If I were to thank all of the friendly folks who have been following My Vegan Journal over the past few years, the names alone would fill more pages than there are in this book. I trust you know who you are, and I thank all of you for making me excited to roll out of bed and turn on my computer each morning. Chatting with you about health, the environment, and animals has provided me with more inspiration and joy than you’ll ever know. And best of all: You give me hope.
Bushels of gratitude to my literary agent, Steve Troha, for sending me an e-mail in 2014, with the simple subject line: “Literary Agent.” It provided a writer’s fairy-tale moment that will nestle in my heart forever. Without Steve, this book wouldn’t exist. And to literary agent, Dado Derviskadic, who, along with Steve, gave me tremendous guidance and a foolproof road map to successfully wade through the lengthy process of transforming an idea in the mind into a proposal in hand. They are so darn helpful and smart.
Much appreciation to my fabulous editor and steadfast cheerleader, Michael Flamini at St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan, who indulged me with an abundance of freedom to express myself without reserve. Michael even tried out new vegan cuisine along the way. Made me so happy! Here’s to making every meal “a small celebration!” And I’m grateful for associate editor Vicki Lame, too, who made sure everything moved along just as it should. And thank you to the writing world’s unsung heroes who work behind the scenes in the marketing, publicity, design, and production departments: Leah Stewart, Annie Hulkower, Crystal Ben, Donna Sinsgalli Noetzel, Eric C. Meyer, Eric Gladstone, Jessica Preeg, and Brant Janeway.
Thank you to my incredibly enthusiastic friends and family, and especially to my best friend, Becky Carroll, who just happens to be the best wife, nurse, and mother, too. I met Becky while she was working at my veterinarian’s office decades ago, and she’s been a pillar of strength and inspiration ever since.
A heartfelt thanks to Dan Matthews, Bruce Friedrich, Heather Moore, Rebecca Amis, Jeff King, Alka Chandra, Lisa Lange, Kathy Guillermo, Gene Baur, Miyoko Schinner, Jasmin Singer, Joyce Tischler, Nicole Pallotta, Beth Krauss, Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart, Ellie Laks, Kim Sturla, Sid Garza-Hillman, Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. Mehmet and Lisa Oz, Moby, and Pamela Anderson for their kind help in so many ways.
Hugs and kisses to my supportive husband, Brandon, who not only went vegan after we were wed, but supplied me with plenty of coffee and sweets to keep me awake into the night while writing. I’m pretty sure I owe him a few back and foot rubs—and a double serving of Sunday crepes.
And last, my heart overflows with appreciation for the tireless efforts of advocates across the globe who could easily use their skills and smarts to live a quiet life in luxury, yet choose instead to spend their days in the trenches fighting the good fight for animals and people. And to the photographers who document with their own eyes what most of us can barely stomach to read. May your brilliant minds and hearts of gold continue to spread comfort, wellness, and justice throughout the world.