The Tides have Turned

October and November of last year I was frantically interviewing those interested in this lovely experiment. Though the meetings happened all across Seattle - walking around Green Lake, sitting in strange coffee shops, enjoying a quick dinner - the questions were consistent from each finalist.

~ Why a year?
~ How will we spend our time?
~ What can I expect at the end of the process?
~ And, will you be using real names when you write the book?

I always knew anonymity would be a touchy subject. So, I'd answer the question based on what I thought they'd want to hear, "No, I won't be using your name unless it is agreeable to you at the time of publication." And, I meant it. Let's be clear - no one was interested in putting their name in the hands of a stranger, regardless of how cool this project sounded.

As I finalize the book proposal, it's time to take an inventory of who wants to use a pseudonym. The tides have turned and it appears this is no longer a concern for most. Not only do they want me to use their first name, most are asking I share their last name, too. My husband finds this really curious. Yet, it appears the pride of our accomplishments and wanting to share their honest lessons has created a tipping point.

There's still one or two who are reluctant, including my husband, Peter. He wants to go by the name Frank. Sorry, darling - you don't get to hide behind a facade. It would be too confusing when we’re on Oprah.