The vast majority of people outside our little homeschooling community think we were nuts for rejoicing on the possibility of a fifth child in our family. I could not disagree more with the majority.

The Bible described children as a blessing, and large families were a reward from God. Nowhere in the Bible does a large family equal a curse. I would agree having a large family however can present a challenge from time to time! So far nothing I've faced is insurmountable, just a great set of challenges.

With the arrival of child number five, good young John Paul, I look forward to enjoying one more round of moments like this one above. I have the seasoning of parenthood four times before to know snuggling with my baby on the couch, in between diaper changes, is one brief moment in time. The only moment in which I get to love my son with these cuddles. In a few years, he will be all boy and want to wrestle the old man into submission!

I received five wonderful sets of moments like this. I am looking forward more good times ahead, with the full knowledge valleys of darkness will exist as well. It is all part of the large family blessing I behold day in and out.

-ehw

P.S. Photo credit to my favorite assistant Carrie Wojtkun who caught me sleeping on the job! I did all the post processing for her!