A Christmas Kind of Perfect Page 17
“Know it? I’ve lived it…‘declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.’ I’ll never forget to trust in His plan for my life again for as long as I live.”
“Congratulations, sweetheart.” She tipped her head and lowered her voice. “This is what Mabel and I were praying would happen from the day you walked back into the village.”
Lila rolled her head from side to side as if scolding a small child. “I noticed the winks and nods between you but didn’t figure it out until today.”
Aunt Cathy bent her head and gazed upward. “We didn’t do it alone. By the way, what are you going to do about the meeting in New York?”
“Funny you should ask,” Lila crossed her arms over her chest. “I received a text message from Andrea last night. The meeting was postponed until after the holidays due to the impending winter storm heading their way.”
Aunt Cathy laughed. “The same storm you were driving in to get to the meeting.”
Lila nodded. “Yep.”
“Wow.” Cathy placed her hands on the side of her head. “If that’s not a message from above, I’m not sure what is.”
“Conrad and I are flying out together after the holiday. I’m planning on pitching my new book series to Jim and the new publishing house. I’m hoping he’s open to the children’s mystery series. If not, Andrea and I have a new hurdle to overcome finding a brand-new editor and publishing house for me. Everything will work out as it should.”
Cathy brought her hands together. “That’s my girl. I’m proud of you, Lila. You’ve finally come home to us, and Conrad, well that young man has been like a son to me for years. Soon, it’ll be legitimate.”
Lila pulled her aunt into her arms and hugged her with a brand-new fierceness for life. A Christmas miracle happened. She was as blessed as Melanie was with her newborn twins.
“So, when’s the wedding?” Mr. Hamilton’s voice boomed above the small group.
“As soon as possible,” Conrad and Lila responded at almost the same time. They beamed smiles to the group in the bliss they created for their families and each other.
Aunt Cathy turned to address the other parishioners in the room. “We’re having a wedding. How’s that for the best Christmas present ever?” Hoots and hollers and applause followed her announcement.
“If you need a minister, I’m available New Year’s Eve,” Pastor Phelps said with a wide grin. He raised his coffee cup as if to offer a toast.
Conrad stretched out a hand and encouraged Lila into his arms. He gave her the familiar gaze—the one that told her what was coming.
“Here in church?” she asked, now wearing one of his devilish grins.
He nodded. “I’m afraid so,” and bent his head and kissed her.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special thanks to my critique group members for your astute listening skills and your critical eyes, for all of your encouragement, and your boundless support that propels me forward in this glorious journey. An enormous thank you to all my editors, you know who you are. Finally, to my parents who provided me with a childhood that allowed my imagination to flourish and a faith that grounds my walk in this life I am blessed to live.
BIOGRAPHY
Christine Schimpf was born and raised in a small town in southeastern Wisconsin. Growing up she enjoyed fishing with her dad, bicycle riding, and climbing trees. She attended a Catholic elementary school where she met her husband in second grade.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in public relations and English writing at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. During college, she entered a national essay competition and won a seat at the Women’s as Leaders conference in Washington D.C. She’s a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Association and the Romance Writers of America and the United States Tennis Association.
When she’s not writing, she enjoys planting seeds and flowers in the spring, golfing and kayaking in the summer, and playing indoor tennis over the winter months. She and her dog Rudy walk every day unless the temperature drops below 20 degrees. Presently, she lives on five acres in the country with her husband and golden retriever.
Christine loves to hear from her readers. Please visit her website at christineschimpf.webs.com for author updates, blog posts, and more information on all of her books. Her email is cschimpf57@yahoo.com.
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