RHODA!

This is my good friend, Rhoda, who is like a sister to me! A number of years ago (I'm not telling HOW many years) we taught together at Longview Christian School. During part of that time she lived with us and we kept her down in the basement. :) Remember the Mary Tyler Moore show and "Rhoda" who lived in the attic of her building? Our friend's given name is actually "Ronda," but ... you get it, don't you?

About seven years ago Rhoda fell in love and married Greg. She moved to Illinois with him and together they have Meredith and Macey. What beautiful children!

Rhoda, Greg and family return to Washington often to visit family and friends. Last night we gathered at the house of Rhoda's cousin, Dennis, in Kalama. What a beautiful place and what a great place to play.

A view from above: This is just about half of the backyard!

Rhoda's brother-in-law, Bob, gets ready to launch a pass (left) while Greg (far right) confers with his team in the intense game on a summer evening.

Meredith and cousin Garett attempt to escape the garage into the backyard. Luckily I showed up just in time so they didn't need to break any windows.

Macey is 18 months and ready to race! She's so her momma's daughter!

Uncle Bob helps Meredith catch up with Garett on the trampoline.

How many cousins can you fit on the roof of a child's cottage?

Meredith tries to join the big girls on top the roof. Macey is happy to rule the great indoors.

Rhoda joins the girls (and Garett) aboard the trampoline. Auntie Rhoda is always a hit at family gatherings. . . her own and ours! Once when she went with us to New Mexico, my nephew Danny asked, "Rhoda, what's your nickname?" She also holds the title of Best Belcher on our side of the family. (I'm jealous.)






A Mommy Moment.

Rhoda and Meredith share a word as the sun goes down.

Rhoda's been teaching the gansta pose to her little protegee.

Macey is in da yard!