Marigolds and Miracles
“Press your pointer finger in the dirt and make a hole. Then, place the tiny seed into that hole and cover it with dirt.” The afternoon conversation with Grandson Rowan was filled with wonder. His imagination and thirst for learning bring excitement.
When Rowan comes to visit, one of the first questions he asks is “Mimi, do we have a project today? What are we going to work on today? Can we do science?”
On a warm spring day, planting seeds was on the agenda. After finding the gardening tools, filling each small pot with dirt, and opening the seed packets, we were ready to work.
I explained how we would prepare the soil, plant the seeds, give the dirt some water, and have patience while waiting for the seeds to sprout. I shared that bigger pots would be needed when the plants grew too large for the small containers.
Rowan’s eyes grew large as his little finger created holes in the soil. Having dirt under his fingernails didn’t bother him. Placing seeds in the holes, he covered them with dirt and laughed. “Those seeds are hiding!” He exclaimed.
After all the planting was completed and moisture was given to the dirt, we positioned the pots on the back porch where sunshine would be plentiful to aid the plants in growing. Standing from a kneeling position while we worked, I rubbed my aching back.
Rowan stood and took two steps back. Proud of his gardening efforts, he asked, “Mimi, what did you say these plants are called?”
“These are marigolds,” I answered and smiled.
“No, Mimi, these are not miracles.” Rowan believed I had said “miracles”.
“Marigolds,” I answered again.
Continuing, he explained, “God makes miracles. These are marigolds, right?”
“Yes, these are marigolds. They will be yellow and orange.”
Pausing, Rowan looked at the plants and then, at the sky.
“Yes, marigolds. God makes marigolds and God makes miracles.” Rowan responded with a smile.
I agreed and thanked God for the precious children in the world, and how He cares for all of His creations.
I look forward to teaching Granddaughter Eden, how to plant marigolds and look for miracles from God.
Blessings,
Melissa Henderson
It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade. (Mark 4:31-32 NIV)
“Come Back, Honey!”
Laughter and conversations can be heard in our neighborhood every day. In the morning, children and parents gather to wait for the yellow buses to arrive. After school has ended for the day and everyone is home, the time for fun begins. Happy children bring out bicycles, frisbees, sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and more.
When Rowan and Eden visit, there are belly-holding giggles, surprises in conversation and actions, amazing stories of what happened at school, and yes, even some quiet time. All of these things provide wonderful opportunities for bonding and sharing the love of God.
Temperatures have warmed in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and outside play is a wonderful way to burn off energy and have fun. One of my favorite activities is playing with bubbles. Sometimes, I bring out the mixture and wands and enjoy the bubbles by myself. However, most of the time, neighborhood kids are playing, too.
Recently, two years old Eden and I were preparing to take the needed supplies outside. She carried wands of various sizes and shapes. I carried the large pink bottle of solution to pour into the circular pans.
With everything in place on two little plastic tables lined up on the sidewalk, we were ready to create fun shapes. Eden doesn’t like for “bugs” to get in the pans, so I have to be on the lookout to remove any creatures before she notices. Sticky fingers don’t bother me.
On that particular day and since then, every time I place my wand into the pan and cover it with the solution, Eden begins to laugh. As I raise my arm, the bubbles appear and dance in the air. She throws down her wand and runs to catch the different shapes flowing toward the sky.
Her energy is limitless, just like her brother Rowan. Her breathing is rapid and her eyes are opened wide as she laughs and jumps in the air to catch the clear circles. The excitement she shows over the simple act of running and chasing something flying through the air is truly contagious.
Along with running, she calls to the bubbles. I’m not sure where she learned this or why she talks to them, but she calls out, “Come back, honey. Come back, honey.”
Her sweet voice brings happy tears and tons of giggles to me as she tries to catch each one.
I’ve never called bubbles “honey” and I’ve never asked them to “Come back.” But, Eden has a plan and for some unknown reason, those bubbles are “honey”.
Bop and I are thankful we live close to Mike, Christine, Rowan, Eden, and doggy Olive. God has blessed us with many joys from this move. Five years in South Carolina and we continue to treasure each moment.
Have you played with bubbles lately? Or perhaps another fun outside activity with kids?
Be alert and listen. You might hear someone calling “Come back, honey.”
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Super Exciting News for Readers
I am super excited to announce that I have a story in the new anthology “Charleston Light: Stories Inspired by Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse”. The book contains eight novellas written by authors who belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).
The inspiration for each unique story in this anthology came from the Charleston Light lighthouse on Sullivan’s Island. My husband (Alan) and I attend church on the island and enjoy learning the history of the island and the people. The writer’s group toured the Charleston Light lighthouse area and agreed this would be great material for stories.
My story is “Second Time Lighthouse Love”.
After two years, widow Lana Pierce continues to grieve the loss of her beloved husband Stan. When the older woman finds a mysterious notebook left on their favorite bench, she wonders if this could be a secret message intended for her. Is another “forever love” possible?
One of the extra special ideas came when the writers discussed how proceeds from sales of the book should be handled. As a group, the decision was made to donate all proceeds to SOUL (Sanctuary of Unborn Life). Dianne Miley, a chapter member of our group, and anthology contributor, is the Founder of SOUL. This faith-based non-profit group provides support, mentoring, and housing assistance for local pregnant and new mothers in need. More information about SOUL can be found on their website. www.sanctuaryofunbornlife.org
Now for more exciting news. I am putting together a launch team for the book. Would you please consider being part of this launch team? There are several ways to help.
Read my short novella for free and write a review and post it on Amazon, Goodreads, and Bookbub. Hopefully, you will enjoy the story and want to purchase the entire book.
Pre-order the anthology ebook. The ebook is $2.99 on Amazon now. The normal price is $4.99, which is still a good deal.
Share this Preorder on your social media. Tell your family, friends, and yes, strangers, about the book.
If you decide to be on my launch team, please read the story by April 14th. All reviews should be posted by April 17th. Amazon will not allow reviews until April 14th.
If you are interested and available to read my novella, please email me at ahenderson312@gmail.com. I’ll be happy to send you a free pdf of my story.
Perhaps you would like to purchase the ebook without being on the launch team. Here’s the link to pre-order.
Have a blessed day and look for lighthouses,
Melissa Henderson aka Mimi
The Welcome Turkey and a Thank You
“Please arrive at the hospital at 5:30 pm for your scheduled scan. Please bring identification, insurance card, and a list of medications you are currently taking.”
I have memorized these requirements because of having numerous trips to the doctor and scanning areas of the hospital. Recently, I needed to have my 4th scan for the month completed. Doctors had alerted me of the need for repeat scans in one area of my body.
As Alan and I found a parking spot in the hospital parking lot, we noticed an unusual amount of empty spaces. My medical appointments are usually during office hours, but this one was scheduled after the doctor’s office had closed for the day.
Alan parked the car. Exiting the vehicle, I proceeded to the same door where I always enter the building. The sliding door was locked. No signs alerted me to any reason why the door was not open.
There was no one standing at the entrance to give me directions. However, there was something there at the door.
A turkey. A wild turkey walked from bush to bush around the front door. This animal poked its head in the bushes and retrieved leaves and berries, or at least that was my impression of what the turkey was doing. No sounds. No running toward me to chase me from the area. Just a turkey taking a walk and looking for a snack.
I noticed two ladies walking toward their cars. “Excuse me. Do you work here? I have to get a scan and the door is locked.”
The ladies smiled and one answered. “Yes, the hospital doors are always locked after 4:00 p.m. You’ll have to enter the building through the emergency room.”
I thanked the ladies for the information. I inquired if they always have a turkey near the door. They laughed and mentioned seeing turkeys in the parking lot every day.
Walking back to the car, I laughed at how God provided that “welcome turkey” to give me laughter while I was worrying about the upcoming scan.
“Thank You, Lord,” I spoke aloud.
After finding the correct entrance to the scan area, I entered the building, checked in with the receptionist, and found a seat. While waiting, I silently prayed for everyone in the emergency room.
The door to the radiology department opened and a woman spoke with a loud voice. “Henderson!”
I jumped out of my chair and returned her shout with a friendly smile and cheerful voice.
“Hello. That’s me!”
The technician paused, looked at me, and said, “Thank you so much. My last patient was so grouchy and complained about everything. But when I called your name, you answered with a smile and a friendly hello.”
I listened as the woman continued to share the gripes of the previous patient. During the conversation, I thanked her for being there and for taking good care of me during the scan. She said that no one ever thanks her.
With the procedure over, I spoke words of encouragement. “I hope you have a good evening and a better day tomorrow.” Then, I shared the story of the welcome turkey and we laughed.
We may never know what another person is experiencing in life. I was concerned about the results of my scan. The patient before me could have been filled with worry and fear.
I’m thankful to God for having “a welcome turkey” at the hospital door. I’m thankful to have shared a smile with a stranger and hopefully, brighten their day.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Eagle Message
“Are we going to church today? We missed last Sunday.” My husband Alan inquired.
“I’m kind of tired this morning. But, there’s no excuse for not attending. Yes, we’re going.” I responded.
When I woke on a recent Sunday morning, exhaustion from holiday preparations and gatherings had begun to catch up with me. The previous weeks had been filled with busyness, laughter, love, and joy. Now, things were beginning to quiet and my schedule was returning to the normal routine.
My body was tired from the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Each activity has been a blessing. Sharing time with family and friends had brought fun and laughter. Wrapping presents, giving presents, opening those gifts, and then, enjoying delicious meals together helped create precious memories.
Church events included singing favorite hymns, meeting new people, and sharing time with family and friends. Meaningful sermons and Bible study helped remind us of the true meaning of the season.
Yet, I was tired and the urge to stay in bed and snuggle under the warm blanket was pulling at me. Pausing to give thanks to God for His glorious day, another feeling tugged at my heart.
The need to attend church service and give thanks to God for His love and glory began to energize my body and give me the strength to rise and shine.
Throwing back the covers on the bed, I rose and smiled. “Yes, we’re going to church.”
Alan was enjoying a bowl of cereal with milk when I entered the dining room. His smile greeted me as I began preparing my toast and chocolate milk.
“Today is a beautiful day. The sun is shining. I bet the wind is a little stronger on the island, but right now, everything is calm here.” Alan and I often notice the difference in temperature and wind between Mount Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island. When we cross the connector bridge to head to church, the atmosphere changes.
Completing the morning routine, we were dressed and ready to go to church. As we rode, I commented how I was glad we were going to be at church today. “I can always take a nap later in the afternoon. But, this morning, I need to be in God’s house and give Him praise.”
We arrived at the church parking lot. After finding a parking spot and exiting the vehicle, I gazed at the sky and let the warm sun kiss my face. Right as I looked up, a beautiful bald eagle flew over our path.
In awe and excitement, I said, “Look, look, an eagle. A message from God.”
“Thank You Lord. You know my Daddy loved eagles. If I had not been here for church service, I would not have seen the glorious and majestic bird. The reminders of Your love are always present. You always know best.”
My heart was full of love as we entered the sanctuary. I continued to praise God for the blessing of seeing the eagle. If I had chosen to stay home because I was tired, I would have missed seeing the eagle and the opportunity to thank God for that eagle.
How can you thank God today? Have you felt a nudge from God? Did you follow His lead?
Have a blessed day,
Happy New Year,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Maw Maw or Mimi?
Granddaughter Eden will be two years old in a few months. She has a personality that makes our family break out into laughter every day. Eden is learning many things from big brother Rowan. She watches his every move and truly believes she can accomplish anything Rowan attempts.
The young ones in our family have called me “Mimi” for many years. Peyton, our great-niece who is sixteen years old now, was the first one to give me that special name. When she was beginning to speak, she chose to call me “Mimi”. My heart melted every time Peyton called for her “Mimi”. Then, Paige, who is now fourteen years old, was born. She also calls me by that precious name. Next, was Ryder, who is eight years old. I am “Mimi” to him, too.
Every time they say, “Mimi”, my smile gets bigger and my heart fills with joy.
Ashley and Daniel, who are Momma and Daddy to Peyton, Paige, and Ryder, call me by that special name, too.
Fast forward and Rowan was born to our son Mike and daughter-in-love Christine. Rowan began calling me “Mimi” as soon as he could talk.
He is now five years old and I continue to be his “Mimi”.
Eden has listened to Rowan say my name. “Mimi, watch me. Mimi, look at this. Mimi, can you play?” As Eden has heard Rowan and others call for me, she has created her own way of getting my attention.
“Maw Maw”. Yes, a new name. I’ve tried several times to show her how to say “Mimi”. But, I have been “Maw Maw” for a while now. I love her reaction as she calls for “Maw Maw” and then giggles.
Recently, Rowan and Eden were here for a visit. Eden said, “Maw Maw.” Rowan quickly told her that I am “Mimi”.
Eden looked at me and gave a huge grin. “Mimi. Mimi.”
Eden knows how to say “Mimi”. She has been using her own way of calling me and that is fine.
If Eden continues to call me “Maw Maw”, I will answer. Or if she changes to “Mimi”, I will answer.
Special names are ways of showing love. God knows each name of His children. He calls us by name. My most special name is “child of God”.
Do you have a special name? Do you know the meaning of your name? Melissa means “honeybee”.
Whatever name the children give me, I will always answer. I will always be ready to play and to listen. My arms are always ready for hugs and snuggles. My lap is always ready for resting.
God has blessed Alan and me with a wonderful family. By the way, Alan is called “Uncy” and “Bop”. Rowan gave Alan the name Bop. Of course, Eden changed the name to “Bop Bop”.
Alan and I are happy to be called by various names. We will always answer.
Father, thank You for calling us by name. Thank You for loving Your children. Amen.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Stocking Up and He Knew Why
About a week ago, my husband and I felt a sudden need to stock up on groceries. Bad weather was not in the forecast. The kitchen cabinets and refrigerator held many items for meals. So, why did we both feel the need to stock up on soup, rice, toilet paper, facial tissues, water, etc.? We had no idea. But…God knew.
After Alan and I had completed our shopping at the local grocery store, we went back home and emptied the bags. We commented “Well, I guess it’s a good thing we bought this stuff. Now, we don’t have to go to the store for a while.” and “Glad we’re all stocked up.”
Little did we know that in two days, the awful coronavirus would hit our family. God knew it was coming. God knew we needed to be prepared and stocked up on groceries. Alan began feeling achy and developed a stuffy nose. Two days later, he tested positive for the virus. I tested negative.
Some other members of our family tested positive, while others remained with a negative test result. We are blessed to have our vaccines and boosters. Everyone affected is quarantined and feeling better every day.
This virus affects people in different ways. We’ll never know how the virus came to us, yet, we do know we are thankful for the love and prayers of family and friends, and strangers.
Alan’s symptoms are not as bad as they could be and for that we are thankful.
We continue to pray for everyone affected by the virus and yes, that is everyone in the world. Whether you have had the virus yourself or know someone who has had it, we are all affected.
God constantly shows us His love in every moment of the day and night. While Alan and I were shopping for those extra items and wondering why we felt the need to shop, God knew what would be happening to us.
The love of God is eternal and He cares for us deeply.
During this time of quarantine, Alan and I have watched old movies, read great books, studied Scripture, and video chatted with family. This quiet time has allowed us to slow down and rest in the moment. We’ve noticed the sunshine more, the sounds of ice melting on the roof, the sound of wind whipping in the trees, and the quiet of the neighborhood. The freezing temperatures last night caused the azaleas in the front flower bed to shrivel and pose like a statue.
We also gave thanks to God for His provisions, even though we didn’t know why we would need extra groceries in the house.
When those times come and we don’t understand what is happening, going to God in prayer can bring peace and comfort that only He can give.
You are cherished and loved by Him.
Have a glorious day and stay warm and healthy,
Blessings,
Melissa Henderson aka Mimi
Alert and Ready to Act
Listen. Listen for any message that God sends. Be ready. Follow that gut instinct. Yes, I’ve said or written those words many times. I pray that I will always be ready to listen for His instruction and that I will follow through and act accordingly. Sharing His love with others is important.
Recently, I failed to follow my own instructions. I failed by not listening and taking action at that moment. My intentions were good. But, something odd happened and I didn’t realize the message God had sent until later.
The gut instinct was there, but I chose to hurry along with items on my “to do” list.
A strange thing happened. I opened my phone case to check for emails. Instead of my email list, a weather alert popped up. Big bold letters about the weather forecast for the Philippines. My first instinct was to say, “Why am I getting alerts for the Philippines? I didn’t put that setting on my phone.”
I quickly scanned the forecast and thought there must be a mistake. A typhoon was forecast for that area. Authorities called for everyone to take shelter as soon as possible. I paused and prayed for the people and animals in the path of the bad weather.
Refreshing the screen, the next window showed the local forecast.
Weather in the Lowcountry of South Carolina would be unusually warm for the next few days. Records could be broken. Temperatures in this area can change quickly.
I scanned a few emails and put the phone away.
The next morning, I awoke to the realization that the message on my phone about weather in the Philippines should not have been put aside. My “to do” list could have waited. God had sent me a strong message through that weather forecast on my phone. I should have been alert and ready to act.
The fact is that Alan and I sponsor a child in the Philippines. There was only one way a weather alert could have come to my phone. God. God was giving me a way to pray for our sponsored child and his family. I had neglected the tap on the shoulder from God.
Realizing my failure, I went to God in prayer and asked for His forgiveness for not being alert to His prompting.
I began praying for our dear sponsored child and his family. I prayed for every person and animal affected by the typhoon.
While a typhoon was hitting the Philippines, this country was dealing with horrible tornado outbreaks and loss of lives and property. I prayed for all those people and animals, too.
God teaches us the most valuable lessons in every moment. He provides opportunities to share His love with others and the ability to pray for each other.
The next time I feel a nudge from God, I plan to be alert and ready to act. My “to do” list can wait. His creations are more important.
Thank You God for forgiving me.
We await news on our sponsored child and his family.
I pray 2022 will be a year filled with love, laughter, and many blessings from God for everyone.
Have you been alert to His messages lately?
Happy New Year,
Melissa aka Mimi