Raising my children has truly been the best thing that has happened to me, and I’ve had a pretty good life. Brandon once told me that he was afraid that his children would not turn out like he and his sister. It is because both of my children have expressed a desire to raise their children the way they were raised, that I am writing this book. And to my brother in-law, Troy Howard, who for years has been waiting for me to write a book about raising children: Your wait is almost over.

I also want to thank my parents, Andrew and Florine Calhoun, who, through their love and support, set a shining example of what parents should be.

I have always felt that when I had children, they would be exceptional. I remember in the early 80’s, religiously watching the Cosby show and taking notes so I could remember what to do when my children faced similar situations. I was so taken with the level of honesty, integrity, and love shown, that I set as my goal to raise a family of similar character. I read fervently about children and even took Child Psychology as an elective to better prepare for the task. When the time came, however, it turned out that love, commitment, and having God as my partner were really all I ever needed. The rest seemed to come naturally.