Thanks to Brian Basler, who helped with some Cape inspiration. And thanks to the Red Cottage, Jack’s Outback, and Grumpy’s, which all helped inspire Saucepan Lynn’s.

Big thanks to the children and teachers of Biddeford Intermediate School in Maine who inspired me to continue writing this book. You are creative, smart, special, and appreciated.

And now for my “DNA family” . . .

My mum passed away in 2004 and I think of her every day. When we lose our moms, we are never the same. But things were never easy with us. She had battles that I didn’t understand as a kid. But I fiercely loved her. I wish we could sit down over tea and talk about the things that have happened—including the Red Sox winning the World Series! Some of the things that I am most proud of exist because I am Rere’s daughter.

I’m blessed to have as siblings Karen, Ricky, Johnny, and Michael. And I am blessed many times over in all of my spectacular nieces and nephews—and now their spectacular children as well. (Hi, Emma, Alex, Zachary, Alora, and Maya!) Much, much love to each of you.

Much love to Mum’s cherished ones—the Smith, Martin, Steeves, Gilligan, and Pomeroy families.

And for my in-laws, John and Carol Hunt: I met you when I was fifteen years old and you took me in and cared for me. After thirty-five-plus years you still do. I am so grateful to have married into your family. And thanks for giving me the very best gift I have ever had: your son.

Greg: When I wrote about Papa Joseph and his strong shoulders, I was writing about you. You are loyal and kind. You stand strong for your family. We all know that we can depend on you no matter what. The millions of sweet day-to-day things that you do for each of us are never lost on me. I’ve done some great things in my life thus far, but none better than marrying you.

Kim and Kyle: There isn’t anyone on earth who I look forward to seeing more or who makes me laugh the way the two of you do. I treasure the memories of raising you and marvel at the adults that you have become—your caring and intellect, your work ethics and senses of humor, your curiosity and drive to leave your own positive marks on the world all make me proud. And thanks, Kim, for bringing Dave into our family; he is extraordinary. Love you all infinity times around Pluto. Again.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynda Mullaly Hunt is the author of New York Times bestseller Fish in a Tree and Bank Street Best Book One for the Murphys. She's a former teacher, and holds writers retreats for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two children, impetuous beagle, and beagle-loathing cat.