Kelly Harms and Nina Bocci, you’ve been so generous with your wisdom—thank you!
My favorite part of being a writer is getting to know other writers. We talk ideas, share early drafts and writerly wisdom, cheerlead the good news, and provide shoulders for the bad news. I hope I never learn what it’s like to write without these women in my life. I love you: all the Tall Poppy Writers—there are too many to list (though I will mention the founder, Ann Garvin, because everyone needs to know her), Sarah Cannon, Gail Werner, and Carla Cullen. A special thank-you to Karma Brown, who helped me nail down an amazing synopsis for Cider and is all around magnificent. And Melissa Marino, my Mel—soul sister, partner in crime, and future Hallmark Christmas movie script-writing partner—thank you for being my friend.
To all my family, especially Mom, Pam, and Sandy—you are all so supportive, if it’s cheerleading from afar or helping at the house during my busy times—I love you all!
My beautiful children: Ainsley and Sam for understanding that what I do is a real job, but also reminding me that I need to take a break and do something fun, too. Sam—I had to capture your special age in a book before you got taller than me. Ainsley—don’t worry, your book is coming.
To my husband, John—you are my first reader, ultimate supporter, and partner in all things. I wouldn’t have the freedom to do what I love if you didn’t work so hard. I hope to give you the same opportunity. And thank you for helping me determine lip placement during a rather important hug.
Lastly, to all the craft cider makers who made my research so delicious and inspired me to write this book.