Raising a Large Family in a Tough Economy

Christmas 2012 was a little bit stressful but wonderful at the same time. My husband had just started a job with a new company (finally in his field) and that was such a gift. That was the best gift ever! 

These last four years have been some of the toughest we've faced. I'll never forget 4 years ago.  We just found out we were expecting our sixth child. At the same time we find out, my husband's company was going out of business.  Well, we comforted each other by saying it'll pass.  Soon, like before, another job in his field would come our way. Well, it didn't. In fact, it was more like taking whatever came our way. Instead of complaining we knew we needed to just be grateful. 

In our four year trial we learned how much we depended on ourselves and figured a paycheck would always be there. We took so much for granted.  Some people were affected by the economic stress and some weren't.   Its no picnic, that's for sure. All I know is God is amazing and he really does care. I had to remind my kids over and over how wants are different than needs. Sometimes its hard for American kids to get it. We are so incredibly blessed in this country.  I always have to laugh when I get those comments about how deprived my kids must be in a large family. ;)  So silly.  Yes, it was a TOUGH four years but I'm pretty sure there are people in other countries that just wish they could feed their kids every day. Big difference. 

We visited family for Christmas and here is some pics at their house!  :)  My kids were completely blessed.  A couple of pictures show my husband's grandmother.   She had ten kids! :)  Believe me, I have asked her lots of questions on raising a large family.