Four years ago, the telephone rang. Upon answering it I was greeted by one of my friends who was a journalist for a regional newspaper in southeast Missouri. My friend, like many others, had heard about my girls and inquired as to my willingness to write a column about parenting and my families many adventures. That request sparked what would become not only a cherished outlet for me but a mode of enjoyment for many throughout the region. Wishing to follow through with the many requests for access regarding our column, we are proud to announce that you can now find a culmination of the articles within one book, availed for your ongoing enjoyment. Follow along as Richard describes the life events which are common to his family, yet life altering. This riveting combination of stories will leave you laughing at times, crying at others, and truly satisfied. Copies of Richards new book, Raising Ozark, are available for purchase through rjstephensbooks.com, Ozark Publishing, Amazon. com, Barnes and Nobel and many other literary sources.