Within My Heart (47 page)

I treasure every moment with her, every overnight hospital stay, every “early wee hours of the morning” chat when she couldn’t sleep and we’d sit up and talk. Every one of those times is written on my heart and has changed me and my view of this life. I think for the better. Though I miss her in a profound way, and know I will for the rest of my life here, knowing she’s in the presence of Jesus brings such a measure of peace and joy.

Many of you wrote to me during this past year and shared words of comfort and hope. Every note felt like a hug. Thank you. I especially appreciate your overwhelming excitement for this story, and for your patience as Rand and Rachel’s journey finally took shape and found its way onto the page and into your hands. Rand and Rachel each took steps of faith into the life God was calling them to, though they couldn’t see what that life would look like. Because, like us, if they could see, then it wouldn’t be faith.

When thinking of great faith, we rarely think of great fear. But the Bible shows repeatedly that people of great faith also trembled in their boots as they took that first step in following God’s will for their lives. Nevertheless, they took it, trusting Him and then running for Him with everything they had.

May we do no less.

I’m already hard at work on a new three-book historical series, with the first book scheduled for release in 2011. These new characters and their stories have captured my heart, as I hope they will yours. For more information on upcoming books and to stay in touch, visit my Web site (
www.tameraalexander.com
) or my blog (
[email protected]
).

                  Until next time,
                  Tamera

A
CKNOWLEDGMENTS

There were moments when writing this book that I doubted whether I’d ever reach “the end.” But God provided the perfect encouragement (and firm nudges) exactly when I needed them, and I’m so grateful. . . .

To Jesus, for holding my hand as we continue to take steps of faith together. Thanks for never complaining when I squeeze a tad too hard and for taking me places I’d never have the courage to go without you.

To Joe, Kelsey, and Kurt, for your acceptance, your laughter, your love, and for making my world complete.

To Dad, for your steadfast faith and courage. This past year has been the most difficult of your life, I know. But remember, the best is
still
yet to come. Our home is richer for having you in it, and I look forward to sharing the years ahead.

To Doug, my older brother, for sharing your strength during this past year. You spoke so beautifully at Mom’s Celebration Service. I was so proud of you then, just as I’ve always been.

To Dr. Fred Alexander, my favorite father-in-law, for seeing what others miss.

To Deborah Raney, my writing critique partner, for sharing your enormous talent and for always being just a click (and peanut butter twist) away.

To my agent, Natasha Kern, for doing what you do so very well.

To the Coeur d’Alene women, for our summer retreats full of plotting and playing. Who knew
work
could be such fun?

To Karen Schurrer, Helen Motter, Charlene Patterson, Sharon Asmus, Ann Parrish, my editors at Bethany House, and to Raela Schoenherr, an early reader, for your suggestions and catches. We all know what my writing is like without you. So bless you, dear friends!

To Judy McMahan (AKA:
Mouth of the South
) and Eva Lyn Frieden, for helping me walk Mom home. You were Jesus in the flesh to me during those excruciating yet oh so precious days, and I’m so grateful God brought you into my life, and Mom’s, all those years ago.

To Sunni Jeffers, for sharing your knowledge of cattle and ranching.

And to my readers, for your continual support and e-mails asking, “When is
Within My Heart
going to be ready?” You’ll never know how much your excitement to read Rand and Rachel’s story helped me through a dark time. Next time we’re together, please grab me. I’ve got a hug with your name on it!

TAMERA ALEXANDER is a bestselling novelist whose deeply drawn characters, thought-provoking plots, and poignant prose resonate with readers worldwide. Having lived in Colorado for seventeen years, she and her husband now make their home in Nashville, Tennessee, where they enjoy life with Tamera’s father, Doug, and with their two adult children, Kelsey and Kurt. And last but not least, a precious—and precocious—silky terrier named Jack.

Tamera invites you to visit her Web site at
www.tameraalexander.com
or write her at the following postal address:

Tamera Alexander
P.O. Box 871
Brentwood, TN 37024