Shadow Girl and The Author
There is something very special about the relationships between grandparents and grandchildren. From the moment Bop and I learned that Mike and Christine were expecting their first child almost nine years ago, life changed in wonderful ways. Rowan was born, and then, a few years later, Eden was born. Bop and I love our grandparent names. We also have several different names for Rowan and Eden. Eden is sometimes called “Shadow Girl,” and Rowan is sometimes called “The Author”.
These unique names come from everyday experiences. From the time Eden started walking, she has been fascinated with following Bop. She walks so close behind him that I worry he won’t see or hear her. So, whenever she follows along behind him, I say, “Shadow, shadow.” Bop knows to be careful and alert that his shadow is with him as he walks from one room to another.
Rowan has become an excellent reader and writer. He knows that I’m an author and he likes to create stories, too. Rowan enjoys technology class at school. At our home, he enjoys using my computer to type out stories and then print them. Bop and I tell him that he is a great author. He’s also wonderful at art. His drawings show a creative side that amazes everyone.
Recently, Rowan and Eden were sitting at the dining room table. Rowan was drawing, and Eden was coloring. They decided to take a break and have a snack. Eden asked Bop to bring her a cupcake. Bop replied that she knew where the cupcakes were stored, and she could get a bowl and a cupcake for herself.
She smiled that precious smile that melts Bop’s heart. He walked to the kitchen and found a pink bowl and a cupcake for Eden. She sat on the couch.
Eden looked at me and proclaimed, “Bop will do anything for me because I’m his shadow girl.”
Now, how could we resist her request for a treat when she spoke the truth? Precious girl.
Rowan knows where the bowl of candy bars is kept. He is old enough now that he doesn’t ask for a treat. He walks to the cabinet and finds what he wants to eat. Yes, the author needs nourishment even if it’s a chocolate candy bar. We are so proud of him for saying “thank you”.
These sweet grandkids teach us lessons every day. Love each other, share your treats, use your manners, and remember to look out for one another. God is good. Bop and I are blessed.
Thank you for reading and commenting. The winner from the last blog post contest is Katherine Pasour. I’ll be mailing your copy of “Licky the Lizard”.
Blessings,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetHearts of Love
Pink construction paper, bright-colored markers, and a place to sit. Four-year-old granddaughter Eden asked for these simple things. “Mimi, don’t look. I’m making something for you.” Her words were spoken in a soft voice accompanied by a big smile. My answer was, “I won’t look. I’ll sit on the other side of the table and color.” I didn’t know Eden was creating hearts of love.
I often comment about the craft cabinet in our living room. Grandchildren Rowan and Eden are always ready for a craft when they enter our home. “What are we doing today? What craft can we make? Mimi, can we make something? Can we do a science experiment?” All of those comments and more begin our time together. Whether the kids are at our house for a sleepover or a few hours, we enjoy making things and using our imaginations.
Eden continued to work on her project while Rowan drew pictures of mountains, buildings, people, and animals. I like to use colorful markers to draw balloons floating in the air. Those two grandkids can draw anything. I’m not a great artist like Rowan and Eden. My stick figures bring laughter and funny comments. That’s okay. At least I try.
A little time later, Eden folded her pink paper like a card. She walked to where I was sitting and handed me the card. “Mimi, this is for you because I love you.” Eden grinned as I accepted the gift.
The front cover of the card displayed beautiful purple hearts. As I opened the gift and looked inside, I tried not to cry tears of joy. This sweet granddaughter had taken her time to make the most beautiful hearts of many colors. “Hearts mean love, Mimi,” Eden spoke as I saw her artwork.
When I received this special present, my heart was full of love and joy. I told Eden that I would keep the card forever, and I will. Bop and I have folders and boxes of artwork from Rowan and Eden. Those heartfelt creations bring special memories.
Rowan made a green construction paper Christmas tree a few years ago. He asked me to keep it forever, and I told him that I would. That tree is displayed on the dining room hutch all year.
These moments of love and joy remind me of the love that God pours out on us. We can feel and see His love in every moment. From the sunrise to the sunset, the laughter of children and adults, the quiet moments of watching snowflakes float in the air, and many more ways, God shows His love.
God shows us His hearts of love. How have you experienced His love?
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 NIV)
Have a blessed day and know you are loved,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetStand 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
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
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
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
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)
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