Blessings

by Kim Vogel Sawyer

  Tears burned behind Trina’s nose. She looked at Graham, and he blinked repeatedly, moisture glimmering in his eyes. She waited for him to decide whether or not to receive this gift. Finally, he swallowed, cleared his throat, and lifted his face to the waiting audience.

  “Trina and I appreciate your love and support. Thank you.”

  Another cheer rose from the group; then everyone crowded close, offering hugs and words of encouragement. Slowly they drifted out the door, leaving Trina, Graham, and their parents. Mama crooked her finger, and the four adults moved to the back half of the house, leaving Trina and Graham alone.

  The moment the room was vacated, Trina raised her arms to throw them around Graham’s neck. She remembered in time the need to be gentle and cupped his cheeks instead. “I’ve missed you so much!”

  “Me, too,” Graham said, turning his face to kiss her palm. “I never want to leave you again. It felt like forever.”

  Trina pulled back, feigning shock. “You mean it wasn’t forever?”

  Graham laughed and shifted against the couch cushion. He sighed. “Oh, Trina, it’s so good to be home.”

  Very slowly, Trina leaned sideways until her head rested lightly on his shoulder. He tipped his head, pressing his cheek to her cap. They sat for several long minutes, simply enjoying each other’s nearness. But then Graham lifted his head and gave a gentle nudge with his shoulder, dislodging her. She sat up and faced him.

  “There’s much we need to talk about,” he said, his expression serious. He took hold of her hands.

  Trina nodded. “I’ve been so worried about finances—how we’d make it.” A lump filled her throat. “But we’ll be all right.”

  He sighed. “The financial support is a blessing. That’s for sure.” His thumbs traced lazy circles on the backs of her hands. “But I’m still not sure where we’ll live. I—I can’t climb stairs, so the upstairs rooms at Mom and Dad’s won’t work. On the way home, Mom suggested we take the back downstairs bedroom at their house, and we could, but it won’t give us much privacy. It’s right off the kitchen.”

  “It won’t be for long, you know. And being right off the kitchen means it’ll be easier for us to get midnight snacks.”

  Graham smirked. “Midnight snacks?”

  “Studying makes me hungry,” Trina said, grinning. “And besides, I need to fatten you up.” She shook her head in mock dismay. “Didn’t they feed you at all while you were gone? You’re as skinny as a scarecrow.”

  Graham made a face. “Food never tastes good when you’re far from home. Now that I’m here, I’ll put the weight back on.”

  “I’ll see to it.” There was much Trina would see to—his therapy, his meals, his emotional needs. She squeezed his hand, sending a silent message.

  “And I’ll help you with your studies,” he said. His fingers convulsed. “About our wedding. . .”

  Trina sat bolt upright. “We aren’t postponing it.” Heat flooded her cheeks at her own audacity. Had she just told her future husband what to do?

  Graham gave her hands a tug. “I’m not asking you to. Between the hospital and rehabilitation center, I’ve spent six weeks away from you. I’m as eager as ever to make you my wife.” He lifted her hands to his lips and kissed her knuckles.

  Trina nearly sagged with relief. “Then what?”

  He patted the walker, which waited beside his legs. “I want to stand in front of the guests without leaning on this thing. It will take a lot of work to strengthen the muscles in my back and legs enough to make that possible, and we don’t have many weeks to spare.” He licked his lips, his fervent gaze pinned to hers. “Will you help me?”

  “Of course I will! Whatever you need, I’ll do it.”

  “But it takes time, Trina, and you spend your days at the clinic and your evenings studying. I don’t want your other responsibilities to suffer.”

  Trina leaned forward and planted a quick kiss on his lips. Cupping his cheeks with her hands, she whispered, “Graham, there is nothing more important to me than you. You put aside your own wants and needs to help me achieve my goal. Well, I can set aside some of my activities to help you achieve yours.”

  Graham closed his eyes a moment. When he opened them, tears glittered in their deep blue depths. “Together, Trina, I think we can accomplish it.”

  “Together, with God’s help,” Trina agreed, “we can change the world.” She smiled, her lips trembling, as a burst of laughter came from the kitchen. “He’s already made big changes in our small corner of it.”

  TWENTY-NINE

  Graham eased back on the pile of pillows propped against the headboard of his bed and released a sigh. The sliding glass door across from the bed allowed in a healthy dose of early afternoon sunshine, but he could see gray clouds building in the east. Would they have snow for Christmas? He hoped so.

  The month between Thanksgiving and Christmas had disappeared in a rush of activity that often left Graham’s head spinning. Thanks to the unusually mild winter weather, the men in town had been able to build an addition to the back of Graham’s parents’ house, doubling the size of the bedroom he and Trina would share after their marriage. The addition included the sliding glass door and a small deck with a ramp, making it easy for Graham to roll his wheelchair in and out of the house rather than struggling up the front porch stairs with his walker.

  A week after coming home, he had returned to the lumberyard half days. He worked on the floor, serving customers, rather than out in the warehouse, but at least he felt as though he was earning his keep. He used his wheelchair part of the time and the walker part of the time, making himself walk until tiredness forced him back to the chair. But his walker time was gradually increasing, giving him hope that eventually he would be able to set aside the wheelchair for good.

  He spent a couple of hours napping in the afternoon, something he despised, yet his body demanded the time of rest. Before falling asleep, he read passages from the Bible and prayed. He fingered the edges of the Bible, still open to Jeremiah 29, where only a few minutes earlier he had underlined the words, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

  A smile found its way to his face as he reflected on that promise. The Bible-reading routine helped remove the impatience and frustration that often twisted through his belly. He missed the days of being whole and healthy, yet he’d never had such a large block of time to commit to Bible study and prayer. He discovered a true blessing in being able to rest in God’s Word on a daily basis.

  Each evening after supper, Trina came over and kept him company while he did his muscle-strengthening exercises. She brought her laptop, and it always made him smile to see her in her Mennonite cap, dress, and tennis shoes, carrying the leather briefcase—such an unusual picture, yet somehow fitting. He’d come to expect the unexpected when it applied to Trina, and he wouldn’t have her any other way.

  He looked ahead to this evening’s visit. Andrew had driven her into El Dorado to take the first of her semester exams. When she returned, depending on how things went, she would be either in a celebratory mood or in need of comfort. Whatever she needed—whether cheering on or cheering up—he would provide it. Graham clamped his jaw, regret striking. How he’d wanted to take her, to offer encouragement and a kiss before sending her through the door to the classroom. But he wasn’t allowed to drive yet. The money from insurance waited in an account at the bank for the day when he could drive again. Hopefully before their wedding, since Trina hadn’t yet learned.

  He emitted a soft chuckle, remembering the day he’d tried to teach Trina to drive. They’d try it again—probably in the spring—and this time he’d stick with it until she mastered it. She could master it, he had no doubt—his Trina could do anything she set her mind to.

  A yawn stretched his face, and he settled a little lower on the bed. His back ached, but he’d grown accustomed to that and could block it out most of the time.
Closing his eyes, he muttered, “Strengthening rest, Father. Give me strengthening rest.”

  “So how do you think you did?”

  Trina smiled at Andrew’s question. It was similar to the one Graham had asked after the midterm exams. She replied, “As well as I could.”

  Andrew nodded. “That’s all anyone can do.”

  Trina leaned her head against the seat’s headrest and sighed. “I’m glad the tests are over, though, and I’ll enjoy these next weeks of no studying.”

  Andrew shot her a puzzled look. “No studying for weeks?”

  “During January, they take special classes on the campus, but none are offered online. I wouldn’t have signed up for one anyway. My wedding is coming”—a jolt of eager anticipation doubled her pulse— “and I want to be able to focus on it.”

  “I understand.” Andrew shifted his hands on the steering wheel, his lower lip poked out in thought. “How long before you’ll need to start taking classes on campus rather than online?”

  “At least two years, maybe three, depending on the course work,” Trina said. “With veterinary science, there are a number of classes requiring laboratory assignments.” She grinned. “I can’t do those over the Internet.”

  “I imagine not.”

  “But for as long as I can, I’ll do online classes and keep working at Dr. Groening’s—oops! Dr. Royer’s.” She grimaced. “I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to that change. It’s been Dr. Groening’s Clinic my whole life.”

  Andrew sent her a short, speculative look. “Are you getting along okay with the new vet? I’ve heard he’s knowledgeable but not quite as personable as Dr. Groening.”

  Andrew had heard correctly as far as Trina was concerned. She toyed with the ribbons of her cap while she answered. “I admit it has been hard for me to warm up to him. He has a way of looking down his nose at me that sets my nerves on edge. But he knows what he’s doing. I wish he were more like gentle Dr. Groening in the way he relates to me, but he is good with the animals. That’s what matters most.” She sighed, admitting, “And even though I still wish I could have taken over the clinic, this has worked out best for Dr. Groening. I’ll just have to trust that God has something else planned for me.”

  Andrew nodded. “His plans are always best, even when we people try to mess them up.” He offered a sheepish look. “I’m sorry I tried to mess yours up, Trina.”

  Trina gave his shoulder a brief squeeze. “It’s okay. You had a heartache, and it colored your judgment.” She paused then braved a question. “How is Livvy doing? She doesn’t say much.”

  Andrew shrugged. “There isn’t much to say. Wishing things were different won’t change them. She can’t have children, and that’s all there is to it. But I haven’t given up hope. We’ve looked into adoption, but it’s pretty expensive, so I’m setting money aside each month. When the time is right, if we’re meant to be parents, God will open the door.”

  Trina sat quietly, thinking about Andrew’s statement about timing and God’s doors. She’d seen such evidence of God’s hand at work in hers and Graham’s lives over the past several months. Andrew’s words had proven true for her; surely they would also prove true for him.

  “I’ll pray to that end, too,” she said. “You and Livvy would make wonderful parents.”

  He smiled, giving her hand a pat. “Thanks, Trina. Just pray for God’s will.”

  “I will.” She yawned then giggled. “All that studying has worn me out.”

  “Well, close your eyes and take a little nap. Before you know it, we’ll be home, and you can go over and tell Graham all about your examinations.”

  Trina settled more comfortably into the corner. “Sounds good.” The hum of the tires on asphalt provided a lullaby, and sleep claimed her. In no time, someone shook her arm, bringing her to wakefulness. She sat up and peeked out the window, sighing in satisfaction when she realized they were home. Then she noticed a vehicle parked in front of her house, and her feeling of well-being fled.

  Andrew pointed. “What’s he doing here?”

  Trina’s mouth went dry. She licked her lips. “I’m not sure, but I hope I haven’t done something wrong. . .again.”

  “Do you want me to stay?” Andrew’s concerned tone offered encouragement.

  Trina, knowing neither of her parents was home, nodded. It wouldn’t do for her to be alone in the house with Dr. Royer. “Please.”

  They opened their car doors in unison, and at the same time, Marc Royer swung his door open. He glanced at his wristwatch, a silent reprimand, then met Trina on the sidewalk.

  “I’ve been waiting for you. Can we talk?”

  “Of course. Come on in out of the cold.” She scurried up the sidewalk, Andrew and Dr. Royer on her heels. Once inside, she gestured to the sofa. “Make yourself comfortable.” She sat in Mama’s overstuffed chair in the corner, and Andrew moved to Dad’s chair.

  Dr. Royer perched on the edge of the cushion, with his elbows on his knees, and fixed Trina with a serious look. “I need to visit with you about my plans for the clinic.”

  Suddenly Trina feared her job was in jeopardy, and she involuntarily sucked in a fortifying breath.

  “I believe, to better serve the area communities, I need to expand to two locations—keeping the Lehigh clinic and opening a second one closer to Hillsboro.” Dr. Royer plunged on, seemingly unaware of Trina’s concerns. “Obviously, this involves quite a financial undertaking, and it isn’t something that will occur overnight, so to speak, but it is my long-term goal. I have put together a strategy, based on Dr. Groening’s past several years’ records and a demography of the area, and I believe within the next five years, I will have the funds to establish the second clinic.”

  Trina blinked rapidly, absorbing the man’s words. If he was preparing to fire her, he had chosen an odd way to do it.

  He sat upright. “Of course, with two locations, hiring a second veterinarian becomes necessary. That’s where you come in.”

  Pressing her hand to her throat, Trina gasped, “M–me?”

  “If you’re interested.”

  “If?”Trina curled her hands around the chair’s armrest to keep from leaping out of her seat and hugging Marc Royer. His timing couldn’t have been better if she had planned it! Five years down the line, she’d have her veterinary license in hand, and working at the clinic would let her stay right here in Sommerfeld, just as she and Graham wanted. Swallowing, she forced a calm tone. “Oh yes. I’m interested.”

  “Good. Then I will refrain from seeking prospects elsewhere. There will be other details to discuss, naturally, but we can cover those at another time.” Dr. Royer slapped his knees and rose.

  Trina bounced up. “Thank you, Dr. Royer, for giving me this opportunity. I appreciate your confidence in me.”

  He lifted his chin, peering down his nose in his normal manner, yet somehow it didn’t seem condescending this time. “I know I can count on you, and the people of the community already have a relationship with you. So hiring you is in my best interest.” He held out his hand, and Trina shook it. “After the first of the year, Groening Clinic will change to the Royer Clinic for the Treatment of Livestock and Domesticated Animals. When you have your degree in hand and our partnership is official, we’ll add your name behind mine. Royer and Muller.”

  “Royer and Ortmann,” Andrew corrected. Dr. Royer sent him a puzzled look. Andrew added, “She’s getting married in February.”

  “Ah. Yes. Royer and Ortmann, then. Well.” He crossed to the door then paused, his hand on the doorknob. “Keep up your studies, Trina. You’ll make a fine veterinarian.” He headed out the door.

  Trina stared at Andrew in amazement.

  “The Royer and Ortmann Clinic for the Treatment of Livestock and Domesticated Animals.” Andrew carefully enunciated each word of the clinic’s future name and then whistled through his teeth. “Whew, that’s a mouthful. I feel sorry for anyone who has to write all of that on a check.”

  Trina laugh
ed. “I know. But Dr. Royer is a man of length. . .in all ways!” She spun a happy circle, her clasped hands beneath her chin. “Oh! I can’t wait to tell Graham!”

  Christmas morning, Trina awakened before the sun’s rays slipped over the horizon. Her first thought was “Happy birthday, Jesus,” followed by, “Merry Christmas, Graham.” She would miss him today after seeing him nearly every day since his return from Nebraska, but they had agreed they should spend this day with family. Their time for Christmases together was near—they could wait.

  She slipped a robe over her nightgown and crept to the kitchen on tiptoe, intending to start breakfast. But the lights were already on, and a wonderful aroma greeted her. Mama straightened from checking something in the oven.

  “What are you doing up?” they both asked at the same time.

  Trina, laughing, gave her mother a hug. “Merry Christmas. I was going to fix breakfast.”

  “Too late.” Mama grinned. “I’ve got an egg casserole in the oven.” Trina sniffed appreciatively, breathing in the scent of eggs, ham, peppers, and onions. Mama put her hands on her hips. “I whipped it up last night after you’d gone to bed so I could surprise everyone.”

  Trina selected a mug from the cupboard and poured a cup of coffee. “There have been a lot of surprises in Sommerfeld lately.”

  “Good ones and bad ones,” Mama said on a sigh. She stirred cream into a cup of coffee then faced Trina. “But mostly good, I guess. It has been quite a year, hasn’t it?”

  “A year of change, that’s for sure.” Trina held the thick mug between both palms. Steam swirled beneath her nose, enticing her to take a sip.

  “And more changes coming.” Sorrow tinged Mama’s voice.

  Trina took another sip of the hot coffee and used a teasing tone. “Yes, just think—no more Trina underfoot in another few weeks.”