It took what felt like a million and one days to write this book and there are an equal number of people who helped me along the way, even if they didn’t realize it at the time (I’m looking at you, purveyors of iced, blended coffee beverages with extra whipped cream). I thanked most of the usual suspects in the dedication, and I’m throwing out mass gratitude to the rest of you now. But in particular…
Writer and friend Megan Coakley, for being brutally open and honest about the never-ending battles of a long time recovered addict.
Writer and friend Steve Ulfelder, for sharing the challenges of making a new romantic relationship co-exist with the unique, intense bond between long time sponsors and sponsees.
My younger sister, Gina, who has dedicated much of her career to learning firsthand about the cultural and practical realities of being Native in this country, and who was my go-to resource when I didn’t even know what to ask. If I didn’t get it right, it’s her fault. (Just kidding, sis. I quit blaming you for my goofs once you got taller than me.)
To our guide Duffy in Monument Valley, who responded to my probably insensitive questions by opening up about his personal beliefs, practices, and experiences along with invaluable information about the land, the lifestyle, and the Diné in general.
To the Lunak family, who served as a very loose model for Carmelita and her parents. And our mutual aunt Lorraine, who hosts all those Christmas parties where I listen to Dutch tell stories about bartering for a horse with Chris Hemsworth and cussing Harrison Ford’s helicopter for spooking his herd. Yes, I have been taking notes.
My mother’s cousin Carmelita. I have always loved your name. I hope you’re proud of the person I gave it to.
#NativeTwitter. Wow, have you schooled me. And in particular @DeadDogLake, whose posts saved me from at least one really embarrassing misstep.
To Hank, my number one rope horse, who did not actually speed up the writing process at all when he elevated his game last summer and dragged me along for the ride, giving me the chance to live a few of my own moth-balled rodeo dreams. But we’ll give him credit for inspiration, okay?
And most of all David, Sharnai, Andrea, Amanda, Gigi, Paula, Maureen, Mary Jo, Kathleen, Suzanne, Sarah, Courtney, Leah, Stephanie, Rebecca, Dr. Harrer, Dr. Kaae, and all the awesome people in radiology, lab, and pharmacy—some of you have been there for me at the best and worst of times from clear back before my first book was published, and without you I literally wouldn’t be where I am today.
Also, please note: this story and these characters represent the experiences and opinions of these specific individuals, not any one tribe. I strived to be as accurate as possible concerning real life facts and events. If I failed, please know it wasn’t for lack of effort.