“Thank you,” is too ordinary.

“I’m grateful,” is too small… Words are inadequate to express how much I appreciate the love and support I received yesterday at the launch of The Clay Girl. You are all spectacular and I am so blessed.

I am simply overwhelmed by the kindness of my family and friends. It’s impossible to thank everyone, (because some of you didn’t sign the book and I admit being to in a Dayquil induced stupor much of the afternoon). However, I am going to give it my best. Now, go grab a glass of your favourite beverage because this is going to take a while. In no particular order:

Thank you Blue Heron Books, Shelley, Rebecca and Nate for opening your doors for the launch. Your store is a treasure in Durham and your support of artists is a gift to our community.

Thank you Michael, David and Susannah from ECW and Hilary for believing in me and celebrating with me.

To Lori M., the creative force behind Jasper’s party, you defy words. The cookies, cupcakes and decorations were spectacular. And Janet, Lori P., Pam, Karen and Cathy, thank you for adding to the delicious spread. I know this thank you is echoed by everyone who attended.

To the Writers’ Community of Durham Region, especially my WIP group, past and present, where would my writing be without all of you? Barb, Karen, Jenny, Heather, Dawn, Kevin, Patrick, Anne, Sherry, Sylvia, Sandra… and anyone I missed, thank you for your support and encouragement.

To my wonderful work friends. Oh, the stories, laughter and joy you have brought to my life. Mary-Sue, Linda L. & Ted, Lynne R., Lynn R., Peggy, Fran, Juanita, Jacquie, Alicia, Erika, Cathy B., Cathy F., Cathy H. & Brad, Karen, Judy, Pam, Janet P., Janet V, Laurie, Lori P., Lori M., Olga, Dorothy, Christina, Stephanie & Mark, Keith, Stephen, Adrienne, Claire, Mary, Catherine, Sandy, Shawn (and all those who forgot to sign and I failed to mention) I appreciate your sharing in my life yesterday and through the years.

Thank you to old friends, Keith and Cathy, Charlene and Becky, Teri and Amanda, Betty, Courtney, Davis and Sandy, Cheryl and Erika (the other ET)… your presence meant so much to me.

And to new friends, Steve, many Karens, Michelle, Joan, Kale, Lisa, Michael… and so many others thank you for joining the celebration.

And to my precious family, I am so blessed by each one of you: my sister Sue, the Jasper in my life, the voice in my head that tells me “I’m clay not dirt,” & John, Shauna, Danica & JJ., Andrea & Frances, Christine, Dan, Huxley & Cordelia, Linda, Judy, Dan & Leanne, John & Gail, Celeste, Marku, Ryder, Easton & Willow, Selena & Audrey, John & Helen, Laura and Brad… my inspirational children, Sarah, Mike, Ben, Mary, Elisabeth, Gemma, Jyn and my partner Brian, thank you for all the love and support.

Thank you everyone for the kind words, flowers, gifts, wine, champagne, cards… Writers are often told to write what they know. You just had to look around the room yesterday to see where the inspiration for the heroes in The Clay Girl came from. You are spectacular works of art.

Two ‘charming’ gifts, Jasper from my sister Sue and The Clay Girl from friends, Pam, Lori & Janet.

Ladies, I said I needed a large-print edition. I love them!

I have so many wonderful friends!

Judy’s collage of the launch.

If your name is missing from the book please let me know you were here.