We are often told we have our hands full. We have decided to start sharing some of our little stories that bring a smile to our face in the form of a Christmas letter! Our hands are full but we wouldn’t have it any other way! We have been richly blessed by God’s plan.

Our oldest, Rawlin (age 5) has just started kindergarten. Reading on a 2nd grade level and doing addition in his head before the first day, he recently announced to us that he is ready to move on to first grade! His true wit and brightness has come with a fair share of behavioral quirks. We are certain God has BIG plans for this little man. His idea of those plans are either “being a funny train conductor on the Frisco at Silver Dollar City or being the president of the USA so he can be the one to make ALL of the rules for everyone.” Rawlin is a lover of music! Often writing his own songs and singing them for us. Earlier in the year Rawlin asked about how to ask Jesus in his heart. His understanding of this and other issues blow us away. Once he prayed the prayer with mommy and daddy...he paused and said "I think I can feel him coming into my heart, and it is hurting me a little......"

Our oldest twin, Anderson (age 3) is our quiet in the storm. We would honestly take two more if they were guaranteed to be like AJ! Anderson hears his Sis crying when Mom is in the other room. He takes her frozen pancakes, juice, gum, toys, anything to keep her happy. Mommy walks in to see Sissy in her play pen covered in goodies & laughing. Anderson has saved the day! Anderson was the weakest at birth, but we are starting to think he is our toughest! He is always comforting his siblings and offering toys or snacks to make peace. He has made us so proud already! He has had his own funny language since age 2 and still says things backwards or makes up his own word that sounds similar. He and his twin brother began part-time preschool in the morning and his teacher’s name is Ms. Dirika. He still calls her “Harmonica.” It’s close enough for Anderson . Chamberlin, (also age 3), was recently introduced by Rawlin to a group of strangers in the park as "Chamberlin Joseph Zachary Tisher....the funny one of the family." That he is! Always trying to entertain us! He sings silly songs or does self-taught somersaults, head stands and front-flip walkovers. He has to be busy doing something all the time. He is quite the independent little fellow. Putting on his own clothes and shoes before the others and then helping mommy get others ready. Even though Chamberlin is always on the go, he does take time to care for others. He has a deep love for people and animals. He’s constantly spotting dogs everywhere we go! There is never a dull moment with Chamberlin in our family. He keeps us on our toes, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Sissy, (age 20 months) has brought quite the unique joy and touch of sparkle to our home. Always blending in with the boys, yet somehow demanding she get the same attention and an equal chance to play with the toys! Although being raised in a house of boys has made her rough and tough, she has that girly desire to get dressed up! When Mom is getting ready in the bathroom, she comes in and announces she is ready for some primping by shouting “me me me!” She loves to have her hair curled, toes painted and get her "pwetty gool" dresses on. She then runs to her daddy and brothers for instant approval!! They all adore her and reassure her that she looks magnificent! God sure knew what he was doing when he gave us little Myla. Always singing a song or trying to make us giggle. What a little something extra special she brings to our home!

May this season find you reflecting on God’s grace, God’s love, and His infinite wisdom and divine plan for your life. We pray you know Him personally. We couldn't live without Him in our daily lives. Ask Him into your heart. Hopefully it won't hurt too much! J Merry Christmas!

Click here to see pictures of Missy and Ryan's amazingly dazzling
Winter Wonderland Wedding

Missy, Rawlin & Ryan

Steve attended North County High School in Desloge, Missouri. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Jefferson College and Central Methodist College. He received a Master's in Education and a Master's in School Administration from Southwest Baptist College and currently teaches 4th grade.

Steve served as youth and music minister of Three Rivers Baptist Church in Farmington from 1974-1977. He was music director at First Baptist Church, Bonne Terre from 1977 - 1979. Steve surrendered to the ministry in 1985 and has attended Luther-Rice Seminary in Jacksonville, Florida. He began his pastorate as associate pastor of Second Baptist Church in Ste. Genevieve from 1985-1989. He was also Minister of Music there. From 1989 to 1991, Steve was pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Perryville and since that time has been pastor of Saline Baptist Church in Minnith, Missouri. http://www.salinebaptist.org

Steve was voted class clown in high school and continues to add laughter to the lives of all who know him. He is baritone and comedian for The Berry Brothers gospel group. Steve started The Berry Brothers Mountain Music & Comedy Show in the early 80's and since 1997 he and Leeta have written and directed the Minnith Mountain Music & Comedy Show that is performed annually in late September or or early October. Pictures and performance dates are on the Saline Baptist Church web page. See link in previous paragraph.

Steve's wife, Leeta, has complimented his ministry as church pianist, organist, and vacation bible school director. She attended Mineral Area College and Southeast Missouri College, earning a Bachelor's of Science in Education Degree. At Southwest Baptist College, she earned a Masters in Education Degree. She taught first grade for 10 years before receiving her Library Media Specialist Certificate. In 2010, she will complete the coursework required a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from Southeast Missouri State University. She is presently librarian for two elementary schools. Leeta enjoys designing and maintaining several websites, which include: The Berry Brothers, The Saline Baptist Church, and the library websites at the Ste. Genevieve R-II School District .

Steve and Leeta are extremely proud of their only child, Missy. In 1996, the friendly, loving and good-humored young lady earned the vote of her student body as prom queen at Ste. Genevieve High School. After graduation, Missy attended Mineral Area College and Central Methodist College, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education Degree. She also has a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. After teaching Grades 6-8 Reading for two years, Missy continued her education to receive a Masters in Library Science. She is a Certified Library Media Specialist for 5th/6th graders.