Hi Mom, Did You Miss Me?

Joseph Roush was nearly six years of age when he found that he would be housed in The Montana State Children's home along with four hundred other youngsters. What could he do? What would you do in this situation?

He dedicated himself to the task of locating his mother and putting his family back together. He would somehow record everything that would happen to him to share with his mother when they were reunited once again. He knew this could be a long and difficult journey, but he had no idea just how long and difficult it would be.

Joseph's journal should provide some insight into the influence good folks can have over those who face unfortunate events in their lives. Perhaps his experiences both good and bad might give hope to those without hope and direction to the lost.

Joseph Roush was born in Montana during the depths of the Great Depression. Raised in orphanages and foster homes he managed to graduate high school at Stockwell, Indiana. He attained two degrees in Education from Purdue University, and then taught elementary students for forty-five years. His favorite saying is: "Life is good. God is great!"

November 6, 1952

This morning I woke up in the arms of the only girl I have truly loved. If today is the first day of the rest of my life, it is getting off to a great start, isn't it?

Roush chronicled his life through letters to his mother; a mother he had not seen since he was five years old. As a young boy, Joseph, along with his sister and brother, was abruptly sent to a Montana orphanage, never to see his mother again. However, with hope in his heart, he wrote to her as if she was only across the country and shared all his struggles and joys.

Follow Joseph as he leaves the Army and starts a new stage of his life-marriage. You'll be encouraged and inspired by the life journey of one man who overcame painful trials with an attitude of joy and gratitude. His motto is Life is good. God is great.

He says, "While I've had many misfortunes and difficulties, God has always been faithful to take care of me and bless me beyond what I could have ever hoped for."

This is the final book in Joseph Roush's autobiographical trilogy Hi Mom, Did You Miss Me? Now in his retirement years, Joe's story continues with heartfelt anecdotes, God-ordained encounters, struggles that refine his walk with God, and triumphant accounts that further endear him to the reader. Yet with all he encounters, Joseph never loses sight of his search for his mother.

Joseph shares smiles and stories about the unique students he encounters while substitute teaching, the heartache of losing his dear wife, Odean, and the joy of meeting and marrying his "Sunshine," Faye. Then, just before the dream of finding his mom becomes a reality, Joseph discovers another blessing-siblings he never knew he had!

Joseph's story is one that readers of all ages will identify with. This delightful and charming book will captivate the attention of family, friends, and strangers alike.

From age five to eighteen I was raised in the foster care system in Montana, Indiana, and Michigan. During that time I had eight different pairs of foster parents and I resided in three orphanages. Ten times I changed schools. Most times the changes I experienced were positive ones.

I was married in 1952 to a Mississippi girl while I was in the service stationed at Fort Belvoir, VA. Together Odean and I raised three sons and one granddaughter. I later obtained a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master's degree in Education. I worked in elementary education for 35 years in Indiana. I later worked as a substitute teacher for ten years. Coaching boys' basketball, baseball, and track also occupied my time with the youth.

At the early age of six years my Sunday school teacher introduced me to Jesus Christ. He would be my shepherd for the rest of my life. When sudden changes came into my life, and there were many of them, the picture of Jesus holding a frail little lamb comforted me and many times I was no longer afraid.

As I grow older and more mature in my Walk I find it easier to avail myself to those less fortunate than myself. Many folks have given of themselves to me so each day I find myself wanting to do the same. You could say that I desire to be a good citizen of this beautiful blue planet as long as I am here. Life is good! God is great!

We will post upcoming book signings here so check back often. If you would like to book Joseph for a book signing with your church, library, or other organization please contact us.

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