A belated Christmas Card

A belated Merry Christmas from our family! My holiday cards go out later and later each year. I think last year they were "St. Patrick Day Cards." So this year Jess and I decided that an updated blog would have to suffice. Think of it as an eco-friendly Christmas greeting!

We have enjoyed our fall and winter here in Fort Leavenworth, KS. Jess's school schedule leaves him plenty of time for family and we have felt so blessed to have this time together. Although we've fit in some soccer, ballet, and home school groups, the semester has been intentionally quiet and un-busy. . . if you can call homeschooling with four children un-busy. I guess you could say that our days are very full but we get to choose what fills them. We anticipate a change of pace soon, so we are taking full advantage! By the time we send our Christmas letter (or will it be a Christmas email?) next year, we'll be writing from a whole new home and job! (And no, we don't yet know where that will be!) Ah, the excitement of Army life.

This year Sam, 7, has grown tremendously in courage. He is eager to try new things and is developing into a strong leader. When it comes to soccer, Sunday School, our home school group activities, and Lego Club, Sam gives it his all.

Ella Rose, 5, is my best helper. She consistently steps up cheerfully and quickly when there's work to be done around the house or when her baby sister needs care. Her dancing and singing may slow down the work a bit, but it's worth it because she's a joy to watch.

Josiah is our friendly and cheerful little boy. He is full of energy and quick to make friends. At three and a half, Si is our most quotable right now. He is simply hilarious. He loves to help me cook, but when it comes to dinner time, we must consistently remind him "No weapons at the table."

Adeline, oh, Adeline. What can I say? This girl's got spunk. She has a persistence and tenacity that we hope to mold to be a little more useful for Christ and His Kingdom :) In the meantime, she is talking up a storm ("trouble" and "cookie" are her most used words right now--are you getting the picture?) and although only 20 months old, she may be potty training soon because she refuses to keep a diaper on. She is exhausting and funny and we love her to pieces.

Oh, and I shouldn't leave out Amos! Those of you who know our rambunctious 3 year old black lab would be happy to know that he is doing great here in Kansas! Everyone said give him 2-3 years and it was true- he is a great pet! We even took him on vacation with us this Christmas to houses filled with new people and animals and excitement, something we couldn't have dreamed of doing last year. The kids, especially Sam and Addie, love him and love on him--and don't tell anyone, but I like having him around.

All of my pictures of our Christmas celebrations are cropped, red-eye removed, and ready to be blogged, so be watching for more soon. We have LOVED reading letters from family and friends and hope your new year is filled with good things!!!

Love, Sarah, Jess, Sam, Ella Rose, Josiah, and Adeline