Monique

Every writer, whether financially successful or not, needs a partner who offers the freedom to truly be a writer. This means navigating our quirks and foibles without fleeing into the sunset, and standing by our side through all the struggles, ups, and downs that come with this path.

Monique and I have been together for over thirty years. We’ve faced loss, celebrated triumphs, and endured more than our fair share of life’s ups and downs. Through it all, she has always been there for me. I’d like to think I do the same for her. When I was laid off, she was the one—without hesitation—who said, “Forget about finding work. Just focus on your writing.” She knew I had always struggled to find the time and space to write, to truly dive deep into what I wanted to say.

But here’s the real gift: she has made me a far better person than I could have ever been on my own. This isn’t just something I feel—it’s something I know with absolute certainty. I know the road I would have traveled without her, and it’s not one I’d want to imagine. For that, and for so much more, I am profoundly thankful.

I love you more than anything, Peep. Thank you for always being there.
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Learning how to bake pastel de nata in Portugal

Quick with a laugh and smile - she's a frickin' rockstar

Always with that laugh, this girl. I love it.