Together, we went through financing, development, land additions, new construction, demolitions, equipment, workers, farm systems, and the hard work it takes to run a family business. They experienced the awe and wonder, and they experienced the tragedy when we felt the losses. Whatever it was, we were in it together. They saw it firsthand, not something they saw later or heard from their parents.

Since our children were physically and actually with us through it all, they know what hard work is. It does not frighten them or discourage them.  They learned how important decision-making is and what real consequences are.  They have learned that not everything turns out right, and they have learned better how to avoid some risks.  Now, as adult children with children of their own, they will tell you it was a great time for our family.