Friends in Every Neighborhood by Melissa Henderson

Moving? Finding a new home in unfamiliar territory? Have you experienced a life-changing move? Unplanned changes in life can provide new adventures and joys.

Alan and I have been blessed to have found wonderful places to live since moving from Virginia to South Carolina three years ago. When we learned our first grandchild would be born in South Carolina, we decided to sell our home in Virginia and move to be closer to son, daughter-in-love, and new grandchild.

One obstacle was not being familiar with any neighborhoods in the town where we selected to live. Our son, Mike, and daughter-in-love, Christine, helped with information about certain areas of the county. They shared about places they thought we would like. Their help was valuable.

Between looking online and listening to the suggestions of Mike and Christine, we planned a “searching” trip. Several days of driving from one area to the next and checking online information, Alan and I decided we should rent instead of buying a home.

We found a beautiful townhome on a street lined with beautiful palm trees. Paperwork was completed, and down payment given. We packed our belongings in Virginia and headed to the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Our first day at the new place, we were welcomed by neighbors. People from next door and across the street knocked on the front door and asked if we needed help. Some folks brought homemade bread. Other folks stopped by to introduce themselves and welcome us.

What a joy to find new friends so quickly! We truly love the people in that neighborhood and still keep in touch with them. A group of ladies gathers for brunch and special occasions like birthdays. Even though Alan and I don’t live in that neighborhood any longer, I am still a part of the “Draymohr Girls”. Their kindness and compassion will forever stay in our hearts and minds.

The day arrived when the lease for that townhome was not being renewed. The owner was selling, and we weren’t ready to purchase. So, the hunt began for another place to live.

Riding through the same section of town, we found several places to inquire about. Less than two miles from the previous townhome, we found another townhome. Brand new. After touring the place, filling out the paperwork and handling the down payment for rent, the new townhome was rented to us.

The Lord had provided another wonderful neighborhood for us. Neighbors from next door visited and welcomed us to the area. We explained how we had previously lived a few streets away. Laughter began. “You must really like this neighborhood.” We agreed.

A year later, in 2020, Alan and I finally made the decision. We had found our forever home in the same neighborhood, on a different street. This would be our third move since arriving in South Carolina. Before each move, we prayed and asked God to guide us to the home He had waiting for us. God always answered with wonderful homes and special neighbors.

In August 2020, we moved into what we like to call our “forever home.” As soon as we began unloading furniture and moving into the home, neighbors arrived and welcomed us. Offers to help with anything we needed truly were appreciated. As new friends began explaining about the area, we shared how we had lived in two homes close by. Once again, we heard, “You must really like this area.” Again, we agreed.

This is a fantastic neighborhood. People of all ages. Kickball games on the weekends with parents, grandparents, and children. Bicycles, tricycles, skateboards, and sidewalk chalk can often be seen out front. The glorious sound of laughter and conversation are often heard outside.

Yes, we are blessed. We are thankful for friends in every neighborhood. We are thankful for God’s provisions. He always has a plan.

Blessings, Melissa Henderson

Click this link to purchase Melissa’s books. We are proud owners of both books. Karen & Craig Ruhl