I Sent the Wrong Card

Sending and receiving cards via snail mail gives me great joy. Birthday, thinking of you, sympathy, congratulations, and other special occasions are great reasons to mail a card. As a young girl, I loved reaching into the mailbox attached to our front screen door. That was then. Nowadays, most people get their mail from cluster boxes or a box on the edge of their property. Imagine my surprise and embarrassment when I learned that I sent the wrong card to my sister Carol and brother-in-law Hal. 

Carol sent a text asking if I could chat for a moment. She had a funny story to share. We talk and text throughout the week. Sometimes we recall memories from childhood. Other times, we chat about daily happenings. We have a wonderful sister bond.

I texted back, saying I would call her in a bit. Rowan and Eden were visiting, and the art supplies covered the dining room table. I needed to wait until everything was cleared and the paints, paintbrushes, and paper were put back into the cabinet.

I clicked the button on my cell phone. The ring sounded twice, and Carol answered. She was laughing. I pictured Hal laughing, too. He was sitting close to her.

She began by thanking us for the sweet card that was covered in butterflies. I remembered sending that one. Carol let me know that the inside of the card had words about not wanting to be another year older. Oh my stars! The heat began to rise on my face, even though she couldn’t see me through the phone. 

My dear sweet sister said they liked the butterflies on the front of the card, but when they opened it, they were surprised by the words. No one was celebrating a birthday. Her birthday is in January. Hal’s birthday is in February. The card had been mailed in April.

I’m thankful for their understanding. I laughed at my mistake. The issue was that I was mailing a handful of cards. Our cousin Nancy may have received a “thinking of you” card for her birthday. 

Carol and Hal are the sweetest. They understand that sometimes Mimi makes mistakes. Bop told me that I was trying to do too many tasks at one time. I pray I didn’t send a sympathy card to the wrong person. 

I will try my best to check everything I mail. There might be a few more mistakes. I’m blessed with a family who understands my quirks because, as you know…”It’s Always A Story with The Hendersons”. This time, it was a story with Mimi.

My error in mailing has reminded me to slow down, focus, and not try to accomplish everything in one sitting. 

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

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

Pocket Music

In a recent blog post, I shared my thoughts about the sound of a ticking clock providing laughter and joy. I had no idea that something similar would happen again. I’m thankful for the wonderful ways God gives us to find joy in the simple moments in life. Today, a bit of pocket music brought giggles to Alan and me.

Part of my morning routine includes praying and giving thanks to God for His blessings, handling morning tasks like making the bed, preparing and eating breakfast, and checking on my birds. I must admit that this morning, I scrolled through the emails on my phone. There was a reminder about the church service on Sunday. All was well. I decided to watch the service online because we couldn’t attend in person.

After checking a few items off of my list, I placed the phone in my pocket and continued with morning activities. Opening the blinds in the office/playroom, checking the mail app to see what letters and/or bills might be arriving, and also, looking in the kitchen cabinet to decide on a meal for lunch. Regular routine.

Alan was watching television in the living room. Thinking he was watching a Christmas show, I commented on the beauty of the music and voices in the program. Alan looked at me and said, “I’m not watching anything about Christmas. I’m watching an old western.”

I noticed that as I walked into the living room, the sound quieted. Walking back to the other part of the house, the music and voices became louder. 

I checked outside to see if people were carolling this morning. No. Not a person. Just the birds flying from feeder to feeder.

This situation continued for a few minutes. I could hear talking and singing, then quiet. There had to be an explanation. No radio, CD player, or computer was offering Christmas music.

As I stood still in the hallway, I noticed the sound coming from the pocket in my jeans. Lifting the phone out, I saw that I had pressed the button to play the “Festival of Lessons and Carols Service: The Story of God’s Promise Fulfilled in Christ” from Palmetto Presbyterian Church. I continued watching the service and shared the news with Alan.

The beautiful sounds of the choir and congregation were coming from the phone in my pocket. I’m thankful that our church has a youtube channel and we’re able to watch the service online if we can’t attend in person.

I’m thankful for the beautiful voices and musicians who brought the songs and words of the birth of Jesus. 

Check your pockets. You may find a message from God.

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

How Do Birds Handle Change?

Bird watching has always fascinated me and brought hours of enjoyment. As a young girl, my parents pointed out different kinds of birds and shared interesting information about the creatures. From the little Carolina Wren to the large Bald Eagle, each bird has its own way of handling life. What happens when the temperatures drop or rise? How do birds handle change?

I remember making homemade bird feeders in elementary school. A pinecone covered in peanut butter and seeds, with a string attached to the top, was one of my favorite projects. Those unique treats hung from trees in the neighborhood. The kids would watch to see which one had the most visitors. Nowadays, Bop and I create the same feeders with our grandkids. Collecting pinecones in the neighborhood and making crafts from them brings fun and laughter, but there is always a mess on the floor.

Recently, I bought a new tray feeder for the tree in the front yard. The old one had worked well for a long time. Now, I wanted a different one. The bird store offers a variety to choose from, making the decision difficult. 

Over the years, I’ve learned some interesting facts about birds. Some birds don’t mind change. They will fly right next to me as I pour seed. Others wait and sit on branches watching until I go back inside the house. I wonder why some creatures are shy, and others are bold.

Another unique quality about birds is that they seem to know when a dramatic change in the weather is approaching. The weather forecasters in the Lowcountry are predicting a sharp drop in temperatures tonight.

I looked outside and saw birds of all sizes and shapes flying back and forth to the new tray. I sense that they know change is on the way. Watching from inside the house, I smiled and thanked God for these birds that make me happy.

Birds handle change by preparing for what may be coming. Other animals handle change in their own ways. What about people? How do we handle change?

Rowan and Eden adapt well to changes in their schedule. Rowan likes to have a calendar with events posted on the refrigerator. Eden goes with the flow. Both grandkids have unique ways to handle change.

I keep several calendars with dates posted. There are calendars on the wall, in my purse, on the computer, and on my phone. I adjust when change happens. Life brings many changes, and how we handle those changes can help us thrive.

We can learn valuable lessons from the birds. We can prepare and stay aware of our surroundings. I have often said, “God taps me on the shoulder three times when He is trying to get my attention. If I don’t listen, He hits me in the head.” Haha!

How do you handle change? With a smile, grumbles, or contentment?

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

Sock Decorations Bring Precious Memories

The Christmas tree is decorated. The candles are in the windows. Empty ornament boxes are stashed in closets. Decorative towels and blankets are arranged in their designated spots. Christmas is almost here. As I gaze at the little tree in the playroom/office, I notice an old, familiar item. A brown sock, with holes in the bottom, was an arrangement that our son created. Yes, sock decorations bring precious memories.

Our son, now a grown man, created this ornament when he was a young boy. We’ve shown it to our daughter-in-love and the grandkids. Rowan and Eden both commented, “Dad made that? Was that when he was a little boy in school?”

My answer. “Yes, your Dad created this special decoration for the tree. He used one of Bop’s old socks and added some felt shapes and glitter. He carefully placed each bit of shiny sparkles and felt to make the perfect ornament to add to the tree.”

Rowan and Eden smile every time we talk about the old sock. By sharing the memories, we are handing down a legacy of love and care. The brown, worn-out sock might not be as perfect as the shiny things on the tree. But the feeling of love is evident every year when we open a box and find the sock.

There are many ornaments on this little tree and many on the big tree in the living room. Each one is placed with care. Each one finds a different spot every Christmas. Angels, stars, crosses, birds, cloth ornaments, and many more reminders bring smiles when we share time together. Conversations, giggles, and sometimes a broken item remind us that the things on the tree are important, but they are not forever.

God’s love is forever. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we can find peace in reading or hearing Scripture, and sharing the good news of His birth. We can share the story from the Bible. We can think of opportunities to share God’s love with others at this special time of year and always.

The best things on the tree are the ones created with love. Yes, even an old sock can bring precious memories.

What special Christmas ornaments or decorations are found at your home? Do you hang ornaments on the trees outside? Share some of your favorite homemade decorations.

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

A Missed Message Can Be the Best Answer

Have you ever considered that a missed message can be the best answer? Last week, Bop went to a local auto shop to check the price of new tires. The friendly salesman took the time to show  the various brands and explain their benefits and prices. An appointment was scheduled for Bop to return and purchase the tires. All was good. That afternoon, the salesman called to say that a better brand of tires was being delivered to the shop. Same price, better tires.

The salesman said he would call when the tires were delivered, and then Bop could go to the shop. The time for delivery was supposed to be around noon. We waited. We took care of chores at the house. Laundry, dusting, feeding the birds, pulling weeds in the flower beds, etc. 

Noon came and went. We figured that maybe the delivery was running late. No worries. We would keep working in the house and yard. As the afternoon passed, the light turned dark. No phone call. Frustration began to set in. We questioned why the salesman had not called to let us know what had happened.

Maybe the delivery was postponed. But, why hadn’t someone called to let us know? Maybe the salesman was sick. Why hadn’t someone else from the company called? Perhaps the tires were not a better fit for our car. Perhaps the salesman forgot about us. Why? Why? Oh, my!

Friday was over. The weekend brought fun times with Rowan, Eden, Mike, and Christine. Laughter, games of “telephone”, blowing bubbles in the front yard, charades, and enjoying a delicious meal from one of our favorite restaurants were some of the activities. Wonderful times.

Monday morning arrived. No phone call or message from the auto shop. Our patience grew thin, and we discussed contacting another place to purchase the tires.

Then, Monday afternoon… Bop checked his phone for work messages and there was a missed call from Friday. What? How could this be? He had looked for missed calls and messages and nothing was there, until that moment. 

Bop immediately contacted the shop. He apologized for not seeing the message.The salesperson assured him there was no need to apologize. A time was scheduled for the next day. New tires, better brand, same price. Thank You Lord.

After the phone call ended, Bop shook his head and said, “That missed call didn’t show up until a little bit ago. Wonder what happened?”

We remembered that God’s timing is best. We may never know why the message didn’t go through. But God knows. Sometimes a missed message can be the best answer. 

Have you missed a call or message and later realized that God had a plan? Share in the comments.

Thank you for reading and commenting. I appreciate your encouragement.

Have a blessed day!

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

Her One True Love

Conversations with a four-and-a-half year old child can shift from discussing potty breaks to imaginary friends to stories about school. Recently, our granddaughter Eden filled us with joy and brought tears of happiness as she shared about her one true love.

Rowan, Eden, Bop, and I were chatting while riding in the car on our way to take care of errands. We talked about the shapes of clouds looking like bunnies and dragons. We searched for alligators on the banks of ponds as we rode through neighborhoods. Rowan told us about one of his favorite movies. Great wisdom can be found in young children.

A few moments passed without anyone speaking. The silence was broken when Eden made a declaration that shocked us.

“My boyfriend kissed me.” Eden smiled as she spoke.

“What? Who kissed you?” Rowan turned towards Eden and asked the question in a firm voice that only an older brother could express.

“My boyfriend kissed me.”

“Who? Who is your boyfriend? Where did he kiss you?” Rowan frowned, and his voice deepened as his temper flared. He’s eight years old, so the sound of his voice was only a bit deeper. But he was concerned.

Eden paused, grinned, and stared at Rowan. She gave an answer that calmed Rowan and made everyone smile.

“Dad. He kissed me on the cheek. Dad is my boyfriend. He’s my one true love.”

“Oh, Eden! You can’t marry Dad.” Rowan tried to explain that she can’t marry someone in her family.

“I know. But, Dad is my one true love forever.” Eden smiled and reached down for the snack in her backpack.

I tried to hold back the happy tears. I told Eden that she is very sweet and Dad would be happy to know he is her one true love.

Of course, I had to share the encounter with our son Mike. He smiled. Touched by her sweetness, we learned a great lesson that day. Remember to love one another always.

Do you have one true love? Have you told someone that you love them? Everyone needs to know they are loved and cherished.

Have a day filled with love and joy,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

Boards on Cars

Boards on cars? Did you do a double-take? I’m not referring to construction materials from the local home improvement store for building or landscaping. The boards I’m talking about are “surfboards”. Another hurricane has visited the eastern section of the country. The usual changing predictions had been televised for weeks. Professional weather personnel traveled every day to the shore to report any change in waves and shoreline. As the hurricane moved closer, I noticed more boards on cars.

Preparations began as the latest hurricane approached the eastern side of the country. The Lowcountry has seen devastating hurricanes in the past. Whether someone was born in this area or moved to the Lowcountry like my husband and I, everyone learns to be alert and take precautions. As we joined the crowd preparing for the storm, our own checklist awaited.

Alan and I went to the grocery store to stock up on needed supplies. Batteries, flashlights, and yes, chocolate candy and bottled water. On our way to the store, I noticed many vehicles with surfboards secured to the top of cars. While I waited in the car while Alan went into the store, I glanced around the parking lot. There were several surfboards on cars. I hoped to see who was driving the vehicles. The curiosity drew my attention as the parking lot began to fill.

Finally, several men and women exited the store and went to their cars. Their attire gave a clue to their destination. Surf shorts, t-shirts, sunglasses, and flip-flops. They had purchased supplies and were en route to the ocean. 

After Alan returned to the car, he suggested we ride to an inlet and look for dolphins. Yes, we’ve become those folks. “Let’s go look at the waves.”, my dear husband said. I recalled how my parents loved to take a ride in the afternoons, just to be outside and enjoy the sights.

When we reached the bridge that crosses over the inlet, we saw people walking on the beach. The inlet area has “No swimming” signs posted at all times due to rip currents. However, we rode a little further and saw surfers enjoying the big waves. Happy surfers who came to the beach with boards on their cars.

I wondered what it’s like to be a surfer. I enjoy walking on the beach, collecting shells, and gazing at sunrises and sunsets. One of my favorite parts of the ocean in this area is the dolphins. Beautiful creatures that amaze me every time one jumps out of the water and splashes back down. But I will stay out of the water.

One of our nephews, Daniel Harris, is a talented and strong surfer. Daniel is in the photo above. He and his friends love the waves, the feel of the ocean water, and riding the surfboards. Daniel has created awesome surfboards. His talent is endless.

When I see Daniel headed to the ocean, there is usually a big smile on his face. He knows the importance of safety in the water. He also knows the joy of riding the big waves. Daniel has shared his love of the ocean with our family. 

Daniel and our niece Ashley, along with their three kids, Peyton, Paige, and Ryder, have moved to an area near the ocean. They love “beach life”.

They can walk to the beach and carry their surfboards. If they want to travel to another area of waves and sand, they can secure the boards on top of their vehicles.

I’m reminded that God gives us glorious creations to enjoy such as the beach, the ocean, the inlet, the shells, the salty breeze, and much more. I’m also reminded that when I see “boards on cars”, someone is heading to the ocean or has already enjoyed riding the waves.

Either way, life is good. 

Praise God for His blessings. Praise Him for fun times. Praise Him for surfers and their love for the ocean.

Are you a surfer? Have you seen the awesome ways surfers ride the waves? Have you seen “boards on cars”?

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

Three Heart Monitors

My recent back injury has led to a variety of tests, procedures, changes in medications, and more. I was required to wear a heart monitor for two weeks. My heart was racing because of the pain. I’m thankful that my doctors are thorough and pay attention to the details when I describe  my symptoms. The device attached to my chest was not the only heart monitor; there were others. Rowan and Eden were also asking about my heart. I had three heart monitors. One was worn for two weeks. The other is the most special and I will wear it forever. That is the love of grandchildren who showed compassion and care.

“Mimi, can I see it? Does it hurt? Why are you wearing that thing?” Eden started with the questions. She needed to see the device and touch it. After showing her the thing that was watching my heart, she looked at me and smiled. “You’ll be alright, Mimi.”

Rowan took a different approach. “Mimi, will you wear that thing forever? Can you still play? When can you take it off?” His care was evident when we sat at the table and drew pictures. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see him staring at me. I wondered what his 8-year-old mind was thinking. He kept drawing, and every few minutes, he looked at me and asked, “Mimi, are you okay? Do you need a soft hug?”

My doctor prescribed a device that would check my pulse and heartbeat. Alan had worn a similar thing years ago, when he was experiencing palpitations. He knew how to apply the monitor, what to expect, and how to return it when the two-week period was over. That took some of the fear of the unknown away. Easy instructions were supplied. Having something stuck to your body for two weeks is awkward. I also had to carry a phone with me and keep it close to the sensor.

The results from wearing the heart monitor should be ready soon, and a plan will be established. I’m trying to be patient as I wait for a phone call or a message in the patient portal. I’ve learned that trying to decipher notes on the portal can be worrisome. It’s better to wait and speak with a medical professional instead of trying to understand the results on my own.

The love and care that Rowan and Eden show others brings me joy. They are concerned when someone is sick. They take care of their aging dog, Olive, with tenderness. I’ve seen them hug each other and give a pat on the back when something goes wrong. When there is a hurt knee, a broken toy, a disappointment, or another sad occurrence, both grandkids have shown compassion and love.

How do we extend love to others? Do we pause and listen when someone speaks? Do we reach out to people we haven’t heard from in a while and let them know that we miss them? Or does the daily routine take first place? 

What about prayer and sharing time with God? When we rise in the morning and when we place our head down to rest in the evening, do we thank God for His blessings and forgiveness?

Wearing that device for two weeks allowed me to slow down, pause, and rest. As Alan prepared the box for return, packed everything in its place, and affixed the label, I breathed a sigh of relief. That monitor was gone. 

However, my two most special heart monitors will be visiting soon and bringing love and laughter with them. One named Rowan and one named Eden.

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

“Do the Stripes on the Sheets Have to Match?”

Recently, I shared about my severe back pain and medical issues. Thank you all for your prayers, encouragement, and compassion. Throughout this experience, I’m learning to let go of some of the simple things in life while I hopefully heal from this condition. I’m realizing that my husband is capable of taking care of household chores. Although his cleaning methods differ from mine, I appreciate his efforts. One important task is changing the sheets on the bed. The question I posed to myself this week is, “Do the stripes on the sheets have to match?”

We have two basic sets of sheets. One set features small, light blue flowers on a white background. Beautiful. The second set has an off-white background and brown accent stripes.. Also, beautiful. The king-sized sheets fit perfectly if they are aligned properly. A tag on one end gives a reference to the best possible positioning of the sheets. I use that tag to make sure the sheets fit properly on the bed. 

However, last week, as Alan changed the sheets, I sat on the couch in the living room. While he worked, I watched a television show about gardening. He completed the task and alerted me to come and see how nice the bed looked.

As I entered the bedroom, the first thing I noticed was the bedspread arranged perfectly. I smiled. Next, I noticed the sheets and laughed out loud. “How in the world did you get the sheets on the bed like that?”

With a surprised look, my dear husband answered. “What do you mean? Isn’t that the way they are supposed to go? It works.”

How could I complain? I’m not sure how he maneuvered those sheets, but they fit and stayed in place until the next time he changed them. Good job!

God is reminding me every day that He is in control. I may have plans for my life, but, right now, God has other plans that He is working through me. Will I ever know why I am experiencing such pain and struggles with my back and spine? Maybe there will be answers. Maybe not. Yet, this struggle is bringing me closer to Him.

I lament, cry, scream, and pray for the pain to cease. I ask “Why?” Then, I pause and thank God for the comfort He has provided already. I thank God for the prayers of many friends and strangers. I thank God for my family who loves me and sends me encouragement every day. I thank God for His love and mercy.

When I calm from the pain, I smile and think about the sheets. No, the stripes on the sheets don’t have to match. That’s okay.

How are things with you today? Are you handling household tasks today? 

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NIV)

Have a blessed day,

Melissa Henderson aka Mimi