“Delia picked at the raw sores of her conscience...Drunk or sober, Delia lived in the small town in her heart, ignoring the world in which all her love had turned to grief.”

“I think,to add to the festive occasion, we ought to turn on the lights and siren." He turned to Delia. "What do you say?""Oh,heavens,no." She covered her mouth with her hand before giving it a second thought. "Sorry.That was the old Delia. The new Delia says yes.That would be so exciting."Beside her,Marilee said sternly, "The old Marilee says you'll be breaking the law."Wyatt winked. "This old rebel says he doesn't care. A celebration requires some noise."The two exchanged a long look, then broke out into peals of laughter.As they sped along the open highway, lights flashing,siren blasting, Delia found herself laughing along with them in absolute delight. Despite all the heartache,and all the turmoil,she was sharing a ride with Coot's grandson, heading out to Coot's ranch for the first time in over fifty years,and having the time of her life.”

“I thought I heard Delia calling for help.Once I stepped inside,I was able to follow the sound of her voice.""Apparently you had some angels on your side,Delia.""Angels? More like demons,sending me flying like this.”

“I knew her well enough to understand that when Delia pushed you away, it was her way of making sure she didn't get shoved first.”

“which is completely out-of-line behavior. Then you are wholly within your rights to stomp on their foot." "No," Delia said, over her shoulder. "Actually, you're not. Just excuse yourself as politely as possible, and get out of arm's reach." Kristy looked at me, shaking her head. "Stomp them." she said, under her breath. "Really”

“Grief and love are conjoined, you don't get one without the other. All I can do is love her, and love the world, emulate her by living with daring and spirit and joy.”