The Dead of Winter (28 page)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The mistakes are all mine, and that's how it should be, but I owe a huge debt of gratitude to so many people for their help and encouragement along the way. Special thanks to the wonderful ladies of NDG, Shannon, Ayana and Karin, who have been reading and commenting on my work for years. I have learned a lot from great teachers like Ann Charney, Trevor Ferguson, Peter Dubé and Nadine Doolittle who gave me insights, tips, critiques and invaluable encouragement. To the poets, Rolf and Claire, and to the insightful Sarah who encouraged me to drink champagne more often, many thanks. To Alexia, Albert and Brandon, for their support and wise comments, and to Deborah and Julia for their help with the manuscript. To my brother Jim, whose wisdom and unflagging support has been a source of strength. All of you have helped me more than you can realise. Lori Schubert and Julia Kater at the Quebec Writers' Federation deserve thanks for their untiring work in providing a welcoming community for aspiring writers. I want to give a special thanks to Linda Leith for having the faith and courage to publish this book. Finally, and most of all, to Jess, whose constant and unwavering love, support and encouragement kept me believing in myself. It was always more than I deserved, and just what I needed.

My heartfelt thanks, to all of you.

Peter Kirby