A few days ago, I had the opportunity to witness my oldest daughter Riley on the radio, talking passionately about her love for agriculture and the environment. It was a beautiful thing. One day you’re cheering for her as she stumbles towards her first steps (I still remember the theme song of the Office playing in the background!), the next she’s out there in the real world sharing all these hopes and dreams that you didn’t even know she had! I texted my wife as I sat in the back of the studio and said, “I’m over here learning new things about Riley…wanting to have her own plant and fruit farm… what is happening??” It should come as no surprise though, after all this is what we’ve been preparing her for all her life. My daughters are coming into their own, and as their parents we have the joy of witnessing their growth at each stage.

I was on the phone with my mom and grandma the other day, sharing some exciting news that we’re about to make public in a few days, and I could hear the pride in both of their voices. As a 41 year old grown man, I still care about making them proud. Not that I live for their approval (at least not in the way I did during my younger years), but I’m wise enough to realize just how much their sacrifices led me to where I am today. So, I’m glad to be able to share in these moments with them, and I’m thankful for the foresight to know to be there in this moment with my girls.

SDW3