It is not always easy

Being the eldest of 7 children.

And, how many 8 year olds hold that title?

I am so, so proud of this girl, sweet Jayla.

I can honestly say that she has taught me about as much as I've taught her.

She is an example to me in countless ways.

Helpful, kind, thoughtful, considerate, and hard working

she is fantastic at taking initiative to pitch in.

She is generous with her time and talent.

She is gracious to younger children.

Never bored, she remains easily occupied, always busy,

plotting the next grand scheme, including every sibling.

These days, her plans often involve doing something for me around the house.

And the way she welcomed Meadow.....

which was a bit of an encroachment on her space and territory.

I think she was better at adoption than I was.

She showed me what unreserved, unashamed, unabashed, bright, brilliant, light, accepting, enveloping, love looked like with child like purity.

I needed that.

I mean, I really needed that.

Oh my heart.

It swells.

My eyes.

They tear.

My cup.

It overflows.

My girl.

Jayla.

I love you.

You really are my sunshine.

God is so good to me.