ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Thanks to Jay Schuster who gave me the encouragement to write this book, even though he doesn’t know he did it.

Thanks to Laura and Kristen who listen to my kooky ideas, and no thanks to Kristen for “tick tocking” me into doing this one.

Thanks to Berrett-Koehler for taking a chance with us, and a special thanks to Steve and Valerie. Writing this book has been an educational experience for me; I will never look at writing and publishing in the same way again.

Thanks to my wife, Gayle, and my boys, Michael and Derek, who have had to put up with my brutal travel schedule as well as most of my free time being spent on writing this book. You have been patient and supportive, mostly, and I appreciate it. And boys: you finally got your names in a book!

Thanks to my business partner, Patrick, and my coworkers, Lucy, Tom, and Dana. I know that you’re laughing at me, not with me.

And a special thanks to Kristen who has been my coach and mentor. This book wouldn’t exist if not for your help. Thanks for the ice chips.

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To the team at Berrett-Koehler Publishers for your belief in fun as important, for your willingness to be unconventional in the process of birthing this book, and in recognition of your talent. Thanks for being visionaries.

To my partner in crime, Dave, for pursuing an idea and making fun of me even in my most insane moments. Thanks for being a catalyst.

To Megan for believing in the book and bringing your spirit of fun into our lives. Thanks for being an architect.

To my mother and father for your unconditional love and support, which sustains my spirit for fun. Thanks for being risk takers with me.

To all those fun-loving individuals in workplaces across the nation who generously shared their ideas with us and now with you, the readers. Thanks for being fun.

The secret to having fun in life is to surround yourself with fun people. My love and appreciation to all of my friends, family, and colleagues who make fun with and of me, keeping my life filled with laughter and joy, and particularly to Preston for his steadfast friendship. Thank you for being my teachers, for helping me learn how to lighten up! Why carry a heavy load through life when it isn’t necessary?