AcknowledgmentsSeveral years ago, I got this crazy idea to write a book that would teach ordinary people about their legal rights and responsibilities. It didn’t take long to realize that doing so was a pretty tall order. I wanted our legal education project to be full of practical information, so I leaned heavily on the expertise of regular lawyers who spend their time helping everyday people solve their legal problems. I am deeply grateful to Jane Fantel, Mark Mestel, Molly Kenny, Randy Bernard, and Laura Hawes for their legal expertise.

I also appreciate Kristina Pfeil, human resources director extraordinaire, for her insight and editorial comments, and Robyn Dannenhold, who got this project off the ground by adding such an amazing educational perspective.

During this process, I quickly learned that you can’t produce a book without a red hot book production team. Thanks to Ceci Miller and the folks at Ceci Books, with a special shout out to Gretchen Russell and Helen Folsom.

I am also grateful to the best web designer anywhere, Adam Wilner at Earthrise Multimedia, and the designer who brought it all home—Mitchell Albala at StudioPerspectives.

It’s all about body, mind and spirit: Thanks Kevin Gilfillan, Titus Kahoutek, and Rev. Charles Hall!

“Civil Survival.” It has a nice ring to it. Thanks to Wayne Hunter for brainstorming with me.

These are special books with a special audience. I can’t thank Elizabeth Myhr and Laurie Thibert enough for tackling the extraordinary challenge of getting these books into the hands of those who need them the most. And thanks to Terry Coe for seeing what is possible.

Everyone with a big dream needs some amazing friends to hold their vision. I am so very grateful to Jerilyn Brusseau, Carla Marsh and Monica Cary.

Inspiration has come to me from some surprising places. Thanks Patricia, Nell, Pelliyea, Julia, Bridget, Laurabelle, Amanda, and Jenny. And of course, mom and dad.

Philip, Julia, and Madeleine, you are the most supportive and amazing family. I love you so much!