Why do vote totals change and races "flip" in the days following the election?

Washington State accepts ballots postmarked on or before Election Day, rather than the date the ballots are received.  As more ballots are received and processed, race results can change. This is normal and well within ranges of statistical probability. Additionally, under Same Day Registration, voters may continue to register and vote up until 8:00pm on Election Day.

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1. Who can view ballots being processed? Are there witnesses while ballots are being counted to ensure there is no bias?
2. How does the elections department process my ballot securely?
3. How do you know that the ballot comes from me?
4. How are my votes kept private?
5. Why do vote totals change and races "flip" in the days following the election?
6. How do we know that the ballot tabulation systems are secure?
7. How do I know my vote choices are counted accurately?