A hand touches my shoulder, squeezes gently. I look up, smile. It’s Tate from the pictures. My husband. He hands me a note card. “Maree likes for you to wake her up every morning.” The handwriting on the card is even but slightly messy in that familiar kid kind of way. Hi Mom, please wake me up. This is Maree your daughter I love you. I stand in front of a closed bedroom door, with the card pressed against my chest, and I smile and breathe in this new life of mine.

I knock and, with my heart in my throat, push open the door.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

A few years ago, I watched a documentary on the town of Whittier, and I was struck not by the remoteness of its location, or the harsh weather, or the oddness of a town under one roof, but by a comment from a community member: “We don’t always love each other, we don’t always get along, but when something awful happens, everyone is going to be there to help you.” I thought that was such a poignant reminder that beauty and kindness are found everywhere, even and especially in unlikely places and people.

I couldn’t wait to set a story in a town like Whittier.

But this story of love and loss, addiction and recovery, failure and forgiveness would not have happened without the insight of the many people who took the time to speak with me, answer my questions, or be my own personal tour guide. And it is to them and to so many others who are integral parts of the book-writing process that I want to extend my sincere thanks.

To the people of Whittier, especially Anna and Dave, who opened their home, invited me to meals and morning hikes, and made sure I was introduced to everything Whittier, including a late night at the Anchor. Thanks to Theresa for being the first to welcome me to town before I drove through the tunnel for my first time, and Victor, Millie, Becca, and Mathias for your willingness to share your experiences. And thank you to Beverly for singing my favorite song, and to June for a lovely stay at your bed-and-breakfast, where I was treated to stunning views. I tried to maintain as much accuracy as I could in regard to location, weather, environment, and historical data regarding Whittier, but I have taken artistic license in creating a select few fictional locations. I hope you all enjoy the view of Whittier through the eyes of my characters and the lens of this story.