Gilbreath Garden: 2011 in Review

2011 has been a challenging year for the Gilbreaths.

We've had wonderful blessings and gone through some heartache along the way. Last night, I looked through all of my 2011 blog entries and was amazed at how fast the year has passed by. It was neat to look through all the things the Lord has taught and brought us through this pass year.

Here are a few of the highlights:

Stitches of Love

The ladies of the church got together and had a quilting circle. I was so happy to be invited to be a part of it, and I learned so much from these wonderful women. It was Titus 2 in action. They spent about 8 hours a day for a full week stitching love and memories into the quilt. I always wondered what they would do with the quilt knowing whoever would receive it would probably never know all the hard work and love that went into making the quilt.

To our great surprise, they gave it to Larry and I for Valentines day. I'm embarrassed as I remember the many tears I shed when they placed the box in my lap. I didn't have to open it to know what was inside. The weight of the quilt was all that was needed to let me know all that time and love was entended for my family. It was a wonderful precious times when I felt deeply loved, not only from our church family, but also from the Lord. Each night as I crawl into bed and each morning as I wake up I have a constant reminder of the love that our church and the Lord has for us through this quilt. It reminds me of God's calling on our lives to live and serve in Williamston. It's one of my most favorite possessions.

Granny's Visit

My Granny came to visit for Josiah's 2nd Birthday. It was the first time she had been to Williamston. I know the trip was difficult for her to make, but she didn't complain. The children loved having their Great Grandmother visit, almost as much as I did. It was only 3 month later that she passed away. Looking back at some of those pictures reminds me how grateful I am that she made the time to take that trip.

Josiah turned 2

Oh how my little man has grown this past year! Josiah is gifted in so many ways. Larry and I often wonder what he's going to be when he grows up. He is such a joy to be around, a constant source of laughter and mischief.

The great grands in one spot.

I was blessed to be able to go to Florida for my Granny's lasts days. As family came together and memories were shared, it was as happy an occasion as it was sad. It was the first time we had all the great grandchildren together. (at least the ones that had been born. there are 5 additions to these below)

Eden turned 4

There are random times throughout this year that I've looked at Eden as seen her as a teenager or grown woman. She is such a special little girl! She loves to learn and keeps me on my toes. She has a great since of right and wrong, and a great maternal instinct.

Hurricane Irene

Hurricane Irene took out two of our trees and power, but not our ability to have fun. As the storm first came in the kids had a blast playing in the rain. As I think back on it, it was a fun time that we stayed home as a family. We were thankful to have only lost power for a day, so many others in our community were without power for over a week.

Growing Faith

Eden is afraid of lots of things; thunder, spiders, the dark. As she played int he rain of the storm she sat down and started to pray, asking God to remove her fear. This was one of the sweetest moments of my year. Watching my child's faith grow as she faced a fear by seeking the Lord. Oh if I could only have the faith of a child!

Messy Boy!

This pictures says it all. Have joy in the mess!

I am striving to have that attitude.

Welcome Titus Simon

After a hard pregnancy, we were so happy to welcome a BIG and Healthy Titus.

Titus has brought so much joy to our family. His easy going personalty and sweet smiles has made him a quick fit into our family.

Sibling Love

Eden and Josiah have had a great adjustment to the arrival of their little brother. Jealously has never been an issue with the kids. Learning soft touches has been a constant battle, but overall, I couldn't be more pleased with how easy Titus fit into our family.

Granddaddy Kinsey

One of the greatest men I know went to be with the Lord. My Granddaddy was an awesome man! He loved Jesus, his wife of 64 years, his family and his church. His life was a wonderful testimony of God's goodness. He never complained. When asked how he was doing, he always replied, "better than I deserve." He will be missed, but I know he is happy living eternity with his savior and his girl.

The legacy continues

Here are 4 of the 5 additions of this past year.

Lydia, Cooper, Titus and Mason. Pierce is expected to make his appearance any day now.

I am hopeful that we will be able to have all of the great grandchildren together at least once in 2012!

PawPaw battles Cancer

It seems every family has some one that battles cancer. PawPaw is our warrior.

During a regular screening test, Daddy was advised to seek more medical testing. We are so happy he did. Thankfully his cancers were caught in their early stages. As I write this, Daddy is recovering from yet another surgery. His prognosis is great. We pray that 2012 is a year of health for our family, especially PawPaw.

A Soccer Star

Eden was able to join the youth soccer league and our life at the park began. Eden loved it and we were able to make new friends in the community. It's nice to have an outlet for her (and for us) to make new friends. Next year we hope to have Eden and Josiah on the field