I'd like to thank the following individuals without whom this book would not have been possible: To Tom Duff—simply the best co-author—thanks for knowing when to let me drive, when to let me rant, and when to make sure we were both laughing. I'm ready to write another book any time, just say the word! To my friends and colleagues: Connie Whetstine, Joni Snyder, Josie Barbie, Pam McGhee, Diane Talley, Linda Hairfield, Scott Davis, Mark Willis, Tonie Ellerson, James Henderson, Bruce Batchelder, Jason Fortney, Russell Pociluyko, Joe Lichtenstein, Judi Hoover Born, Julia Whetstone, Amy Blumenfield, Kathy Brown, Susan Bulloch, Gabriella Davis, Kitty Elsmore, Eileen Fitzgerald, Maureen Leland, Kathleen McGivney, Mary Beth Raven, Jess Stratton, Francie Tanner, Steve Katz, Carolyn Bourdow, Nelda, and Buz Snyder—thank you for your encouragement and support. And finally to my family—my parents, sister and brothers: my thanks and love for always being there.

I always maintained I'd never write a technical book due to the time and effort it takes. Yet when Marie approached me with this opportunity, I felt as if most of the writing I've done over the years was leading exactly to this point in time. I can't think of anyone who would make a better co-author, as well as someone who would still be speaking to me when we finished. Thanks for pushing me out of my comfort zone, Marie. A special thanks to Libby Ingrassia, my first editor. Had you not taken a chance on my writing an article as an unknown author, my part of this book might not have happened. For Susan, Ian, and Cam, thanks for the care and feeding of the author. Now that the book is finished, I promise to get out of the basement more and to get my vitamin D levels back up to the minimum recommended level… really!