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
TweetA 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
TweetHold On Mimi! Have Patience!
Lowcountry weather has tricked me again. Every morning, I check my phone app to get the latest updates on temperatures, winds, and barometric pressure. January brought cool nights and warmer days. February continues with Spring-like weather. A bit of rain here and there. Clouds on some days and bright sunshine on other days. When will Spring arrive? Will the forecasters have the correct predictions?
The coastal area of South Carolina hasn’t experienced a deep cold snap this winter. No snow or ice, and only a few days of below-freezing temps. Will that trend continue? I enjoy the differences in each season. The cold invigorates my body, but I’m happy to go inside and have a cup of warm tea when my bones begin to ache. The heat of summer and the sun baking on my skin feels good until the sweat and humidity become unbearable and I venture inside the house to cool down with air conditioning and a glass of cold tea.
Where is my patience? Why do I want to hang the new hummingbird feeders at the first rise in temperatures? Am I missing something that God is trying to share with me?
Last week, I ordered two new hummingbird feeders. The box arrived and I couldn’t wait to hang them on the pole in the front flower bed and the pole in the backyard flower bed. That was Thursday. Today is Monday. The feeders continue to sit on the kitchen counter. Why haven’t I asked Bop to help me hang them outside?
I paused and prayed. I asked God for the answer to why I was waiting to place the beautiful red and yellow food stations outside. Then, I smiled as I woke up this morning and checked my phone. Rain and cold weather are forecasted for the next few days.
Yes, the little hummers will visit the area in the rain. Yes, they have visited in the cold. God knew I should wait a few more days to prepare the sugar nectar and fill the globes. God was saying, “Hold on Mimi. Have patience.”
So, I will wait until I feel the nudge from God. I will wait to display those feeders. God knows what is best for the hummingbirds. Perhaps if they saw the red nectar too soon, their flight pattern would be disrupted. God knows what the birds need. God knows what we need.
Now, I wait patiently and hope for warmer days and sunshine. Those days will come. As for now, the beautiful feeders sit on the kitchen counter waiting to be used.
I feel like a young child with new toys. I want to play with them. But, I will wait for the best time to take them outside.
Do you enjoy watching the hummingbirds? When do you hang your feeders?
“I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.” (Psalms 50:11 NIV)
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
TweetCreepy Crabs on A Hot Summer Day
“What in the world? Why are there fiddler crabs on my front porch?” I spoke aloud to myself.
Opening the front storm door to take a peek outside, I jumped as two small sand fiddler crabs raced across the pavement. The twosome were fast as lightning and caused me to hop from one foot to the other while trying to figure out their intended direction.
Alan and I have become accustomed to seeing South Carolina sights such as alligators in the neighborhood ponds, Eastern Hercules beetles in the grass, wild turkeys in the backyard, and armadillos digging holes in the dirt. But, seriously, sand fiddler crabs at the front door?
I slowed my breathing to calm my heart rate. What adventure or crazy sight would be next on the list of exciting things to share with family and friends? My next thought was wondering how to get rid of the fast moving creatures. Unfortunately, the crabs hid in an area that could not be reached. I would have to wait until another time to somehow remove them from the premises.The daily routine continued and the crabs remained hidden. I wouldn’t see them again. Or at least that was my story.
The next day, grandson Rowan was here to have playtime with Mimi and Bop. As Bop left the house and went to work, Rowan and I discussed our plans for the day. Sidewalk chalk drawing, creating crazy pictures with the new paint set and paper, playing with friends, blowing bubbles, and making up stories would be parts of the fun.
The outside trash can had been emptied earlier that day and was ready to be cleaned and brought back into the garage. As I pushed the button to open the garage door, two more sand fiddler crabs jumped into the garage and ran for cover. I screamed and laughed while watching the quick movement of the crabs. Rowan grabbed his tummy and doubled over with laughter.
“Mimi, quick, quick, get them. They went behind the recycle can. Mimi, here’s one. Get him with the broom.”
“Where, Rowan, where is it now? Do you see one?” I spoke between laughter as I found the broom and readied for attack.
“Behind that can, he’s behind that can.” Rowan gave directions as he giggled.
One little crab darted out from behind the trash can. I guarded against the creature by sweeping it with the broom. Watching as the crab went flying in the air from being swept, Rowan and I could not contain our giggles.
The next crab peeked out from behind a garden tool. I swung the broom into action and shooed that little thing right out onto the driveway.
Between laughs, Rowan yelled. “Mimi, quick. Close the door. He’s trying to come back in.”
Rowan and I stood and watched the garage door close. The crabs were outside on the pavement. We were safely inside the garage. The creepy crabs would have to endure a hot summer day.
After the laughter settled and our next activity began, Rowan and I looked at each other. “Mimi, those were some creepy crabs, right?”
“Yes, those were creepy crabs and I don’t want to see them again.”
Interesting fact is that we live about ten minutes from the ocean. There are ponds and marshes in every neighborhood so we should not be surprised at seeing the crabs on the front and back porch.
Of course, I had to share this story because as you know, “It’s Always a Story With the Hendersons.”
God creates the most awesome sights and sounds for us to enjoy, even if some of those things make us hop from one foot to the other.
Do you have any funny crab stories? Please share with us.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
Watch Out!! Stinky Mimi!!
Warm weather has arrived in the Lowcountry. Hot weather has arrived, too. Spells of warm days turned into spells of hot days followed by cooler evenings. Spring is here. Some days feel like summer already. The weather forecasters try to get the correct prediction. Sometimes they get it right and sometimes not. If we want to know the weather, just open the front door and step outside.
Taking walks in the neighborhood gives Alan and me a chance to enjoy the beautiful flowers our neighbors have planted. From red and white impatiens in hanging pots to bright pink geraniums in planters at doorways to white oleander in yards, the sights are gorgeous.
There is a forest behind our house. A park which, according to county plans, will never be developed. Deer, turkey, geese and ducks are seen almost every morning and evening playing at the edge of the woods.
We decided to purchase a few colorful flowers for our back yard area. Red impatiens hang next to the hummingbird feeder. Red geraniums are seated in a two feet tall planter. Pink and purple small petunias are situated in another planter. Beautiful.
The hummingbirds and lizards love the plants. What a joy to watch the plants grow!
A joy until one recent morning when the next door neighbor alerted me to part of the flowers being eaten away by the deer.
Oh no! Those silly deer crossed into the yard and had a feast on our flowers and our neighbor’s flowers. Something must be done!
Over the years, we’ve dealt with deer eating the flowers at previous homes we’ve lived in. Friends are always eager to share a “treatment” or “idea” to deter the deer.
We know what has worked for us in the past, so we decide to stick with purchasing the “deer repellant”. A bottle of spray that is applied once a week. A tried method that has been successful.
A trip to the local nursery was the plan for the next morning.
Deer repellant purchased. A few replacement flowers were purchased. A few marigolds to add to the mix. Marigolds are a flower that deer are not supposed to like. Tell that to a deer who was seen munching on the yellow marigolds.
I wanted to take care of spraying the flowers. I had used this product in the past. No problem. This would be quick and easy.
Full of too much confidence, I didn’t bother putting on my garden gloves. Taking the spray bottle in one hand, I attempted to open the nozzle to prepare for spraying. This deer spray has an awful smell. The scent goes away after time, but the initial smell can cause a person to gag.
Attempting to turn the nozzle, I realized before I could stop that I had the sprayer turned in my direction, toward my pants and shoes.
Spray! Spray! A spray of the nasty smelling deer repellant didn’t hit the flowers. The spray landed on me.
Quickly as I could move, I dropped the bottle, took off my shoes, ran into the house and started washing my hands. That special kitchen lemon soap would not work. I had to reach for the dishwashing liquid.
After my hands smelled better, a change of clothes was definitely needed. Spraying my shoes with disinfectant and putting the smelly clothes in the washer, I washed my face and hair and began to relax.
Yes, I was a “Stinky Mimi” for a while.
During this time of spraying to repel the deer, I had to laugh out loud. What a sight the neighbors must have seen! Yes, I used my gloves the next time and also, made sure the nozzle was pointed in the correct direction.
Once again, the Lord gave me a reason to laugh at myself. I also wondered about the “stinky” parts of my life. I pray I will “repel” those stinky parts and focus on showing God’s love in all my words and actions.
Have you ever used “deer repellant”? Do you have any “stinky parts” of your life that need to be fixed?
Have a blessed day, Enjoy the flowers, Make sure the spray nozzle is turned the right way,
Mimi
Mailbox Slots…Don’t Do That!
Writing letters to friends and family is a joy. Finding colorful stickers to decorate envelopes and choosing the right card to send for a special occasion can be fun.
Visiting the local craft store provides a chance to bring out the creative side of my brain.
Walking each aisle to search for interesting cards, envelopes, stickers and possibly a small gift to give for a birthday or “thinking of you” occassion.
Bringing the craft items home, I arrange the various items on the dining room table and begin to assemble.
Looking at the calendar, I check for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and any other reason to send a greeting.
Pen in hand, I begin writing a note and signing the cards. Stickers attached, envelope sealed, address written and return address label attached, stamp in the top right corner. I am ready to walk to the mailbox and slide the envelopes in the mail slot.
How exciting to be sending greetings! I enjoy receiving mail and love sending mail.
Our neighborhood has a cluster mailbox. All of the boxes are located in one big metal container. Each home has a number and a key. We take the key and open the box to get our mail. The container is so tall that we have a footstool for people like me who can’t quite reach the top mailbox.
This past Monday, I arrived at the mailbox and prepared to place my letters in the slot. One by one, I checked each letter making sure there was a postage stamp affixed, return address and correct address of the person who would receive the letter.
All was well until I decided to stick my fingers a little too far into the mail slot, just to make sure the letters went all the way in the box.
Word of advice…”Don’t do that!” My fingers were almost stuck in the mailbox slot. I could have peeked at the slot. Instead, I chose to place my fingers in the slot.
Immediately, I pulled my fingers out and said, “Thank You Lord.” I was relieved my fingers didn’t stick in the slot. I could just imagine the emergency call.
“What is your emergency?
“Ah, my fingers are stuck in the mail slot.”
I could picture the person on the other end of the line sitting in shock, then saying,
“What did you say?”
Happy to report my fingers are well and I will not be placing those sweet fingers in the mailbox slot again. I will listen for the letters to drop inside the container. I will peek at the slot to make sure the letters are all the way in the box.
Have you ever done something so silly? Have you ever said out loud, “Thank You Lord.”
God is always with us, even when we do things that make no sense. I imagine God had a good laugh with me, too.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi
The Hospital Shirt…Finding Comfort
Have you ever paused to think of all the ways God sends comfort? Last week, after a strange reaction to an infusion for osteoporosis, I called the emergency number for the doctor office and was told to go the e.r. immediately. I didn’t have an allergic reaction. I had an “adverse” reaction to the infusion. No itchy throat or trouble breathing. My problems were extreme bone pain, nausea, fever, chills and muscles that kept contracting making my body feel like I had done 100 or more sit ups. Very strange feeling.
The infusion itself went well. The staff who assisted me provided information about the before, during and after components of an infusion. Being an almost 15 years breast cancer survivor and having dealt with chemotherapy and radiation all those years ago, I was a bit nervous. Stressful memories flooded my mind the moment the infusion was scheduled. I prayed and asked God to give me comfort. He answered. He always answers in one way or another. Days after making the appointment, I relaxed into my daily schedule and put the upcoming appointment in the back of my thoughts.
The day of the infusion was normal. No problems. I didn’t have the “reaction” until 1:00 a.m. That was when my body starting showing a dislike for the medicine that had entered my body.
After speaking with the medical staff on call and letting Alan know we needed to get ready and head to the emergency room, I slowly walked to the bedroom closet to find clothes so I could change from my pajamas to “day” clothes. Looking at the shirts hanging on the rack, my eyes quickly went to one shirt. Grabbing the maroon colored short-sleeved t-shirt and a pair of jeans, I dressed for the car ride to the hospital.
Alan opened the car door for me, helped me into the car and turned on the seat warmer. I closed my eyes and prayed as we rode through the dark of the night to arrive at the hospital.
On this ride to the e.r., I began thinking of the shirt I picked to wear. Something comfortable and easy to remove if a hospital gown was needed. Short sleeves would be easy for blood pressure cuff.
I started to wonder. “Why do I always pick this same shirt to wear to the emergency room or for stressful medical tests?” I have noticed a pattern in what I choose to wear for those possibly worrisome visits. I always choose the maroon shirt.
A calm came over my body and I remembered.
I prayed and asked God to give me peace and calm. I was afraid. He would be the answer to my fears. He would cover me with peace only He can provide.
Looking down at my maroon t-shirt, I smiled. God gave me comfort through an old shirt. God was reminding me that His love and peace are covering me in all situations. No matter the outcome, He covers me from head to toe. This favorite shirt of mine was one way God was covering me. No need for worry.
The hospital staff provided great care and soon we were on our way back home. I feel much better and have been busy with family and church activities.
Each time I see this old shirt hanging on the rack in my closet, I smile. One of these days, that shirt will wear out and I will find another one to wear to the hospital and doctor appointments.
I am thankful God’s love never gives out. God’s love never changes. He will provide comfort and peace in many ways, even in an old shirt.
How was God provided peace and comfort to you lately? Share with us. Your story may encourage others.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi