With undying gratitude to:
Erin Almond for her wise and generous feedback, and her partnership in the hard work of love.
My parents for doing that same work in raising me and my brothers.
William Giraldi for his singular mind and faithful counsel.
My own extended family of friends (Cheryl Strayed, Tom DeMarchi, Clay Martin, David Blair, Camille Dungy, Victor Cruz, Zach Leber, Pat Flood, Sean Thomas, Keith Morris, Paul Salopek) for hearing me out.
Curtis Smith for suggesting I write this book, and the folks at Ig for agreeing to publish it.
John Williams for giving the world Stoner.
All the members of the Cult of Stoner.
My three children for being exactly who they are.