From the author: This collection is gathered and compiled from my head, desk, and computer. Some written recently when I decided to publish this book. Some written long ago and almost forgotten. It is surprising how story ideas stayed in my head so I could again use characters from novels written years ago. Suprising how many fractured works were in my files ready to be rewritten, edited, and bound. I have retrieved and published them so they would not be overlooked and lost someday when my office is cleaned out. I have a personal connection to every story, sequel, poem, and recipe contained in this book. Each one is close to my heart in some way. Each is an important part of my body of work. Close to Home is for my family, my family of friends, and my family of readers. It is a book for quiet times and quick diversions. Each piece stands alone. I hope you cannot decide which is your favorite-maybe it will be the next one you choose. It is my hope that you will know Faye Green, Author, better after reading Close to Home .