life is precious

I have had so much on my mind lately. On Saturday I found out that my cousin passed away. My heart is so broken for his sweet little family, they have been on my mind all week. He was my age. Life is so precious. I loved reading all about my cousin from social media this week, he really was an amazing person. I've decided I want to be more like him and dedicate more of my time to serving and loving others. I want to be more purposeful in life. I want to spread light and goodness. I want to focus on what really matters. I want to teach our children to value these traits. 

On Monday we talked about making a difference in this world. I quoted Martin Luther Kind Jr.

"If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way"

We each said something small we can do to help make the world better. I believe we can each make a huge difference just by living with kindness, helping others, loving so big, and spreading light. A life just like my cousin lived.

This is exactly what this world needs.

tuesday tidbits

:: corbin ::

1. Corbin is coming to the end of 6th grade. He is almost done with testing and then it's pretty much a party at school everyday.
2. He has been helping our cute next door neighbor with yard work. He planted Petunia's yesterday with his good friend Mikaila.
3. Pajamas are his most favorite thing to wear...obviously.

:: taylor ::

1. Taylor loves reading Harry Potter. When it's time to go to bed he is always the first one to go, because that's when he can climb into bed and have an amazing reading adventure.
2. Piano recital time is just around the corner and this kid has been working so hard on his song.
3. Lately Rudger constantly says that Tay is his best buddy. Taylor is so good to him.

:: levi ::

1. Levi loves Mario. The good old fashion Super Mario. He is the one that passes all the really hard levels.
2. One of his good friends at school is the cutest little girl from the Philippians. They got to play on Friday and seriously, she is adorable.
3. To say that he is obsessed with Adeline is a huge understatement.

:: rudger ::

1. Rudger thinks its the greatest to use markers. On his face, on the wall, on his arm, and all over the bathtub. I really hope this phase passes really fast.
2. This boy lives for milk. He loves it in a sippy cup and warmed up 39 seconds. Yes, that is the exact amount. Few seconds more or less and it is not right...and he can tell by the touch and then refuses to drink it if it's not right. I know.... 
3. But when he smiles and his eyes twinkle like they do...I am putty in his hands.

 :: adeline ::

1. Adeline is sitting up so well now. She can go a good minute before she tips over :)
2. Biggest mama's girl there ever was.
3. She loves to reach the top of her head and then slide her hands down towards her face bringing the headbands with her. I continue to put the headband right back on her head. I am so mean.

life kept on happening

Even though this area of the web has been completely neglected the past few months, life has been busy and happy and full of these littles. We have adjusted to having five children. There are good days and their are bad ones. On those bad days I wonder what we were thinking, I can barely take care of myself and a home. But those good days, they sure make life worth living.

The boysies (what Rudger calls his brothers) are home for their Christmas break and we are so very happy about that. While they are off playing their adventurous games, I am going to attempt getting this place caught up. But not before I get Christmas taken care of!