Christmas 2016

Dear Friends and Family,

As 2016 draws to a close, we wanted to give you an update on our family. Tommy is still busy working away on his archery shop, Upshot Archery, and opened a second shop recently, Spotless Lion, for leather goods not related to archery. Tommy continues to be a model of efficiency and productivity continually making modifications to tools and systems that aren't operating at 100%. Unfortunately these strategies have yet to take hold with the rest of the family. Tommy is our rock and serves our family joyfully.

Jessica spends her time considering wearing earplugs during the day and wondering where all the food and socks went. She continues to teach little people how to communicate their hopes, dreams and feelings. Jessica also homeschools her oldest and dreams up new products for Spotless Lion.

Daniel, who turned 8 in August, is the star pupil at his exclusive school. He has discovered a love of drawing and video games. Daniel is both chief helper and prime instigator when it comes to his 3 younger siblings.

Eli, who will be 4 in January, loves to talk. He enjoys telling stories and will need to start over if interrupted. His expressive face and adorable dimples keep him on his mommy's good side. Eli has recently learned to spell and write his name.

David, who turned 2 in September, loves to climb. He also loves to say “No!” David's imagination is precious, especially when he feeds his beloved stuffed dog “Ruffy” his brother's leftover lunch. (we didn't include this specific picture of David on our Christmas cards, but loved it so much we wanted to include it here)

Caleb, whose first birthday is/was (depending on when you read this) December 19, is following fast in his brothers' footsteps, literally. He is walking, despite their best efforts to keep him down. Caleb keeps us humble, continually reminding us that what worked for his brothers, may not work for him.

We are so thankful for Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for us. Because we have found forgiveness in him, he no longer holds against us our parenting blunders, our unkind words, our temper tantrums, or the food eaten out of frustration. Colossians 1 says we are reconciled to him, without blemish and free from accusation. This baby Jesus who left the peace of heaven over 2000 years ago to be born in a wicked world is the same Jesus who took the punishment and shame resting on our shoulders. This man, Jesus, is still wooing us today.

Rejoicing with you at the birth of our Savior,  

Tommy, Jessica & boys