I would like to thank my husband, Michael, for his unlimited love and support—of me and, in particular, of this book. Thanks for listening when I asked, pushing when I needed it, and shouldering all the parenting duties when I needed to take the day to write. I’ve thought from the beginning that God Himself planted you in my path, and you’ve proven my theory correct over and over again. I love you.
To Mom: Thanks for being my cheerleader and helping me believe I could do anything I set my mind to. I’ve never met a more selfless person, and I hope I am able to give my children as much love as you have shown me. You are the best.
To my agent, Kathy Green: This book would not have happened without you. Thank you for taking a chance on me and believing that I had something valuable to say. Your support has been a godsend.
To the folks at Globe Pequot Press, especially Kristen Mellitt, and, in particular, Lara Asher: I still don’t know how I got so lucky to have you on this book and in my life. Your contributions have made my story so much better, and your enthusiasm has meant the world to me. I thank you so very much.
To the folks at WRAL-TV and Capitol Broadcasting: Thank you for being such a wonderful work family.
To Deb Happel: Thank you for volunteering your editing services when I first started this book—your input was invaluable.
To Amanda Lamb: Thank you for laying out the blueprint for me, and for all the advice and support that went with it.
To David McCorkle: Thank you for being willing to help me, even when I didn’t know what it was I needed. You helped me find the way.
To Julia Milstead, Melissa Buscher, Mandy Brown, and Jennifer Christiansen: Thanks for being willing to listen when even I was sick of hearing it. Your friendship got me through.
I have the three best sisters-in-law in the world. Thank you to Carol Anne Fry for encouragement and expert photo-taking; Molly Joyner for always being willing to be my sounding board while I try to work things out; and Mandy King, for daring to pose the question that made me take action. It quite simply saved my life.
And to all my family: Thank you for allowing me to share my story and your parts in it. I love you all.