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Acknowledgments
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| xv Acknowledgments Putting together this volume has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic career. It put me in touch with wonderful scholars who have a great passion for bringing childhood studies into the mainstream of American academia. Many scholars offered support for this work, including Robert Orsi, who has been an important conversation partner and continually challenges me to think more critically about the interaction of children and religion. In the early stages of this project, Myra Bluebond-Langer also offered tremendous support and suggestions for highlighting the key features of child-centered studies. I owe an incredible debt of gratitude to Jennifer Hammer at New York University Press and to the anonymous reviewers of this volume, particularly those who offered insights on the introduction. The preparation of this book has taken many months, and throughout the course of this project, a number of the contributors have dealt with sickness, fires, and various other life transitions. Yet, each met deadlines despite these life challenges. Even when my own life dictated that contributors readjust their schedules to accommodate the birth of my son, each author did so with enthusiasm. I wish to thank them all for their continued commitment to the volume. Throughout the project I have been reminded again about the value of good friends, family, and colleagues. Ideas for the book were refined during talks with Lynn Neal, Thomas Tweed, Jim Feldman, Jodi EichlerLevine , Stephanie Spehar, and my other colleagues at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. Helen Kinsella’s careful eye for argument also improved the volume, while her friendship made the completion of the project enriching. As always, I found unwavering support from my parents and sisters. This project began when I became pregnant with my daughter, Millie, and ended in the early weeks of the life of my son, Andersen. They are constant reminders of how necessary this work is. My husband, Steve, was my frequent consultant throughout the project. He xvi | Acknowledgments enriched the volume, and our lives, with his insights and humor. Finally, this book is dedicated to my grandfather, John F. Bales II, in honor of his 100th birthday. He has been a role model for me in many ways, particularly for his ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds with honesty, dignity, and generosity. ...