I originally hand wrote this book in the mid to late 90s, but had never published it. It is a prequel to my book I Am Here: My Faith Journey as a Survivor, published May 2022. The prequel spans my courtship, nine year marriage that was emotionally abusive, and my divorce after having two children. It was after the divorce that I survived a woman's worst nightmare—I was raped at gunpoint.

My faith was strengthened as I experienced the criminal justice system first hand. I believe this book can help others see that God's plan is always the best for us, and that his grace is sufficient in all things. My hope for you is that you can experience what the New Living Translation Bible says in Psalm 34:8: "Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!"

I am a woman of faith that listens carefully to the voice in my heart. I have written and published two books now that the Lord has inspired in me. I have relied on my faith throughout my life, and it has guided me through many trials—divorce, miscarriages, rape, the criminal justice system, and surviving Covid—even though I was not expected to live. I have been happily retired living the quiet country life with my husband for the past five years after teaching for 40 years. I am keeping up with my nine grandchildren ranging in age from four months to 16 years old. I enjoy two stepping with my husband, and we will be taking up square dancing in 2023. I enjoy hosting family gatherings at my home, reading books for book club, working out at the gym, and enjoying life to the fullest.