All Pride, No Ego

Acknowledgments

There are so many people to thank and recognize for their incredible support of this project. Like most things in life, it takes a village of wise people, supporters, and challengers to complete a book project. I am grateful to you all, especially my early readers and feedback crew.

First, I have to recognize my families (birth, chosen, and work). All of you contributed to this book with your patience, encouragement, and belief.

The 4 Js—Janice, Jill, James F., and James D. (me!). You have been on this journey with me for almost 60 years, and I cannot believe how blessed I am to call you Mom, Sister, and Dad. I miss you, Dad, every day of my life and I feel your strength and support from above. I hope this makes you proud.

My chosen family, my lifelong friends, … you know what you mean to me, and I hope you feel your impact in these words and stories. You have been there for me through all of the ups and downs, and literally lifted me up physically and emotionally when I was at my lowest points. Now, you have given me access to your incredible children and their families, and I cherish my time with them. I love this next chapter of our lives we are opening and I cannot wait to see where we go and to spend precious time together.

To my queer posse, the amazing LGBTQ+ people in my life, thank you for loving me unconditionally and for making me dance with joy and abandon. I learned how to be proud from you. I learned how to love myself from you. I learned how to ...