S. E. DUNN

Writing The Secrets You Don’t Write In a Diary has been a labor of love and resilience, and I owe its completion to the incredible people who supported and cheered me on every step of the way.

To my children: Camille, mom to my beautiful twin granddaughters, Maylani and Morlynn, and owner of Cameals Cuisine in Loganville, GA—you’ve inspired me with your strength, drive, and unwavering encouragement, even when exhaustion tried to steal my spark. To Ronnie, my dedicated son and your head chef, your determination fuels our family’s legacy. And to my youngest son, Anthony, my protector, thank you for your steadfast love and support that grounds me daily.

I’m grateful to Morgan for keeping my locs looking flawless, and Elisha for her artistry in slaying my makeup. David, your headshots captured the essence of this journey—thank you for making me feel seen.

To my mom, brothers, sisters, especially my sister Sophia and my dear friends Dana, Stacie, Jackie, Decton, Bill, Wayne, Dr. Jacobs, Jerbrina, Aj, and the real food stalker Justin Brown, Karen, Andre and Pinkie, to name a few, your kindness, support and encouragement were the wind beneath my wings. My Fb, Ig, Tic toc, auto industry family and friends, and to the entire staff and customers of Cameals Cuisine—you’ve been an unexpected but cherished part of this dream.

Aplomo Tequila for letting me be their ambassador.

This novel is a reflection of the values instilled in me through love, perseverance, and community. To all of you who believed in me, this is not just my story—it is ours. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thanks, God, for the journey. Believe in yourself.

" It's a great day to be alive."