At 17, Tyler's our oldest child. He's grown and matured into a fine young man, and we're quite proud of him. He's developed a growing interest in becoming a gunsmith, and is very knowledgable when it comes to makes, models, capabilities of most firearms. He will soon begin vocational school to study to become a machinist.
Hannah, 15/16, is our oldest daughter. She's very mature and responsible, and takes on the role of surrogate mother to her younger siblings. She does most 'chores' without complaint, and is a very loving and caring person. She is very opinionated, and seems to know what she wants out of life. (Which is a surprise, given that most kids that age have no clue.)
Casey, 13, is still our 'baby girl' and loves to draw. She has a charming and charasmatic spirit, and loves to meet new people. She's still very innocent and child-like. She thinks that she wants to become a special-ed teacher when she's older. She would make a good one.
Caleb, 10, is our middle child. We affectionately call him our "Middle Man", as he has 3 older siblings and 3 younger siblings. He's very much a people pleaser, and is often found hiding in the background, observing the goings on. He's also a great help with me when I'm working on the car, truck, van, bus, or house. He's proven himself to be a fast and willing learner, eager to take on new things. He's a great kid.
Jacob, 6, is a very loving and affectionate child. He is also extremely emotional - way overboard sometimes with his feelings. Sometimes, I'm worried about him, and will get him some help if this behaviour continues.
Elijah, 5, is our handfull. If you've ever seen those cans with removable tops, and the snake that springs out and bounces all over the room, from floor to ceiling, then you have Elijah. He's like John Wayne toilet paper: rough, tough, and doesn't take crap off anyone. He thinks he's 10' tall and bullet-proof, yet still readily jumps into the waiting and loving arms of his parents.
Josiah, 3 years, is a happy boy. His personality has really emerged, and he's not one who will ever get lost in the crowd. He's learned that he's in a large family, and that if he wants his voice to be heard, that he has to raise the level high enough to be heard. And, he has no problem in doing that at all.
I would love to use this space to describe child number 8, but thus far, we have not been successful at conceiving another one. Is our quiver full at 7, or will there be more to come? Stay tuned...............
