by Leisel Jones
To Damo for coming into my life and just being you. You have been by my side when I have been feeling lost, and you have listened to me complain while I’m still finding my way. I can never thank you enough for making me laugh. Here’s to many more years of supporting each other to achieve our dreams and, more importantly, laughing our way through life. Bunghole.
To Mum and Brian for always providing a level-headed answer to most of my problems. You have always supported my decisions and I’m lucky to have parents like you.
To my family: Poppa always said ‘Count your blessings’. I’m so lucky to love every single member of my family. We’re pretty lucky to sit down to Christmas lunch with fifty people and all enjoy each other’s company. I count you all twice! Love ya, Mikey.
To my girlfriends Sam, Lola, Angie, Alice, Schlangs, Lana, Kristy, Vanessa, Tay, Marieke, Gierke, Faustina, Telena, Kirsty, Loz and KP: thank you for just all being you. You’ve all been there when things were great, but you have also all had my back when I needed you. Thanks for your support and I’m so glad you were all a part of this story at some point.
To Rohan: I still believe someone sent you to save me in Sierra Nevada. You were the greatest coach and I was so lucky to work with you. We had our differences but it was basically me being stubborn. You got me to where I needed to be and taught me some of the greatest life lessons. I’m forever grateful that I met you for coffee in Moonee Ponds that day.
To Barnesy and Brock: we’ve had some fun times living together. Thanks for putting up with me on a daily basis!
To Dan: thanks for keeping me fit. I told you I would put you in here! You not only push me in the gym but I also feel like I can call you a friend.
To Jeanne and Kelly: your never-ending support throughout this whole process has been cherished. Jeanne, from the moment I mentioned that I would like to write a book you never doubted it would be amazing. It has been a wonderful ride and I don’t want it to end.
To Felicity: we have had the most incredible time writing this story and I’m so glad we chose you to tell it. You have captured my voice perfectly, and you have told my story just the way I wanted it. This could have been labour-intensive: instead, it was a joy to catch up. We still need to write our restaurant reviews!
Leisel Jones