This book is dedicated to Dorothy Hollister, a member of our fabulous Friday Morning Prayer Group. I mentioned to the group that I had a story to write, and all I knew was that it was Amish and involved a picnic. Dorothy asked if I’d ever heard of kudzu vine . . . and the story flowed from there. Thank you for the help, Dorothy. I’m so glad you’re a part of our group.
Thanks also to my pre-readers Kristy and Janet, without whom I have threatened to change careers. I need you both! You ladies are quick, thorough, and relentless in your edits. Thank you. Gratitude also to my agent Steve Laube, my editor Kimberly Carlton, and all the awesome folks at HarperCollins Christian Publishing.
Kudzu vine is prevalent throughout the southeastern United States and has been spotted as far north as Pulaski County, Illinois. Forgive my audacity for introducing it (even fictionally) to northern Indiana. It made for a fun story.
If you happen to be passing through northern Indiana, I encourage you to take a few hours to visit the Amish communities of Shipshewana, Goshen, and Middlebury—located just south of Interstate 90. They are truly a haven of rest in a very busy world.
And finally . . . “always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20).