A Visit with Nature
A Visit with Nature
“Where are you going? Do the plants need water again?” I hear these questions several times a day when I gather my garden gloves and empty milk jug to head outside. My answer is usually the same. “I’m stepping outside to visit with nature.”
The heat index has risen to 117 recently. Families in the neighborhood are staying inside. No bicycles, toys, inflatable pools, or other summer playthings are found in yards. The sounds of summer have quieted while everyone stays inside to stay cool.
Thunder rolls in the clouds on some mornings. Yesterday, the loud booms could be heard for hours. Lightning lit up the sky. Yet, the rain didn’t fall. The sky grew darker, the wind started blowing leaves off of trees, and I continued to look out of the windows for any raindrops that might be coming.
While listening to the rain tapping on the roof, and watching the trees sway back and forth, I noticed how things were changing in nature. The birds stopped singing. Hummingbirds stopped visiting the feeders. The frogs in the forest were quiet. A storm was coming.
Finally, after hours of waiting, heavy downpours filled the ponds and streets with water. The storm rolled through and when it was gone, life began to emerge from the quiet hiding places. A beautiful fog sat above the neighborhood ponds. Birds sat on the branches of trees and shook their wings. Hummingbirds returned to the feeders. The tree frogs made loud sounds as if they were alerting every creature that the storm had passed.
I stepped outside of the house and saw one flower pot turned over. The wind had whipped the pot out of its normal resting spot. Placing it back into the regular nesting spot, I was ready for a visit with nature.
With garden gloves in my pants pocket, I was ready to work. There’s a special pair of tennis shoes that I use when I’m working in the dirt. I marked them with a “G” for “garden”. My previous work shoes had an “O” for “outside”.
My visit with nature included pausing and thanking God for the rain, the cooler temperatures during the storm, and His blessings and protection. After heavy rainfall, things look different. Leaves drip tiny droplets onto the ground. The mulch in the flower bed has been displaced and spread across the yard. Mushrooms begin to form in the soil. The old has washed away and the new is coming.
I thank God for His provisions. What a wonderful time I enjoyed during my visit with nature.
Resting in His promises brings peace and comfort.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
Laughter can come after a storm, too. While I was basking in the joys of nature, a frog hopped in front of me as I walked in the grass. I screamed, jumped, and then laughed. I thanked God for the laughter, too. “It’s always a story with the Henderson’s.”
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetGrandkids and Tomatoes
Warm temperatures in the morning placed droplets of dew on the grass. A beautiful day was waiting for folks in the Lowcountry. Grandkids would arrive soon and the fun would begin. Today’s project would include a trip to the local greenhouse to purchase dirt and tomato plants. Grandkids and tomatoes.
One of the first comments from our grandchildren Rowan and Eden as they enter the house is “What projects do we have today, Mimi? What are we going to make?”
That day, Bop and I took the grandkids to the store and let them pick out things to grow. Rowan and Eden chose tomato plants that were about 6-8 inches tall. After finding the best ones, each child placed their container in the cart. Our purchases were completed and we headed home.
Bop placed two containers on the grass in the backyard. Each child used a trowel to fill the pots with dirt. Gently placing each plant in the perfect location, Rowan and Eden patted the dirt gently. “Good job, Buddy,” Rowan spoke to his tomato plant.
“Good job, Buddy,” Eden repeated what her big brother had said.
Now, the waiting period started. A few days passed and we noticed small yellow flowers growing on each stalk. With a reminder not to pick the blooms, everyone was patient and continued to wait for the first little green ball to form.
Another week and then, success! Several tiny green tomatoes hung on the vines. Rowan and Eden saw the new developments as soon as they arrived early one morning. “Mimi! They’re growing!”
“Can we pick them? Can we eat them? When will they turn red?” The questions kept coming from both kids.
Later in the morning, a fierce wind knocked over the pots and little green tomatoes fell off of the vines. Rowan suggested we check on our garden. When we walked outside, Rowan and Eden began picking up the green tomatoes. I suggested we get a plastic bag to hold them until we could take them inside.
The day continued with other fun crafts and games. The time came for the grandkids to go home. Eden wanted to take a‘mater with her. She took one, looked at it, named the ‘mater, and placed it back in the bag. Names like Sha Sha and Greenie were her choices.
Rowan liked the idea of naming the green tomatoes in his bag. He chose “Derek” as one name.
In the evening, I contacted our son Mike, to remind him that the kids had bags of tomatoes in their backpacks. He told me that he would check. Rowan’s tomatoes were there. Eden’s tomato was gone.
The following day, I spoke to the kids on the phone and asked Eden where she put her tomato.
“I planted it.” She spoke in a calm voice.
“Where did you put it?” I asked.
“In the pot in the bathroom.” She answered.
Eden went on to tell me that she planted it in Mommy’s flower pot in the bathroom. A beautiful live plant now had a little green tomato in the dirt.
Rowan heard Eden telling me about planting the tomato. He said, “Oh, I moved it.”
With a loud voice, Eden scolded her brother. “Why? Rowan. Why did you move my tomato? Where is it?”
We had no idea where big brother placed her special treasure. But, he knew. He hid it behind the spigot on the sink. No worries. He didn’t want it to get forgotten in the flower pot.
I’m not sure what has happened to those tomatoes. But, I do know that we learned many lessons from God. We learned how to take care of plants, give them names, make sure they are fed and watered, and how not to move something someone else has planted.
Grandkids and tomatoes. Bop and I learned that laughter can come from planting tomatoes.
Do you have any funny grandchildren’s stories? Share with us and continue the smiles.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetWrapped in Cozy and Koozie Friendship
Conversations between young children may include “Will you be my friend?” or “You are my friend.” or “I’m glad you are my friend.” What do you think about friendships? Do you feel warm and cozy when thinking about certain people? In what ways have you seen friendships form and grow?
God has blessed me with many wonderful friendships in my life. My two sisters, Glenda and Carol, and I have a bond beyond friendship. We’re sisters, yet we’re also friends. We laugh together at the silliest happenings. We cry together when sorrow hits. We ask questions, check on each other, and pray. Whatever the circumstances, the sister bond is strong and will last forever. Disagreements or differing opinions have never stopped the love that we have for each other. I thank God for my sisters, their husbands, and their children.
As a young child, I remember playing with the kids in our neighborhood. Boys and girls played kickball, basketball, hide and seek, and tag. The groups separated when the girls wanted to play with dolls and the boys wanted to play with toy cars.
Many years have passed since we gathered together in different yards to watch the stars at night, walked together to the ice cream store to our purchase favorite treats, and visited the local pool to cool off in the summer heat.
Several of the kids keep in touch on social media. We haven’t seen each other in person for many years, yet we see photos and read about life experiences. Those friendships continue to be important parts of life.
When I was a young mother, I remember older women in the church showing God’s love with hugs. They also provided tips on motherhood. Their guidance and friendship was appreciated.
My parents were wonderful. They taught me many ways to care for friends and strangers. Sharing, showing compassion and love, and listening before speaking are lessons I will always remember. Friendships developed from following their examples.
Each time my husband, Alan, and I moved to a different town, there were opportunities for new friendships. Invitations to church and church activities, introductions to neighbors, and being included in local events helped us find friends.
Although we have moved from one place to another, we continue to keep in touch with folks. One dear friend and I often met for lunch at a local restaurant. Every week, we ordered the same meal. Every time, we laughed and said, “Maybe I’ll order something different today.” Yet, we continued to order our regular favorites. That friend sends cards with hummingbirds as she knows those are my favorites. I send her cards with butterflies because that is one of her favorites. I’m thankful for her. She makes me laugh and brings joy to my life.
Another friend, who lives in a different state, calls and chats. We visit and tell each other about our grandkids and what is happening at church. The telephone calls are a great way for us to keep up-to-date on life. She calls me daughter even though I’m not her biological child.
Since we moved from VA to SC, I have found many new friends. Some younger than me and others who are about the same age as me. Sometimes we meet for breakfast or brunch. Other times, we catch up via text or email.
One friend, Robin, creates beautiful koozies, prayer shawls, and more. Her gift for knitting and crocheting is amazing. The koozie in the photo above is one she created. Each time that I place one of her koozies on my water bottle, I can feel the love she put into creating the item. I feel wrapped in a cozy and koozie friendship.
There are many more friends who I keep in my prayers. I can’t mention them all here or you would be reading forever. Today, think of the people in your life that bring joy and love. Have you told them lately how much you love them?
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetRescuing the Slugs and Talking About Science
A recent walk to the mailbox brought adventure, learning, and talking about science. Rowan and Eden were visiting. I asked if they would like to mail a card to a friend. Our neighborhood has a cluster mailbox area and we often walk, chat, and visit with neighbors.
On that morning, the sun was shining, birds were singing, and we were the only three people outside. As Rowan, Eden, and I walked on the sidewalk, we talked about nature. I asked for them to notice what kinds of sounds we could hear.
Because of spring break, there weren’t many cars passing by and we didn’t hear engines. I paused and put my hand to my ear. “Do you hear any people talking?” No voices. All was quiet.
Next, I pointed to the sky and described the colors. The color blue filled the sky. We only spotted a few white puffy clouds.
Rowan spoke next. “Mimi, let’s be scientists. We can save the world.” Eden agreed. “Yes, save the world.”
“What do scientists do?”, I asked.
“Mimi, they do all kinds of things.” As Rowan looked at his surroundings, he began listing ways scientists help the world.
“Mimi, scientists help our planet. They find out about nature and other stuff.” Rowan looked down at the sidewalk and found several small slugs traveling from one side to the other.
“Hey, let’s rescue the slugs. Let’s be slug rescuers!” Rowan clapped his hands.
“Yeah, let’s rescue buggies.” Eden was ready to help, too.
The night before had brought rainfall. Grass was damp, and the soil was wet. Slugs were abundant. Knowing that we shouldn’t touch the slugs, I suggested we find ways to help the slugs move off of the sidewalk and on to the grassy areas.
Rowan and Eden started sharing ideas. “How about using a rock? Maybe the slug will climb on.” Rowan tried that method and, unfortunately, more than one slug ended up being smeared on the sidewalk. I thought Rowan might become upset, but he kept trying.
Eden found blades of grass to help the “sluggies”. But the grass wasn’t strong enough. Her interest faded when she saw bluebirds and butterflies.
Next, Rowan tried using a piece of mulch. “Come on, little guy. You can do it. Climb on this mulch stick and I’ll put you in the grass.”
At last, success. A small piece of mulch worked to rescue the slugs. After we helped many slugs of different sizes into the grass, we continued our walk.
We placed the letter in the mailbox and walked back to the house. Along the way home, we chatted more about science and how we can learn from all of God’s creations. Slugs are slow and sometimes they need help.
People need help, too. God calls us to love one another and show compassion and care. In these small lessons about slugs and science, Rowan and Eden and Mimi were reminded of God’s love.
Have you learned anything new recently about science, slugs, or how to show care to God’s creations?
Yes, we washed our hands after helping the slimy crawlers.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka 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
Taking Care of Baby Dolls, Stuffies, and People
The new year has arrived and daily routines begin. Some activities are new while others are routine from the past. An important part of any time is taking care of others, including baby dolls, stuffies, and people.
Granddaughter Eden is three years old. She is wise beyond her years, just like her six-year-old brother Rowan. Those two children amaze us with their creativity, imagination, compassion, and love for family, friends, and strangers.
A typical day at our house involves playing with toys, puzzles, stuffed animals, baby dolls, and much more. Sometimes, we play restaurant and pretend to be servers and customers. We tap a small bell and shout, “Order ready.” when the food is cooked.
The library is also a fun activity as we pretend to check out books to take home and read to the babies.
Playing store is another way to bring laughter. Sometimes Eden is the storekeeper and other times, I am the clerk. A question often asked while we’re playing store is, “Do you have any bananas for my babies?”
On a recent day, Eden and I decided to play doctor. She lined up the baby dolls and stuffies. She arranged them on folded blankets and made sure they had pillows so their heads could rest. After placing each baby and stuffed animal in the perfect position, Eden said, “They need band- aids. They all have boo-boos on their foreheads.”
So, of course, Mimi always has extra inexpensive band-aids in a drawer filled with supplies. We found what we needed and headed back to our “doctor’s place” in the playroom.
Eden opened each band-aid and delicately placed one on each baby and stuffed animal. I noticed they all had the same “boo-boo” in the same place.
I asked Eden what happened that made them need to go to the doctor.
Answering in a calm voice, Eden spoke. “Mimi, they were running in the living room and fell on the coffee table and got a boo-boo. Remember? That’s where I got my hurt and I had to go to the doctor.”
Yes, months ago, Eden was running in the living room of her home and tripped and fell against the coffee table. Eden went to the doctor and got stitches on her forehead. She has recovered well. However, she remembered that scary event and decided that was what happened to the baby dolls and stuffed animals.
Eden showed tender care to the toys. She remembered how to show love and compassion. When she was hurt, Rowan showed Eden love and compassion by playing quiet games and being mindful of her bandage.
Bop and I are thankful that our grandchildren are taught how to show God’s love to others. Through the examples of their parents, Mike and Christine, these sweet children are learning to be kind and thoughtful.
God, thank You for the many ways we can express Your love and peace. Through the actions of children to the actions of adults, may we always pause and share Your love. Amen.
Have you noticed children showing God’s love?
Have a blessed day!
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Bop and the Outdoor Decorations
Preparing for Christmas involves many activities. Cooking, cleaning, purchasing presents, wrapping presents, making lists, writing cards, church activities, and more. I look forward to the fun times. Bop takes care of some of the “to-do” lists and I handle other things that need attending. We laugh and enjoy our time together.
Bop puts the inflatable Christmas tree and snowman out in the front yard every year. Rowan and Eden show him the exact spot for each decoration. Then, when all the pins are put securely in the ground and adjusted, the moment arrives for Bop to plug in the cord. We stand and watch excitedly as the flat balloon-like characters fill with air and appear to come to life.
My hands are cupped on my cheeks as we all squeal with joy. The inflatables are the same every year and perhaps next year, we’ll buy a new one. But, for this year, all is well. Seeing Rowan, Eden, and neighborhood friends run in the yard and touch the tree and snowman as they light up, is a precious sight. The Christmas decorations are a beautiful sight both day and night.
Only one thing might change the positions of the snowman and the Christmas tree inflatables. Weather in the Lowcountry of South Carolina is often unpredictable. Local meteorologists share their forecasts with the community and we wait to see what will happen. I check my phone each morning to learn the predictions for rain, wind, barometric pressure, etc.
With changing weather patterns, Bop and I needed to keep an eye on the outdoor decorations.
A prediction for heavy rain and wind sounded alerts on our phones recently. Checking the details, I noticed the weather wasn’t supposed to change until later in the day. The inflatables would be fine for now.
I should have remembered the weather changes from minute to minute here on the coast. The forecasted weather system arrived early and torrential rains and strong winds began to race through our neighborhood.
Looking out of the front window, I could see ornaments that had once adorned outdoor trees were now flying in the air. Decorative holiday garden flags from other yards were now stuck to the wet ground. Pine straw, pine cones, mulch, and more drifted from one yard to another as the rain began to flood the ground.
Bop and I looked at each other and knew there was no point in stepping out in the storm to rescue the inflatables. We watched as they teetered left and right, appearing to dance in the storm. Security pins held them in place for a while. Then, when the rain paused for a bit, Bop opened the front door and unplugged the cord from the wall.
A whooshing sound filled the yard as the air released from the snowman and tree. The pins had done their job and held tightly to the ground. All was well for now.
There were several days and nights when Bop ran out of the house to secure the decorations. Each time, he said, “I wonder if I should just take them down.” Yet, Bop continued to make sure the snowman and tree would be ready for all to enjoy.
The sunshine finally returned and the ground and decorations dried. Great news, until… More storms came on and off for a couple of weeks. Each time, Bop watched from the window and decided what to do. Some neighbors took down their inflatables. Other folks left them up and watched as they danced in the wind. Every day was an adventure.
Christmas arrived and the decorations survived. Now, Bop has released the pins from the ground and placed the snowman and the tree on the porch to dry out for the season.
Next, we will get ready for 2024 and the wonderful blessings God will provide. As you know, “It’s Always A Story with The Henderson’s”.
Mimi and Bop hope you all enjoyed a Merry Christmas and will have a Happy and Healthy New Year! God loves you!
Blessings,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
The Rock Gift
Gifts are given for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and celebrations. Some of the best presents are ones given “just because” with no special reason or occasion. Gifts may make us laugh while others may bring tears. I received a rock that touched my heart and brought happy tears.
Grandson Rowan and Granddaughter Eden enjoy making crafts. They often enter the house and say, “What are we doing today? Can we make something?” There is a cabinet in our living room which holds the craft supplies. Crayons, markers, paint, construction paper, glue sticks, popsicle sticks, play dough, wire cleaners, straws, pom poms of various sizes, googly eyes, and much more. Sometimes we follow a pattern for making a craft. Other times, we use our imaginations and create interesting projects.
A few months ago, Rowan and Eden painted rocks. We set up a workstation on a table on the back porch. Paper towels, wet wipes for cleaning hands and the occasional paint splatter that landed on the porch couch cushions, paint, rocks that had been rinsed to remove the dirt, paintbrushes, and stickers were arranged on the table. Rowan, Eden, and Mimi were ready to paint beautiful designs on rocks of different sizes.
We worked intently until giggles broke out when the paint went somewhere other than the rocks. Making sure we wore our “paint clothes” was a must during this project. We love to dip the brushes in the paint and mix the colors. Then, we rinse the brushes and watch the water swirl in the cup.
After the rocks have been painted and placed on a paper towel to dry, we clean the area and find another activity until the rocks are ready to be placed into our flower garden. When every rock is dry, we place them in selected spots. Then, we walk to the sidewalk and look back to the garden. We want to make sure everyone can see the beautiful shapes and colors as they walk by.
Recently, Rowan and Eden entered the house for a visit. Laughter filled the home while everyone talked at the same time and shared about their day. As we headed to the playroom/office to find a game or activity to play, Rowan asked for wrapping paper. Rowan is very creative and I figured he was probably going to create something with the paper.
After finding some wrapping paper, Rowan left the room. Eden and I began to play with the dolls. A few minutes passed and Rowan returned.
“Mimi, close your eyes and hold out your hands.”
“Okay, what are we doing?” I asked.
“You’ll see. Mimi, I have a surprise for you.”
I closed my eyes, held out my hands, and felt his sweet hands place something in my wrinkled hands.
“Open your eyes, Mimi. It’s for you.”
My eyes opened and I was holding a wrapped gift from Rowan. I opened the paper and there was one of the rocks. I thanked him for the beautiful rock.
Rowan wanted to give me something special and one of his favorite rocks was the gift. A precious memory flooded my thoughts. When I was a young girl about Rowan’s age, I forgot my Mama’s birthday. When I remembered, I immediately went to my room and found my favorite doll. I wrapped it in a paper towel and gave it to my Mama. She loved it.
Rowan showed love and kindness to me. I showed love and kindness to my Mama.
God gave us the gift of salvation through His Son Jesus. We are loved and cherished by God.
Do you have a special gift story? Share your story in the comments.
Blessings and love,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
“Look at the Ball, Not the Moon”
Notebooks, backpacks, water bottles, pencils, pens, paper, lunch boxes, and more are ready to go on weekday mornings during the school calendar year. Yellow buses pass by and stop so students can board. Along with adjusting to school schedules, there are also new events such as sports and music groups. How do children and adults stay focused?
Recently, grandson Rowan joined a local soccer team for kids. He has participated in swim lessons and other creative activities. Being part of a sports team can be a great way to learn patience, physical and social skills, how to work together, show kindness and compassion, and how to share.
Some of Rowan’s soccer games are on Saturday mornings. Other games are scheduled for the evening. Bop and I have been blessed to attend some of the games. Driving to the soccer field parking area, we find a spot to park and begin unloading the items needed to watch the game.
Sunhats, sunscreen, foldable chairs, water bottles, and bug spray. Yes, it’s still warm in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Bugs like sweat.
Our family walks across several fields making sure not to intrude on other teams already playing their games. We find a spot where we can view Rowan and his team, the Sharks. Children ages 6-7 arrive wearing their bright orange Sharks shirt which displays their team number. Rowan is number 5.
This particular evening, the game started at 6 p.m. The sun was lowering in the sky as the game started. “Go! Team! Go! Go Sharks!” was shouted by family and friends. The other team had family and friends cheering for them, too.
After a full day of school, organized sports can be a bit draining for young children. At one point during the game, the referee noticed that most of the focus was not on the game and the soccer ball.
The ball was in play and the game was in process, but there was something more fascinating than playing soccer. The sky was growing dark as night approached and the moon was becoming visible high in the sky.
As the referee realized what was happening, he blew the whistle to pause the game. He looked to the sky and spoke to the kids.
“Look at the ball, not the moon.” He tried to regain their interest in the game.
A few seconds later, the fascination with the moon was over and the game continued. People on the sidelines tried not to laugh, but seeing those sweet children looking at the moon was a precious sight.
The Sharks won their game that evening. High fives and “good game” congratulations were shared by both teams as each team member stood in line. Great sportsmanship and fun for all.
The distraction of the moon reminded me of how often I am distracted by things or events in life. I admit that during my prayer time, I have thought of my “to-do” list instead of focusing on God. I am thankful God forgives me and is ready to hear my prayers at any time of day or night.
What distracts you in life? Is your “to-do” list keeping you from sharing time with God? Are you focused on Him or yourself? These are questions that I have asked myself.
God sent a message that evening. Yes, His creations are wonderful to view. Pause and look at the moon. Thank God for His love and forgiveness. Always keep your focus on Him.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
How a Famous Author (and friend) Save the Day
A road trip to see a famous author, who is a sweet friend, brought laughter and joy to a special event. We never know what will happen with the Henderson family. God always gives us something to bring happiness and joy. Today’s blog is about how a famous author (and friend) saved the day.
Alan and I enjoy attending book signings and author events. Sometimes we know the person and other times we learn about new writers. Often, lunch is served and everyone has an opportunity to fellowship with other readers.
Recently, we were blessed to attend a presentation and book signing by author Nancy Naigle. She’s written many great stories and some of her work has been turned into movies. Alan and I met Nancy years ago when we went to see her speak at an event in South Carolina.
We became friends and now, every time Nancy visits the area, we make sure to attend her events. Nancy enjoys laughter and we often share giggles about the simplest things in life. The first time we met Nancy, a person was giving away Vidalia onions after the presentation.
Although we never found the Vidalia onion person and didn’t get any of those special offerings, the three of us joked about how we met on that onion day.
At the latest event, a delicious lunch of garden greens with a hunk of chicken salad on top was served. Yummy warm bread accompanied the main course. Slices of decadent chocolate cake were served for dessert.
There were eight people at our table, including Nancy’s mother Bettie. During lunch, we chatted, shared which stories were our favorites, and enjoyed getting to know each other. A delightful time.
After a few bites of food, Nancy reached over and touched my arm. “Melissa, just want you to know a spider hanging from the chandelier and it’s getting ready to fall into Alan’s salad.”
I immediately glanced over to try and see the culprit. The light hit the tiny spider at just the right moment. The spider held tightly to a thin translucent string of web as it inched down towards Alan’s salad.
Everyone at the table became alert when I shared, “Alan, there’s a spider about to go into your salad.” I thought Alan would discreetly dispose of it with a napkin. But, of course, nothing goes quietly around us.
Before speaking a word, Alan clapped his hands together with a “SLAP”, and the spider was gone. The sound was loud enough to cause everyone at our table, and probably in the room, to pause to see what was happening.
Alan had acted before thinking the spider might have landed in his lunch. Oh, well… After getting rid of the spider, Alan decided he wasn’t hungry anymore.
There were giggles and remarks about how the salad now had more protein because the spider was in it. My salad was fine so I continued eating. Alan did enjoy some of the warm bread.
Thank you to our author friend, Nancy Naigle, who saved Alan from eating a spider. 😁
Nancy’s new story, “And Then There Was You” is available at retailers. Visit her website at www.nancynaigle.com
Have a blessed day! Watch out for spiders in your food.
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson