ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

It is hard to stay positive when things don’t seem to be going your way. You don’t have to tell me. All I’ve wanted to do since I was in the 7th grade was write for film and television. I’m many years from those days, and I still have not had my heart’s desire realized. I am so close, and I hope it works out as I am daily trying to making my dream a reality. However, I get frustrated when doors don’t open. When people who can, don’t help. When it seems like it will never work out. Shoot, life gets tough.

Nonetheless, I have learned to be thankful for what I have. In the midst of writing this first book in the Cheer Drama series, I was blessed to get another deal for another series. I also received a contract to be the co-editor of a new bible. Even though I don’t have a deal yet, one of my scripts is in the hands of a major studio. I know those great opportunities only came my way because I stayed upbeat. Point to you, reader, don’t waste time whining. Forge ahead and before you know it, all will work out the way it is supposed to.

Here is a big thank you to the ones who are helping me stay pumped up and productive.

For my parents, Dr. Franklin and Shirley Perry Sr., thanks for your support that is always there. For my publisher, especially Tim McHugh, thanks for your enthusiasm for my work and for the opportunity to be a part of your great team.

For my extended family: brother, Dennis Perry, godmother, Majorie Kimbrough, mother-in-law, Ann Redding, brother-in-Christ, Jay Spencer, and goddaughter, Danielle Lynn, thanks for cheering me on.

For my assistants: Alyxandra Pinkston and Joy Spencer, thanks ladies for being fired up with me to get this novel done.

For my friends who are dear to my heart: Lakeba Williams, Leslie Perry, Sarah Lundy, Jenell Clark, Nicole Smith, Jackie Dixon, Torian Colon, Loni Perriman, Kim Forest, Vickie Davis, Kim Monroe, Jamell Meeks, Michele Jenkins, Lois Barney, Veronica Evans, Laurie Weaver, Taiwanna Brown-Bolds, Matosha Glover, Yolanda Rodgers-Howsie, Dayna Fleming, Denise Gilmore, and Deborah Bradley, thanks for being fired up to be my girls.

For my teens: Dustyn, Sydni, and Sheldyn, thanks for giving me a reason to root hard and love unconditionally.

For my husband, Derrick, thanks for always being in my corner and helping me do this.

For my new readers, thanks for trying this book and reading.

And for my Savior, thanks for ordering my steps in the direction that led me to opportunity where I can partner with Saddleback and help others obtain a passion for reading.