I gave her a hug, I slipped her $100.00 to spend with her sister in Seattle. The Nordstrom's flagship store is in downtown Seattle, so let the spending begin. It's our joy to surprise the girls when we can, although they have come to expect the unexpected from their dad and mom. Have fun girls and we love you.

I hope they buy something that I can wear too.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

YUCK BUGS

Today I felt like a rock star. I always do when I speak at chapel at HCS. Many of the kids are familiar with me because they attend the Treehouse and they arrive yelling and screaming my name out as they parade into the room. Of course, I yell and scream hellos right back at them throwing in my well practiced wave. You know wrist-elbow, elbow-wrist.

It was wacky Wednesday in honor of Dr. Suesse's birthday, so I dug up an old story I knew the kids would love. It is similar to the play with words that the doctor is famous for and I love the way it flows.

I was right. They were mesmerized by the yuck bugs and the utterfly and it teaches such an important concept about hurtful words. The kids were with me the whole time and I tied it in with Proverbs 12:18. It was an energizing day for me. If you want a copy of the story I have it and would be glad to give you a copy.

No pictures in this one, but how about collecting your own bugs out in the back yard? Could be fun, yes?

HBHS IS THE BOMB

All right. I am sure all of you HBer's have heard about the evacuation today at HBHS. I may have made a parenting faux paux yet again. Do not judge me!

Addison and I are at HCS for the K-2nd grade chapel where I am scheduled to speak today. We are waiting for the kids to come and my cell phone, which I have not turned off, rings loudly. I pick it up to a very excited Shae, not fearful. "Mom, check me out . . . we have been evacuated for some reason . . . I don't know why, I just don't want to wait around." OK. I have a decision to make. Go get her and cancel my chapel engagement, which I know is eagerly anticipated by a great number of little darlings or have her walk to the church and meet up with her dad. "No . . . I will talk to you after I do chapel." My decision has been made.

Now, I did not take this turn of events lightly. I have been here before. Kelsey and Addison have also been in this same situation. I know that the administration will not check out any students during an evacuation. I know I have time so I am going to take advantage of my knowledge.

School is dismissed at about 11:00 and Shae's car must remain in lock down so that it can be inspected. She must get the Highlander from dad at the office and meet us at South Coast Plaza for lunch with Monique at Lawery's. I know, our life is confusing. Hope is now with her dad and safe and seemingly unmarred by the day's events.

I now have the Highlander and drop Shae and Monique off at their work and I drive home for a quiet afternoon.

I pick Shae up and 5:00 and am met with the comment, "Mom, you don't love me much do you? You weren't even concerned about me when I told you we were evacuated. You should have seen all the parents crawling all over the school and waiting for their kids to be dismissed. They were scared for their kids. What were you thinking?"

I was thinking with my head and not with my heart. Wrong choice.

Monday, March 1, 2010

A PUBLIC DESCRIPTION

Every year in our "Like a Kiss on the Lips" class at church we ask the participants to write a public description of their spouse. This is how I described Scott in 2010.

You are an amazing lover. You are an adequate handyman. You are an expert at lawn care. You have a distinct way of swallowing a tablet. Your hair is the color of our kitchen tile and I look forward to seeing it in corn rows soon. You are awesome at unclogging the garbage disposer. You have an uncanny knack for creating piles of paper.

You look very sexy when you squeeggie the shower and jump on the scale. I love it when you dust and vacuum. You are an expert driver. You try to eat healthy. You are a great cook and a have a unique cleaning technique. You are very good at research. You enjoy the journey and love the adventure. You are a very good soccer coach, on the field and off. You take out the trash with the finesse of Lou Farigno.

It is a challenge for you to pronounce Mitubishi. You have Barney Rubble feet. You are extremely talented at trimming your nose hair. You always make time for me. You have very good phone manners. You snore well. You love movies that have the word "star" in them. Mythology is a hobby you enjoy. You put the toilet seat down. You always smell nice. You love your dogs.

You love eggplant parmisan. You have nicely manicured hands. You have mastered the lecture. You know God well. You love making your own lattes. You are a Bible scholar. You enjoy wearing sunglasses. You have your Masters degree. You are a fabulous dad. You have wonderful taste in shoes. You love watching David Beckham play the beautiful game.

You keep good tires on our cars. You are excited for the world cup. You have good teeth. You are an expert skier. You try to dance like Michael Jackson. You work out twice a week. You don't miss breakfast. You enjoy your blue jeans. You love to browse at REI. You love your annual physical. You are the bee slayer. You enjoy black olives. You love the beach. You like big trees. You want to write a book.

You love missions trips. You love your daughters. You are very good at squinting. You are a great talker. You can use a screw driver. You are a master at yoga. You have great knees. You look good in a convertible. You give wonderful massages. You make wise decisions. You write well. You have fantastic taste in jewelry from Tiffany's. You make me laugh. You are ticklish. You move furniture well.

You wrestle with bears. You love CSI. You love and respect Bob. You love teaching the "Kiss" class. You love your ipod. You are an awesome dog trainer. You love doing taxes. You are still in love with your first wife. You are a stud. You love wearing angel's flight pants. You can do 10 push ups. You enjoy having boys visit our home. You love having money. You enjoy Las Vegas. You love Sugar Shack. You enjoy winning auctions on Ebay.

But most of all my sweet husband, you have, and always will have, my heart.