A Carlin Home Companion (42 page)

My comedy uncles and brothers—Lewis Black, for inviting me to tell a few stories while on a cruise ship with him, which ultimately led to my solo show that led to this book; Paul Provenza, who has been my Yoda, shepherd, mentor, shrink, and fellow traveler and director of said solo show; Garry Shandling, for always seeing me so clearly and sharing his wise soul. Rick Overton—you are my brother.

My friends who read through my pages and cheered me on—your enduring love and confidence in my voice emboldens me daily. And to all my comrades in art and life that dance, laugh, and gather around the fire pit with me—you're the net that holds me up.

And lastly, my parents, for everything. Really. Everything.

Brenda at the Racquet Club, Dayton, Ohio, around 1961

George and Brenda at their wedding, June 3, 1961, in Dayton, Ohio

George and Brenda living the party life, around 1966

George, Brenda, and Kelly at a cocktail party, around 1965

George and Kelly in a photo booth, New York City, 1964

Kelly on the day she was born, 1963

The Carlins in Dayton, Ohio, visiting relatives, around 1966

One of daddy's teaching moments in his office on Beverwil, around 1967

Working a car show, around 1967

Kelly learning well, around 1966

New arrivals to LA at the apartment on Beverly Glen, 1966

Kelly clutching daddy's leg at party in 1967