Acknowledgments

This book would not have been possible without the love, support, and devotion of my wife, Carrie. I also couldn't have completed it without the enormous help I received from my family, my friends, the great staff at O'Reilly, the contributors, and the entire online community. I would like to thank every-one (offline and online) who has helped me along the way…but room doesn't permit it.

To my wife, Carrie: you have filled my life with everything that was missing. Without you I could never be the person I want to be. You are my best friend, my playmate, my confidant, and my partner for life. Words cannot express my adoration for you. Every day I am with you, I love you even more. All of my days.

To my son, Avery: since the day you were born, I've loved you. You are the most precious gift I have ever been given and you fill my days with inexplicable happiness. Your smile lights up my life and your laughter feeds my soul.

To my mom: thank you for everything you've done for me. You've supported every decision I've ever made in life (well, other than majoring in Philosophy) and I couldn't ask for anything more. Yet, you do more than I could ever ask. I love you.

To my dad: you are an inspiration to me, even though you don't know it. Although the miles and days separate us, you are with me constantly. I love you.

To Dave: thank you for your support, guidance, and help as I've become an adult. I am honored to say you are a part of my family.

To my family: thank you for your help and tremendous support throughout my life.

To Susan Nessanbaum-Goldberg: you've helped guide my career and always made yourself available when I've had questions. Who knows where I'd be had you not opened the door? Thank you.

To Michael Fitzsimmons, wherever you are: you noticed my knack for computers and provided me the opportunity to know post-production. Thank you for the education.

To Ted Steinberg: you are an inspiration, a role model, and a friend. Thank you for being who you are.

To the staff at Evolution Film and Tape: thank you for letting me take a little time to myself and concentrate on my family. Specifically, thank you Doug, Greg, Dean, and Kathleen for creating and running such a wonderful company. It is a model that others in the industry should follow.

To Gene Sullivan: thanks for looking over my shoulder and keeping my hacks technically sound. Your feedback and knowledge were invaluable.

To Derrick Story: thank you for passing along my name to your colleagues. Without your confidence, I would have never had this opportunity. Oh, and thanks for the mass of contributions, too.

To Brian Sawyer: we've spoken on the phone, emailed almost daily, and experienced our children's first illnesses together…not to mention created this book. Thank you for your guidance. It's been a learning experience for me, and you made it painless.

With the publication of this book, I have fulfilled a promise made to my grand-father during his last years with us. Hopefully, there will be more to come…