I Thank God for Grandkids and Hummingbirds

“Wow! We haven’t met our out-of-pocket amount for the year. Usually, by June, we’ve surpassed that cost.” My husband stated as he looked at the insurance benefits statement that had arrived in the mail. I was glad that neither one of us had been ill or needed to visit the hospital ER. 

I smiled and spoke words that would backfire on me in a matter of days.
“That means we are healthy. We haven’t been seriously sick or in pain this year.” 

Saturday mornings are what I call “changing bed sheets morning”. I like to change the sheets early in the day. There is something fresh and renewing about clean bed linens.

On June 14th, I removed the sheets from the bed and prepared to refresh the bed with clean, crisp linens. This time, I would use the set with bright blue flowers and a white background. Beautiful.

Finding the corner area of the fitted sheet, I reached down to tuck the material under the mattress. A sharp, shooting pain like I’ve never experienced spasmed my lower left back. I’ve had many lumbar spasms over the years. This pain was worse than anything I had endured in the past. I screamed. Tears flowed. I yelled for Alan to help me.

He walked into the room and tried to begin comforting me. Alan helped me on to the bed by holding my legs in a position where I could move. This was bad, very bad. Tears continued. Prayers began. 

My thoughts began to wander as I thought of the grandkids. What would happen to all of the fun activities we had planned for them? When would I be able to play again? More tears.

A few hours passed as we waited to see if my body would calm. Pain persisted. Alan suggested a trip to the emergency room. Getting me in the car was difficult, but Alan managed. I’m thankful for the strength God gave my husband during this time.

The ER staff ordered scans and administered pain and anti-inflammatory medicine. Nothing helped. I was sent home with a referral to a neurosurgeon and a reminder to contact my pain doctor. More tears from me.

Over the past two weeks, I have visited the pain doctor, my family doctor, had two MRIs, a CT scan, and we’re still trying to figure out what to do about the pain. 

On a recent morning, I was able to sit at my desk and look outside. There, in the midst of my pain and complaining, God sent hummingbirds. God knows that hummingbirds are my favorite. This time, there were many flying wonders. Not one, not two, but many. God knew what I needed. Hummingbirds make me smile. I thank God for the hummingbirds.

Alan and I miss being with Rowan and Eden and their parents. Alan reminds me that this is temporary and we will be able to play one day soon. I love his positive outlook.

Another blessing is video chat with the grandkids. They understand that Mimi can’t play at this time. Eden has tried to send me some ice packs for my back. Rowan has tried to make me laugh. Precious children.

I will continue to rest, keep my body moving even if it’s slow moving, and I will continue to pray.

I’ll keep watching for the hummingbirds. I’ll praise God every day because I know He is with me.

How are things in your life? Any praises or prayer requests?

Blessings,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

The House Sitting Goose

Honk! Honk! Honk! The sounds of honking geese were alarming. As I listened to the annoying calls of the birds, I wondered if there was a problem. Why were these animals making sounds loud enough to disturb the neighborhood? Did a predator lurk close to a nest? I ventured outside to seek the answer. 

Three geese sat on the roof of our neighbor’s home. The animals honked to each other, one at a time. First, a honk from the one on the left. Next, a honk from the one on the right. Then, the goose in the middle responded. I imagined a crazy conversation between three geese.

The birds usually find spots near the ponds to build their nests. Seems to me that I wouldn’t want a nest near a pond filled with alligators. But, I’m not a goose. Every Spring, we watch as the geese walk down the middle of streets and cause traffic to pause. Cute yellow “fuzzies” arrive and people wait as the parents and babies cross the street. Nests and families are guarded by the adults. They are cute until they begin leaving piles of goose droppings on the sidewalks.

These three geese sat on the roof and continued to talk to each other. I walked to the mailbox and began chatting with a neighbor. 

“Did you see those geese? Isn’t that crazy?” I asked my friend.

Her response caught me by surprise. “Well, did you see a goose on your roof?”

“Oh my! I didn’t notice. I’ll go check.”

I rushed home. Yes, one goose sat on our roof. It wasn’t making a sound. It sat there staring down at me. I ran inside the house to get Alan. Alerting him of the strange sight, he came outside and announced, “We’ve got to make that thing leave before it creates a mess on the rooftop.”

Being the helpful wife that I am, I suggested he spray water from the hose. Perhaps that would make the animal take flight. Alan unrolled the hose, turned on the water, and sprayed toward the top of the house.

Unfortunately, the jet spray didn’t reach the top of the house and the water sprayed back on my sweet husband. Alan stood there with wet shoes, pants, and a wet shirt. I couldn’t stop laughing. He laughed, too.

“Well, that didn’t work.” He responded as the goose continued to stare down at both of us.

“Get me a football or some kind of ball. I don’t want to hurt the goose, I just want to scare it away.”

“We don’t have any footballs here. How about that little green bouncy ball? It’s about the size of  a baseball.” I was trying my best to help.

Deciding that would work, I went inside and found the green ball in the playroom. The face painted on the ball appeared to be laughing at us.

I rushed outside to Alan and handed him the ball. He posed like a professional baseball player, warmed up, and threw the ball. No luck. The throw didn’t reach the top of the roof. After five or six tries, he announced, “I could throw better when I was younger.”

The goose perched on the roof and looked down at the two crazy folks trying their best to get it to move. 

We finally gave up and left for the grocery store. Maybe more ideas would come to us when we returned home. Or hopefully, the goose would be gone.

The grocery shopping was completed, and we headed back home. All of the geese were gone. The roof tops were clean. Alan and I laughed at the experience. Honking geese, wet clothes, toy bouncing balls, and a morning full of laughter.

Yes, it’s always a story with the Henderson’s.

Have you had any experiences with geese? 

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

Fire Hydrant Protectors

Various sights capture my attention while I gaze out of my office window. A hummingbird feeder is positioned so I can enjoy the beautiful creatures as they drink nectar. The sidewalk is in full view so I can notice visitors coming to the front door. Neighbors pass by walking their dogs. On a cool morning, a new sight appeared. I was surprised to see “fire hydrant protectors”.

A white pickup truck arrived in slow motion. Two men left the vehicle. One held large papers that could have been a map. The other person wore a hard hat. They opened the back of the truck and placed the documents on the bed. Looking down, each man pointed to spots on the paper. 

Another truck pulled up behind the first one. Four men left that vehicle. Each person wore protective outerwear, including a mask and gloves. My curiosity was getting the best of me. I wanted to know about these people and why they were in our neighborhood. Watching intently, I witnessed something I’d never seen.

The two men in the first truck appeared to be the leaders. Motioning with their hands, they pointed to a fire hydrant. Next, the four men from the other vehicle moved. The scene looked like an action movie.

Each person had an assignment. Two leaders. Four workers. I sat in amazement at what happened next. With precision and dedication, each guy went to work completing his task. The first guy retrieved a tarp from the back of the truck. The second guy brought out a huge can with a long hose. The third guy used spray paint to mark a circle around the fire hydrant. Then, the first and second men held up the tarp next to the hydrant. The second guy began spraying a dull brownish-gray color on the hydrant.

The men holding the tarp ensured that no paint would land on our neighbor’s vehicles parked in their driveway. What a great method! Everyone had a job.

They worked quickly and efficiently. Moving like stealth figures, their work was completed in a few minutes. The men entered their vehicles again and moved to the next hydrant.

Before I could complain to my husband about the new color of the hydrants, another vehicle arrived and the answer was provided. This team was waiting for the fresh paint to dry. Next, a fresh bright red was applied.

I was so impressed with how the teams worked together to complete their tasks. 

Their efforts were greatly rewarded with a job well done.

The men never knew I was sitting in my office watching their every move. I’m thankful for their hard work and attention to detail. Yes, there was a bit of red paint on the grass, but that will disappear when Spring arrives and the yard covers begin growing.

How hard do we work at our jobs or passions? What happens when we work together to share His love? Do we pay attention to the way we interact with others? 

I pray that I work as hard as those men painting the fire hydrants. I pray that the glory of God will always shine in my words and actions.

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson.

Hearts 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 

Joy Dancing

“Are you dancing?” “What are you humming?” “What’s the name of that song you are singing?’

These are questions I hear from folks almost daily. I am usually singing, humming, or dancing to songs that have special meaning to me. Sometimes, I don’t realize that I am singing aloud or moving to the beat. When asked why I am smiling while listening, singing, or dancing, I answer with a simple statement:. “I have joy in my heart because of God. How can I possibly be still when I’m filled with His love and joy?”

I recently watched our four-year-old granddaughter Eden dance. She was listening to her favorite songs. Eden sang along as she lifted her hands, twirled in circles, and moved her feet to the beat. Her joy was evident in the ways she moved. Watching Eden express her love for music and dance brings me joy.

Seven-year-old grandson Rowan likes to make up songs and sing while riding in the car. Bop and I have listened to songs about dragons, building towers, games, funny characters, and more. Rowan enjoys making us laugh with his rhyming songs.

Music and dance can bring out feelings such as happiness, love, and contentment. Song lyrics and tunes can also make us recall sad times and precious memories. I have favorite songs that are loaded onto my listening devices. Some songs are upbeat while others are slow. From instrumental to words spoken aloud, I enjoy music and dance.

I sing aloud even though my singing voice isn’t perfect. I dance while cleaning the house even though my steps aren’t professional. God listens. He hears. I believe He smiles when His children show His love through singing and dancing.

At a recent vendor event, my table was positioned next to a creek. The above photo shows the oak trees and hanging moss. I imagined the moss dancing in the Lowcountry breeze. I watched the people admiring the large oak trees. Some folks live locally and others are from various spots around the world. People of all ages were fascinated by the sights and sounds of nature.

During the special event, I read my children’s stories aloud. Folks gathered to listen to me read “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. As I read each story, I noticed the tree branches dancing in the background.

Do you sing and/or dance? Is your heart filled with joy when you sing and/or dance? Do you have a favorite song? Share your happiness with others. A song and a smile can bring brightness to the world.

Have a blessed day,

Melissa Henderson aka Mimi

Stand Up Snowman!

Towards the end of November, my husband and I decided to start decorating for Christmas. A little tree for the playroom/office was first on the list. The big tree for the living room came next. Red, green, and white lights to adorn shelves, counters, and other spots, were pulled from cardboard boxes in the closet. Along with the decorations for the inside of the house, we gathered the outdoor inflatables and lights. We noticed one problem immediately. The inflatable snowman wouldn’t stand up. We called out. “Stand up snowman!”

Alan was arranging extension cords and unboxing the Christmas tree and snowman. The front yard would be inviting with colorful decorations and lights. I checked on Alan and he looked at the ground and frowned. 

“I guess the snowman has seen its last day. It won’t stand up. The air is blowing into the right place, but it won’t fill up completely. Oh, well. We’ll have to get another one.” 

The disappointment was evident as he asked me to bring a trash bag for the defeated snowman. I went inside and gathered a bag. I walked back outside and watched as Alan attempted to get the inflatable Christmas tree to work. That failed, too.

Both of us spoke more words of frustration. We didn’t want to go to the store at that moment. We wanted to have the decorations working for the grandkids and the neighborhood to enjoy.

As I looked down at the deflated and wrinkled snowman, I noticed a zipper on the back side of the item. I wondered if that could be the problem.

“Hey, honey, did you see a zipper on the back? There is probably one on both things.”

I reached down, closed the zipper, and to our surprise, the snowman filled with air and stood tall.

“Oh, my goodness!! Look at that!” We both shouted and laughed.

In our joy to put up the inflatable snowman and the Christmas tree, we neglected to check all the parts and follow directions.

This situation reminds me not to rush through the Christmas season. Enjoy every moment and remember the reason for the season. Jesus Christ is our gift from God. Share time with God today. Thank Him for the many blessings He gives. Thank Him for Jesus. Thank Him for fun decorations that make us smile. Give thanks for His love and forgiveness.

Have a blessed day! God loves you.

In His Name,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

Moles! Go Away!

This past summer brought excessive heat, dry grass, wilted plants that needed constant watering, and an air conditioner that wouldn’t turn off. Alan and I have learned that the Lowcountry doesn’t have long spring or winter seasons. Most years, there is a short period of cold temperatures followed by chilly weather. Then, the heat comes and stays for months. One thing we’ve never dealt with is moles in the yard. Could this be from the hot days and nights or something else? Standing on the front porch, I scream “Moles! Go away!”

Near the end of summer, we noticed that the mulch in our flower beds needed replacing. The nice man who mows our grass suggested putting down new mulch. The yard team would remove the old parts, put them in bags, and haul everything away. Next, they would apply a new covering on the ground. We agreed and the team went to work. After two days of sweat and back-breaking labor, the job was completed. The flower beds were beautiful.

About a week later, Alan and I noticed mounds of dirt piled next to the edges of the sidewalk. It was a strange sight. We determined they weren’t ant hills. This was a different disruption of the soil. Of course, I went to the computer and searched for possibilities. The answer was soon found. MOLES!!!!

We had not seen any moles. The more we researched, the more we learned. Those creatures dig tunnels under the ground and live in the mulch. What! Mulch! Had the moles been in the flower beds and we never saw them? Perhaps they were disturbed when the yard guys worked in the soil. The cause was unknown, but we began a mission trying to get rid of the moles.

First, we spoke to neighbors. A few other folks on our street had seen mole hills in their yard.

One man said to get a grub killer because moles eat grubs. No grubs, no moles. 

That was plan number one. We purchased the suggested treatment and applied it to the ground. The next morning, there was more damage from the moles. I could picture them laughing at the big people trying to get rid of them.

Second suggestion. “Try placing a stick of gum into the holes. They aren’t able to digest.” That didn’t work—another failed attempt.

Third, we purchased several devices to place in the ground. These things make a buzzing sound every few seconds and are supposed to deter the animals from being in the yard. Again, another failed action.

Fourth. Find a tunnel and put a trap in the ground. That’s great if the ground isn’t as hard as a rock. In other words, it didn’t work. 

Fifth. Spray the yard with castor oil. Don’t bother with that one.

Sixth. Visit the local “we have a solution for every yard issue” place. Their ideas didn’t work either. 

My frustration was at an all-time high level. At the beginning of this situation, I had researched companies that might help. The answer was always the same. “We don’t get rid of moles. But, if you have a gator or a rat or something like that, call us.”

With my nerves on edge, I sat at the computer again and saw my little sticky note that said, “PRAY FIRST”. I realized that I had not given this silly mole problem to God.

I paused and prayed. Opening my eyes, the search on my computer listed a company that specifically handles getting rid of moles. That company information didn’t appear the first time I searched on the computer, a month ago. Why was this phone number and company name showing now? Was it because I prayed?

Alan contacted the mole company and a representative arrived the next day. I must report that I looked outside and saw Alan, two neighbors, and the mole guy, discussing what was sure to be a lively mole conversation. I chuckled.

So far, the moles have not destroyed any other sections of the yard. Eight white flags show where the traps are located. The company rep will return and check the traps.

This experience reminded me that God knew what was needed. He always knows. I smiled. God shows us in many different ways that we should always trust Him. Give everything to God. Problems like moles invading the yard are not too big for God. There is nothing God can’t handle. 

Now, instead of “Moles! Go Away!”, I am saying, “The yard looks pretty.”

Have you had moles in your yard? Have you prayed to God for something simple?

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

Writing 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.

https://a.co/d/iNz6iDQ

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

Library Time with Eden’s Class

I received an email from our son Mike. “Hey, Mom. Here’s a sign-up sheet if you are interested in helping with the school library.” My answer was “Yes, I’ll fill out the form right now.” As a former substitute teacher and library aide, I was eager and wanted to help with granddaughter Eden’s class. I’ll sign up for grandson Rowan’s library time, too. The excitement was building as I prepared for library time with Eden’s class.

The online form was simple. Basic information. After I completed the form, another part of registering to help at the school was required. I’m thankful for the extra attention that the school requires for volunteers. A background check was completed. Two long videos with questions to answer were part of the requirement. The school is dedicated to the well-being of the children. 

All tests were completed and passed. I am now a registered volunteer.

On the day I was scheduled to help in the library, Bop(Alan) drove me to the school. He waited in the parking area while I was in the building. The library class was for forty minutes. I entered the office and told the lady at the desk my name and why I was there. She gave me a special lanyard to show I was a guest, and then, another sweet woman introduced herself and said she would take me to the library. Everyone was friendly and thanked me for being there to read to the children.

When we arrived at the library room, the woman asked, “What are you planning to do?” 

I answered, “I’ll help with whatever the librarian needs.”

I didn’t know that there wasn’t a librarian. The volunteers help with checking out books, making crafts, and reading. I quickly looked around and said that I would read some books. I had planned to read to the young ones but thought there might be an activity already waiting. The Pre-K class doesn’t check out books yet.

Looking at the shelves and displays, I found several cute stories. I sat in a little chair and read the books to myself while I waited for Eden’s class. 

In a few minutes, I heard giggles and footsteps as the children came upstairs to the library. They entered the room quietly. Eden looked at me and grinned. She was very proper. She didn’t run to get a snuggle. She was following the directions from the teacher. 

Each child found a spot on the circular rug and sat down. I introduced myself and told them that I was happy to see everyone.

“Hello, I’m Mrs. Henderson.”

Hands began raising. “You’re Eden’s grandma.” “You’re Eden’s Mimi.”

Eden grinned and raised her hand.

I said, “Yes, Eden?”

“Mimi, you’re my grandmother.”

“Yes, I am your grandmother.”

After the introductions of each child and their name, the room quieted, and I began to read.

I love to change my voice while reading. Each character has a different tone to fit. The expressions on the faces of the children were delightful. They listened and when one book was finished, they found another one for me to read aloud.

Between stories, I suggested that we stand and do a little stretching. The class of ten kids reached to the sky, and then, found their knees, elbows, eyes, and shoulders. We laughed as we exercised in the library. 

A bell rang and library time was over. The teacher called everyone to line up to go back to class. Shouts of “Thank you Mrs.Henderson.” “ Thank you Mimi.” “ Thank you Eden’s grandma.” were exclaimed as they walked back to their classroom.

I listened as the children left. I began putting away books. I laughed out loud when I heard the comments.

“That was fun. I want her to come again.”

“Eden, I like your Mimi.”

And then, one boy stated, “That was too long.” I fell over laughing when I heard his comment. 

Volunteering is a precious gift to give to your children, grandchildren, and any child. Schools need volunteers. 

Next time, I will take copies of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”.

Have you volunteered at a school? I always learn lessons from precious children.

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (3 John 1:4 NIV)

Blessings,

Melissa Henderson aka Mimi

The Storm Call of a Frog

The Lowcountry of South Carolina is journeying through Tropical Storm Debby. Predictions of high rainfall amounts, possible strong winds, and intense flooding have held the top news reports. Road closures, changes to operating hours for businesses, school closings, and other important information have been broadcast on radio, television, and social media. Along with concerns for people, there are worries about animals, too. How can you tell if a storm is coming? Have you listened to the storm call of a frog?

The first night the storm arrived in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, I heard the rain tapping the roof and windows. The wind moved the palm fronds. Branches of the crepe myrtles threw white, pink, and purple blossoms into the yard. Our garden flags danced and wrapped around the small poles. The hummingbird feeders swayed back and forth but never left their hook.

As the day ended and night began, Alan and I prepared for sleep. The rain sometimes lessened and provided a gentle sound for a perfect slumber. All was well until the thunder boomed, lightning flashed, and the frogs started calling. The sound of the frogs croaking made me think of a scary movie scene. I pulled the covers over my head in hopes of resting without interruption. I could sleep with lightning and thunder, but not a bunch of frogs calling.

I’m not sure how many minutes or hours passed while those frogs made loud and obnoxious sounds. There was no reason to turn on the porch light. That wouldn’t scare them. So, I closed my eyes and waited. Of course, my dear husband slept through the night with no problems.

Finally, sleep took over and I was able to tune out the frogs. When the morning light came, and Alan woke, I mentioned how the frogs had been too loud. His response was calm.

“What frogs? Were they loud? Where were they?” 

Precious husband. I didn’t give him a grouchy face, although I thought about it.

The frog in the photo above is not one of the noise makers. That little fellow was found on the sidewalk. I thought he was cute.

I considered the many creations and how each one is uniquely gifted by God. I’m not sure why the frogs were calling during the storm. There’s probably a scientific reason. I do know that God gave me more time to pray while I waited for the noise to cease. 

I may have been mad at being kept awake when I wanted to rest peacefully. Yet, when I think of the frogs calling, I wonder if they were alerting other animals to the impending storm. The likely reason for their noise was probably a mating call. Whatever the reason, I’m glad they quieted so I could sleep.

Do you have any funny frog experiences?

“He provides rain for the earth; he sends water on the countryside.” (Job 5:10 NIV)

Have a blessed day,

Mimi aka Melissa Henderson