For Kiwi Dower,
Muse and friend.
Thank you for being the perfect problem solver.
The Valley Spirit never dies.
It is named the Mysterious Feminine.
And the doorway of the Mysterious Feminine
Is the base from which Heaven and Earth sprang.
It is there within us all the while.
Draw upon it as you will, it never runs dry…
From the Tao te Ching
Thank you, Meredith Bernstein, for being a wonderful agent. Your support and belief in me are priceless.
Christine Zika, you are a pleasure to work with. Your insight is invaluable; you truly are the Goddess Editor.
Thanks, Mom, for letting me borrow your maiden name.
Rachael Ryan, thank you for your enthusiasm, you're a great first reader.
And a special thank-you to the students in my second-hour Creative Writing II class for the helpful brain-storming. Hope you like your cameos!