Descendant (40 page)

Thanks to my brothers and sisters, who are always there when it matters most, and who will shove me from behind when I start to lose momentum. To my parents, Joe and Pam Petersen and Steve and Deanne Hechtle, for teaching me that families are as much about love as about blood, and for raising me to believe in our power of choice. Thanks to my grandparents, Ernie and Mona Ketchum and Mel and Jeneal Petersen, who was the inspiration behind Gram. Special thanks to Kay and Carol Giles, for accepting, teaching, and loving me as their own. And to my extended family, just for being awesome.

The steps have been long and the road treacherous. I wouldn’t be where I am without the influence of countless other important people. If you are one of those I was unable to name, I remember, I love you, and I thank you for being part of my journey. This, my friends, is only the beginning.