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

Shadow Girl and The Author


There is something very special about the relationships between grandparents and grandchildren. From the moment Bop and I learned that Mike and Christine were expecting their first child almost nine years ago, life changed in wonderful ways. Rowan was born, and then, a few years later, Eden was born. Bop and I love our grandparent names. We also have several different names for Rowan and Eden. Eden is sometimes called “Shadow Girl,” and Rowan is sometimes called “The Author”.

These unique names come from everyday experiences. From the time Eden started walking, she has been fascinated with following Bop. She walks so close behind him that I worry he won’t see or hear her. So, whenever she follows along behind him, I say, “Shadow, shadow.” Bop knows to be careful and alert that his shadow is with him as he walks from one room to another.

Rowan has become an excellent reader and writer. He knows that I’m an author and he likes to create stories, too. Rowan enjoys technology class at school. At our home, he enjoys using my computer to type out stories and then print them. Bop and I tell him that he is a great author. He’s also wonderful at art. His drawings show a creative side that amazes everyone.

Recently, Rowan and Eden were sitting at the dining room table. Rowan was drawing, and Eden was coloring. They decided to take a break and have a snack. Eden asked Bop to bring her a cupcake. Bop replied that she knew where the cupcakes were stored, and she could get a bowl and a cupcake for herself. 

She smiled that precious smile that melts Bop’s heart. He walked to the kitchen and found a pink bowl and a cupcake for Eden. She sat on the couch.

Eden looked at me and proclaimed, “Bop will do anything for me because I’m his shadow girl.”

Now, how could we resist her request for a treat when she spoke the truth? Precious girl.

Rowan knows where the bowl of candy bars is kept. He is old enough now that he doesn’t ask for a treat. He walks to the cabinet and finds what he wants to eat. Yes, the author needs nourishment even if it’s a chocolate candy bar. We are so proud of him for saying “thank you”.

These sweet grandkids teach us lessons every day. Love each other, share your treats, use your manners, and remember to look out for one another. God is good. Bop and I are blessed.

Thank you for reading and commenting. The winner from the last blog post contest is Katherine Pasour. I’ll be mailing your copy of “Licky the Lizard”.

Blessings,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

5 Comments
  • Jessica Brodie
    Posted at 16:33h, 07 April Reply

    I love your reflections about your grandkids and see SO many spiritual moments in them! They remind me to always look for the beauty in the everyday. You are a blessing, Melissa!

    • Melissa G. Henderson
      Posted at 17:01h, 07 April Reply

      Thank you dear friend. You are such a great encouragement. God bless you. Have a blessed week! 🙂

  • June Foster
    Posted at 17:22h, 07 April Reply

    Such a sweet post. I’m sure Eden and Rowan’s parents enjoy reading these stories.

    • Melissa G. Henderson
      Posted at 17:23h, 07 April Reply

      Thank you sweet June. I appreciate your faithfulness at reading and commenting on my blog posts. Yes, Mike and Christine enjoy reading about Rowan and Eden. 🙂 Have a blessed week! 🙂

  • Kimberly Rose Johnson
    Posted at 17:55h, 07 April Reply

    I love reading your grandchild musings and the life lessons learned. Thanks for being an inspiration.

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