Grumpy the Gator

In Grumpy the Gator, a group of children playing encounter a grumpy alligator. The story teaches children to always keep a safe distance from animals in the wild, and to find an adult if they see an alligator.

Grumpy the Gator

Its Always A Story With The Hendersons

How Do Birds Handle Change?


Bird watching has always fascinated me and brought hours of enjoyment. As a young girl, my parents pointed out different kinds of birds and shared interesting information about the creatures. From the little Carolina Wren to the large Bald Eagle, each bird has its own way of handling life. What happens when the temperatures drop or rise? How do birds handle change?

I remember making homemade bird feeders in elementary school. A pinecone covered in peanut butter and seeds, with a string attached to the top, was one of my favorite projects. Those unique treats hung from trees in the neighborhood. The kids would watch to see which one had the most visitors. Nowadays, Bop and I create the same feeders with our grandkids. Collecting pinecones in the neighborhood and making crafts from them brings fun and laughter, but there is always a mess on the floor.

Recently, I bought a new tray feeder for the tree in the front yard. The old one had worked well for a long time. Now, I wanted a different one. The bird store offers a variety to choose from, making the decision difficult. 

Over the years, I’ve learned some interesting facts about birds. Some birds don’t mind change. They will fly right next to me as I pour seed. Others wait and sit on branches watching until I go back inside the house. I wonder why some creatures are shy, and others are bold.

Another unique quality about birds is that they seem to know when a dramatic change in the weather is approaching. The weather forecasters in the Lowcountry are predicting a sharp drop in temperatures tonight.

I looked outside and saw birds of all sizes and shapes flying back and forth to the new tray. I sense that they know change is on the way. Watching from inside the house, I smiled and thanked God for these birds that make me happy.

Birds handle change by preparing for what may be coming. Other animals handle change in their own ways. What about people? How do we handle change?

Rowan and Eden adapt well to changes in their schedule. Rowan likes to have a calendar with events posted on the refrigerator. Eden goes with the flow. Both grandkids have unique ways to handle change.

I keep several calendars with dates posted. There are calendars on the wall, in my purse, on the computer, and on my phone. I adjust when change happens. Life brings many changes, and how we handle those changes can help us thrive.

We can learn valuable lessons from the birds. We can prepare and stay aware of our surroundings. I have often said, “God taps me on the shoulder three times when He is trying to get my attention. If I don’t listen, He hits me in the head.” Haha!

How do you handle change? With a smile, grumbles, or contentment?

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

6 Comments
  • Katherine Pasour
    Posted at 15:25h, 17 December Reply

    I love to watch our birds. They are a lot like humans in their fussing about who gets to the food first and fights for the most. You are right,Melissa, we learn so much from nature. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

    • Melissa G. Henderson
      Posted at 15:27h, 17 December Reply

      I’m watching the bluebirds and cardinals this morning. I need to put more seed in the feeder. Birds are amazing. All of God’s creatures are amazing. Thank you for reading and commenting. Merry Christmas to you and your family! 🙂

  • Carol Souders
    Posted at 16:18h, 17 December Reply

    A wonderful message. I find myself running to the bird book you gave me to try and determine what bird I’m seeing. I’ve learned so much from you. Thank you and have a wonderful holiday. AND, yes, change is very hard sometimes.

    • Melissa G. Henderson
      Posted at 16:51h, 17 December Reply

      Thank you sweet Carol. The birds are busy today. The downy woodpecker wasn’t afraid of me because I was adding seed to the feeder. 🙂 Merry Christmas! Have a blessed day! 🙂

  • Karen Friday
    Posted at 18:20h, 17 December Reply

    So interesting, Melissa. I remember making the same bird feeders when I was young. You last line about the Lord getting your attention made me chuckle. Merry Christmas

  • karenruhl
    Posted at 19:18h, 17 December Reply

    I love change, it keeps things exciting.

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