Authors: Meira Pentermann
Celtic Sister (35 page)
People offered words of encouragement.
“Thank you,” Sam said. “Now let’s focus on the real reason for this celebration.” He pointed at Amy. “Three years sober. Say something inspirational.”
Everyone looked at her expectantly.
“Inspirational, huh? No pressure.”
Laughter.
“Come on, Amy,” Raksha said, her face beaming.
Amy looked around the room. “I couldn’t have done it without all your support.” She nodded and made eye contact with various friends. “And the grace of God. I feel truly, truly blessed.” She cleared her throat, trying to rein in her emotions. “This journey was beyond anything I ever expected. The sense of purpose. The people who have come into my life. A delightful job at Banhi’s Grill, serving the best Indian food in Denver. Thank you, Sahil, for everything.” She found his face in the crowd. “My work at the crisis center. The women I’ve met there.” She nodded at someone in the back. A tear trickled out of her left eye, and she reached up to brush it away. “And this immeasurable feeling of serenity which envelops me every day. Who could ask for more?”
The guests responded with remarks of approval and affinity.
“But I do have more.” She turned away and whispered something in Sam’s ear. His jaw dropped and he looked at her with disbelief.
“Really?” he asked, his voice unsure.
She nodded. A grin of pure delight illuminated her face. “Yes, Officer Samuel Edward Foster. You’re going to be a father.”
Acknowledgements
This has been an incredible journey. Thank you to everyone who offered their services as editors, proofreaders, and beta readers – both laypersons and professionals. Many blessings to those who rushed in with words of encouragement when I couldn’t see clearly.
A special thank you to my husband, Emo, for now I truly understand the meaning of the word
soulmate
. You have held me when I thought the world would shatter me into pieces, and you’ve put up with more than your share of nonsense over the years. The best part of our lives has only just begun.
I am also lucky to have two beautiful daughters who continue to cheer me on and enrich my life. Danielle – You are growing into a beautiful young woman. I am proud of your achievements. Anna – aspiring author and master of your domain – I look forward to our conversations about writing.
Patty Dutton – You have been a true friend and an invaluable source of insight throughout the beta phase of this project and up until publication.
Tracey Garvis Graves – You will always be my writing partner and cyber sister, and your instincts are spot on!
Dixie Lee Kahle – You contributed significantly during the beta phase, and you catch mistakes everyone else misses.
Anne Victory and Linda at Victory Editing – for proofreading and being on-call to handle matters of grammatical importance.
Gale Haut – for another gorgeous cover with a wee bit of whimsy on the side.
Nora Burke – for proofreading and useful tips about Ireland.
Kate Policani – for a very thorough and informative beta read.
Susan Panioli – your eye for detail is appreciated.
Carrie Penaloza and Joy Brooks – for your continuing support of my writing career.
Laurie Baumeister – for faith, hope, and love.
Terry Broadwater, Paul Austin, and Jenny Austin – for crossing paths at the right time and place.
Jill Wright, Travis Aker, and the guys and gals from Pass it On. “It’s a God thing.”
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