*** My dear friends Nick and Nicky, who prove that soul mates really do find eachother and end up together despite the odds and obstacles. You inspired me to never give up on love, and I love you both for that. *** My dear friend Jen, we grew up together and you never let anything hold you back or pass you by. Your zest for life is intoxicating, and I love you for pulling me out of my shell and taking me along for the ride. *** My hero Steve Irwin, who loved the animals and loved conservation; he died trying to protect it. The world will miss you, but your mission will go on and you will not be forgotten. I'm no longer afraid of snakes and crocodiles because of you, and I'm just one of many that your spirit touched. *** Harry Hessian, a Marine who served three tours in Iraq and will never be the same, and a long list of every veteran who was willing to go to war or simply join the military and was ready to die for my rights. Fred Spina, Rev Ed Loomis, Samuel McCoy, Salvatore Spina, Nick Carreno, Arthur Hill, Robert Biron, Walter Cox, Bud Butler, my father, and the list goes on. You are all unsung super heroes, I don't have the words to express the gratitude I feel for you. (And on a side note, I wish those who went AWOL or were Deserters during war time were still lined up and shot. I guess that's what separates the boys from the men.) *** My husband, Michael McDowell, who gave me the greatest gift of all: my daughter, and by having a daughter the opportunity to experience motherhood. *** And last but not least, Superman, who kept the world safe for a little girl surrounded by abuse and neglect. You may be fictional, but you still know what you did, and I wouldn't be here without my childhood hero who let me know tomorrow would come.