Friday, September 30, 2011

I CAN NOT BELIEVE THIS

This phenomenon must be happening to every couple in America. I can not believe ours is the only home experiencing this event. It seems to occur in a sporadic fashion or perhaps I have not yet unraveled the cycle.

I sit comfortably in our bedroom reading, maybe knitting or fretting with the internet. Scott is down stairs watching TV, playing with D&D or on his laptop.

It comes without warning. Scott ascends the stairs and enters our sleeping chamber with that look in his eye. I cover my face gathering what uncontaminated air I can. He comes over to chat with me but I am wise to him. I shove him away. He stares me down or worse ignores me.

And then, without warning, passes gas right there in front of me. He continues his trek as if nothing has "passed" between us. Doesn't he know how toxic the emissions are? Is he not familiar with our bathroom located ten feet away? And why didn't he just stay down stairs with the dogs? The fumes would not have reached the second story where I hide in fear. Lord have mercy.

Please tell me I am not the only person who is going through this harrowing adventure. Give me some words of encouragement or advice. I am begging you.

Then again, we are Roderick's.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

GROUPS

Groups started tonight, our mid-week program for K-3. We changed up the whole format and it worked out great. I think the kids really had a riot (in a good way) while learning about baby Moses.

It's an 8 week series on Moses and every week it gets a little more challenging. They have to complete tasks to get to the "Party" and tonight's party was root beer floats.

As they're drinking their floats I'm chatting them up and asked who could burp the loudest. That was met with much enthusiasm and several boys cranked it. Not to ignore the females in the room I invited them to give it their best shot. Not one taker, seriously. However one little boy in the back yelled out "Girls don't burp they toot". Hmm.

Gotta love 'em.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

IT'S A 50'S THING: #26

Yesterday I went to have the car washed at the place we normally go. I payed the cashier, grabbed the receipt and went to sit and comtemplate life while I waited on the finished product. I glanced down at the small piece of paper and noticed something shocking. I wasn't asked about this price, no one told me about this new thing they were doing, I wasn't even sure I wanted it.

There, right in front of my eyes was the following: Senior citizen discount $2.00.

I am an old Roderick so don't cross me.

MISSION: MOVE FURNITURE

Scott left the house at about 1:45pm and now was our chance. It's not that he doesn't like us to move furniture, it's more that he just gets in the way of the progress. You know, he always has a better way to do the moving, a better placement, a better idea of how to make it easier, etc. So we have learned, the girls and I, to do it while Dad is out of the house.

I wanted the couch moved for two reasons, one so I could clean under, behind and around it and two because I wanted it in the family room to watch TV. We watch DVD's in the living room and I wanted more of a theater feel in there, so it now has all chairs. I know, I beat to a different drum.

But I degress. The mess behind the couch was way worse than I thought. Addison was gagging and Hope was running away screaming. I will admit it was bad, really bad. We had to do the cleaning of the couch and all the trimmings before we could even think about moving it.

Once that task was complete, the movement began. It was heavy, extremely heavy, heavier than when we moved it into the house after the remodel, I swear. We pushed, shoved, lifted and got about 2 inches. Addison was on the backwards end and Hope and I were on the other. Adds thought we were pushing it towards her and she did not want her toes smashed and yes, we were moving furniture bare footed. You can turn us in to the furniture cops after you finish reading this blog.

Anyway, her face was priceless and Hope and I started laughing and Adds started laughing at Hope and I and it was just one big laughfest, no sound, just laughing until our stomachs hurt. But eventually we got the job done.

Hey, if anyone ever needs furniture moved on the sly call the Roderick's. We are professionals.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

STRESS OVERLOAD

Do you ever have so much to do and so little time to do it that you end up doing nothing? I do and this is as good as gets for a blog entry today.


Sunday, September 25, 2011

THOSE KIDS

I tell you what you never, and I mean that in the true sense of the words, know what is going to happen up in the Treehouse.

This morning I am doing "my thing" just being me, the queen in the house and a sweet little girl comes up to me and asks an interesting question. She says "Miss Cindy can you come to my birthday party and juggle? Hmm.

Rewind. I start going back in the memory banks trying to remember if I even know how to juggle. Have I juggled in the Treehouse before? The answer is "no, I haven't" because I know I would remember that. What did I do that implied I could juggle? Was this child having some sort of circus party or does she just enjoy juggling? Did she have something she wanted me to juggle?

We will never know. I kindly declined her offer. Roderick's are generally not known for their juggling abilities.

Saturday, September 24, 2011

THE CALL

Early this evening I was watching the Ducks game and my cell phone rings. I pick it up to the voice of Don Hurdle asking if he was scheduled in the Treehouse tonight. I can barely hear him and I assume we have a bad connection. He was not scheduled and I communicated that to him and he asks if I'm in the bathroom because I sound like I'm in a cave. No I am in the kitchen and I can't hear him. I am distracted by the football game and can't figure out what is wrong with my phone. We say our good-bys and hang up.

Then I discover I had answered my phone backwards. You know, mic to ear. Relieved to have figured it out, I am now plugging the thing in to charge when I recieve another Don call..

I answer again with a loud hello this time. He says "you meant an agape love right, not a love love right?" Wait. What. Apparently when I said my good by I said "love ya".

Roderick is all that can be said.

FROGS

The Treehouse has new residents. It seems some kids at our church pulled one over on their parents.

The last month saw those who shall be nameless purchase frogs and all the stuff that goes with them. They stashed them at a friends house, fed and cared for them and all Mom and Dad were none the wiser.

The jig was up last week. I got a call of desparation, begging me to take them off the deliquints hands. I graciously accepted the little creatures under the condition that the two kids involved in the crime take care of them every weekend. I will purchase the crickets for the sacrificial feeding. The bargin was made and I now have three amphibians residing up in my house, the Treehouse.

Now the Treehouse kids have to name them. Any suggestions?

Friday, September 23, 2011

THREADING

What a walk we had today. Addison, Phyllis and I stopped by the Cat Walk and got our threading on . . . well at least Adds got hers on . . . Phyl and I watched and it was so intersting.

Threading is what the "in" crowd does now instead of waxing or plucking the wild eye brow. I can't explain but it seems to be a twisting of threads to pull the hair out by the roots. Adds said it wasn't as painful as a wax and it did give her a cleaner look.

Phyl and I may have to go in and have ours done sometime and pick up some make-up tips. Yeah, like I wear a lot of make-up. Still, it would be fun to give it another shot. And I may even take Scott in to have his brows cleaned up. He would so hate that!

We Roderick's are a plucky bunch.

THIS MAKES ME LAUGH!

This is so funny. Our girls are gonna love it. After all we are blonde Roderick's.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

IT'S A 50'S THING: #25

I have not been this exhausted in a long time. We got home last night/morning at 3:30am. On the upside no traffic at all even with the construction on the 5, both in California and Oregon, sometimes down to one lane. Sheesh.

I woke up at noon and went to a meeting. I came back home at 3:00pm and went back to bed and woke up at 6:00pm and had a little bite to eat and now I am ready to go back to bed. What an exciting day.

Yeah. I'm a Roderick and I am tired.

THOSE OREGONIANS

People fascinate me. For instance there were several people of interest on our recent trip up the I-5 to Eugene, Oregon.

One gentleman was sitting on the shoulder of the 5 with his thumb up in the air hitch hiking. Cars were racing past by with nary a glance at him and certainly no stopping and picking up. Scary.

I spied another guy in Target with clothes that were so filthy they rivaled any street person in Huntington Beach. The significant observation I made was that this man didn't mind. He was shopping and that was just his thing. He didn't appear to be on his way home from some sort of automotive job. Simply dirty, grimey jeans and a tee shirt. Interesting.

And finally we were shopping at Trader Joe's and we observed a spotless lady walk out with a darling skirt and cute little cardigan and the hairiest legs I have ever seen on a woman. I don't want to think about her arm pits. Scott couldn't turn away. He thought maybe it was a guy in drag.

Shae has become such an Oregon girl that she didn't notice one of the characters that caught Scott and my eyes.

Shae honey, remember who you are and where you are from. You are Roderick and we shave our legs.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

APARTMENT

What a day. I am so tired my fingers aren't moving properly and I beg your forgivness for the multiple typos that probably will occur in this post.

Rise and shine was at 8:00am and we didn't stop until 10:00pm tonight. The schedule was like as follows:

We picked up Shae and Courtney at 9:00am and grabbed coffee to go and headed to Portland, about 2 hours away, where we met up with Kesley and Tug, his given name is David but we tenderly refer to him as Tug. We shopped at Ikea, which took f.o.r.e.v.e.r. and then grabbed some lunch, yes lunch, at 3:00pm. Time for fond farwells to K. and T. and back in the car for the road trip back to Eugene. But wait. We must hit the outlets for some J. Crew, Banana Republic, Quicksilver, Gap, etc. Then it's back on the road again to U. of O. with another stop at the storage unit to pick up the last item, a small refrigerator. Now it's on to Shae's apartment to unload everything and, yup, back in the car to go to Target for a dresser and odds and ends. Finally, back to the apartment to unload again, do some more odds and ends and by the grace of God, Scott and I are safely back in our hotel room ready for some well deserved rest.

Roderick's, occasionally, get tired of shopping. Unbelievable.

Monday, September 19, 2011

LOCKED OUT

We got all of Shae's stuff out of the car. We got all of her stuff out of storage. All we had left was to get all of Shae's stuff into her apartment. That's hard to do when you leave your key in your apartment and no one is there to let you in.

We left Scott sitting in the hall, surrounded by stuff, while we ran to the restaurant where Shae's room mates were dining to pick up an one of their keys. Then back to her apartment to get Scott out of the hall. People were starting to stare.

By the way, I love elevators and Shae and I were going back down, she's on the fourth floor, and I did an "Elf" imitation. Yep. Pushed every floor button. Shae was so annoyed. I had to explain my actions at every stop as people got in and saw all the floors lit up. I loved their reactions. Shae says "Mother, I have to live here." It made me laugh.

Those crazy Roderick's.

MISSONI MEDFORD

We stopped to enjoy lunch with several of our friends in Medford. We love to hit Red Lobster when we drive through and it just happens to be located right next to Target. Yup.

As soon as we finished eating we headed to our new favorite store. Marybeth came along for the ride because she knows all too well how Roderick's roll. She scored a pair of Missoni pumps and Shae and I scored some Christmas goodies courtesy of Missoni. We tried to get Scott to cough up $25.00 for a a very Missoni tie but that just was not goning to happen. All in all a great investment, no sales tax in Oregon.

Now we're in Eugene and Roderick's will be hitting Target(s) tomorrow.

HOLIDAY INN

We pulled in last night after midnight. We were all exhausted and ready to hit the sheets. Scott checked us in and we looked for a parking spot. He discovers all kinds of law enforement vehicles and he is stoked. We didn't want to unpack the whole car so he tucked the Hylander between two of these trucks and figures we've got it made.

Here's the rub. They are US Forest Service vehicles. What does a law enforcement officer in the USFS enforce? Do they carry weapons? How about badges? What laws do they enforce? Who breaks these laws? I am curious.

It really didn't matter. They were all gone when we walked out to the car this morning. It must have worked because not one thing was missing out of our car.

Gotta hand it to the USFS for keeping the Roderick ride safe and unscathed.

CINDYISM #10

While driving up the 405 we saw many, many Target trucks. Is is weird that I wanted to follow them to their final destination and watch them unload? I mean, maybe I could snag some more Missoni treasures. Shae thought it was a great idea!

Yes, I know. It must be a Roderick thing.

OREGON TRAIL

We left the Roderick driveway at 3:00pm and headed straight to the local Mobil to fill her up. Much to Scott's dismay our fast pass did not function properly. Back to the Roderick's we go to pick up the credit card. We were behind schedule so we jumped on the 405 and headed north, intending to fill up on the other side of the Grapevine.

Scott, in his haste to fill up, inadvertantly took the wrong exit for a Mobil station and then he got back on the freeway heading south. He drove for 8 miles before an exit could be found. Finally we got back on the 405 driving north again. He is speeding down the freeway all grumpy because he has to repass cars. He hates passing cars twice. I don't know why but he does.

After finally filling up the old Hylander we are back on the road again only to hit road construction and the 10 mile an hour creep. Scott is raging now. He is here to conquer the road not to deal with all these challenges. He keeps looking in his rear view mirrors to see if any of the cars he's passed are now passing him. He's in a cycle of chaos.

Shae is listening to her iPod. I am knitting. Life is good for the female Roderick's on road trips.

IT'S A 50'S THING: #24

Scott and I walk into Target and he picks up an item of clothing to show me. He is very excited and says "I found you one. It's a Missoni!" I look at him and say "Honey, it's a Mossimo."

Rookie Roderick mistake.

Friday, September 16, 2011

OH NO

Oh yes. It happened again. It is freightening, to be sure, and I only share this as a cautionary tale. Restaurant bathrooms are safe for no one.

We were having dinner out and our girls had me laughing so violently that I had to excuse myself so that I could empty my full bladder.

As I hurried up the stairs I could feel the shift in the atmosphere. I opened the ladies room door and stepped in, checking underneath all the stalls to see what I was up against. One set of feet were revealed in one stall and I felt apprehensive but calm.

I chose my stall and entered. Restrooms, away from the privacy of my home, are a challenge to say the least. I can't imagine that a piece of tissue paper can protect my backside from anything so I always squat. I can not help myself. I have squatted for years due to my mother's diligent training.

What happened next I was totally not prepared for, although I had heard tales of horror. As I was squatting a small amount of toxic gas was released. I couldn't control it. It had a mind of it's own. Silent it was not. I swear I blew the lady off her tissue paper covered toilet.

I had to get out of that restroom before that woman exited her stall and saw what I looked like. It was embarrassing. I was breathless by the time I got back to the table.

Fortunately, the rest of the Roderick's were so wrapped up in their own stories they neglected to ask why I was flushed (pun intended).

OUR BABY IS SEVENTEEN

Hope is seventeen today. What joy she has brought to us these last seventeen years. We look forward to many, many more.

We dined at The Old Speghetti Factory with Hope, CJ, Daisy, Dottie, Hailey, Lauren, Rachel, Addison, Shae, Scott and I. Much fun was had by all.

We arrived just as a huge fraternity was finishing up with prior festivites. As the gentlemen were leaving CJ jumps up and calls out a name or two, stunning us all. She saw a couple of guys she knew. Strange that a high school junior would know frat boys.

We were escorted to our table and began to question CJ about her acquaintances and she said "I went on a trip with them to Hawaii." WHAT? Apparently what she neglected to share with us was that she was with her parents on a mission trip with another church and the young men were associated with that church. Whew!

We thought for a minute that CJ was going to steal the Roderick thunder.

ADVENTURES IN TARGET

My assignment was Mission Missoni. I arrived at the designated store at 7:55am on Friday, September 17, 2011. As per my training, I attempted to appear relaxed. There were five competitors. I planned my strategy perfectly.

At 8:00am the automatic glass doors opened and I casually walked into the store and made a visual scan of the targeted areas. I proceeded to walk calmly past accessories, continuing my loop through the channels. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. I expected to come up with zero scored but I continued my surveilance of the facility.

As I turned into bedding, several obstacles met me. A saleperson was chatting up some competitors about the lack of merchandise. They leaped in front of me with a heading towards intimates, proving their inexperience at this level. I quickly turned into beauty where I discovered two rolling pieces of luggage, an overnight bag and two make-up bags. All perfect specimens of Missoni.

I immediately procured the merchandise and placed it in my cart and proceeded to check out. All of my competitors were now in clothing searching through racks that held nothing. I had escaped with the motherload and my competition didn't even see me exit the store at 8:10am.

Rookies. Again, Roderick.


Thursday, September 15, 2011

CHRISTMAS 2011

Exactly 100 days from today is Christmas. Here's a couple suggestions for a Christmas that you and your family may want to own.

Pick one item and expand it. One year the girls recieved charm bracelets and friends and relatives bought charms that invoked a fond memory of that daughter.

Last year was the year of conscience. Everything the girls got for Christmas was recycled or boosted the economy in a 3rd world country. For example, Tom's shoes was one of their gifts because every pair we buy a child in poverty is also provided new foot wear.

Several years past we gave each of the girls ornaments.

Scott, every year, gives the girls a bottle of fragrance that he personally picks out for each of their specific personalities.

This year . . . we'll I can't tell you, but it's gonna be big!

Hello, Roderick's.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

EBAY

I am a little unsettled with ebay and the people who abuse it. This Missoni for Target fiasco has some posting all kinds of Missoni for Target items on ebay to take advantage of those who missed out on the Tuesday unveiling. Individuals purchased tons of inventory and are now selling it on ebay at inflated prices. Some serious cash flow into the economy, however, at the expense of the person who just wanted a little Missoni in their closet.

The verdict is still out. Target may have more inventory available soon. After all, the collection was to be in stores until October 22, 2011.

Just in time for a Roderick Christmas shopping adventure.

WALKING

I've started my walking routine again after a long, walkless summer. Monday, Wednesday and Friday I get my walk on, albeit slowly, but it's coming back.

My knees and ankles crackle and pop. My calves are tight and ache. I rarely make it farther than Starbucks. I'm exhausted by the time we get back to the church. I sweat, not perspire, like a criminal chased by a newly promoted detective.

I love it.

The outside. The laughs. The beach. The surfers. The Pier. The dolphins. The friends. The coffee. The walk.

A Roderick at peace . . . indeed.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

MISSONI

Many of you are probably wondering what is Missoni. Let me tell you.

Missoni is an Italian design house known for it's vibrant colors and bold lines. I have wanted a silk scarf from these guys for ions, but, alas, was never able to afford it. Until today when Target unveiled it's Missoni line.

It may not be directly from Milan. It may not have cost hundreds of dollars. It may not be a one of a kind. But today I got my very own Missoni scarf.

I'll wear it proud and wear it loud. Because, you know, I'm a Roderick. (I am so stinkin' excited)

TARGET

Hope had to go to school. Boo. Kelsey lives in Seattle. Boo. So Addison, Shae and I went off to Target at 7:00am this morning for a shopping frenzi akin to all Roderick shopping extravaganza's minus two.

Target's Missoni line would debut today and we were 3rd in line ready to spit our game as soon as those doors flew open. I had the cart and would head to the back of the store for a laptop cover. Addison and Shae would head to bath and bedding to snatch the throws they both wanted. And the rest, well, it would just have to fall into place.

The snafu occured when the girl's coveted throws were not in yet. What? It would arrive later in the day with no eta. Well, being Roderick's, they pulled out the cell phones and started calling. Salt Lake City and Medford were the cities of choice.

Marybeth, you remember her from Black Friday 2010, just happened to be in Target up in Medford and God rained down his blessings upon us and she was able to score 3, that's right, 3 of the elusive throws. Yea MB.

From that point on everything else was cake. With lots and lots of frosting.

Yeah, we're Roderick and we shop.

Monday, September 12, 2011

JUST ANOTHER DAY

Shae wanted me to ride over to Ikea with her for one more look through before we take off for Oregon on Sunday. She double-checked her list so when we drive up to the Portland Idea all we have to do is go to the order desk, give them our wants and have it all delivered straight to her new apartment in Eugene. One down.

Addison comes home from school and wants me to go to JoAnn's with her to pick out embellishments for the tote bag she designed. We got a chain, ribbon and a tassle. We got side tracked a couple of times but all in all it was a quick trip. The bag turned out beautifully. Two down.

Kelsey calls me and wants me to talk her through some knitting techniques. She sent pictures via Addison's phone, and I couldn't talk her through it so I sent her to the yarn shop. It shouldn't be too bad, she just needs someone to show her the how-to's one-on-one. The sweater she's knitting looks like it's going to be gorgeous. Three down.

Hope comes home from working out and wants me to help her figure out what to do for her birthday this Friday. My baby will be seventeen. WOW! We chatted and talked while sitting on my bed. I think she may be going out to dinner with some bff's, all dressed up fine and hitting the town. Four down.

Just another manic Monday, only we provide the Roderick's.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

KINDERGARTNERS

This weekend in the Treehouse we moved up many of our kindergartners and let me tell you it was a "party in the house". It takes a few weeks for the new ones to get to know me, know how we roll up there and for us to get to know each other. You can not believe how challenging and fun these kids can be . . . such a joy.

I want them to get to know me, get some comfort level, so I open up the crate crew to some questions. First question, I kid you not, was "how old are you Miss Cindy?" These kids cut right to the chase and don't pull any punches. I didn't tell them but I did share the year of my birth. They were supposed to go home and ask their moms and dads to do the math and come back and tell me how old I am next week. This should be interesting.

The other challenge that these K'ers will have trouble grasping is the crates in the Treehouse are for sitting not walking on. Every year this throws these little guys and it takes about a month before they "get" it.

We are starting a series on the disciples so these little guys should be able to name them all by the end. We shall see.

With a Roderick in charge of the Treehouse you never know what those kids are going to come home and share with you. Beware.

Friday, September 9, 2011

EVALUATION

A quick note of thanks to the outreach team at FCCHB. This challenge brought before the Roderick's a sense of global visability which was not evident before. The family, although not participating actively in every challenge, at least were aware of each days assignment.

You have stretched the Roderick's spiritually, globally, conversationally and awarenessly. Is that even a word?

We Roderick's take liberities with the English language. Again, many thanks.

FAST

I just broke the fast with a poached egg and toast chased with a Coke. I had not eaten solid food since last night's dinner. I did enjoy a latte this morning and several ice teas today. Does that count?

My spiritual immaturity was placed before me today as I found it difficult to pray for the Muslim people. I attribute much of this to the 10 year anniversary of 9/11 which has been emblazoned everywhere I look. I realize my bias is illogical as I hold many responsible for the actions of few. It is my own responsiblity to change my mind set and press on to a more prayerful attitude. I plan to tackle this in the coming months. For the time being I am praying for the Mayfield's and the ministry that is so close to their hearts and for the people they serve in Indonesia. Thus, to my way of thinking, there is a relationship connection to those Muslims they serve(d) and the general population residing in Indonesia.

The rest of the Roderick family had an epic fail with the fast. Scott had to eat because of a severe headache. Addison was resistant to even trying. Shae, well I haven't talked to her yet so no update there. And Hope, well she's Hope. She said "Do I have to do this?" The choice was placed before her and she chose to chow down.

Roderick's.

Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty." John 6:35

Thursday, September 8, 2011

THE VESPA

For Scott's 50th birthday, roughly 5 years ago, I bought him a 1968 Vespa Scooter. I got it on Ebay with the aid of a guy on staff who shall remain nameless. My Treehouse kids love to talk about MOSES.

I should have known better, but hey, whata ya gonna do? Scott loved the gift and the thought behind it but he did not like all the hoops he has had to jump through these past years to ride that little black beauty.

So today he said a fond farewell to the Vespa and sold it.

Now if we could just sell that big, ole freezer. Any takers?

CLEANING OUT THE TREEHOUSE

Every year about this time I get into a cleaning frenzy up in the Treehouse. Summer is over. School has begun. It's time to get the room up to snuff for a new year of fun, facination and (non) fiction. Everything has been well loved and some stuff just needs to be tossed.

As I went through junk this morning in the back room I found missing game pieces, silverfish, trash, mineral oil, helium tanks, music stand, old Promiseland curriculum and a bunch of other items I can't begin to remember. Stacking, sorting, piling, organizing, decisions about what to keep, what to toss. Yep. That was my morning.

To add insult to injury I was a lazy bones this summer and let jobs just stack up. Especially the ones I do not enjoy doing, but I know has to be done. The PVBS and UGSFAW aftermath was daunting but I tackled it with vigor. This entails returning everything to it's proper Treehouse address and/or replacing missing parts and purchasing stuff that was damaged and/or lost. Whew.

My goal is to complete the process by Saturday so that all will be in place and good to go for the weekend. All those kindergartner's are heading up and it is going to be wild.

This Roderick can not wait for the action to begin.

WALK

Today Scott and I took a walk. We chatted about the day, the girls, the dogs, the house and many more insignificant topics Isn't that how it is sometimes? We talked about everything but what we were supposed to be talking about, Kenya and Uganda. It just slipped our mind.

I pray somewhat sporadically for Irene, a little girl Scott met while in Kenya and we now support monthly. I pray for her schooling and that she has enough to eat and she has a safe place to sleep. I pray for the family she left so she could attend a Christ centered boarding school. I pray for her medical challenges and the life she will lead being hearing impaired in such a hostile country. I pray she has enough clean water to drink and books to read. I pray that she has friends that love her and teachers that care for her.

After today, I will pray for Irene daily as I do for my own girls. After today's challenge Irene has become an honorary Roderick girl.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls". Matthew 11:28-29

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

SCHOOL REWIND

I watched today as all the kids, elementary and middle, returned to school. As I sat outside Main Street Coffee and Book waiting for my walking bff's, so many memories flooded my heart.

Hope returned last week without much pomp and circumstance. A junior in high school just doesn't get the same attention as that first day of kindergarten. Oh we had the what to wear on the first day of school drama as well as the registration chaos but . . . just not the same as the thrill of the first day of elementary.

Hope was the toughest to send to off school. Her first day of PreK was met with me sobbing by the door to her classroom and her walking in and owning it. She's the last to do all things Roderick and that brings tears along with joy. These girls of ours have grown up to be such beautiful young women of God.

I can't wait to see what's next, although I do miss the days of childhood . . . sometimes.

ONE FAUCET

Today's challenge was to use one faucet in our homes for all water purposes. On the surface this seems easily accomplished. I found out quickly that it is certainly not, especially when you have a firecracker of a day soaring into the 90's.

We decided that our one faucet would be in the kitchen. Hindsight is 20/20 and that probably was not the best choice. We didn't realize how much we use the plumbing in our house. We couldn't do ordinary tasks such as flushing a toilet, washing hands, doing laundry, running the dishwasher, watering plants, showering, etc. etc. etc.

I caught myself several times using other faucets in the house. And I failed the challenge, so did Shae, because we had to take a shower at the end of the day. We were so uncomfortable, hot and sweaty, we just couldn't stand it. We would be horrible on a missions trip to somewhere hot. Scott, Hope and Addison finished strong, in heart and stench. They will be showering in the morning.

We did remember each time we used water, for whatever purpose, to pray for the Iraqi people, specifically the Women's Center.

Jesus said, "Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life." John 4:13-14

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

SHOE 2

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion "your God reigns!" Isaiah 52:7

Update on today tomorrow is actually an evaluation tonight.

It was blazing hot in HB today, so going without shoes was a blessing and a very easy reminder to remember the Lall family in India. I am sure they have extreme weather at one time or another.

Scott was barefooted the entire day, while Shae and I donned flip flops for a quick dash to the grocery store. Addison and Hope both wore sandals while at school. We all finished at home with naked feet on the cool tile and fans blasting around us.

Keep up with us tomorrow as we use one faucet. It was decided to use the kitchen one all day. This just keeps getting better and better.

ANGEL'S FLIGHT

I know many of you will remember the 80's trend Angel's Flight leisure wear for men. Scott had a blue corderoy suit, black pants and I don't know what else. I got tired of them and the fad was over so I convinced him to donate said items to Goodwill. Now if you know Scott well this is not an easy task. He isn't fond of giving up his stuff. I clearly won the battle and the clothes went.

At that time, Scott and I had season tickets to the University of Utah football games. No kids yet and 4 tickets allowed us to take another couple with us for a very fun date night. Same seats every time, but not for others in the crowd. Scott was sitting in our aisle seat when a man walked by him.

Scott could not speak. I was laughing so hard I couldn't speak. The couple with us were laughing so hard at us they could not speak.

The man that walked by was wearing Scott's blue corderoy Angel's Flight suit.

This can only happen to a Roderick.

ANOTHER ENGLAND STORY

Kelsey, Addison, Megan, Shae and I got on a double decker bus and just took off through the streets of London. We saw Parliment, Westminster Abbey, the Palace, the Thames and many more famous attractions. As we buzzed through the streets Addison yells "There's Big Bill!" Megan points and says "You mean Big Ben?" "Yeah. That clock" Addi replies.

Yep. For sure a Roderick.

LAST VACA OF SUMMER



























































































































































































































































































Enjoy the fun while you're young! Study hard and you can do it all again in 2012!

Sunday, September 4, 2011

SHOE

Yesterday proved to be more of a challenge than expected.

Habits are hard to break and I got caught several times flipping a light switch. I did enjoy not doing laundry, not running the dishwasher, not watching TV or videos and in general just "not doing much." The family rose to the occasion.

We went to the Torres' for a bbq and still tried not to use power. I had to remind several Roderick's not to turn the light on when they went to the restroom. And, oh my, this was hard, several besties got on Pinterest and took all I had not to help them out. Whew. All in all we still maintained our commitment to the cause. Everyone was in bed at sundown. A first for us in a very long time.

Addison did break down late in the evening. She had to get on the laptop to complete some fashion homework.

Today is going to be much easier I think. Maybe not. The girls are all ready lamenting the fact they can't do they're daily workout. Especially their run.

Update on today tomorrow.

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion "your God reigns!" Isaiah 52:7

ELECTRICITY

Our church is challenging us to do something that we'll make us all more aware of what is happening around the globe. Tomorrow, Labor Day, the Roderick's will not be using electricity. Really. And even more astounding is that the girls are giving us no push back. They are excited for this experience. When they were little we would call these days Amish days and it was purely for some peace and quiet for the parentals. This time is different.

So . . . no lights, no laundry, no laptops, no fans, no TV, no getting anything out of the refrigerator (this one is going to be the hard one), no straighteners or blow dryers (yikes), no cell phones (hello, charged by electricity), no iPods, no land lines, and I am sure there are many more that I can't even think of right now but will hit us tomorrow. I am praising God that we decided not to purchase a Hybrid many years ago.

During this "powerless" time at our house we will be praying for those in China and North Korea that someday they will be introduced to the light that Jesus brings each of us.

Our scripture for the day is: Jesus said, "I am the Light of the World. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

Anyone up to taking the challenge with the Roderick's?

Friday, September 2, 2011

TIM HOWARD

We went to last night's soccer game and we got to sit right behind the goal and can I just say wow. Tim Howard is one fine keeper and he is a lot bigger than he looks on television. And so easy on the eyes. I think he may have just become my favorite USA National Team player.

Costa Rica took a shot and it went over the net and right at my face. Fortunatley I am good at ducking and Addison and Scott were sitting next to me and deflected the rocket to Hope who caught it and gave it to Kelly, one of her friends, to throw back on the pitch. Such a thrill since it was the National team playing.

The did chalk up a loss, but it was a friendly so no harm done. Perhaps some egos were bruised but they will heal and come back stronger.

I love the beautiful game.

ESCAPING THE PARKING LOT

Leaving the Home Depot Center after a lively night of soccer is always a crap shoot. You never know how long it will take or how organized the parking staff is going to be. Last night was no surprise. Here are some comments heard in the Roderick car. Those present, Scott, Cindy, Addison, Hope, Don and Cherylynn Hurdle.

"Turn on the heat."
"Dad, she's telling you to turn on your headlights."
"Turn off the radio, I'm getting a headache."
"Scott, just push your nose out there."
"Hope, roll up that window, we are in the hood."
"Addison you are not hanging a moon at those people."
"Roll down your window and tell that guy to watch his language, there are little kids everywhere."
"Mom, we're in the hood, that's how they talk here."
"Did you see that guy?"
"That girl can't drive."
"Scott, you are going to hit that car. STOP."
"Cindy, it is not his turn, it will be his fault if I hit him."
"I am so glad we have boys."
"Hope, you take sign language, what sign was that?"

And the comments go on and on. A parking lot the Roderick way.

LIBRARY

As we returned from the game tonight we were discussing reading in the car. Addison has a friend who has a little girl about 18 months old and Addi would like to introduce her to the world of children's literature.

First question, "Mom do you have any books you can donate to Memphis?" Wait. What? I think you mean give to her, loan to her, buy for her, but donate? Not so much.

Next question, "Mom does the library rent books?" Wait. What? I think you mean loan. Remember your library card you carry in your wallet. It comes in handy when you want to borrow a book.

Final question, "Mom could I give the book to Memphis?" Wait. What? Addison, perhaps you should take Memphis to the library and read to hear there. It would be so much easier.

Sigh. Roderick.

KLINSMEN

That's the name of the new Men's National Team coach for the United States in the sport of soccer and we are going to watch the game tonight at the Home Depot Center. Yeah. I hope it will be a nice night and we can add another notch on the win side of the competition. If I'm not mistaken I believe it will be Coast Kinsmen's third time leading the red, white and blue. They will be playing Costa Rica, which I understand is a beautiful place to vacation, but on the pitch I want our boys to kick it and kick it good.

So while you're watching the game on TV look for the Roderick's and company on the south side of the pitch behind the goal.

USA. USA. USA.

ANNA GRACE

Well tomorrow morning at 5:00am I will get up and do the hair of my niece who will be competing in the finals of her ice skating competition. My sister Shelly will be doing the braiding and I will be sewing flowers into the braid. That's right, I said sew.

We will then take off for Culver City for the 9:00am program enjoying the ice revelery of 15 girls. It should be exciting, colorful and extemely cold. Blankets, sweaters and jackets will be the fashion of the day. The world of figure skating is so interesting and people take it very seriously. Very.

And although I love cheering on my niece in her chosen sport and I love watching her succeed, I think I'll stick with soccer. The hair is so much easier to do.

TECHNOLOGY

I am technologically challenged. There. I admit it. No excuses. I don't do well with a computer. I don't do well with an iPod. I don't do well with any communication device. I don't do well with TiVo and/or DVD players.

That having been said, I also try to not be rude and disrespectful of other people. Believe me I have seen people at their worst when on the phone, computer, iPod, etc. I turn my phone off when I am talking to someone or at the very least, I ignore it. And after today I will be much more aggressive about my behavior regarding distractions. Nothing is more important to me than the person standing in front of me. Nothing. Not an overdue email. Not my girls calling to chat. Not Scott texting me about dinner. My attention, all of it, is on the person that has eye to eye contact. It's not like my fingers are broken and I can't return any of the URGENT communication in a short period of time.

This is my new mantra and I challenge you to join me in the rebellion against rude behavior concerning technology.

Ooooo. That has a little "Star Wars" ring to it, pun intended.