Ode to Beta Readers

Call them pre-readers, beta-readers, sounding-boards, part-time muses, angels, life-savers, whatever you like, today I am doing an ode to beta readers:   When the first draft is done,
The work's just begun. A read-through or two,
Won't find errors for you. A fresh set of eyes will see;
"This doesn't make any sense to me." "Witty comeback," or "Cringe-worthy phrases,"
Someone to read over two hundred pages. "This story is great," or "Ooh, try again,"
Someone who has a snazzy red pen.
A supportive ear for when fears strike,
Someone to push when you just want to pike.A sounding board for new ideas, Someone to wipe your virtual tears.
An angel committed even when, The time has come for read-through ten.
A person on whom you can depend,A reader first, but later . . . a friend.

On a more serious note: I love my pre-reader, Jen. She is there when I am having my moments of insecurity and often knows my characters better than I do (or at least she isn't as willing to try to bend their wills to her own needs -- although there have been conversations about one of my characters, Ethan . . . ) Even though we have continents and many thousands of miles between us, I often find talking with her helps to clarify things in my own mind. She also let's me know when my Aussie is showing (seriously, fortnight is such a handy word, I think the US should catch up ;) ) 

So to the giver of commas and grammar advise, the unpaid therapist, and the wonderful person who I consider a dear friend, I say: THANK YOU