Professional SQL Server™ 2005 Programming

Acknowledgments

Nearly six years have gone by since I finished my first book on SQL Server, and my how life has changed. It's been only a few months since I completed the new Beginning SQL Server 2005 Programming title that is something of a companion to this book, yet there remain quite a few people to thank in that time (and before for that matter).

I'll start with my kids, who somehow continue to be just wonderful even in the face of dad stressing out over this and that. It's nice to be able to tell my youngest that I'm finally "done with that book" that she has asked me the "when?" question about for over a year now (I'm not sure she has completely gotten the idea that there have been two this time around). She has been tremendously patient with me all during the development of this as well as the Beginning book. I think I'll miss that occasional time that she would come in and just sit and watch me write just to be with me. Having just watched my eldest graduate high school, I wonder where the years have gone. The "thank you's" definitely need to begin with those two.

You—the readers. You've written me mail and told me how I helped you out in some way. That was and continues to be the number one reason I find to strength to write another book. The continued support of my Professional series titles has been amazing. We struck a chord—I'm glad. Here's to hoping we help make your SQL Server experience a little less frustrating and a lot more successful.

I also want to pay special ...