The dream of having my first children’s book published became a reality in August 2018. I wanted to write a special story for our first grandchild, Rowan. After praying and considering several ideas, I chose to write about my personal experience with little green lizards.
My husband and I had moved from Virginia to South Carolina in 2017, to be near son, daughter-in-love and first grandchild. The low country of SC is different from Virginia in many ways. From temperature changes to staying alert for hurricanes and alligators, each day brings a new adventure. The palm trees are beautiful. Watching for dolphins in the ocean is one of our favorite activities.
One thing I noticed more in SC is the abundance of little lizards racing from brick walls to window ledges to sidewalks and other places. The creatures run and jump quicker than I can blink my eyes.
On a bright and sunny Sunday morning, a lizard surprised our church congregation by racing up and down the aisles of the sanctuary. I explained to the Pastor that I did not invite the lizard even though my children’s book had recently been released.
When we first moved to SC, I was afraid of the lizards. Not knowing if they would enter the house or land on my shoulder while I walked outside caused me to fear them. Until… I finally remembered something very important. God creates people and God creates lizards.
Now, when I walk outside and see a lizard, I can pause and say, “Hello, little lizard.”
No need to be afraid. I named one special lizard “Licky” because he sticks out his tongue to catch things floating in the air. He visits the front porch of our home often.
I chose the name “Licky the Lizard” for the title of my book.
This is how the story of “Licky the Lizard” was created. Yes, our grandson loves the story.
I have been asked to write more books about my experiences in the Low Country of South Carolina. Perhaps a story about alligators will be next, or maybe a story about the beautiful dragonflies. I will keep thinking and praying and see what happens next.
Have a blessed day and watch for lizards,
Melissa Henderson
Melissa Henderson, Author