The Blanket Flashlight
A while back, I was startled by a toy lizard that our grandson Rowan had left under a couch cushion. That experience gave me laugh-out-loud, tummy-rolling giggles. Yesterday, I found something that granddaughter Eden had left as a surprise.
There are many wonderful ways to use our imagination. I love how the minds of children work and how joy can be found in the simplest things in life. Ideas are endless and creations can come from anything.
Filling the bathroom sink with water and adding toy sharks so we can pretend to be shark hunters, wrapping baby dolls in blankets and singing sweet songs so the babies can sleep, or pretending to be clowns, there is always something exciting happening at Mimi’s and Bop’s house.
Recently, Eden and I found flashlights, turned off all the lights in the hallway, and started making shadows on the walls. We created butterflies, birds, dinosaurs, and bunny ears. Giggles filled the air each time we shaped something new in the shadows.
Two years old Eden has definite opinions about things. After making shadows, she led me to the living room couch and said, “Sit, Mimi. Sit.” Of course, I listened and sat on the couch.
Eden held her flashlight and looked under the couch, behind the couch, and shined the light on the ceiling.
Then, as children often do, Eden found something else that sparked her interest. “Outside. Outside.” She was ready for a walk through the neighborhood. We would look for birds, ant hills, airplanes, friends, and more.
For our walk on that day, we each carried a baby doll. Eden said, “Shoulders.” That meant I was to put my baby doll on my shoulders. I complied and placed the doll in the right spot and we continued with our journey.
After the time outside, Eden and I went back to the house and found our drink cups and a snack. Putting our dolls on their blankets and kissing them on the cheek, we left them in the playroom and went to the living room.
The afternoon had arrived and a time of rest would be good for Mimi and Eden. We snuggled on the couch and watched a “show”. All was quiet. We didn’t take a nap, but we did have quiet time.
Later that evening, Eden left to go home and be with Daddy, Mommy, and Rowan. I decided to clean the house the next day.
After a good night of sleep, my energy returned. Thinking about all the items that Eden and I had used for play, I noticed one of the flashlights was missing. I searched in the playroom, the bedrooms, the dining room, and the kitchen. No flashlight.
I noticed a blanket on the couch that needed folding. Walking closer I caught a glimpse of a light shining from under the blanket.
Yes! The flashlight that Eden had been using had been left under the blanket. The light was still shining bright. The mystery had been solved. Sometimes we make tents out of quilts, towels, and blankets. We always need a flashlight inside the tent. This one was shining through the darkness and had been shining all night.
Flashlights remind me of the ways we can shine the light of Christ and help lead others to know Him. We need to replenish the batteries from time to time. God doesn’t need batteries. His light shines forever.
When the night seems long and darkness comes, trust in God.
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
“Pretty”
“Turn round Mimi. Turn round. Pretty. Pretty.” Two years old Eden spoke and smiled as she turned around and around in a circle. She was wearing a skirt and loved watching the skirt move when she twirled. Eden wanted me to “turn round” like she was turning. I tried. Finally, I said, “Mimi can’t turn like you. I get dizzy.”
Each time that Eden moved her body, the fabric on her little purple and white skirt lifted. She giggled and announced, “Pretty. Pretty.” The more she twirled, the more she laughed. At one point, her movement showed that she was dizzy, too.
Eden and I continued to laugh. She wanted me to see her move. “Pretty. Pretty.”
I commented. “Yes, Eden, you are pretty. Very pretty.”
As the bond between Eden and Rowan grows, the love between brother and sister is evident. When Rowan is sad, Eden tries to cheer him with laughter and hugs. When Rowan and I view videos of Eden, he says, “She’s so cute. I love her.”
There are times when Eden likes to wear Rowan’s clothes. When Rowan arrives here from school, he often changes into “play clothes”. Rowan and Eden have a drawer of clothing at our house. Eden has learned to look for Rowan’s clothes and then, she wants to wear something of his. We laugh as she chooses shirts and pants that are too big for her. That doesn’t matter. Rowan is changing clothes and she is changing clothes, too, just like big brother.
A basket of hats, earmuffs, and scarves sits on a shelf in the hall closet. Sometimes, Rowan, Eden, and Bop and Mimi like to play restaurant. Bop adorns a hat and scarf and pretends to be “Mr. Periwinkle” or some other made up character. Mimi and Rowan are the restaurant people. Eden is a customer, too. She puts on a hat and scarf and one glove. The glove quickly turns into a puppet.
Bop and I continue to be amazed and filled with joy at the imaginations and creativity of these children. The mind of a five years old boy and a two years old girl are fascinating. Every day is a new adventure.
We are thankful to be able to share in their lives. And, yes, when Eden wants Mimi to “turn round, turn round” so I can twirl like her, I will gladly twirl, just a lot slower than Eden’s twirls.
Yes, Eden, you are “pretty, pretty.”
Eden and Rowan are two of the biggest blessings God has provided. The opportunity to see the simple things in life from their perspective allows us to remember to find joy in every moment. When sad times come, we can rest in knowing God is with us and those sad times will pass. When good times come, we can give thanks to the Father for His endless love and mercy.
Today is a good day. Today is a great day to “turn round, turn round” and enjoy the laughter of young and not so young.
How are you finding laughter today?
Blessings,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Leaping Lizard Under the Cushion
Yes. Leaping lizard under the cushion. How could this happen? A normal evening of household chores turned into a momentary frightful experience.
Being a Mimi to Rowan and Eden brings many unexpected surprises and joys. Those two sweet children sometimes ask to take toys from our house to play with at their home. Bop and I always say “Yes, if it’s okay with Mommy and Daddy. Be sure to bring the toys back.”
Sometimes a teddy bear stays at their home and other times, a bear or doll baby will make the return trip in the car to the home of Mimi and Bop.
Having fun items to play with and make unique creations is fun. From modeling clay to blocks to bubbles and more, there is always something special to do at our home. Bop and I enjoy playing as much as the kids love to play.
After Rowan and Eden have left to return home, clean up time begins. Glancing in each room, I often notice paper, crayons, markers, stickers and other things we have used for making pictures. Another room sometimes has toy cars, plastic dishes for playing restaurant, baby dolls and a toy stroller so Eden can be the Mommy, and plenty of dinosaurs and sharks for Rowan to be a paleontologist and a scuba diver. Yes, the imaginations of children are inspiring.
On a recent evening, the house was quiet as the children had left for home with Daddy and Mommy. Bop was taking the trash bag outside. I noticed the couch cushions were crooked. Deciding to lift them and arrange the cushions and pillows so everything would look nice, I reached down, pulled up a cushion and…
I screamed. “Yikes!!!” My high pitched scream and what I saw caused me to jump back. There, sitting under the cushion was a lizard. The thing looked real and actually wiggled when I moved the cushion. Then, I realized the creature was yellow and not a real lizard.
Sweet Rowan had hidden a squishy toy lizard under the cushion. I’m not sure when he hid the lizard, but the thought of how long the toy had been hiding under the cushion made me think. When was the last time I had looked under the cushions?
After I calmed my breathing and knew the lizard was not real, I began laughing. Bop had no idea that I had been scared by a toy lizard. The evening continued and I shared the story with Bop.
We both laughed and shared how happy we are to live near our grandchildren.
I’m thankful that the lizard in the photo above was not the one under the couch cushion.
God gives us the gift of laughter and the ability to find joy in everyday moments. Have you laughed lately? Share your story in the comments.
Have a blessed and laughter filled day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Birthday Lunch…Wrong Car
“Let’s go to lunch and celebrate your birthday and my birthday.” A dear friend recently suggested we go to a local restaurant and celebrate birthdays. Of course, I agreed. After finding a time that suited both of us, we scheduled the day and looked forward to the special time together.
On the chosen day, my dear friend drove us to the destination. A lovely local eatery known for delicious food. Along the drive, we chatted about the recent happenings in life. From joys to worries, this is a trusted friend with whom anything can be shared.
We arrived at the restaurant, entered the building and the front desk person greeted us with a smile. Sharing that we had a reservation, the server took us to our table immediately. The place was crowded as it was lunch time. Sounds of conversations between patrons and staff filled the air. Laughter became louder as chats continued. Dishes of delectable food being delivered and placed on tables made me pause to see what people were ordering.
After placing our orders for food and beverage, my friend and I continued talking. Grandchildren are always a topic of conversation. The delight of living close to those special children was evident in our shared stories of the new school year, overnight visits, and more.
The food arrived and we enjoyed every bite. Dessert was chosen after we had finished eating our meal. Yummy to the tummy. In fact, there was so much food that we asked for “to go” boxes for the extra food.
The time had come for us to leave the restaurant and return home. After thanking our server, paying the bills, and grabbing our food to take home, we stood and walked to the front door. Continuing to chat and laugh, my friend and I watched for vehicles as we crossed the parking lot. All was clear and we headed to her car.
I walked to the passenger side and began trying to open the door. Nothing happened. Dear friend was on the driver’s side attempting to open her door. Nothing happened there either. A few moments passed and I heard her say, “This isn’t my car.”
Yes, we were so busy talking and enjoying the day that we attempted to enter the wrong vehicle.
There was a similarity between the vehicles. Same color, same brand.
Only problem was that it was a different model of SUV and definitely did not belong to my sweet friend.
Laughter began and we giggled all the way to the correct car. When we were seated in the correct vehicle, I turned to my friend and said, “You know, “It’s Always A Story With the Hendersons”. She laughed and agreed. Now, she feels like a Henderson, too.
Good thing we didn’t set off any car alarms.
This funny situation caused me to thank God for the laughter and blessed friendships He brings to our lives. We may try a wrong door at some point, but God will lead us to the correct door. I am thankful to know the door to God is open and available in every moment.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Maw Maw or Mimi?
Granddaughter Eden will be two years old in a few months. She has a personality that makes our family break out into laughter every day. Eden is learning many things from big brother Rowan. She watches his every move and truly believes she can accomplish anything Rowan attempts.
The young ones in our family have called me “Mimi” for many years. Peyton, our great-niece who is sixteen years old now, was the first one to give me that special name. When she was beginning to speak, she chose to call me “Mimi”. My heart melted every time Peyton called for her “Mimi”. Then, Paige, who is now fourteen years old, was born. She also calls me by that precious name. Next, was Ryder, who is eight years old. I am “Mimi” to him, too.
Every time they say, “Mimi”, my smile gets bigger and my heart fills with joy.
Ashley and Daniel, who are Momma and Daddy to Peyton, Paige, and Ryder, call me by that special name, too.
Fast forward and Rowan was born to our son Mike and daughter-in-love Christine. Rowan began calling me “Mimi” as soon as he could talk.
He is now five years old and I continue to be his “Mimi”.
Eden has listened to Rowan say my name. “Mimi, watch me. Mimi, look at this. Mimi, can you play?” As Eden has heard Rowan and others call for me, she has created her own way of getting my attention.
“Maw Maw”. Yes, a new name. I’ve tried several times to show her how to say “Mimi”. But, I have been “Maw Maw” for a while now. I love her reaction as she calls for “Maw Maw” and then giggles.
Recently, Rowan and Eden were here for a visit. Eden said, “Maw Maw.” Rowan quickly told her that I am “Mimi”.
Eden looked at me and gave a huge grin. “Mimi. Mimi.”
Eden knows how to say “Mimi”. She has been using her own way of calling me and that is fine.
If Eden continues to call me “Maw Maw”, I will answer. Or if she changes to “Mimi”, I will answer.
Special names are ways of showing love. God knows each name of His children. He calls us by name. My most special name is “child of God”.
Do you have a special name? Do you know the meaning of your name? Melissa means “honeybee”.
Whatever name the children give me, I will always answer. I will always be ready to play and to listen. My arms are always ready for hugs and snuggles. My lap is always ready for resting.
God has blessed Alan and me with a wonderful family. By the way, Alan is called “Uncy” and “Bop”. Rowan gave Alan the name Bop. Of course, Eden changed the name to “Bop Bop”.
Alan and I are happy to be called by various names. We will always answer.
Father, thank You for calling us by name. Thank You for loving Your children. Amen.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Creepy Crabs on A Hot Summer Day
“What in the world? Why are there fiddler crabs on my front porch?” I spoke aloud to myself.
Opening the front storm door to take a peek outside, I jumped as two small sand fiddler crabs raced across the pavement. The twosome were fast as lightning and caused me to hop from one foot to the other while trying to figure out their intended direction.
Alan and I have become accustomed to seeing South Carolina sights such as alligators in the neighborhood ponds, Eastern Hercules beetles in the grass, wild turkeys in the backyard, and armadillos digging holes in the dirt. But, seriously, sand fiddler crabs at the front door?
I slowed my breathing to calm my heart rate. What adventure or crazy sight would be next on the list of exciting things to share with family and friends? My next thought was wondering how to get rid of the fast moving creatures. Unfortunately, the crabs hid in an area that could not be reached. I would have to wait until another time to somehow remove them from the premises.The daily routine continued and the crabs remained hidden. I wouldn’t see them again. Or at least that was my story.
The next day, grandson Rowan was here to have playtime with Mimi and Bop. As Bop left the house and went to work, Rowan and I discussed our plans for the day. Sidewalk chalk drawing, creating crazy pictures with the new paint set and paper, playing with friends, blowing bubbles, and making up stories would be parts of the fun.
The outside trash can had been emptied earlier that day and was ready to be cleaned and brought back into the garage. As I pushed the button to open the garage door, two more sand fiddler crabs jumped into the garage and ran for cover. I screamed and laughed while watching the quick movement of the crabs. Rowan grabbed his tummy and doubled over with laughter.
“Mimi, quick, quick, get them. They went behind the recycle can. Mimi, here’s one. Get him with the broom.”
“Where, Rowan, where is it now? Do you see one?” I spoke between laughter as I found the broom and readied for attack.
“Behind that can, he’s behind that can.” Rowan gave directions as he giggled.
One little crab darted out from behind the trash can. I guarded against the creature by sweeping it with the broom. Watching as the crab went flying in the air from being swept, Rowan and I could not contain our giggles.
The next crab peeked out from behind a garden tool. I swung the broom into action and shooed that little thing right out onto the driveway.
Between laughs, Rowan yelled. “Mimi, quick. Close the door. He’s trying to come back in.”
Rowan and I stood and watched the garage door close. The crabs were outside on the pavement. We were safely inside the garage. The creepy crabs would have to endure a hot summer day.
After the laughter settled and our next activity began, Rowan and I looked at each other. “Mimi, those were some creepy crabs, right?”
“Yes, those were creepy crabs and I don’t want to see them again.”
Interesting fact is that we live about ten minutes from the ocean. There are ponds and marshes in every neighborhood so we should not be surprised at seeing the crabs on the front and back porch.
Of course, I had to share this story because as you know, “It’s Always a Story With the Hendersons.”
God creates the most awesome sights and sounds for us to enjoy, even if some of those things make us hop from one foot to the other.
Do you have any funny crab stories? Please share with us.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Olive and The Keys
“Mom, can you and Dad go to our house and let Olive outside? We’ll be home later.” Our son Mike had called to ask if we could take care of their Boston Terrier dog named Olive. Mike, Christine, Rowan, and Eden were away and wouldn’t be home until later that evening.
Agreeing to ride to their home and make sure Olive had fresh water, food, and the chance to play outside in the backyard for a bit, Alan and I chose a time to make the drive.
As the bright sun of day began turning to dusk, I gathered my key ring that has more keys on it than I could ever use.
“Mimi, are you sure we have a key for their house?” Alan inquired.
“Sure, it’s bound to be somewhere in this pile of keys.” I answered with confidence.
“Which one is the key we need?” Alan didn’t share my confidence.
“Well, we’ve taken care of Olive before, so I know we have a key.”
Alan laughed. “Are you sure it’s not one of the keys that we keep in a plastic bag in the basket on the kitchen counter?”
The basket Alan was referring to is filled with business cards, stamps, coupons, address labels, small mementos, and other things, including plastic bags with keys.
At Alan’s suggestion, I decided to look inside the full basket.
What do you think I found?
Yes, a plastic sandwich bag with the key we needed. Alan was right.
In my hurry to complete the task of taking care of Olive dog, I thought I had the needed item. I was overconfident. I didn’t pause to make sure the correct key was on the key ring.
This reminds me of how there are times when we need to be confident and other times, we need to ask for help. Seeking guidance from the Father is always the best way to handle any situation.
God hears our prayers. Whether we are asking to find lost keys,(or keys we didn’t know were lost) or praying to the Father with big requests, there is comfort in knowing He is listening.
Alan and I were able to visit with Olive doggy and sit with her in the backyard. She constantly looked at the garage door and at the gate. Olive missed her family, but they would be home soon.
As for all the keys on my keyring, I’m still perplexed as to why I have so many keys. I only use a few of them. I’m thankful for God’s reminder to be patient and ask for His help, even with finding keys.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
New Neighbor Giggles
“Hello! How are you today? Nice to meet you. Welcome to the neighborhood! Where did you live before moving to the Lowcountry?”
These are some of the questions often heard in our neighborhood. The area is filled with friendly folks. Some have lived in the area for a while and others have recently relocated from another state. The same conversations are shared as each person is welcomed into the community.
A variety of ages is one of the things that makes our neighborhood wonderful. From young couples with new babies to seniors who have retired, we are blessed with caring, compassionate friends.
Recently, Alan and I met a lovely couple while taking our evening walk. Greetings were exchanged and a delightful conversation started. Sharing about children, grandchildren, and reasons for moving, the chat continued with laughter and joy. We talked about how we would easily remember their names because the man has the same name as our son, Mike. The sweet lady, named Joanne, reminded us that her name is the same as a craft store.
When time came for Alan and me to proceed with our walk, we said goodbye. We looked forward to seeing the couple again soon.
Days later, Alan went to the grocery store. He returned and mentioned how he had seen the man we had recently met. “I saw the new guy. He was at the store. He said they are building a house and moving to another part of the state.”
My reaction was shock and disbelief. “Wow, they just moved here. Are you sure? Houses sure do sell fast around here. I didn’t know they were building a home. They are so nice. I’ll miss them when they move.”
We talked more about houses selling fast in the Lowcountry. Some homes in our area are under contract the day the house is placed on the “for sale” listing.
I hoped we could chat with the couple again soon, especially before they moved.
Friday evening, Alan and I went to the local big box store to shop for certain items. As we walked through the aisles, we noticed our new neighbors shopping.
“Hello, hello. How are you all today? Are you really moving?” A perplexed look appeared on their faces.
At that point, Alan began to share the rest of the story. He had not updated me on the mistake he had made. Perhaps he was a bit embarrassed, but now the truth would be revealed.
Alan spoke. “Hey, funny story. I went to the store the other day and saw a guy who looked just like you Mike. I approached him and introduced myself again, reminding him how we met the other day while walking. The guy nodded and said he remembered. I carried on a full conversation with the guy. He told me that they are building a house and moving.”
Later that same day, Alan had seen our neighbors driving by the house. The man, Mike, still had his mustache. The man Alan had chatted with at the grocery store did not have a mustache. Oops.
Alan had enjoyed a conversation with a stranger and the person never corrected Alan’s mistake.
I had to laugh out loud as I shared with our new friends that Alan never told me the rest of the story and about his error in talking with the wrong person. We all laughed and continued with a joyful visit right there in the aisle of the big box store.
I do need to share with our new friends about our family motto.
“It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons”.
Have you chatted with someone who wasn’t the person you thought you were talking to? A case of mistaken identity?
What happened when the mistake was revealed?
Lord, thank You for new friends. Thank You for laughter. May we all find joy in each day.
Amen.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Skorts not Shorts
Another earache and sinus infection? What? Not again? Medicines are working and I’m beginning to feel better. Today and every day, I’m thanking God for the healing He gives.
During the time of sickness, I was not able to go to the grocery store. Low energy level left me wanting to sleep more than usual.
That meant dear sweet husband Alan would take care of the grocery shopping and trip to the big box store. Two lists had been written on note paper. Alan added a few more items that I had forgotten. Things were going great.
Alan asked, “Hey, Mimi, would you like me to purchase another pair of those shorts you liked when we were at the store last week?”
“Yes, honey, that would be wonderful.”
The clothing item was actually called “skort”, but I had a feeling hubby would not recognize that name. So, I simply agreed with him and called them “shorts”.
After inquiring about the size needed to purchase, he gathered the list, his wallet, and cell phone. Leaving for the store with every confidence that all items would be bought. He even asked what color I would like best.
I rested while Alan was shopping. A few hours later, he returned with bags of groceries and items from the big box store. Tissues, laundry softener, ginger ale, milk, etc.
A burst of energy entered my body and I began putting groceries away as we emptied each bag. Knowing I would soon find the new skorts. Oh, the excitement!
The last bag was emptied and no clothing was found.
“Mimi, I checked and the store didn’t have any more shorts. They had something called “skorts” but I thought that was the wrong thing. I guess we waited too long to go back and get more.”
Laughing out loud, I explained the situation.
“Alan, skorts are what you were supposed to buy.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. I thought they were something else, not shorts.”
A few minutes later, the sound of Alan picking up his car keys from the counter caused me to question if he was going somewhere.
“Yes, I’m going back to get you two pairs of those things.”
“Really?” I asked. “You don’t have to do that.”
His reply was that he didn’t mind and he wanted me to be happy, especially when I was sick.
This act of kindness may seem like a simple thing. In our marriage of over 42 years, we have shown love to each other in big ways and small ways. I am thankful God blessed me with a loving husband, who doesn’t mind looking for ladies clothing. 🙂
Have you been the recipient of an act of kindness? Have you shown an act of kindness to others? Share in the comments. Spread the love of Christ every day.
Blessings and giggles,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Ten and Ten
Lunch with friends brings conversation, laughter, sometimes tears, always prayers, delicious food and more. Recently I attended a birthday celebration gathering for a dear friend. The fun began while we were riding to the restaurant. Arriving at the establishment, we were promptly shown to our table and the server brought water and menus.
We inquired about the lunch specials, placed orders for food, and began chatting. Catching up on life events and sharing about children and grandchildren are usual topics of discussion. Of course, I have to give the latest update on Rowan and Eden. There is always a funny story to share with everyone.
Sharing life with these friends brings joy. Each person is experiencing a different life journey. In this special group, we know thoughts and prayers will be said for each person.
As we finished the meal and dessert, time had come to pay the bill. Each person was paying for their own food. The server was gracious in creating separate bills for each lady. Some paid with cash and others with credit card.
The nice lady who was taking care of us collected the payments and went to the register.
She returned with change and receipts for everyone. Well, everyone except me. I had paid with cash and was expecting some dollars back. I waited patiently and then inquired about my change. I had planned to give a nice tip, but still wanted the money so I could decide the amount of tip to give.
Several people at our table called the server. We explained how I didn’t get any change back. The sweet lady looked at me and said, “Oh, I know exactly what I owe you. Sorry about that.”
She walked to the cash register and found the amount due to me. Bringing the dollars back, she apologized.
I still wanted to give this woman a nice tip. She had worked so hard to help our group. She was polite, efficient, and quick with the orders. So, I gave a $10.00 tip. This sweet server kept saying, “Thank you. Thank you so much.”
After the luncheon, I arrived home to find a wonderful email from a friend. The news stated that I had won a $10.00 gift card to use online. Wow!! What a nice surprise!
God is so good. I gave a $10.00 tip and He gave me $10.00 back. Thank You God.
Have you experienced anything like this?
Have a blessed and joy filled day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson