I am the type of person who "tells it like it is". But I am also a real "softie" and can be misled by miguided sentimentality. I dedicated "Fill My Eyes" incorrectly. I would like to right that wrong. Several of the people I dedicated this novel to, are valid.
To my mother, who always believed in my creative abilities when I did not. I remember her excitement the first time I published a small cover story article. She never gave up on me.
To my dad, well--I was not writing during the last two years I had with him before his death. We never discussed this aspect of my life. But I was a "daddy's boy" and I adored this gentle giant. My Nephew saved this book twice from cyberspace oblivion. My old PC crashed then got hacked. Without his help and expertise, the book would have been lost.
One would assume when you in the writing and publication process, it is those closest to you who cheer the loudest. Nothing could be farther from the truth. My remaining family offered congratulations or mild curiosity and nothing more. I think my stepfather's interest was really in the form of "picking my brain" to ensure I had not written a "dirty" book. I can't be sure, but I wonder.
Last November, a woman contacted me. I am a highly ranked reviewer on several websites and an authority on Connie Francis. She had inherited a large record collection and needed help. A friend had died and she wanted to make some money to help his widow. She knew nothing of market value, pricing, age. etc. We finished the project after Christmas. I submitted "Fill My Eyes" in January. During the nine month publishing process, there were times I was completely overwhelmed by rewrites, arguments with the publisher and discouraged and ready to throw in the towel. My friend with her enthusiasm and encouragement never allowed me to fall into self-pity. She pushed and became the mother whose faith I needed to finish this project.
Although the book reads differently. Here is the official dedication:
To mom and dad for their love. God breathed life and chose them. He gave me the best parents one could hope for. I only wish they were alive to see this book come full circle. I love you. You will always remain in my heart and every breath I take.
To Kelly Feragen, my nephew. Without your computer knowledge, this book would not be published today.
And last but not least--to "Linda Torrence" with love and gratitude. Thank you for being there for me.
The rededication will never be seen on the book since it is already in print. But I wanted to set the record straight and let folks know of the real powers behind "Fill My Eyes".
