Stand Up Snowman!
Towards the end of November, my husband and I decided to start decorating for Christmas. A little tree for the playroom/office was first on the list. The big tree for the living room came next. Red, green, and white lights to adorn shelves, counters, and other spots, were pulled from cardboard boxes in the closet. Along with the decorations for the inside of the house, we gathered the outdoor inflatables and lights. We noticed one problem immediately. The inflatable snowman wouldn’t stand up. We called out. “Stand up snowman!”
Alan was arranging extension cords and unboxing the Christmas tree and snowman. The front yard would be inviting with colorful decorations and lights. I checked on Alan and he looked at the ground and frowned.
“I guess the snowman has seen its last day. It won’t stand up. The air is blowing into the right place, but it won’t fill up completely. Oh, well. We’ll have to get another one.”
The disappointment was evident as he asked me to bring a trash bag for the defeated snowman. I went inside and gathered a bag. I walked back outside and watched as Alan attempted to get the inflatable Christmas tree to work. That failed, too.
Both of us spoke more words of frustration. We didn’t want to go to the store at that moment. We wanted to have the decorations working for the grandkids and the neighborhood to enjoy.
As I looked down at the deflated and wrinkled snowman, I noticed a zipper on the back side of the item. I wondered if that could be the problem.
“Hey, honey, did you see a zipper on the back? There is probably one on both things.”
I reached down, closed the zipper, and to our surprise, the snowman filled with air and stood tall.
“Oh, my goodness!! Look at that!” We both shouted and laughed.
In our joy to put up the inflatable snowman and the Christmas tree, we neglected to check all the parts and follow directions.
This situation reminds me not to rush through the Christmas season. Enjoy every moment and remember the reason for the season. Jesus Christ is our gift from God. Share time with God today. Thank Him for the many blessings He gives. Thank Him for Jesus. Thank Him for fun decorations that make us smile. Give thanks for His love and forgiveness.
Have a blessed day! God loves you.
In His Name,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetMoles! Go Away!
This past summer brought excessive heat, dry grass, wilted plants that needed constant watering, and an air conditioner that wouldn’t turn off. Alan and I have learned that the Lowcountry doesn’t have long spring or winter seasons. Most years, there is a short period of cold temperatures followed by chilly weather. Then, the heat comes and stays for months. One thing we’ve never dealt with is moles in the yard. Could this be from the hot days and nights or something else? Standing on the front porch, I scream “Moles! Go away!”
Near the end of summer, we noticed that the mulch in our flower beds needed replacing. The nice man who mows our grass suggested putting down new mulch. The yard team would remove the old parts, put them in bags, and haul everything away. Next, they would apply a new covering on the ground. We agreed and the team went to work. After two days of sweat and back-breaking labor, the job was completed. The flower beds were beautiful.
About a week later, Alan and I noticed mounds of dirt piled next to the edges of the sidewalk. It was a strange sight. We determined they weren’t ant hills. This was a different disruption of the soil. Of course, I went to the computer and searched for possibilities. The answer was soon found. MOLES!!!!
We had not seen any moles. The more we researched, the more we learned. Those creatures dig tunnels under the ground and live in the mulch. What! Mulch! Had the moles been in the flower beds and we never saw them? Perhaps they were disturbed when the yard guys worked in the soil. The cause was unknown, but we began a mission trying to get rid of the moles.
First, we spoke to neighbors. A few other folks on our street had seen mole hills in their yard.
One man said to get a grub killer because moles eat grubs. No grubs, no moles.
That was plan number one. We purchased the suggested treatment and applied it to the ground. The next morning, there was more damage from the moles. I could picture them laughing at the big people trying to get rid of them.
Second suggestion. “Try placing a stick of gum into the holes. They aren’t able to digest.” That didn’t work—another failed attempt.
Third, we purchased several devices to place in the ground. These things make a buzzing sound every few seconds and are supposed to deter the animals from being in the yard. Again, another failed action.
Fourth. Find a tunnel and put a trap in the ground. That’s great if the ground isn’t as hard as a rock. In other words, it didn’t work.
Fifth. Spray the yard with castor oil. Don’t bother with that one.
Sixth. Visit the local “we have a solution for every yard issue” place. Their ideas didn’t work either.
My frustration was at an all-time high level. At the beginning of this situation, I had researched companies that might help. The answer was always the same. “We don’t get rid of moles. But, if you have a gator or a rat or something like that, call us.”
With my nerves on edge, I sat at the computer again and saw my little sticky note that said, “PRAY FIRST”. I realized that I had not given this silly mole problem to God.
I paused and prayed. Opening my eyes, the search on my computer listed a company that specifically handles getting rid of moles. That company information didn’t appear the first time I searched on the computer, a month ago. Why was this phone number and company name showing now? Was it because I prayed?
Alan contacted the mole company and a representative arrived the next day. I must report that I looked outside and saw Alan, two neighbors, and the mole guy, discussing what was sure to be a lively mole conversation. I chuckled.
So far, the moles have not destroyed any other sections of the yard. Eight white flags show where the traps are located. The company rep will return and check the traps.
This experience reminded me that God knew what was needed. He always knows. I smiled. God shows us in many different ways that we should always trust Him. Give everything to God. Problems like moles invading the yard are not too big for God. There is nothing God can’t handle.
Now, instead of “Moles! Go Away!”, I am saying, “The yard looks pretty.”
Have you had moles in your yard? Have you prayed to God for something simple?
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetWriting to Shine His Light
Each month, a group of writers gathers in person and online to participate in the ACFW(American Christian Fiction Writers) Lowcountry Chapter meeting. Our group has grown since the first gathering a few years ago. Folks write fiction, non-fiction, stories for children, articles, devotions, and poetry. Every writer creates unique pieces that reflect their personality and beliefs. One important goal this group includes is that we are writing to shine His light. The light of God is evident in the words and actions of the members.
In 2023, the chapter compiled its first anthology, “Charleston Light: Stories Inspired by Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse.” The authors shared stories of love, hope, inspiration, and more. That award-winning book continues to be an important part of shining the light and love of God.
Our newest book will be available for purchase on October 1st. I’m pleased to announce that “A Holy City Christmas: Charleston Holiday Tales” is a delightful book filled with stories that will touch the hearts and souls of readers.
Eight authors from the group have penned special tales incorporating famous sights from the Charleston, South Carolina area. Visitors and locals may recognize the mentions of places such as the Dock Street Theater, Breach Inlet, The Citadel, and other famous places in the Lowcountry.
The chapter started working on the project by organizing details. We set deadlines, chose clip art, chose book cover designers, found a local artist (a chapter member) to provide personal line drawings of significance to each story, and wrote the stories. Within our chapter, some talented people provided services to help bring the book together. Several members took the time to edit each story. Everyone contributed to this book. Whether they wrote a story, drew pictures, created a cover, worked with sites to offer the anthology for sale, or prayed, every effort was placed in God’s hands.
A lot of “behind the scenes” efforts went into making this book possible.
The people in ACFW South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter are talented, compassionate, loving, caring, and dedicated folks who love the Lord.
In 2023, we were blessed to have book signings and participate in “A Moveable Feast” with My Sister’s Books in Pawleys Island. This year, we are having more book signings and hope to meet you at one or more events.
My story in this new anthology is “Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells”. I hope you enjoy reading more about Lana Pierce. Readers asked me to continue her story and I’m glad I listened.
Lana Pierce has experienced the loss of her husband due to illness and then, a hurricane that
almost destroyed her home. While life continues, Lana becomes involved in a mystery and
possibly a new love. “Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells” brings love, faith in God,
and hope for the future.
Both anthologies are available for purchase. Contact your local bookstore and see if the books are available. Place a request for your local library to carry the books. Amazon offers print and Kindle versions.
Proceeds from the first six months of sales will benefit “RISE”. This charity helps men who are trapped in poverty, homelessness, or addiction. “RISE” is Restored, Ignited, Supported, and Empowered to flourish by the grace of Jesus Christ.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” (Psalms 119:105 NIV)
I hope you enjoy reading these wonderful new stories.
Blessings,
Melissa Henderson
TweetLibrary Time with Eden’s Class
I received an email from our son Mike. “Hey, Mom. Here’s a sign-up sheet if you are interested in helping with the school library.” My answer was “Yes, I’ll fill out the form right now.” As a former substitute teacher and library aide, I was eager and wanted to help with granddaughter Eden’s class. I’ll sign up for grandson Rowan’s library time, too. The excitement was building as I prepared for library time with Eden’s class.
The online form was simple. Basic information. After I completed the form, another part of registering to help at the school was required. I’m thankful for the extra attention that the school requires for volunteers. A background check was completed. Two long videos with questions to answer were part of the requirement. The school is dedicated to the well-being of the children.
All tests were completed and passed. I am now a registered volunteer.
On the day I was scheduled to help in the library, Bop(Alan) drove me to the school. He waited in the parking area while I was in the building. The library class was for forty minutes. I entered the office and told the lady at the desk my name and why I was there. She gave me a special lanyard to show I was a guest, and then, another sweet woman introduced herself and said she would take me to the library. Everyone was friendly and thanked me for being there to read to the children.
When we arrived at the library room, the woman asked, “What are you planning to do?”
I answered, “I’ll help with whatever the librarian needs.”
I didn’t know that there wasn’t a librarian. The volunteers help with checking out books, making crafts, and reading. I quickly looked around and said that I would read some books. I had planned to read to the young ones but thought there might be an activity already waiting. The Pre-K class doesn’t check out books yet.
Looking at the shelves and displays, I found several cute stories. I sat in a little chair and read the books to myself while I waited for Eden’s class.
In a few minutes, I heard giggles and footsteps as the children came upstairs to the library. They entered the room quietly. Eden looked at me and grinned. She was very proper. She didn’t run to get a snuggle. She was following the directions from the teacher.
Each child found a spot on the circular rug and sat down. I introduced myself and told them that I was happy to see everyone.
“Hello, I’m Mrs. Henderson.”
Hands began raising. “You’re Eden’s grandma.” “You’re Eden’s Mimi.”
Eden grinned and raised her hand.
I said, “Yes, Eden?”
“Mimi, you’re my grandmother.”
“Yes, I am your grandmother.”
After the introductions of each child and their name, the room quieted, and I began to read.
I love to change my voice while reading. Each character has a different tone to fit. The expressions on the faces of the children were delightful. They listened and when one book was finished, they found another one for me to read aloud.
Between stories, I suggested that we stand and do a little stretching. The class of ten kids reached to the sky, and then, found their knees, elbows, eyes, and shoulders. We laughed as we exercised in the library.
A bell rang and library time was over. The teacher called everyone to line up to go back to class. Shouts of “Thank you Mrs.Henderson.” “ Thank you Mimi.” “ Thank you Eden’s grandma.” were exclaimed as they walked back to their classroom.
I listened as the children left. I began putting away books. I laughed out loud when I heard the comments.
“That was fun. I want her to come again.”
“Eden, I like your Mimi.”
And then, one boy stated, “That was too long.” I fell over laughing when I heard his comment.
Volunteering is a precious gift to give to your children, grandchildren, and any child. Schools need volunteers.
Next time, I will take copies of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”.
Have you volunteered at a school? I always learn lessons from precious children.
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (3 John 1:4 NIV)
Blessings,
Melissa Henderson aka Mimi
TweetThe Storm Call of a Frog
The Lowcountry of South Carolina is journeying through Tropical Storm Debby. Predictions of high rainfall amounts, possible strong winds, and intense flooding have held the top news reports. Road closures, changes to operating hours for businesses, school closings, and other important information have been broadcast on radio, television, and social media. Along with concerns for people, there are worries about animals, too. How can you tell if a storm is coming? Have you listened to the storm call of a frog?
The first night the storm arrived in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, I heard the rain tapping the roof and windows. The wind moved the palm fronds. Branches of the crepe myrtles threw white, pink, and purple blossoms into the yard. Our garden flags danced and wrapped around the small poles. The hummingbird feeders swayed back and forth but never left their hook.
As the day ended and night began, Alan and I prepared for sleep. The rain sometimes lessened and provided a gentle sound for a perfect slumber. All was well until the thunder boomed, lightning flashed, and the frogs started calling. The sound of the frogs croaking made me think of a scary movie scene. I pulled the covers over my head in hopes of resting without interruption. I could sleep with lightning and thunder, but not a bunch of frogs calling.
I’m not sure how many minutes or hours passed while those frogs made loud and obnoxious sounds. There was no reason to turn on the porch light. That wouldn’t scare them. So, I closed my eyes and waited. Of course, my dear husband slept through the night with no problems.
Finally, sleep took over and I was able to tune out the frogs. When the morning light came, and Alan woke, I mentioned how the frogs had been too loud. His response was calm.
“What frogs? Were they loud? Where were they?”
Precious husband. I didn’t give him a grouchy face, although I thought about it.
The frog in the photo above is not one of the noise makers. That little fellow was found on the sidewalk. I thought he was cute.
I considered the many creations and how each one is uniquely gifted by God. I’m not sure why the frogs were calling during the storm. There’s probably a scientific reason. I do know that God gave me more time to pray while I waited for the noise to cease.
I may have been mad at being kept awake when I wanted to rest peacefully. Yet, when I think of the frogs calling, I wonder if they were alerting other animals to the impending storm. The likely reason for their noise was probably a mating call. Whatever the reason, I’m glad they quieted so I could sleep.
Do you have any funny frog experiences?
“He provides rain for the earth; he sends water on the countryside.” (Job 5:10 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetA Visit with Nature
A Visit with Nature
“Where are you going? Do the plants need water again?” I hear these questions several times a day when I gather my garden gloves and empty milk jug to head outside. My answer is usually the same. “I’m stepping outside to visit with nature.”
The heat index has risen to 117 recently. Families in the neighborhood are staying inside. No bicycles, toys, inflatable pools, or other summer playthings are found in yards. The sounds of summer have quieted while everyone stays inside to stay cool.
Thunder rolls in the clouds on some mornings. Yesterday, the loud booms could be heard for hours. Lightning lit up the sky. Yet, the rain didn’t fall. The sky grew darker, the wind started blowing leaves off of trees, and I continued to look out of the windows for any raindrops that might be coming.
While listening to the rain tapping on the roof, and watching the trees sway back and forth, I noticed how things were changing in nature. The birds stopped singing. Hummingbirds stopped visiting the feeders. The frogs in the forest were quiet. A storm was coming.
Finally, after hours of waiting, heavy downpours filled the ponds and streets with water. The storm rolled through and when it was gone, life began to emerge from the quiet hiding places. A beautiful fog sat above the neighborhood ponds. Birds sat on the branches of trees and shook their wings. Hummingbirds returned to the feeders. The tree frogs made loud sounds as if they were alerting every creature that the storm had passed.
I stepped outside of the house and saw one flower pot turned over. The wind had whipped the pot out of its normal resting spot. Placing it back into the regular nesting spot, I was ready for a visit with nature.
With garden gloves in my pants pocket, I was ready to work. There’s a special pair of tennis shoes that I use when I’m working in the dirt. I marked them with a “G” for “garden”. My previous work shoes had an “O” for “outside”.
My visit with nature included pausing and thanking God for the rain, the cooler temperatures during the storm, and His blessings and protection. After heavy rainfall, things look different. Leaves drip tiny droplets onto the ground. The mulch in the flower bed has been displaced and spread across the yard. Mushrooms begin to form in the soil. The old has washed away and the new is coming.
I thank God for His provisions. What a wonderful time I enjoyed during my visit with nature.
Resting in His promises brings peace and comfort.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
Laughter can come after a storm, too. While I was basking in the joys of nature, a frog hopped in front of me as I walked in the grass. I screamed, jumped, and then laughed. I thanked God for the laughter, too. “It’s always a story with the Henderson’s.”
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetGrandkids and Tomatoes
Warm temperatures in the morning placed droplets of dew on the grass. A beautiful day was waiting for folks in the Lowcountry. Grandkids would arrive soon and the fun would begin. Today’s project would include a trip to the local greenhouse to purchase dirt and tomato plants. Grandkids and tomatoes.
One of the first comments from our grandchildren Rowan and Eden as they enter the house is “What projects do we have today, Mimi? What are we going to make?”
That day, Bop and I took the grandkids to the store and let them pick out things to grow. Rowan and Eden chose tomato plants that were about 6-8 inches tall. After finding the best ones, each child placed their container in the cart. Our purchases were completed and we headed home.
Bop placed two containers on the grass in the backyard. Each child used a trowel to fill the pots with dirt. Gently placing each plant in the perfect location, Rowan and Eden patted the dirt gently. “Good job, Buddy,” Rowan spoke to his tomato plant.
“Good job, Buddy,” Eden repeated what her big brother had said.
Now, the waiting period started. A few days passed and we noticed small yellow flowers growing on each stalk. With a reminder not to pick the blooms, everyone was patient and continued to wait for the first little green ball to form.
Another week and then, success! Several tiny green tomatoes hung on the vines. Rowan and Eden saw the new developments as soon as they arrived early one morning. “Mimi! They’re growing!”
“Can we pick them? Can we eat them? When will they turn red?” The questions kept coming from both kids.
Later in the morning, a fierce wind knocked over the pots and little green tomatoes fell off of the vines. Rowan suggested we check on our garden. When we walked outside, Rowan and Eden began picking up the green tomatoes. I suggested we get a plastic bag to hold them until we could take them inside.
The day continued with other fun crafts and games. The time came for the grandkids to go home. Eden wanted to take a‘mater with her. She took one, looked at it, named the ‘mater, and placed it back in the bag. Names like Sha Sha and Greenie were her choices.
Rowan liked the idea of naming the green tomatoes in his bag. He chose “Derek” as one name.
In the evening, I contacted our son Mike, to remind him that the kids had bags of tomatoes in their backpacks. He told me that he would check. Rowan’s tomatoes were there. Eden’s tomato was gone.
The following day, I spoke to the kids on the phone and asked Eden where she put her tomato.
“I planted it.” She spoke in a calm voice.
“Where did you put it?” I asked.
“In the pot in the bathroom.” She answered.
Eden went on to tell me that she planted it in Mommy’s flower pot in the bathroom. A beautiful live plant now had a little green tomato in the dirt.
Rowan heard Eden telling me about planting the tomato. He said, “Oh, I moved it.”
With a loud voice, Eden scolded her brother. “Why? Rowan. Why did you move my tomato? Where is it?”
We had no idea where big brother placed her special treasure. But, he knew. He hid it behind the spigot on the sink. No worries. He didn’t want it to get forgotten in the flower pot.
I’m not sure what has happened to those tomatoes. But, I do know that we learned many lessons from God. We learned how to take care of plants, give them names, make sure they are fed and watered, and how not to move something someone else has planted.
Grandkids and tomatoes. Bop and I learned that laughter can come from planting tomatoes.
Do you have any funny grandchildren’s stories? Share with us and continue the smiles.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetWrapped in Cozy and Koozie Friendship
Conversations between young children may include “Will you be my friend?” or “You are my friend.” or “I’m glad you are my friend.” What do you think about friendships? Do you feel warm and cozy when thinking about certain people? In what ways have you seen friendships form and grow?
God has blessed me with many wonderful friendships in my life. My two sisters, Glenda and Carol, and I have a bond beyond friendship. We’re sisters, yet we’re also friends. We laugh together at the silliest happenings. We cry together when sorrow hits. We ask questions, check on each other, and pray. Whatever the circumstances, the sister bond is strong and will last forever. Disagreements or differing opinions have never stopped the love that we have for each other. I thank God for my sisters, their husbands, and their children.
As a young child, I remember playing with the kids in our neighborhood. Boys and girls played kickball, basketball, hide and seek, and tag. The groups separated when the girls wanted to play with dolls and the boys wanted to play with toy cars.
Many years have passed since we gathered together in different yards to watch the stars at night, walked together to the ice cream store to our purchase favorite treats, and visited the local pool to cool off in the summer heat.
Several of the kids keep in touch on social media. We haven’t seen each other in person for many years, yet we see photos and read about life experiences. Those friendships continue to be important parts of life.
When I was a young mother, I remember older women in the church showing God’s love with hugs. They also provided tips on motherhood. Their guidance and friendship was appreciated.
My parents were wonderful. They taught me many ways to care for friends and strangers. Sharing, showing compassion and love, and listening before speaking are lessons I will always remember. Friendships developed from following their examples.
Each time my husband, Alan, and I moved to a different town, there were opportunities for new friendships. Invitations to church and church activities, introductions to neighbors, and being included in local events helped us find friends.
Although we have moved from one place to another, we continue to keep in touch with folks. One dear friend and I often met for lunch at a local restaurant. Every week, we ordered the same meal. Every time, we laughed and said, “Maybe I’ll order something different today.” Yet, we continued to order our regular favorites. That friend sends cards with hummingbirds as she knows those are my favorites. I send her cards with butterflies because that is one of her favorites. I’m thankful for her. She makes me laugh and brings joy to my life.
Another friend, who lives in a different state, calls and chats. We visit and tell each other about our grandkids and what is happening at church. The telephone calls are a great way for us to keep up-to-date on life. She calls me daughter even though I’m not her biological child.
Since we moved from VA to SC, I have found many new friends. Some younger than me and others who are about the same age as me. Sometimes we meet for breakfast or brunch. Other times, we catch up via text or email.
One friend, Robin, creates beautiful koozies, prayer shawls, and more. Her gift for knitting and crocheting is amazing. The koozie in the photo above is one she created. Each time that I place one of her koozies on my water bottle, I can feel the love she put into creating the item. I feel wrapped in a cozy and koozie friendship.
There are many more friends who I keep in my prayers. I can’t mention them all here or you would be reading forever. Today, think of the people in your life that bring joy and love. Have you told them lately how much you love them?
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetRescuing the Slugs and Talking About Science
A recent walk to the mailbox brought adventure, learning, and talking about science. Rowan and Eden were visiting. I asked if they would like to mail a card to a friend. Our neighborhood has a cluster mailbox area and we often walk, chat, and visit with neighbors.
On that morning, the sun was shining, birds were singing, and we were the only three people outside. As Rowan, Eden, and I walked on the sidewalk, we talked about nature. I asked for them to notice what kinds of sounds we could hear.
Because of spring break, there weren’t many cars passing by and we didn’t hear engines. I paused and put my hand to my ear. “Do you hear any people talking?” No voices. All was quiet.
Next, I pointed to the sky and described the colors. The color blue filled the sky. We only spotted a few white puffy clouds.
Rowan spoke next. “Mimi, let’s be scientists. We can save the world.” Eden agreed. “Yes, save the world.”
“What do scientists do?”, I asked.
“Mimi, they do all kinds of things.” As Rowan looked at his surroundings, he began listing ways scientists help the world.
“Mimi, scientists help our planet. They find out about nature and other stuff.” Rowan looked down at the sidewalk and found several small slugs traveling from one side to the other.
“Hey, let’s rescue the slugs. Let’s be slug rescuers!” Rowan clapped his hands.
“Yeah, let’s rescue buggies.” Eden was ready to help, too.
The night before had brought rainfall. Grass was damp, and the soil was wet. Slugs were abundant. Knowing that we shouldn’t touch the slugs, I suggested we find ways to help the slugs move off of the sidewalk and on to the grassy areas.
Rowan and Eden started sharing ideas. “How about using a rock? Maybe the slug will climb on.” Rowan tried that method and, unfortunately, more than one slug ended up being smeared on the sidewalk. I thought Rowan might become upset, but he kept trying.
Eden found blades of grass to help the “sluggies”. But the grass wasn’t strong enough. Her interest faded when she saw bluebirds and butterflies.
Next, Rowan tried using a piece of mulch. “Come on, little guy. You can do it. Climb on this mulch stick and I’ll put you in the grass.”
At last, success. A small piece of mulch worked to rescue the slugs. After we helped many slugs of different sizes into the grass, we continued our walk.
We placed the letter in the mailbox and walked back to the house. Along the way home, we chatted more about science and how we can learn from all of God’s creations. Slugs are slow and sometimes they need help.
People need help, too. God calls us to love one another and show compassion and care. In these small lessons about slugs and science, Rowan and Eden and Mimi were reminded of God’s love.
Have you learned anything new recently about science, slugs, or how to show care to God’s creations?
Yes, we washed our hands after helping the slimy crawlers.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetMeet Author Sandra Kay Chambers
Today, I’m happy to share information about author Sandra Kay Chambers. Her dedication to readers is amazing. Sandra’s new book is “Fingerprint Devotions: 40 Devotions to Help You Realize You are a Kid Uniquely Created by God for a Purpose”.
Let’s get to know more about Sandra Kay Chambers and how she is inspired to write and share her faith.
Can you share a little about your background and when you decided to become a writer?
Writers are always asked when they first consider themselves a writer. I guess my answer is when I won an essay contest in elementary school. In high school, I had a great English teacher who inspired me to major in English in college. After earning my teaching degree, I went on to get an MA in Education, focusing on Learning Disabilities. Teaching kept me pretty busy, but I also did some freelance writing and have since published hundreds of news stories, profiles, lifestyle stories, travel, and feature stories for more than 20 publications. In 2014, I self-published a book on prayer: Lord, It’s Boring in My Prayer Closet: How to Revitalize Your Prayer Life. My newest release is a children’s devotional, Fingerprint Devotions: 40 Devotions to Help You Realize You Are a Kid Uniquely Created by God for a Purpose (ages 8-12) Ambassador International Publishers © 2023.
What message do you want to share with your writing?
The motto on my author’s website says: “Pray Often! Inspire Others! Create Beauty!” That is what I hope to do and what I hope to encourage others to do. I write articles, blogs, and books to encourage children and adults in their personal walk with God. I encourage Christians in discovering ways to keep their prayer life fresh and I have a passion to help kids understand how uniquely created and loved by God they are and to help them discover their God-given purpose in life. That is the mission behind my latest devotional for kids.
Can you tell us about your new book?
As a Christian parent, a former teacher, and now a children’s author, I believe God birthed this idea for a devotional for kids in my heart and spirit. Fingerprint Devotions: 40 Devotions To Help You Realize You Are a Kid Uniquely Created by God for a Purpose,” (Amazon link: https://rb.gy/hnqys) helps kids understand they were created by God who has a purpose and plan for their life. It pairs fun scientific facts about the uniqueness of each person’s fingerprints with Scripture, a short devotional, a prayer, and a question to journal or an activity to do. It has four sections with topics about each person’s creation and uniqueness, their identity in Christ, accepting Jesus, developing the fruit of the Spirit in their lives, and discovering the gifts and talents that God has given them to serve others and live a purposeful life.
From the very beginning, my hope was that this devotional would reach not only children in Christian homes but also children who are not being raised in a Christian setting or attend church. I’m excited about my partnership with 7Homes—a NC-based Christian foster and adoption agency that would love to have the devotional to put in their “care bags” they give to children who have to be taken out of their homes (sometimes suddenly) and placed in foster care. These children need to know that God loves them and that they are important and have a purpose for their lives. My heart is that this book would show them how much God loves and cares for them. I’m donating some books myself and asking those who purchase a book for their own child or grandchild, or if you don’t have children this age, to consider buying one to donate to 7Homes. There’s a direct link on Amazon to purchase the book ($11.99) for 7Homes to be sent directly to them: https://rb.gy/uvsry
How did you decide on the title of your new book?
I knew Fingerprint Devotions was to be the main title. The subtitle is long and I struggled with that, but I feel it describes what kids will get out of this devotional.
What audience would you suggest for this book?
I came up with ages 8-12 because I believe kids will be reading on their own by that age and can make the devotional very personal by reading and filling out journal questions. Amazon suggests ages 6-14. I know a lot of families are reading the devotional together, so younger children could definitely benefit and older kids would still be interested in all the fun scientific facts about fingerprints.
How has your faith impacted your writing?
In this journey of writing the devotional, I had to completely trust God for everything—from getting a publishing contract to the right editor and cover designer as well as for the timing. I met plenty of challenges, but God worked on my character throughout the process and taught me how to trust Him more. Any author will understand the long journey it takes to publish a book (one-and-a-half years for this book). I think we just need to keep the right perspective of why we are writing what we write—not to get rich or become famous, but to bless our readers and show them a loving God who wants to know them and walk with them.
Thank you Sandra for sharing your faith and love for God.
Ways to connect with Sandra Kay Chambers.
https://sandrakaychambers.com
https://www.facebook.com/SandraKayChambers
https://www.instagram.com/sandrakaychambers/
https://www.pinterest.com/magnoliask/
https://twitter.com/PrayWaves
Have a blessed and wonderful day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson