To Be Blessed

By Kay Edwards

As a friendship blossoms into love, Jody must risk losing her family, to follow God's leading. When her parents refuse to accept the man she has fallen in love with, Jody must take a stand. Can Jody stand firm, when she is forced to choose between the man God has given her to love or her family? Will tragedy take her away from everyone, before hearts can change? Find out, in this breathtaking story of love and obedience in the face of adversity. It will take you on a journey of what it means to be blessed.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kay Edwards
• Release date: Jan 9, 2016
• ISBN: 9781310956201

Kay Edwards

I am a country girl. I grew up along the Susquehanna River in central PA. I am a Christian and not ashamed of it. I have four children and an awesome (according to him) husband. I believe that Christ must be first, family second and everything else as God sees fit to lead you. I absolutely love a great love story and have written many just for fun. After introducing some friends to my writing, I have been encouraged to publish. I will find a way to always put a twist of humor in everything I write, because that is who I am. If it comes into my mind it is usually out of my mouth, which has put me in some absolutely hysterical situations. I look forward to sharing work with people and hope you all enjoy.

Book preview

To Be Blessed

By: Kay Edwards

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © 2016 by Kay Edwards

All Rights Reserved.

About the Author

Kay Edwards is a country girl. She was born and raised in Pennsylvania and still has ties to that area. Growing up in the church, Kay noticed a lack of communication regarding sexual and physical abuse. She has a passion to create an avenue for these silent victims to have a voice. She also has a passion to show the world that the church as a whole does not condone these acts of physical and sexual violence. However, those are not her only two passions Kay also enjoys a great love story. Kay Edwards has decided to take these passions and put them together in this heart-warming funny and emotional trilogy.

While abuse is addressed in the last book of this trilogy, Kay has also taken the time to shed some light on another subject. Bigotry is alive and well in this world we live in. Kay has added a twist that shows bigotry is not exclusive to one community. This is the third book of The Susquehanna series. Please enjoy Jody’s story.

Dedications and Recognitions

This book is dedicated to Leron and I’s families. Thank you for accepting us as the beautifully toned human beings we all are.

This book is also dedicated to the children who suffer in silence at the hands of family members who are supposed to love and protect them.

I would like to say a special thanks to Diana Wilson for the great work she did on the cover. Her talent with a camera is magical.

I would also like to say a special thanks to Wendy Frey for helping keep me focused.

Last but not least I would like to thank my husband and kids for giving me the space I need to create. Leron Tyler Samantha Joseph and Maggie you all inspire me daily.

Chapter One

Jody Sims had two really great friends. The first was Helen Day. She was a tiny woman with a big heart and also had a very pregnant belly. The second was Tiffany Adinger. Tiffany’s walk with God begged people to know Him. She was also Jody’s roommate, and sometimes, partner in crime. Together the three friends found themselves working on Christmas day.

Jody looked over at Helen as she waddled over to the centrifuge. She smiled at her. I’m thinking that baby must take after Logan.

Helen peered up at Jody as she rubbed her swollen abdomen. I was thinking the same thing the other night. This little boy was moving so much he woke up his father.

Tiffany walked over to join Helen. I can’t believe you still have ten weeks left. You look like a toothpick that swallowed a pea. I, of course, mean that in the most respectful way.

Jody laughed at Tiffany’s visual. She nudged her roommate. Of course. Glancing back at Helen, she couldn’t totally dismiss the statement. You really are very tiny. From the back, you don’t even look pregnant, but the minute you turn around all you see is the baby.

Helen had to giggle. She knew that her friends were not being rude but honest. I can’t wait until you two are pregnant. I’m going to tease you both without mercy. I may even hire a few people to join me.

Tiffany chuckled. You won’t need to hire anyone. A threat of revenge will have the biggest of them quaking.

Jody looked at the clock. The second shift would be in soon. I just can’t wait to get to Christmas supper. Since I’m not even dating, I won’t worry none about the threat either.

Tiffany looked at her roommate. Do you miss having your parents here this year?

I thought I would. I really don’t though. Being with you two and your families is going to be fun. She said sincerely.

I’m glad that you feel that way. Noah said the same thing. If it were not for the invite, it would have been just him and Emma. Helen said.

Tiffany looked thoughtful. Noah really is on his own when it comes to raising that sweet little girl. I’m glad he let us meet her.

Jody had to agree. She remembered how hesitant he had been to introduce them to his then eight-month-old little dumpling. I’m thrilled that he trusts us with her. When he needs a sitter, I love watching that little peach. She has my heart in her little hand and knows it.

The centrifuge stopped running, and Helen opened it. She handed Tiffany her tops and then took hers. I guess it’s time to get back to work.

Jody laughed as Helen did an exaggerated waddle on her way to chemistry. She looked at her CBC results starting to print out. I guess you’re right.

The three finished their work and then let the second shift take over their workstations. Jody watched as Dr. Adinger walked in. She greeted him warmly as he walked over to Tiffany. Merry Christmas, Evan, are you ready to eat some turkey and ham with all the fixings?

Evan smiled at Jody. I was busier than I thought I would be today. I’m ready for supper and dessert.

Tiffany smiled up at him as he leaned down and kissed her forehead. I can’t believe this is our first Christmas together. I’m so excited.

Jody and Helen looked at each other. Tiffany’s life had been turned upside down in a positive way this last year. Their hearts warmed as they watched Tiffany hug her father. Jody spoke softly. With all that she had to endure as a child, I’m happy her dad finally found her.

Helen had to agree. I still can’t believe that her mother denied her a relationship with her father. I’m glad Evan found her too.

The four exited the lab and piled into the car, stopping only once, at Evan and Valarie’s house to get out of their germ ridden scrubs. Once they had all showered and put fresh clothes on, they headed to Helen and Logan’s home. Thanks for letting us clean up at your house, Evan, Helen said from the back seat.

Jody agreed. It was a very good idea to stop and clean up. I didn’t like the idea of dragging all of our lab germs into the house for everyone to share.

You’re all welcome. I think every person I saw today in the ER was coughing. It really would not be a great thing to spread something like that. Evan said with a smile.

Tiffany leaned her head against the backrest. I’m so hungry I think I can smell the food from here.

Helen laughed and rubbed her tummy. You would think I would be hungry too, but this little guy takes up a lot of room. I hardly ever feel like I need to eat a big meal. I seem to nibble all day long.

Jody busted out laughing. Well, that explains why you don’t appear to be gaining any weight. Little Matthew is eating it all.

Helen giggled as she said, I’m thinking little Matthew is not so little. I’m just glad I’m not as big as Jen.

Jody had to agree with that statement. Double the occupancy does seem to show. I still can’t believe she is having twin girls.

Logan was at the car now. He opened Jody’s door first and then went around and helped his wife out. How was your day at work? he asked the ladies.

Helen answered. It was slower than normal which was good. It gave us a chance to prop our feet up.

Jody laughed at her friend. What she means to say, is her feet. Tiffany and I didn’t need to take advantage of that. We’re not quite as thick in the middle.

Helen gave Jody a face. They did make it a point to say how big your son is.

Jody could not disagree with that. Yes, we did. You really should be ashamed of yourself doing that to your wife, Logan. She teased.

Logan laughed at Jody’s comment. I’m thinking she could tell when we got married that I was not exactly on the short or tiny side.

The three were at the door now, and Logan opened it. As Helen walked by him, she could not resist teasing him. I know you will make up for this by taking the midnight feedings.

When she entered the house, Jody breathed deeply then looked at Helen. I think we may have died and gone to heaven. The food smells amazing.

Valerie reached them and gave Jody and Helen a hug. Merry Christmas. I assure you that you’re very much alive. We have been working away in that kitchen all day.

Jody hugged the woman back warmly as she said. You have no idea how much this means to us. Working on a holiday is expected when you work for a hospital, but there is just something missing when you don’t have a good old fashion Christmas gathering.

As she and Helen walked further into the living room, little Emma spotted her. Everyone laughed as the little girl tried to run for her. She was new to walking and fell a couple of times before she got to Jody.

Noah smiled as Jody picked her up. You really have her spoiled. What do you teach her when she sleeps over?

Jody stuck her tongue out at him. We ladies like to keep our sleepovers a secret. Don’t we, Emma?

Noah watched as Jody kissed his daughter’s pudgy hand. He had seen her do it many times, but today he felt something different. He decided to evaluate the feeling later. She really does love you.

Jody looked at Noah. Her eyes sparkled as she answered, It’s because I’m teaching her all about getting people riled up. It’s a talent I think she could use in life. I know it’s an ability that’s served me well.

Toby looked down at Tiffany as she busted out laughing. She was laughing so hard she was snorting. I’m not sure if my fiancée is agreeing with you, or disagreeing with you. He said with a grin.

Tiffany finally found her voice and looked at Noah. If you allow this to happen, you’re going to be picking them up in jail. She went into another fit of giggles as Jody started to whisper in Emma’s ear causing the baby to smile.

Noah looked at Jody and grinned. I think Emma and Jody are cute enough to get out of jail without me ever knowing.

Do you hear that Emma? Your dad has confidence in our ability to get away with…. Jody looked at Tiffany. What crime did you have in mind?

The entire room erupted in laughter at that question. Tiffany was almost on the floor she was laughing so hard.

Helen decided to answer for her. I say murder. You need to go big or go home.

Logan rolled his eyes. The entire conversation was hilarious. His wife seemed to be the only one calm enough to utter her absolutely demented opinion. Let me guess. You’re the one that has the grand plan.

Jody thought it made perfect sense. Of course, she does. Everyone knows how good Helen is at planning mean things.

Logan about died as his wife very calmly said, Thank you, Jody. I do believe this is why we’re friends. You appreciate my talent.

You’re welcome. I know Toby won’t cross you again. With Emma, we would be unstoppable. Jody stated as she walked over and sat down beside Noah.

It's incredible how my one comment has spiraled this far out of control, Noah said as Emma crawled into his lap.

It really is a talent. I cut some person off, and by the time I was done talking, Tiffany was convinced I was in the right. Jody said.

Noah looked down at Jody as she pulled out her phone. He watched as Emma crawled back onto her lap and posed. You really do have her liking the selfies. I can’t even take a call without her doing duck lips. She thinks I’m taking her picture.

Jody tweaked Emma’s nose. That’s my girl. We will have you sassy in no time at all.

Noah’s heart melted as he watched Jody and Emma. He was not sure why these feelings were coming out, but they were. Noah had to be honest, he was not really happy about this new development. He valued Jody in Emma and his lives and didn’t want to screw that up. He looked over at Pastor Jeff and was surprised to find him looking at him. He was relieved when Mother Day and Mother Kiser called them to the table for Christmas supper.

Jeff watched Emma and Jody. It never occurred to him how much Jody cared for Emma. He could not help but watch Noah’s reaction to the two. When Noah looked at him, he could see that some feelings were being dealt with. The two of them talked once a week. He knew that if Noah had been feeling this way before, he would have said something. This was new, and by Noah’s reaction, not welcomed.

As the group made their way toward the table, Jeff walked beside Noah. I can see we have some new things to talk about.

Noah didn’t even look at Jeff as he said, I’m thinking we do. I’m not sure what happened.

Jeff put his arm around his shoulders as a gesture of comradery and laughed. None of us do.

Toby and Tiffany looked at the men and then at each other confused. She shrugged her shoulders. I guess it must be a man thing.

A knock sounded at the door. The only one left to come was Rex and his girlfriend. Evan turned and walked to the door. He greeted Rex with a hug. Rex walked in and a woman every bit as tiny as Helen walked in behind him. Dad I would like you to meet Sadie. Sadie this is my father.

Evan smiled at the young woman. Hello, Sadie, you can call me Evan if you want.

Sadie looked up at Rex’s father. Thank you. It’s very nice to meet you.

As everyone gathered at the table, Rex introduced Sadie to the rest of them. Helen chuckled as she walked up to her. I think you and I may be the shortest ones here.

Sadie immediately recognized Helen. Rex had told her that his family situation was a bit complicated. She had never imagined this. Sadie almost started giggling when Logan walked up behind Helen and put his hands on her shoulders. She looked up at Rex. You’re in so much trouble.

Rex busted out laughing. I told you my family was a bit unusual.

Tiffany heard what Sadie said. My brother is always in trouble. What did he do to you?

Sadie blushed as she recognized Tiffany too. I was very caught up in Helen and Logan’s TV dance. I have been talking to Rex all about their romance. I’ve been expressing the anger of the entire drama around the attack on Helen as well. It seems I’ve also been talking to him about a situation he’s totally familiar with. Seeing you with your swollen face and hand in a splint made me want to find your mother and shake some sense into her. He told me he hadn’t seen the interview. He never once said that he knew Helen and Logan. He also left out the part that the Tiffany that was his sister was the same one I had seen on TV. I knew that he and his family had just found you but was unaware that you were the same woman from the interview.

Tiffany smiled at her. Sadie was gorgeous. She had the darkest most expressive almond shaped eyes. Her hair was jet black and hung down to her waist. Her caramel skin was only a shade or two lighter than Jody’s skin. Tiffany couldn’t resist. Well, I need to tell you Rex is a bit of a rascal. Just looking at how cute you are. I can tell you’re out of his league. In his defense, he was not lying about the interview I was in. He had to work that day. Until Helen ran around the table at her house, he had no clue what had happened to her or me.

Rex looked at his mom and dad for help. Now who needs to behave?

Valerie walked up to Tiffany and gave her a squeeze. Be nice to your brother.

Tiffany smiled at her mother. This is a great chance to get even. You know how he gets, Mom.

Valerie loved it when Tiffany called her mom. Tiffany’s biological mom had been cruel and abusive. Valerie was overjoyed when she was given a chance to show Tiffany what a mom was supposed to look like. She gave in just a smidgeon. Well, maybe just a little bit.

Tiffany grinned triumphantly at Rex. I may need to tell Sadie about Helen’s talent.

Jody looked up at Noah. Poor Rex, that is not a good thing.

The two went to the table and Jody placed Emma in the high chair. Noah buckled her in with the safety straps. Now you’re all ready to eat. He said as he kissed her soft, baby forehead.

Jody smiled as she watched Noah kiss his daughter. When he pulled out a chair for her to sit, she looked up at him. I got you a Christmas present. No need to butter me up, Noah.

Noah laughed at her as he sat down on the other side of Emma. I was being a gentleman, but since we’re on the subject, what did you get me?

Jody’s eyes sparkled. No cheating. You have to wait. Emma and I picked yours out together.

Logan sat at the end of the table beside Helen. As everyone took their seats, he stood and cleared his throat. I look around our table and see how full our lives really are. We welcome a new face into our family. He smiled at Sadie. We celebrate the birth of Christ, the Baby that changed the world. I look out at this table and see changed lives because of His birth, death, and resurrection. I see families that have been redeemed. I see hearts that have been mended. As we bow our heads to thank God for this food, let us also thank Him for the birth of Jesus in the shadow of the cross. He looked at Jeff as he took his seat.

Jeff stood and blessed the food. "Christ Jesus, we come here today to celebrate Your birth. Thank