Happy Birthday Melissa

Me and You — Danvers High School Senior Reception, June 2, 1998

Stories manifest themselves in the most incredible ways, and mine are no different. While the majority of The Harvest Series came about in a dream, there are facets, which have touched me personally. What writer doesn’t spill personal experiences onto the pages of their work ?

People who know me, often wonder if the story is my own. Not entirely. I know what it’s like to be afraid like Lexie, to walk on eggshells in your own home, and to be too afraid to tell anyone. However, my story is not Lexie’s story. But it was a story that needed to be told.

And more importantly, as I told Lexie’s story, what made it easier were her friends—cut from the same cloth as several of my dearest friends. Some of the important relationships in Lexie’s life, are a reflection of the relationships that I know helped me get where I am today.

Danvers High School Graduation, June 6, 1998

One of those friendships; relationships, was with my best friend Melissa and her beautiful family. Today Melissa would have been turning 34 years old, but instead she’s not here to celebrate. Therefore, I celebrate, as I always do, a life taken much too soon. And on Wednesday, when I light a candle, it will mark the 13th year she has been gone from my life. What still remains, after all these years, is the love I felt for her, the friendship we shared, and the utmost admiration for how easily she opened up to me when she found out “my secrets”.

And for her family, who are still a part of my life, my gratitude for their willingness to open their home to me, as they had done, so many times before, without ever knowing its significance.

As I write the final scenes to Angela (A Harvest Series Prequel) today, I will think of you and the friend you were to me Melissa. When I kiss my husband, play with my dogs, and carry on with my day…I will think of you and I will ponder, once more, about the person you might have become.

I dedicate Angela to you.

My Caitlin and my Angela…”Life has not been the same without you, and even though you are not here to share in this with me, the friendship we shared could never fade. Your love has always been my North Star. No matter how far I wander, or what obstacles have been placed at my feet, I know that you are always there, guiding my way.” excerpt from Harvest Moon Acknowledgments.

Melissa, the loss of someone like you is never easy. The weight of your absence never dissipates, I’ve simply learned to move forward… Because, you are and always will be, my best friend… and you are surely missed.