PrefaceI had long thought of being a writer, especially, when as a child, my parents gave my siblings and me a desk for Christmas. And then, the following year, a typewriter. I envisioned sitting at the desk, putting my thoughts to paper, and then, stitching them into a book. However, at the tender age of ten or so, I could not type. My fingers were slower than my ability to regale my siblings with my tall tales, complete with detailed descriptions of the characters. Somewhere, between those early years and a more recent major surgery, I let that dream slip away. However, while recovering, I signed up to take a writing class.You might wonder how it was that I was able to write, in 2015, Looking for Rainbows. Poetry, Prose and Art; in 2017, Dark Side of the Moon, and in 2018, No Illusions. Through the Looking Glass. I sometimes wonder myself.We all know that tomorrow’s intentions may never be given a chance to breathe. Especially, when serious health issues intervene, which was the case for each of my three books. However, when one is doing that which one loves, as I was in writing, persistence, desire, discipline, and, with the much-appreciated support of my husband, who was working full-time, I overcame the obstacles that might have otherwise overwhelmed me.Both in the cover art, Mother and Child as well as with No Illusions. Through the Looking Glass, I share with you my heart, and the gifts with which I have been blessed.Jackie Davis AllenSpringfield, Virginia