As I sit down to write this page of thank-yous, I’ve just sent off the final proofs for The Joy of Falling. I am nearly in tears thinking about how much emotion, time, and energy I’ve put into this story.
But it’s not just me who has worked hard on it or had an influence on what it has become. I’m so grateful for all of the wonderful people who have stuck by me and helped to give this little story its wings.
Thanks first to my readers. All of you are the reason I write. If even one of you feels hope after reading my stories, then my work has been totally and completely worth it.
Joanne Nicholls: Thanks for participating in the contest to name Simon King. It was so fun creating a character with your name!
Lisa Davis: Your insight into grief and the counseling process were so incredibly helpful. Thank you for pouring into other people and giving hope to those who need it most (including ME).
Ruth Douthitt: Besides being an amazing friend, you are such an inspiring person. Thanks for sharing your running expertise with me.
Kara Isaac: You totally rock for reading an early draft of this book and helping me make the New Zealand and running information as authentic as possible. You saved me from many a gaffe. Any mistakes are totally mine.
My Panera Ladies (Tina, Sara, Liz, Ruth, and Jen): Where would I be without you?? Sometimes our writing nights are the only thing that keeps me sane in an industry that can feel very lonely. Your encouragement means the world!
GLAM Girls (Melissa, Gabe, Alena): Thanks for talking me off cliffs and brainstorming with me and encouraging me and all the things you do exactly when I need them most. Love you ladies with all my heart.
Liz Johnson: For all of those Elevate-and-Panera writing dates, movies, texts, emails, and hugs, thank you. You’re an answer to my prayers too.
Rachelle Gardner: So glad we get to do this together. Thank you for your consistently amazing advice and support of my work.
Kimberly Carlton: It was so wonderful getting to meet you in person at long last. Our visit confirmed what I already knew to be true: you are AWESOME! This book wouldn’t be what it is without your insightful questions and gentle prodding. Thanks so much.
My team at HCCP Fiction (Kerri, Paul, Allison, Amanda, Becky, Matt, Laura, and Kristen): What a privilege it is to work with you all. I’m grateful every day that I am so blessed.
My family, especially Dad, Kristin, and Nancy: I literally couldn’t do this without you. The way you love me and my kiddos gives me the time and ability to spill my stories onto a page, and I’m so thankful.
My boys: I am so proud to watch the young men you’re growing into and the way you love others and God. Being your mommy is my best job!
Mike: You are a steady rock I can lean on, and you always have my back. I love you and this crazy life we share.
And God: The fact you can take the greatest grief of my life and turn it into this is still so incredible to me. Thank you for allowing me to share the joy you’ve brought into my life despite the pain I’ve experienced. You gave me the words when I had none that were adequate. Please use them to deliver hope to those who need it.