This should be the most exciting part of finishing a novel. For me, it's always the most difficult because I can never seem to find the words that adequately describe the level of thankfulness that I feel. My apologies if I've left someone out.
First, and always foremost, I thank my Heavenly Father. Not just for giving me the ability to write this final book, but for the entire experience that has brought me so much closer to Him. This walk has sometimes been excruciatingly painful, but necessary, to bring me where I need to be in my personal and spiritual journey. I continue to be amazed at the things He's taught me along the way. And I am grateful for the lessons that I know are still coming.
Jim, Kelli and Katie - Thank you for your unconditional love and understanding while I pretty much put our lives on hold to finish this series. I couldn't have done it without knowing that your love and belief in me was absolute and always positive and just like my protagonist, Ginny, I believe that we can have more than one soul mate. It goes without saying that the three of you are mine. I love you.
And now, in alphabetical order by first name, I give my heartfelt gratitude to the following:
Adriana Leiker and Nisha E. George - The final leg of this journey would not have been possible without the gift of your friendship. I thank God for bringing both of you into my life. I'm beyond humbled and honored that you've never left my side. You've healed my heart during the rough times and laughed and celebrated the good times with me. I can't imagine finishing this book without having both of you in my tight embrace of love and friendship. Thank you, my forever friends.
Adriana Leiker, Anitra Townsend, Erin Thompson, Louise Husted, Mary Dry and Nisha George - Thank you for being the best Beta-readers I could ever hope to have. You aren't afraid to "call me out" and "tell it like it is". Your honesty tells me that you love me, and you want this story to be the best it can be. I appreciate that more than you could know.
Allison Simon - You are so much more than my formatter. You're the one who's been on the receiving end of finalizing this story each step of the way, and your guidance and patience has been invaluable. I consider it a true honor to call you my friend long after the publish button has been pressed. I love you, Allison.
Amy Donnelly - Thank you for putting the finishing touches on this story. The editing process can be a grueling experiencing, yet you brought light and laughter and talked me off the ledge of panic and despair more times than you know. You have been a true friend and mentor who is always, ALWAYS there when I need you. You own a huge piece of my heart, Amy. 'Really,’ Amy...you do! (wink wink)
Jennie Simpson and Jonell Espinoza - My ICU Queens will forever have a special place in my heart for their constant willingness to help me with some of the more obviously difficult scenes to write. They never once made me feel stupid for the numerous questions I would blast at them. They helped me bring to life a very realistic and unfortunate experience for Tommy. If there are any errors or variations from ICU standards, they are due to my creative license. Thank you, my lovely friends. Not just for your help, but for your beautiful friendship as well.
Jessica Brodie - Thank you for being my editor extraordinaire. You take my words and vision and find tremendous ways to improve upon them. Your love, dedication and keen insight bring it all together and make it flow. I love you, Jess.
Judy's Proofreading - I'm so grateful that we found each other. Your sharp eye and attention to detail puts the final seal on this manuscript and gives me the confidence to release it. Thank you, my sweet friend.
Lasse L. Matberg - Thank you for being on this cover and for your kindness along the way. Your humble and good-hearted nature continues to shine well beyond your modeling talents. I am honored that you agreed to be our Grizz and consider it a privilege to call you my friend. Thank you, Lasse.
Sommer Stein - Thank you for giving me a cover that tied my trilogy together and exceeded my wildest expectations. You are a creative genius, and I'm so grateful that this cover was on the receiving end of your incredible talent. Thank you, Sommer.
Last, but never, NEVER least, my readers. Whether you are a reader, a blogger, a fellow author, you are reading this because you've read Nine Minutes and Out of Time. You've patiently waited for an entire year for me to finalize this trilogy. Your love for me and this story has brought me immeasurable joy for which I will be forever grateful. Thank you from my whole heart.