More Compact Digs

Raising a family of 5 children is busy work.  It's a near constant flurry of motion.  Add to that the fact that all 5 children are home most of the day and you can see how it can get a bit crazy at our house.

Now, I appreciate just how spoiled we have been in our big 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 3-level house (in Gabe terms, "the huge house").  There are wonderful gathering rooms for schooling, movie watching, and game playing.  And the floor plan easily allows each of us the space and privacy to quietly retreat as well*.  Plus, did I mention the dishwasher?? 

We are temporarily taking up residence in my parents' 1,000 square foot 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, single-level house (in Gabe terms, "the tiny house").  This is a whole new ballgame.  From my perch right now, I can watch my children eating, hand washing their dishes, watching television, doing schoolwork, playing toys, running around maniacally,  or chasing each other with zeal.  I won't mention who I'm hearing on the pot right now.  These are tight quarters. Here's a photo taken by our computer of the main living area:

I love this room and all the light that comes in from the lime groves surrounding us.

All this to say I have a new appreciation for large families living in small homes.  Most of the world fits this description.  And, if we don't kill each other or drive each other away, I think our big family might just be a little closer after our own run in a small house.



*Our beloved home is still for sale (at a very competitive price); ask me about it if I've tempted you.  ;)