Basically every last thing that happens in my life happens because of what you might call a “team effort.” Certainly, book writing is a major example of this phenomenon. Here is the team that put effort into this project . . .
Christopher Ferebee has championed me and this project, and I’m endlessly grateful for his representation, his wisdom, and his belief in me.
Andrea Doering is both a gifted editor and a stalwart supporter. Her keen eye and compassionate direction always make me better. I’m honored to be on her team.
Twila Bennett has invested in me personally and professionally. I’m grateful for her strategic ideas, her ongoing energy, and her willingness to take risks.
I don’t take too many steps in life without the companionship, rescue, and loud cheering of My Group. These brazen ladies are Debbie Cressey, Kate Kopp Jackson, Corrie Klekowski, Tatum Lehman, Wanida Maertz, Jamie Rettig, Tina Rose, Erica Ruse, and Joanna Wasmuth. #saved
Kara Jung mailed me a booklet of handwritten promises that have sustained and guided me at many junctures in this project.
I’m grateful for Melinda Miller; Eddy and Becky Miller; Bill and Joanie Tankersley; Lance and Laura Hatfield; Jackson and Lindsay Hatfield; Trey and Elyse Miller; Nathan, Lea, and Bennett Miller; Peter and Jacquline Tankersley; Fynn and Ollie Tankersley. Thank you for your love, care, help, support, jokes, stories, and investment in me and mine.
Elyse Miller provided exceptional editorial feedback in early (and late) drafts of this book. She was a translator and a truth-teller all along the way, and her input had a profound impact on the finished product.
Thank you for the talks on the back patio, Trey.
Thank you for your text, Laura.
The True Beauties at Revell always blow me away with their skill and style. They are Barb Barnes, Jean Bloom, and Brittany Miller.
Timely conversations with Krysta Henningsen and Jolynn Brown in the inception stages of Brazen were affirming.
Linsey Wildey walks with me through life in such a way that provides remarkable depth and connectedness. She is a stabilizing force and a spiritual companion, and I’m sure many of our conversations are woven into the fabric of this book.
Beth Slevcove will never know, on this earth anyway, how tenderly she has guided me back to myself and back to God. I don’t even really think she’s real, to tell you the truth.
Elaine Hamilton and I don’t spend all that much time away from each other. This has proved to deepen and clarify the concepts in this book. Additionally, her presence has grounded me, nourished me, lightened me, and entertained me endlessly. In fact, the entire Hamilton clan, including Mr. Ken, Katie, and Josh, have surrounded us with so many of life’s essentials: food, drink, laughter, and childcare. We are so lucky.
Luke, Lane, and Elle are the richest joys of my life. To know them, to love and to raise them is my greatest privilege and contribution to this world. They are so delicious.
I do not know a more brazen human being than my Stevie T. His perseverance, strength, intensity, humor, and clarity are endlessly intriguing to me. I am entirely grateful for the ways he clears the path so I can do this work.