Jodi Helmer - Moon Charlotte

Writing this book challenged me in ways that I didnt expect. During the months I spent writing, I learned a lot about Charlotte and picked up important lessons about organization, passion, persistence, fatigue, and computer tech support. I learned that while there might be just one name on the cover of the book, I did not write it alone. At times, it took an entire team to help me research, photograph, and write each word, and another team to keep me fed, motivated, and sane during late nights in front of the computer. To each person who took the time to call, email, or provide assistance, I offer thanks.

To the team at Avalon TravelErin Raber, Tabitha Lahr, Albert Angulo, and Jehan Seirafithanks for taking the time to explain headings and decipher the colorful map lines while keeping a sense of humor with a newbie guidebook author. I also want to offer thanks to Amy Reith in Charlotte, Leah Mitcham in Mooresville, Connie Nelson in Wilmington, Stephan Dragisic in Winston-Salem, and Tracy Brown and Amanda Lugenbell in Blowing Rock for offering information, answering questions, and helping with photos.

To my parents, Hank and Dianne Helmerthanks for checking in to make sure the book hadnt swallowed me whole. And to my sister, Shannon McKinnon, a huge thanks for sending videos of Charlotte that gave me good excuses to take a break. Im so grateful to Rosie Molinary, Makeda Pennycooke, Polly Campbell, Rebecca Ragain, and the Freelance Support HosHeather Greenwood Davis, Caroline Tiger, Kate Hanley, Judi Ketteler, Gretchen Roberts, Denise Schipani, Leslie Pepper, Sandra Hume, Kristine Hansen, and Melody Warnickfor endless support and encouragement in this and all of my writing endeavors.

To two of the best friends a girl could ask forEric Eckard and Amanda Cashwords are not enough to express my gratitude. Eric, youre an amazing friend, talented writer, and skilled researcher who never fails to come to the rescue just when I think Im drowning. My books and my life wouldnt be as good without you! Amanda, Im grateful, always, for your friendship. Your support and encouragement pulled me through when I was ready to throw in the towel and your photographs helped bring the text to life. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

I reserve my final and most heartfelt thanks for my partner, Jerry Porter. In addition to being a fantastic doggie daddy and broomball superstar, youre also a great tour guide and cartographer. Thanks so much for being so patient and supportive, for helping around the house, tending to the thundering herd, and making runs for Ben & Jerrys when the hours were long and stress levels were in overdrive. Molly, Milo, Roxie, and I are so blessed to have you in our lives. In case you were wondering, you were definitely worth waiting for.