Acknowledgments

Critiques are trickling in ... and I am shocked and surprised that my husband and children have been able to read my manuscript within a week. So there's been some lively discussion around the dinner table about hooks and endings, why something had to be a certain way, and names! My kids are fascinated how much care I take with choosing names.

I think it's time to practice writing acknowledgments. So here goes:

To my beloved cats, one who sat on my manuscript pages as I tried to edit them, and the other, who chewed on the ends of pages, I owe you everything. Your purring gave voice to my characters. You helped me take naps, during which time seemingly intractable plotting problems were solved. You minded the children, giving me more writing time. I don't know how I could've ever finished this story without your constant encouragement. I could never get tired of your meows. Thank you! Tuna for everyone!

To Sunny, who has been my praying and thinking companion for four years, I owe you my good health and good ideas. You warmed my feet and kept me active when I'd rather not have taken a walk. You sat beside me and listened to every word I read from the manuscript with rapt attention. You kept the kids and cats in line. Tuna for you as well!

To my family and friends, you know how much you've done. Thank you! Tuna all around!