@valued-customer, I got so much out of reading how you chose to INCLUDE the more dangerous/risky aspects of life (like driving and handling firearms) in your sons' supervised experience. How wise. The proof being in their gratitude, and preparedness. Double win! They sound fortuned, indeed, to have you as their Dad. :-)

And this: "I think it's fitting that we look at how raising our kids prepares them for Independence Day, after all." My goodness, I could not have concluded this post better myself!