Daisy Lane (39 page)

Acknowledgements

This book is about mothers: the ones who give birth to us, but also the people who show up right when we need them, and selflessly give of themselves in order to help us.

I have warm and cozy childhood memories of my Mamaw, Hattie, mother of nine and grandmother of twenty-five, who fed me hot, sweet tea and gingerbread while we watched her “stories” after school.

My mother, Betsy, has always taken great care of me, even when a younger, more reckless version of myself didn’t always appreciate her efforts. For the past several years we were partners in taking care of my father, and for the close friendship we developed as a result, I will always be grateful.

My father was a good person who took care of a lot of families in addition to his own.  He loved us, and he knew how much we all loved him.

I am thankful for my sisters Terry Hutchison and Kate McComas, niece Ella McComas, and their families, who cared deeply, generously, and all the way through until the end.

Terry Hutchison and Betsy Grandstaff were also my faithful first readers; Terry especially helped me with the ending of the book. Joan Turner and John Gillispie are good friends and ace proofreaders, and for their assistance I am deeply grateful.

Rose Hill Mysteries:

Rose Hill

Morning Glory Circle

Iris Avenue

Peony Street

Daisy Lane

For Children:

June Bug Days and Firefly Nights

Ella’s New Hat and Her Terrible Cat