I understand what having a large family means. I'm the oldest of seven and father of eight. But, I will tell you, I would not trade one second with them for all the things we've done without to give them the best life we could. I find myself reflected in each of them, like a fragmented mirror, the good and bad in myself shows so clearly in each of their personalities.

Three of mine are grown now. Two completely on their own, one is married, the other has been halfway across the country for a year. The third lives close to home with my wife's mother for a semester. She had an exchange student roommate and just didn't like the idea of a semester alone in a dorm room, at a mostly commuter school.

I've tried to teach mine the value of gratitude as well, I hope they've picked it up. It's so vitally important. I am certainly grateful for each of them.