LawrenceU
Puritan Board Doctor
Although I don't have a large family now. I grew up in one and live around them. The advice that has been given has all been good. Adam made a comment that is easily dismissed; but, it is important. Ask God to bring you a wife that is compatible to your goals as a husband and father. In today's world women are for the most part not taught skills that are needed in a family, especially a large family. They must abhor materialism! They must enjoy challenges that go on for months/years. They must love God and family more that comfort and pleasure. (And, he's right it helps if they have a syrupy drawl. Or, love Southern culture )
About dogs: We breed dogs as well. Don't think that you must live near a major metropolitan area to make money with pups. Some of my best dog buddies live in the boonies and do very well. It all depends upon the breed and bloodline. We raise Boykin Spaniels. (There is no such thing as an AKC or UKC Boykin. The only legitimate blood lines are Boykin Spaniel Society registries. I mention this because if you are going to breed dogs you better know your stuff. It is not enough just to like dogs, find a cute/useful breed, and get going.) Our blood line is fairly strong and it is a breed that people will travel for hours to buy. BTW, if you have never seen a Boykin or hunted with one you are missing out big time.
I also am a beekeeper. I grew up doing it and it has become a lucrative side business. I average around 1500/month from structural extractions alone. Then there is the honey business. It is a great hobby, but a wonderful business. Of course I was raised in it. But, it has changed. If you want to do this get with a good beekeeper and apprentice with him. It has some challenges today thanks to foreign non-hymenopterian critters.
About dogs: We breed dogs as well. Don't think that you must live near a major metropolitan area to make money with pups. Some of my best dog buddies live in the boonies and do very well. It all depends upon the breed and bloodline. We raise Boykin Spaniels. (There is no such thing as an AKC or UKC Boykin. The only legitimate blood lines are Boykin Spaniel Society registries. I mention this because if you are going to breed dogs you better know your stuff. It is not enough just to like dogs, find a cute/useful breed, and get going.) Our blood line is fairly strong and it is a breed that people will travel for hours to buy. BTW, if you have never seen a Boykin or hunted with one you are missing out big time.
I also am a beekeeper. I grew up doing it and it has become a lucrative side business. I average around 1500/month from structural extractions alone. Then there is the honey business. It is a great hobby, but a wonderful business. Of course I was raised in it. But, it has changed. If you want to do this get with a good beekeeper and apprentice with him. It has some challenges today thanks to foreign non-hymenopterian critters.