My nieces, Emily Abeshouse and Sarah Abeshouse, for making me feel like I’m never missing out on kids because I’ve got them.
My sister, Maria Abeshouse and brother-in-law Adam Abeshouse, for always being there, in good times and in tan.
Sal Messina and Steve Hasley, who appear briefly in these pages but not briefly in my life, for their many, many, many years of friendship.
My aunt, Santa Gaines, for so generously and lovingly telling the story of my grandmother.
My neighbor from over fifty years ago, Carol Ann McCauley, for sharing her mother, Irene, with me. And for going with me to see Friday the 13th in 1980. I still appreciate it.
My agents Jay Sures and Albert Lee at UTA for being so terrific.
Tony Peyrot for his continued guidance and friendship.
The super-talented Alasdair McLellan for his photo of me for this book jacket.
At Audere Media, Aileen Boyle, and everyone at Holt: Maggie Richards, Catryn Silbersack, Hannah Campbell, Meryl Levavi, Allison Carney, Lori Kusatzky and, most of all, Amy Einhorn for everything.
James Melia, my brilliant editor and friend, for being the best, most wonderful reader a fella could have.
Mom and Dad for always wanting more for me.
And Brad for being more.