Wrapped 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

“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

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