Taking Care of Baby Dolls, Stuffies, and People
The new year has arrived and daily routines begin. Some activities are new while others are routine from the past. An important part of any time is taking care of others, including baby dolls, stuffies, and people.
Granddaughter Eden is three years old. She is wise beyond her years, just like her six-year-old brother Rowan. Those two children amaze us with their creativity, imagination, compassion, and love for family, friends, and strangers.
A typical day at our house involves playing with toys, puzzles, stuffed animals, baby dolls, and much more. Sometimes, we play restaurant and pretend to be servers and customers. We tap a small bell and shout, “Order ready.” when the food is cooked.
The library is also a fun activity as we pretend to check out books to take home and read to the babies.
Playing store is another way to bring laughter. Sometimes Eden is the storekeeper and other times, I am the clerk. A question often asked while we’re playing store is, “Do you have any bananas for my babies?”
On a recent day, Eden and I decided to play doctor. She lined up the baby dolls and stuffies. She arranged them on folded blankets and made sure they had pillows so their heads could rest. After placing each baby and stuffed animal in the perfect position, Eden said, “They need band- aids. They all have boo-boos on their foreheads.”
So, of course, Mimi always has extra inexpensive band-aids in a drawer filled with supplies. We found what we needed and headed back to our “doctor’s place” in the playroom.
Eden opened each band-aid and delicately placed one on each baby and stuffed animal. I noticed they all had the same “boo-boo” in the same place.
I asked Eden what happened that made them need to go to the doctor.
Answering in a calm voice, Eden spoke. “Mimi, they were running in the living room and fell on the coffee table and got a boo-boo. Remember? That’s where I got my hurt and I had to go to the doctor.”
Yes, months ago, Eden was running in the living room of her home and tripped and fell against the coffee table. Eden went to the doctor and got stitches on her forehead. She has recovered well. However, she remembered that scary event and decided that was what happened to the baby dolls and stuffed animals.
Eden showed tender care to the toys. She remembered how to show love and compassion. When she was hurt, Rowan showed Eden love and compassion by playing quiet games and being mindful of her bandage.
Bop and I are thankful that our grandchildren are taught how to show God’s love to others. Through the examples of their parents, Mike and Christine, these sweet children are learning to be kind and thoughtful.
God, thank You for the many ways we can express Your love and peace. Through the actions of children to the actions of adults, may we always pause and share Your love. Amen.
Have you noticed children showing God’s love?
Have a blessed day!
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Bop and the Outdoor Decorations
Preparing for Christmas involves many activities. Cooking, cleaning, purchasing presents, wrapping presents, making lists, writing cards, church activities, and more. I look forward to the fun times. Bop takes care of some of the “to-do” lists and I handle other things that need attending. We laugh and enjoy our time together.
Bop puts the inflatable Christmas tree and snowman out in the front yard every year. Rowan and Eden show him the exact spot for each decoration. Then, when all the pins are put securely in the ground and adjusted, the moment arrives for Bop to plug in the cord. We stand and watch excitedly as the flat balloon-like characters fill with air and appear to come to life.
My hands are cupped on my cheeks as we all squeal with joy. The inflatables are the same every year and perhaps next year, we’ll buy a new one. But, for this year, all is well. Seeing Rowan, Eden, and neighborhood friends run in the yard and touch the tree and snowman as they light up, is a precious sight. The Christmas decorations are a beautiful sight both day and night.
Only one thing might change the positions of the snowman and the Christmas tree inflatables. Weather in the Lowcountry of South Carolina is often unpredictable. Local meteorologists share their forecasts with the community and we wait to see what will happen. I check my phone each morning to learn the predictions for rain, wind, barometric pressure, etc.
With changing weather patterns, Bop and I needed to keep an eye on the outdoor decorations.
A prediction for heavy rain and wind sounded alerts on our phones recently. Checking the details, I noticed the weather wasn’t supposed to change until later in the day. The inflatables would be fine for now.
I should have remembered the weather changes from minute to minute here on the coast. The forecasted weather system arrived early and torrential rains and strong winds began to race through our neighborhood.
Looking out of the front window, I could see ornaments that had once adorned outdoor trees were now flying in the air. Decorative holiday garden flags from other yards were now stuck to the wet ground. Pine straw, pine cones, mulch, and more drifted from one yard to another as the rain began to flood the ground.
Bop and I looked at each other and knew there was no point in stepping out in the storm to rescue the inflatables. We watched as they teetered left and right, appearing to dance in the storm. Security pins held them in place for a while. Then, when the rain paused for a bit, Bop opened the front door and unplugged the cord from the wall.
A whooshing sound filled the yard as the air released from the snowman and tree. The pins had done their job and held tightly to the ground. All was well for now.
There were several days and nights when Bop ran out of the house to secure the decorations. Each time, he said, “I wonder if I should just take them down.” Yet, Bop continued to make sure the snowman and tree would be ready for all to enjoy.
The sunshine finally returned and the ground and decorations dried. Great news, until… More storms came on and off for a couple of weeks. Each time, Bop watched from the window and decided what to do. Some neighbors took down their inflatables. Other folks left them up and watched as they danced in the wind. Every day was an adventure.
Christmas arrived and the decorations survived. Now, Bop has released the pins from the ground and placed the snowman and the tree on the porch to dry out for the season.
Next, we will get ready for 2024 and the wonderful blessings God will provide. As you know, “It’s Always A Story with The Henderson’s”.
Mimi and Bop hope you all enjoyed a Merry Christmas and will have a Happy and Healthy New Year! God loves you!
Blessings,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
The Rock Gift
Gifts are given for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and celebrations. Some of the best presents are ones given “just because” with no special reason or occasion. Gifts may make us laugh while others may bring tears. I received a rock that touched my heart and brought happy tears.
Grandson Rowan and Granddaughter Eden enjoy making crafts. They often enter the house and say, “What are we doing today? Can we make something?” There is a cabinet in our living room which holds the craft supplies. Crayons, markers, paint, construction paper, glue sticks, popsicle sticks, play dough, wire cleaners, straws, pom poms of various sizes, googly eyes, and much more. Sometimes we follow a pattern for making a craft. Other times, we use our imaginations and create interesting projects.
A few months ago, Rowan and Eden painted rocks. We set up a workstation on a table on the back porch. Paper towels, wet wipes for cleaning hands and the occasional paint splatter that landed on the porch couch cushions, paint, rocks that had been rinsed to remove the dirt, paintbrushes, and stickers were arranged on the table. Rowan, Eden, and Mimi were ready to paint beautiful designs on rocks of different sizes.
We worked intently until giggles broke out when the paint went somewhere other than the rocks. Making sure we wore our “paint clothes” was a must during this project. We love to dip the brushes in the paint and mix the colors. Then, we rinse the brushes and watch the water swirl in the cup.
After the rocks have been painted and placed on a paper towel to dry, we clean the area and find another activity until the rocks are ready to be placed into our flower garden. When every rock is dry, we place them in selected spots. Then, we walk to the sidewalk and look back to the garden. We want to make sure everyone can see the beautiful shapes and colors as they walk by.
Recently, Rowan and Eden entered the house for a visit. Laughter filled the home while everyone talked at the same time and shared about their day. As we headed to the playroom/office to find a game or activity to play, Rowan asked for wrapping paper. Rowan is very creative and I figured he was probably going to create something with the paper.
After finding some wrapping paper, Rowan left the room. Eden and I began to play with the dolls. A few minutes passed and Rowan returned.
“Mimi, close your eyes and hold out your hands.”
“Okay, what are we doing?” I asked.
“You’ll see. Mimi, I have a surprise for you.”
I closed my eyes, held out my hands, and felt his sweet hands place something in my wrinkled hands.
“Open your eyes, Mimi. It’s for you.”
My eyes opened and I was holding a wrapped gift from Rowan. I opened the paper and there was one of the rocks. I thanked him for the beautiful rock.
Rowan wanted to give me something special and one of his favorite rocks was the gift. A precious memory flooded my thoughts. When I was a young girl about Rowan’s age, I forgot my Mama’s birthday. When I remembered, I immediately went to my room and found my favorite doll. I wrapped it in a paper towel and gave it to my Mama. She loved it.
Rowan showed love and kindness to me. I showed love and kindness to my Mama.
God gave us the gift of salvation through His Son Jesus. We are loved and cherished by God.
Do you have a special gift story? Share your story in the comments.
Blessings and love,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
“Look at the Ball, Not the Moon”
Notebooks, backpacks, water bottles, pencils, pens, paper, lunch boxes, and more are ready to go on weekday mornings during the school calendar year. Yellow buses pass by and stop so students can board. Along with adjusting to school schedules, there are also new events such as sports and music groups. How do children and adults stay focused?
Recently, grandson Rowan joined a local soccer team for kids. He has participated in swim lessons and other creative activities. Being part of a sports team can be a great way to learn patience, physical and social skills, how to work together, show kindness and compassion, and how to share.
Some of Rowan’s soccer games are on Saturday mornings. Other games are scheduled for the evening. Bop and I have been blessed to attend some of the games. Driving to the soccer field parking area, we find a spot to park and begin unloading the items needed to watch the game.
Sunhats, sunscreen, foldable chairs, water bottles, and bug spray. Yes, it’s still warm in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Bugs like sweat.
Our family walks across several fields making sure not to intrude on other teams already playing their games. We find a spot where we can view Rowan and his team, the Sharks. Children ages 6-7 arrive wearing their bright orange Sharks shirt which displays their team number. Rowan is number 5.
This particular evening, the game started at 6 p.m. The sun was lowering in the sky as the game started. “Go! Team! Go! Go Sharks!” was shouted by family and friends. The other team had family and friends cheering for them, too.
After a full day of school, organized sports can be a bit draining for young children. At one point during the game, the referee noticed that most of the focus was not on the game and the soccer ball.
The ball was in play and the game was in process, but there was something more fascinating than playing soccer. The sky was growing dark as night approached and the moon was becoming visible high in the sky.
As the referee realized what was happening, he blew the whistle to pause the game. He looked to the sky and spoke to the kids.
“Look at the ball, not the moon.” He tried to regain their interest in the game.
A few seconds later, the fascination with the moon was over and the game continued. People on the sidelines tried not to laugh, but seeing those sweet children looking at the moon was a precious sight.
The Sharks won their game that evening. High fives and “good game” congratulations were shared by both teams as each team member stood in line. Great sportsmanship and fun for all.
The distraction of the moon reminded me of how often I am distracted by things or events in life. I admit that during my prayer time, I have thought of my “to-do” list instead of focusing on God. I am thankful God forgives me and is ready to hear my prayers at any time of day or night.
What distracts you in life? Is your “to-do” list keeping you from sharing time with God? Are you focused on Him or yourself? These are questions that I have asked myself.
God sent a message that evening. Yes, His creations are wonderful to view. Pause and look at the moon. Thank God for His love and forgiveness. Always keep your focus on Him.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
How a Famous Author (and friend) Save the Day
A road trip to see a famous author, who is a sweet friend, brought laughter and joy to a special event. We never know what will happen with the Henderson family. God always gives us something to bring happiness and joy. Today’s blog is about how a famous author (and friend) saved the day.
Alan and I enjoy attending book signings and author events. Sometimes we know the person and other times we learn about new writers. Often, lunch is served and everyone has an opportunity to fellowship with other readers.
Recently, we were blessed to attend a presentation and book signing by author Nancy Naigle. She’s written many great stories and some of her work has been turned into movies. Alan and I met Nancy years ago when we went to see her speak at an event in South Carolina.
We became friends and now, every time Nancy visits the area, we make sure to attend her events. Nancy enjoys laughter and we often share giggles about the simplest things in life. The first time we met Nancy, a person was giving away Vidalia onions after the presentation.
Although we never found the Vidalia onion person and didn’t get any of those special offerings, the three of us joked about how we met on that onion day.
At the latest event, a delicious lunch of garden greens with a hunk of chicken salad on top was served. Yummy warm bread accompanied the main course. Slices of decadent chocolate cake were served for dessert.
There were eight people at our table, including Nancy’s mother Bettie. During lunch, we chatted, shared which stories were our favorites, and enjoyed getting to know each other. A delightful time.
After a few bites of food, Nancy reached over and touched my arm. “Melissa, just want you to know a spider hanging from the chandelier and it’s getting ready to fall into Alan’s salad.”
I immediately glanced over to try and see the culprit. The light hit the tiny spider at just the right moment. The spider held tightly to a thin translucent string of web as it inched down towards Alan’s salad.
Everyone at the table became alert when I shared, “Alan, there’s a spider about to go into your salad.” I thought Alan would discreetly dispose of it with a napkin. But, of course, nothing goes quietly around us.
Before speaking a word, Alan clapped his hands together with a “SLAP”, and the spider was gone. The sound was loud enough to cause everyone at our table, and probably in the room, to pause to see what was happening.
Alan had acted before thinking the spider might have landed in his lunch. Oh, well… After getting rid of the spider, Alan decided he wasn’t hungry anymore.
There were giggles and remarks about how the salad now had more protein because the spider was in it. My salad was fine so I continued eating. Alan did enjoy some of the warm bread.
Thank you to our author friend, Nancy Naigle, who saved Alan from eating a spider. 😁
Nancy’s new story, “And Then There Was You” is available at retailers. Visit her website at www.nancynaigle.com
Have a blessed day! Watch out for spiders in your food.
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Popsicles and Pickles
A variety of flavors can be found during each season. Strawberries in summer, pumpkins in autumn, and the delightful scent of cinnamon during the colder months. Each person has their favorites and sometimes those favorites change from day to day. Do you like popsicles? Do you like pickles? What about having popsicles and pickles together?
Lunch with grandchildren Rowan and Eden usually involves them choosing chicken, noodles, or peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Rowan is a bit more picky when deciding what to eat. He knows what he likes and doesn’t stray far from his choices.
Eden will try almost any food. She often asks everyone at the table, “What are you having?” When the answer is given, she often wants to try whatever is on the plate of someone else. She likes to have strawberries or peaches as her fruit choice.
Along with the main course, Rowan likes to have mandarin oranges for the fruit portion. After eating his meal, he politely asks for dessert. Rowan likes ice cream in a bowl or an ice cream sandwich.
Eden finishes her meal and walks to the freezer. She asks for a “popsicle”. Any color is fine. She prefers to have a bowl to put the popsicle in and a napkin ready to wash her “cheekies” and hands when she’s finished eating.
During a recent lunchtime, I sat at the table with my plate of food and was ready for conversation during the meal. My choice for lunch was a turkey sandwich, chips, and a few bread and butter pickles.
As I sat and began eating, Eden inquired, “What are you having? What’s that?” She pointed to my pickles.
I answered, “These are bread and butter pickles. Maybe you can try them when you’re not eating a grape popsicle.” I thought the combination would not be tasty and could cause an upset tummy.
However, Eden thought differently. “I want some pickles.” Her sweet two years old voice could not be denied.
“Eden, maybe another time when you are not having a grape popsicle, you can try pickles.” Of course, that answer didn’t work.
“I want pickles. I want pickles. I want pickles!” She exclaimed.
If you have ever been around a two years old child while they are eating, you know how important their food choices are to them. So, I gave in.
I placed 3 pieces of bread and butter pickles in a bowl. I watched Eden and tried not to laugh. She was determined to try the pickles while she crunched on her grape popsicle.
My thinking was that when she took the first bite, she would not want any more of the pickles. I was wrong. Eden took a bite of pickle and then, a bite of popsicle.
Smiling, she looked at me and said, “I like pickles. I like it.” Her eyes watered a bit and her mouth puckered. But, she continued. “Can I have some more pickles?”
Shocked, I relented. “Yes, I’ll get more pickles.”
Eden ate the popsicle and the pickles. Rowan laughed and commented. “That’s bad. I don’t want to eat those two things together.” I agreed with him.
Days later, Eden visited and asked for a popsicle. She also asked for pickles. However, this time, she took a bite of a pickle and stated, “I don’t like pickles today.”
Yes, the mind of a two-year-old. Changing and learning her likes and dislikes.
Tomorrow may bring a desire for pickles and popsicles again. Today, Eden is satisfied with another grape popsicle.
What unique food choices have you eaten lately? Were you happy with your selections?
Have a blessed and fun day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Oranges in the Trees
“What are we doing today at Mimi’s?” This is a question I hear often from Rowan and Eden and also, the neighborhood children. School is finished and summertime activities have begun at Mimi’s house. Warm weather is here and that means bubbles, water balloons, splash pads, science experiments, and more ways to have fun.
Last week, I found instructions on how to make a bird feeder with oranges, granola, popcorn, and peanut butter. You may wonder why I would choose such a sticky and messy activity. The laughter that filled the house and the smiles of Rowan and Eden were great prizes even as we made a huge mess in the kitchen.
Bop had purchased two oranges at the grocery store. One for our project and one to eat. Always being safe first, I cut the orange in the middle which gave a half for each child. With paper towels ready for clean-up and the kids standing where they could see everything happening with our project, we were ready for the activity to begin.
“Mimi, what are you doing? Why do you have an orange?” Five and ¾ years old Rowan spoke first.
“Mimi, orange?” Two years old Eden spoke next.
I began to explain how we would make granola from the ingredients and then, fill the orange halves. But, first I had to scoop the “pulp” out of the orange. What an experience! This particular orange was filled with major pulp. The more I scooped with the spoon, the more juice squirted all over the kitchen counter and onto our clothes and hands.
Giggles started. We all laughed at the mess Mimi was making.
Next, we needed granola bites and popcorn to be ground up a little bit smaller. Bringing out the blender, Rowan immediately asked if he could push the button. Eden knows blenders are loud. “It’s too loud, Mimi.” She spoke before I had plugged in the machine.
“No worries Eden. Rowan can push the button. We’ll cover our ears.” Eden instantly placed her little hands over her ears even though the machine wasn’t turned on yet.
When I added a couple of granola bites to the blender and secured the top, I told Rowan to push the button. He smiled and placed his finger on the pulser. With a few taps, we had granola to mix with the peanut butter.
All ears were uncovered and the blender was put in the sink to wash at a later time. Now we could mix the rest of the ingredients to make our homemade meal for the birds.
Reaching our hands into the bowl, we mushed and squeezed the peanut butter and granola together.
The giggles started as we noticed the icky and gooey mess sticking to our fingers. “Mimi, how are we going to get this stuff off?” Rowan inquired.
Eden looked at me and started to stick a little finger in her mouth so she could taste the bird treats. “Wait, Eden, wait. I’ll get you another snack. This one is for the birds.”
With a grin, she proceeded to wipe her messy fingers on her shirt.
The bird feeder treat was ready to spoon and place in the oranges. Bop had prepared the oranges with teeny holes in each side. We filled the oranges and gave them to Bop to hang in the tree.
A fun and simple, or maybe not so simple, activity that brought laughter and joy. A bit of a mess, but sometimes fun involves making a mess.
Later in the day, after the new bird feeders were filled and hung, Rowan, Eden, and I looked out of the playroom/office window. Downy woodpeckers enjoying the treats we had made for them.
Every day, we look for the birds. We’ve also had bluebirds visiting our homemade feeders.
What a joy to have fun projects! We learn and laugh together. Sometimes we get messy and that’s okay.
Have you enjoyed any homemade creations lately? Share with us. You may inspire others.
Blessings and giggles,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Marigolds and Miracles
“Press your pointer finger in the dirt and make a hole. Then, place the tiny seed into that hole and cover it with dirt.” The afternoon conversation with Grandson Rowan was filled with wonder. His imagination and thirst for learning bring excitement.
When Rowan comes to visit, one of the first questions he asks is “Mimi, do we have a project today? What are we going to work on today? Can we do science?”
On a warm spring day, planting seeds was on the agenda. After finding the gardening tools, filling each small pot with dirt, and opening the seed packets, we were ready to work.
I explained how we would prepare the soil, plant the seeds, give the dirt some water, and have patience while waiting for the seeds to sprout. I shared that bigger pots would be needed when the plants grew too large for the small containers.
Rowan’s eyes grew large as his little finger created holes in the soil. Having dirt under his fingernails didn’t bother him. Placing seeds in the holes, he covered them with dirt and laughed. “Those seeds are hiding!” He exclaimed.
After all the planting was completed and moisture was given to the dirt, we positioned the pots on the back porch where sunshine would be plentiful to aid the plants in growing. Standing from a kneeling position while we worked, I rubbed my aching back.
Rowan stood and took two steps back. Proud of his gardening efforts, he asked, “Mimi, what did you say these plants are called?”
“These are marigolds,” I answered and smiled.
“No, Mimi, these are not miracles.” Rowan believed I had said “miracles”.
“Marigolds,” I answered again.
Continuing, he explained, “God makes miracles. These are marigolds, right?”
“Yes, these are marigolds. They will be yellow and orange.”
Pausing, Rowan looked at the plants and then, at the sky.
“Yes, marigolds. God makes marigolds and God makes miracles.” Rowan responded with a smile.
I agreed and thanked God for the precious children in the world, and how He cares for all of His creations.
I look forward to teaching Granddaughter Eden, how to plant marigolds and look for miracles from God.
Blessings,
Melissa Henderson
It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade. (Mark 4:31-32 NIV)
“Come Back, Honey!”
Laughter and conversations can be heard in our neighborhood every day. In the morning, children and parents gather to wait for the yellow buses to arrive. After school has ended for the day and everyone is home, the time for fun begins. Happy children bring out bicycles, frisbees, sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and more.
When Rowan and Eden visit, there are belly-holding giggles, surprises in conversation and actions, amazing stories of what happened at school, and yes, even some quiet time. All of these things provide wonderful opportunities for bonding and sharing the love of God.
Temperatures have warmed in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and outside play is a wonderful way to burn off energy and have fun. One of my favorite activities is playing with bubbles. Sometimes, I bring out the mixture and wands and enjoy the bubbles by myself. However, most of the time, neighborhood kids are playing, too.
Recently, two years old Eden and I were preparing to take the needed supplies outside. She carried wands of various sizes and shapes. I carried the large pink bottle of solution to pour into the circular pans.
With everything in place on two little plastic tables lined up on the sidewalk, we were ready to create fun shapes. Eden doesn’t like for “bugs” to get in the pans, so I have to be on the lookout to remove any creatures before she notices. Sticky fingers don’t bother me.
On that particular day and since then, every time I place my wand into the pan and cover it with the solution, Eden begins to laugh. As I raise my arm, the bubbles appear and dance in the air. She throws down her wand and runs to catch the different shapes flowing toward the sky.
Her energy is limitless, just like her brother Rowan. Her breathing is rapid and her eyes are opened wide as she laughs and jumps in the air to catch the clear circles. The excitement she shows over the simple act of running and chasing something flying through the air is truly contagious.
Along with running, she calls to the bubbles. I’m not sure where she learned this or why she talks to them, but she calls out, “Come back, honey. Come back, honey.”
Her sweet voice brings happy tears and tons of giggles to me as she tries to catch each one.
I’ve never called bubbles “honey” and I’ve never asked them to “Come back.” But, Eden has a plan and for some unknown reason, those bubbles are “honey”.
Bop and I are thankful we live close to Mike, Christine, Rowan, Eden, and doggy Olive. God has blessed us with many joys from this move. Five years in South Carolina and we continue to treasure each moment.
Have you played with bubbles lately? Or perhaps another fun outside activity with kids?
Be alert and listen. You might hear someone calling “Come back, honey.”
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
The Welcome Turkey and a Thank You
“Please arrive at the hospital at 5:30 pm for your scheduled scan. Please bring identification, insurance card, and a list of medications you are currently taking.”
I have memorized these requirements because of having numerous trips to the doctor and scanning areas of the hospital. Recently, I needed to have my 4th scan for the month completed. Doctors had alerted me of the need for repeat scans in one area of my body.
As Alan and I found a parking spot in the hospital parking lot, we noticed an unusual amount of empty spaces. My medical appointments are usually during office hours, but this one was scheduled after the doctor’s office had closed for the day.
Alan parked the car. Exiting the vehicle, I proceeded to the same door where I always enter the building. The sliding door was locked. No signs alerted me to any reason why the door was not open.
There was no one standing at the entrance to give me directions. However, there was something there at the door.
A turkey. A wild turkey walked from bush to bush around the front door. This animal poked its head in the bushes and retrieved leaves and berries, or at least that was my impression of what the turkey was doing. No sounds. No running toward me to chase me from the area. Just a turkey taking a walk and looking for a snack.
I noticed two ladies walking toward their cars. “Excuse me. Do you work here? I have to get a scan and the door is locked.”
The ladies smiled and one answered. “Yes, the hospital doors are always locked after 4:00 p.m. You’ll have to enter the building through the emergency room.”
I thanked the ladies for the information. I inquired if they always have a turkey near the door. They laughed and mentioned seeing turkeys in the parking lot every day.
Walking back to the car, I laughed at how God provided that “welcome turkey” to give me laughter while I was worrying about the upcoming scan.
“Thank You, Lord,” I spoke aloud.
After finding the correct entrance to the scan area, I entered the building, checked in with the receptionist, and found a seat. While waiting, I silently prayed for everyone in the emergency room.
The door to the radiology department opened and a woman spoke with a loud voice. “Henderson!”
I jumped out of my chair and returned her shout with a friendly smile and cheerful voice.
“Hello. That’s me!”
The technician paused, looked at me, and said, “Thank you so much. My last patient was so grouchy and complained about everything. But when I called your name, you answered with a smile and a friendly hello.”
I listened as the woman continued to share the gripes of the previous patient. During the conversation, I thanked her for being there and for taking good care of me during the scan. She said that no one ever thanks her.
With the procedure over, I spoke words of encouragement. “I hope you have a good evening and a better day tomorrow.” Then, I shared the story of the welcome turkey and we laughed.
We may never know what another person is experiencing in life. I was concerned about the results of my scan. The patient before me could have been filled with worry and fear.
I’m thankful to God for having “a welcome turkey” at the hospital door. I’m thankful to have shared a smile with a stranger and hopefully, brighten their day.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson