This book was a long time in the making, which means I am grateful to a whole lot of people who helped all along the way.
Chad Allen—I wouldn’t be anywhere close to this point in my journey as an author if it wasn’t for you. Thank you for always being in my corner.
To Michelle Rapkin—I knew we were a good fit from our first telephone conversation (and the fact that you are two “l’s” too). Thank you for your insightful editing and for all you did to help make this book shine.
To the Baker Books editorial and marketing teams—Rebecca Guzman, Jessica English, Julie Davis, Mark Rice, Erin Smith, Abby Van Wormer, Brianne Dekker, and Patti Brinks. Thank you for your pursuit of excellence. Your creativity, talent, and input made all the difference.
To my agent, Rachelle Gardner—you gently prodded me to work and rework the proposal for this book again and again. Thank you for your perseverance, for your refusal to submit something that’s “good enough,” for your astute insights, and for your uncanny ability to know what’s working and what’s not. I am so grateful for you!
To my Tuscany Writers Retreat fellow sojourners, especially Jenni Burke and Jamin Goggin—thank you for receiving my brokenness with compassion and love. Thank you for being a window into God’s presence when I couldn’t see.
To my blog and Back Patio newsletter readers and subscribers—we’ve been together for the long haul, and I couldn’t be more grateful for your support and encouragement. Thank you especially for your uplifting comments and emails when I hit the writing wall with this book. Your encouragement helped me keep my fingers on the keyboard.
To the #LNK Blog Love Writers—first of all, where in the world did we get that wonky name? Seriously, though, you ladies are the best! I so look forward to our monthly meet-ups—it’s so good to gather with a group of like-minded writers who “get it.” Thanks, too, for teaching this Latest Adopter Ever how to Insta-story!
To Lynn Morrissey—thank you for sharing a bit of your story with me and for helping me grapple my way through the “Twine and Splint” chapter. Mostly, though, thank you for being you—one of the most encouraging, supportive people I’ve ever had the delight to know.
To Deidra Riggs—thank you for being my person in more ways than I can count.
To my parents, Maureen and Brad DeRusha—for always reminding me that I am loved.
To Brad, Noah, and Rowan—I know I always say Josie is my favorite, but we all know that’s not true. You are my favorites by a million miles, and I love you more than words can convey.