The Gibbons Family

Casey's Testimony

2010-02-21T10:56:00.000-08:00

What a month the Lord has brought me through. Many of you have prayed without even knowing the details so I thought I would share with you my journey…

On New Years Day Scotty and I found out that we were expecting our fifth baby. With thankful hearts and excitement throughout the whole Gibbons family we celebrated!

However, around the middle of January my nausea and fatigue were much more difficult than the previous four babies. By the end of the month I came down with a migraine that literally came out of nowhere. I had just returned home from being out with my older two girls and I told Scotty that I felt very sick.

After a week in bed with as little light and noise as possible, my doctor said to come in and check for twins since my hormones seemed to be elevated more than ever before. Sure enough, the ultrasound showed two sacks but only one baby that had made it. It was an emotional moment but God’s peace was there and I was thankful for the healthy baby. The doctor additionally said that I was dehydrated and needed to drink water and rest but if the headache worsened to go to the ER. And that is exactly where I was less than 24 hrs after his advice was given.

By the time I got to the ER, not only had my headache become stronger but I also had blood pressure of 88 over 42, was fevered, had started excessive vomiting, was even more dehydrated, and had stabbing pains in my back along with strong cramps in my stomach. The pain and exhaustion was more than I thought I could handle. I was quite the scene that day. I was moaning, throwing up, praying outloud, and asking Scotty over and over why I had to wait for a doctor and where is a bed! My heart went out to Scotty because of all the “drama” and I knew he wanted to fix it all but couldn’t.

To sum it all up, I was admitted that night and spent the next ten days being revived. In addition to the previous issues I had, I also became hypoglycemic, had low potassium, faced pain medicine reactions, had internal hemorrhaging from the lost baby, and also had a significant amount of rectal bleeding.

It was the darkest time of my life. I have faced trials but never had I faced so much suffering physically. In addition, the shock of it all gave me panic attacks that seemed to paralyze my entire existence. I had heard of people who faced those but never understood the depth of how they felt. All I could do in the midst of it was quote every scripture I have ever learned, open my Bible beside me and cry all while trying to take deep breaths. It was such a dark hour. I knew God was there and in His silence I trusted Him. I felt we have too deep of a relationship to do anything else. The hardest part was not understanding why I couldn’t be pulled out from the suffering. The only relief I had was thinking about heaven, in which I asked God to take me there. I honestly did and meant it. I couldn’t help but think that I didn’t want to stay on earth because all it was would be more suffering.

But, after many meds, an MRI, a couple of ultrasounds, a couple of doctors, and many nurses, and one day at a time, I am home. And although I still have nausea and vomiting, the worst is over! What a journey. I have learned something through all of this but before I share that with you, I want to thank all of you who have been a part of my recovery. Every prayer, FB message, text, email, phone call, card, meal, house cleaning, flower, balloon, babysitting time, and visit have carried me through. Every single act of love from you mattered. It was important and symbolic of God’s love. Never stop loving people and serving like you did for me when I needed it most.

Moreover, the main thing I learned through my suffering was to chase God in the midst of it. Whether it was a panic attack, discouragement, constant vomiting, or pain, seeking Him in the midst of the suffering was crucial. He did not take me out of it. The picture I had of Him was silent but stable and strong. My mind had the image of a huge, masculine God with compassion in his face and hurt in His eyes but He needed me to go through it and…He was there.

It took work on my part. I had to worship. I had to pray. I had to guard my words so as not to complain. I had to trust Him and not be angry. I had to read scripture. I had to listen to preaching as much as I could. I had to rely on people. I had to cry. I had to admit my humanity. I had to see myself for what I was…sick, tired, dirty, un-kept, uncomfortable, mentally cloudy, discouraged, purposeless, and needy. And, yet, I was loved and safe in the care of God.

Suffering on earth is a reality. But there is coming a day when heaven will be near and all hardships will cease…and I truly look forward to being forever in God’s presence. I don’t know what you are suffering right now, but I do know that there is hope. You are not alone. You may have to chase God too but He is there. And, He will come through for you. Even if your situation means death, He is the first there to receive you as you go from earth to heaven. He is truly the Savior.

And for everyone else that may not be in a time of suffering, you have much work to do for The Savior! Love people, serve the church, resist temptation, respect your husband, love your wife, train your children in the ways of the Lord, share your faith, give to the poor, help the orphans and widows, visit the sick and imprisoned, and encourage other believers…”work while it is day for the night is coming when no man can work”. God has you and I here for His purposes. It starts today, It starts right now. It starts right where you are with the resources you have been given. Give your all and let’s keep changing the world!

For Scotty...

2010-02-13T16:12:00.001-08:00

IT’S NOT JUST …

It’s not just that you provide for the family, it's that you do it with supreme stewardship.

It’s not just that you work hard, it’s that you do it even in physical pain.

It’s not just that you parent the children, it’s that you give them your all, all of the time.

It’s not just that you enjoy being home, it’s that you want to be there more than anywhere else.

It’s not that you just lead our family, it’s that you lead us in the safety net of wisdom.

It’s not just that you say you love me, it’s that you show me by acts of service, gifts, and time together.

Its not just your love for God, its your love for others to know Him too.

It’s not just that you are a preacher, it’s that you live it out at home when the crowds are gone.

It’s not just that you read your Bible and pray, it’s that you won’t start your day without doing both for as long as possible.

It’s not just that you are a good man, it’s that you are the greatest man in the world!!!!

I love you Scotty!!!!! Happy Valentines Day 2010!

Third Generation

2009-11-20T19:02:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of Scotty's Mimi, his mother's mother, reading to Candice and Kelly Grace. We visited Mimi and Papa this summer and had an awesome, memorable time. I came across this picture and wanted to share it because it serves as a reminder to admonish, respect, and give gratitude to elders. They are special people with much wisdom to share! If you don't have older family to learn from, search your church or even a retirement home. You will bless them and they will be blessed!

Serving Together!

2009-11-20T18:56:00.000-08:00

Scotty preaching in Illinois to a Sunday morning congregation which actually had many more people than it looks in the picture (LOL) ... and Kelly Grace was able to sing for them!

Micheal Jr.

2009-11-20T18:23:00.000-08:00

Candice says..."Ok, see who I am pointing to? This is Micheal Jr. and he is a funny guy! Here was here to crack me up! He tells the funniest jokes in the whole universe! He was at Realife on this day telling jokes like I said. He was here on a Wednesday night if you are wondering if it was a Sunday or Wednesday night. If you want to check him out go to www.michealjr.com"

Annual Christmas CD Time!

2009-11-20T17:16:00.000-08:00

We just finished recording our 3rd annual Christmas CD! Thanks to Uncle Austin (a professional radio host for the Austin Hartley Project on 99HIT Saturday nights), we are able to record a CD as a gift for family. Although it is an amazing memory, the past two years of recording were a bit stressful. On one hand the girls need to be themselves and on the other hand a "free for all" can get out of hand fast...then no one wants to hear it! That being said, I usually was worn out and in a full body sweat trying to get little ones to stand in the right spot, say something useful, not argue on the recording ect. But this year was awesome! They were little pros! We were able to do all 11 tracks in less than 2 hours and everyone had a fun time! The video clips from it won't come through but here are some fun pictures! Just scroll down to view. Allison's debut this year was the biggest hit! She broke out in "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands"! This Christmas, make a memory with your favorite people that will last for years to come!

Bria Recording Christmas CD

2009-11-20T17:07:00.000-08:00

Girls with Cousins (Hartley Side) Recording Christmas CD

2009-11-20T17:05:00.000-08:00

Kelly Grace Recording Christmas CD

2009-11-20T17:04:00.000-08:00

Allison Recording Christmas CD

2009-11-20T17:00:00.000-08:00

Fun in the Fall!

2009-11-10T22:31:00.000-08:00

This is one of our latest pictures...taken right before all the fall leaves completely fell here in the Ozarks. I especially was proud of this picture because #1. Everyone is smiling and standing in the right place and #2. I picked up the girls from a play day, changed them into dresses then back into play clothes, and drove up to the church all in 30 minutes ... not to mention Allison had not even had a nap and it was 3:00! God helped me (and He sent a Renda to join me for help too!). It is amazing to me that God cares so much for mothers. His grace is all around our everyday task even having fall pictures taken! We are entrusted with His best gifts...children. He is right there with us every step of the way making sure we have ALL that we need.

CANDICE MARIE GIBBONS!

2009-10-22T06:53:00.000-07:00

TODAY IS CANDICE'S 7th BIRTHDAY! WHAT A GREAT AGE! WE LOVE YOU CANDICE! Here are some things we love about Candice:
1. She has a tender spirit towards righteousness, wanting to please the Lord
2. She is lively yet sweet
3. She is tender, compassionate, and a nurturer
4. She loves her little sisters
5. She and her Daddy are fun buddies
6. She and her Mama are lovey buddies
7. She enjoys making videos/tape recordings, tap
dancing, pretend play for dress-up/mother/LittleHouse, playing outside, violin, doing math, doing anything doctor or medical, and is excited about the little things in life...like fried eggs, escalators, watching Little House, and sleeping! (she say, "OHHHH GRRRREEEEAAAAT!)

Totally Healed!

2009-10-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

My test results came back from the lymphnode surgery and were cancer-free! Here is the overall story: Two weeks ago I went in for a mammogram and an ultrasound. The radiologist found a mass that had all the signs of being malignant (solid, vertical, irregular edges). We had surgery 48 hrs. after they found it and waited for the results. In the mean time, we put the word out for people to pray...and they did! Our hearts could never express our deep gratitude to all the family, friends, JRA people, missionaries, churches, and institutions that called out in prayer for me. I am overwhelmed and feel such love. This past week we were called and told that we had "good news!" The lymphnode was benign! God is the healer! Thank you to everyone who prayed for me (not to mention the food delivered, childcare, and househelp!). Prayer changes things!

Mission of Mercy

2009-10-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

This is Rick and Yoli from Mission of Mercy visiting JRA for the Designed for Life Conference. This year we were able to sponsor 375 more Haiti children! We are somewhere around 1200 sponsored children in Haiti from James River. God is good and I believe it is just the beginning of all God is going to do in that country. If you are interested in sponsoring a child, being a foster parent, adopting a child, or supporting orphan care, visit www.Cherishkids.org for more info!

Designed for Life Conference 2009

2009-10-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

God truly blessed the DFL conference at James River last week! Lisa Bivere (in the middle), Charlotte Scanlon-Gamble (far right), and Nancy Alcorn (not pictured) were our guest speaker, Also included in the picture is my lead pastor, Debbie Lindell (short black hair) and her daughter Savannah (left of me). 44 Women were saved and countless other testimonies of things God did in the women's hearts. What an honor to be a part and to speak at DFL. With over 2200 in attendance, I can't wait to see what happens next year! Don't miss it!

Favorite Outfit!

2009-10-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

Not sure how to rotate this but I had to post it anyway! Bria celebrated her 4th birthday and received this Snow White outfit. She is sooooo proud of it, even though she has never seen the movie Snow White :-D We just let her wear it everywhere she goes because she adores it. And, just so you know, keep a watch on Miss Bria Nicole Gibbons because she is loaded with leadership and will change the world...but for now she is Snow White.

Eternal Perspective

2009-10-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

This is a sunset picture from my backyard. God is a beautiful God and if this is pretty without it being heaven, I can't wait to see what heaven looks like! Take time to breathe in creation today...God's work is all around you!

Update!

2009-10-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! As most of you know, I am home in bed recovering from surgery. God is helping me and I am enjoying updating this blog! Some of you have asked about my trip to Haiti...I can't seem to find the file of pictures from my trip. However, as soon as I do, I will share it with you! We had an exciting summer with 3 weeks of youth camps, I Love America, a trip to Mississippi for the girls to visit their great-grandmother, swimming camp, Silver Dollar City, and a Disney Cruise but nothing was a awesome as going to Haiti. I would go back in a heartbeat and would skip all the other events without question. The Bible is clear that we are to love and help the needy. Going there was supernatural and fulfilling. I can't wait to see what God does through JRA for Haiti. Pictures will come asap! In the mean time, we get results back from my arm surgery tomorrow or Tuesday. Please lift it up in prayer for no cancer! Thank you!

Cinderella is REAL!

2009-10-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

This was a defining moment for my girls aboard the Disney Wonder Cruise...Cinderella is "REAL, SEE I TOLD YOU MOMMY!" I have to admit, once you are in that setting, you do start to believe things that are ridiculous anywhere else. I was a little excited myself! And even funnier, my girls have never even seen the movie Cinderella but they still like her!

All Aboard!

2009-10-11T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is a picture before we loaded the Disney Wonder. This trip was special because it was with all of Scotty's family. And, although his mother became sick on board and it wasn't the same without her, we were blessed to go! I think we better go again so Scotty's mom can get the full trip :-D

Mother/Daughter Moment

2009-10-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

This is a snapshot of Candice and me after we had a wonderful heart to heart chat about obedience. She has such a tender heart for the things of God. After I confronted her about running off from me, she sat on the porch and prayed for forgiveness then apologized to me in tears. What a beautiful spirit! And, as you can tell from this picture, all was well after that! Repentance and forgiveness always brings joy!

Summer Family Vacation

2009-10-11T08:12:00.000-07:00

From back in August...Starting off vacation with Pluto and cousins!

2009-10-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

Picture from our vacation from the summer! First time to get room service!

Jamesriver Little Women

2009-10-09T18:48:00.000-07:00

The girls are decked out for the Designed for Life Conference at James River! Although they couldn't go because they aren't eleven yet, Candice said, "If you let us get a shirt we will feel more like we are a part of the conference!" Even Allison had one and wore it like a dress with a hotpink ribbon around it! For the picture, Bria didn't want to be in it because her supper was on the table and the other two girls stuck their tongues out and said, "This means 'I love you' "...so, we are working on not doing that again :-D but coming up with something a little more pleasant!

Three peas in a Pod!

2009-10-09T18:39:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday afternoons, we go up to Realife Student Center. This is a picture of the three older girls taking their nap in the Realife nursery! Allison is actually there too but she is sleeping in her "tent" off to the side! The pillows you see are ones we made as a craft project...easy, fun, takes 20 minutes and only cost 5.00/piece!

Headed to Church!

2009-10-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

My sweet Treasures! The girls are all ready for a sunday morning at James River Assembly when Scotty preached. The dresses are a gift from Scotty's grandmother, Mimi. The girls love them and of course I love matching them because I doubt they will want to match in Strasburg dresses when they are teenagers!

Best Friends Forever!

2009-10-09T18:26:00.000-07:00

This is my best friend that lives in VA! We met in the first grade and spent most of life together up until I moved in the 8th grade. Scotty had the opportunity to speak at the Potomic District Youth Leaders Convention and I was able to go to the conference as well as spend time with Caranie!

Haiti at Home

2009-10-09T17:55:00.000-07:00

When I returned from Haiti, I brought the girls Haitian-made dresses and they wore them to church! Even though the girls haven't been to Haiti yet, they already know a lot about the country and the people. All three older girls say they want to be in the medical field saving orphans in Haiti. It is awesome to instill in children a love for the suffering rather than just a love for themselves. I am excited to see all God does through all these girls!

Bath Time!

2009-10-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

I just love how the four sisters are still small enough to play together at bath time! Soooo cute...especially when they start to sing or baptize each other! They even scrub each other's hair!

Mary, Laura, Carrie, and Grace

2009-10-09T17:22:00.000-07:00

This family loves "Little House on the Prairie!" We set up our own scene in our backyard while eating popcorn, reading a Little House book, and playing our violins! I love having these girls! Love, Ma

Swim class!

2009-08-03T18:13:00.000-07:00

One of the girls' favorite summer activities is to take swim lessons! We have been going to Benita Coatney's home for 4 years to receive her training. I used to have to go with the girls and get in the pool for aqua babies class but now I drop them off...soooo weird! I am proud of my little guppies and thankful for an amazing place for the girls to take lessons.

A Friend Over for Tea!

2009-08-03T17:59:00.000-07:00

Candice's friend Lilly came over today! We were all excited to have her spend time with us. Life is blessed with friends in it!

Some of my favorite pictures! First two are Bria and them the girls on bunkbeds, group shot is all the Gibbons/Hartleys, and then sweet Allison!!

2009-08-02T21:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping in on our blog!

I Love America!

2009-08-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

Going to church on a sunday celebrating America for the 4th of July!

Allison Found the Chicken!

2009-08-02T21:35:00.000-07:00

At summer camp, one of the games that is played for the whole week is "find the chicken". Any team that finds a hidden chicken gets 10,0000 points. Well, we were all shocked when Allison came walking out and said, "I got chicken!" The students gasped and all started asking her for it and all she would do is say, "NO! Its
MY chicken!" It was hilarious!

Cowgirl Candice!

2009-08-02T21:28:00.000-07:00

Mid-west born and raised!

Birthday Party!

2009-08-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

Allison has turned 2! She is a complete JOY!(which is her middle name ;-D) In this picture she is trying to make a funny face as her sisters give her presents. She received the Dora chair from Scotty and I...I was thrilled to give it to her, especially since I paid 6.00 for it and knew she would love it! And even better is that we went an entire party and she didn't get tired! Oh, and for the record, I did dress her before the party began...this was the "sister time" before everyone came over. :-D

Missions!

2009-08-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

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The girls ahve raised $1125.00 so far this year for missions! They set a goal of 5,000 and are well on their way. At youth camp, we sold snow cones for 1.00 and profited 559.00! It was a great way to teach the girls about money and hard work as well as connect with the students!

2009-08-02T21:08:00.000-07:00

They are growing up! This is promotion sunday at James River. The girls are now 1st grade, Kindergarten, Pre-school, and Toddler!

Little House on the Prairie

2009-06-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Kelly Grace acting like Laura Ingalls from Little House on the Prairie...apron and all! She is out front of the cabin we stay in while at youth camp in Huggins, Missouri.

Cherish Kids Song

2009-06-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

This is raw footage of 5 year old Kelly Grace singing the theme song for Cherish Kids, the foster and adoption initiative at James River Assembly. She sings it in the shower, at bedtime, in the car and just about anywhere else! This month she went into the recording studio and recorded it for the Cherish Kids commercial that will play at the I Love America event and at James River in July. Enjoy!

The Lost Tooth...Literally!

2009-05-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

It is never a dull moment around our home! Today was a surprise when Candice lost her tooth at breakfast!

Kelly Grace Goes for a Checkup!

2009-05-01T18:34:00.000-07:00

Among our many doctor appointments lately, one included Kelly Grace's 5 year old checkup! Coming in at a "whopping" 25% of height on the growth chart, we are blessed to have such a sweet, loving, and healthy little girl.

This Little Light of Mine

2009-05-01T16:19:00.000-07:00

Allison's latest thing to giggle over!

Kelly Grace's Glasses

2009-05-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

We have had fun with Kelly Grace getting glasses this past week! She had been complaining about watery eyes and headaches for many months. We thought she had allergies but it continued through winter without any improvement. So, off to the eye doctor and we found out that Kelly Grace is farsighted. The doctor said she may grow out of it but because she is already reading at 5, her eyes are straining more than normal. What fun we had picking out the frames! We also headed to the dollar store to pick out frames for her other two sisters who suddenly had major eye problems when they experienced the excitement of Kelly Grace's glasses...very funny!

Kelly Grace Mopping

2009-04-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to teach my girls to be domesticated. However, I had no idea I would have one that thrived on mopping for fun!

Easter

2009-04-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

A snapshot at church on Easter morning at James River Assembly. A wonderful day celebrating Jesus!!! P.S. It is nice to have four girls in a row...we are getting great use out of all these dresses!

Life Group

2009-04-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of our Life Group for the past year and a half...great people that we love and had wonderful experiences with every other week. They are Jason and Angela Gibbons (Scotty's brother), Matt and Tracy Davis, and Josh and Julie Bartlotti. Now they are off to keep the group going while Scotty and I start a new group ... this time it will be a Life group for teenagers!

Marine Picture

2009-04-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

The girls had the honor of having thier picture taken with a Marine friend of the family (Jason Wolmesdorf) on Easter Sunday! The girls' grandfather (Casey's dad) and their Great-grandfather (Casey's grandfather) were both in the Marines. It was a great opportunity to teach the girls about the military and our family heritage as well as show gratitude for all the military does to protect us!

Cherish Kids

2009-03-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

This Sunday marks a historic day in my life and in the life of James River.
After three years of prayer and research, on March 22, 2009 we will be officially launching Cherish Kids. Cherish Kids is a foster and adoption initiative that will do three things: Raise Awareness, Provide Resource, and Offer Support. This will be accomplished though four categories: Foster Care, Domestic Adoption, International Adoption, and Support. We are not an agency but will be linking arms with organizations to carry out God's heart for children. " ...You are the defender of orphans ...Lord, You know the hopes of the helpess. Surely you will listen to their cries and comfort them. You will bring justice to the orphans and the oppressed." Ps. 10:14, 17-18
The picture is me with Debbie Lindell as we review the brochure at a meeting with team leaders. For more info, contact cherishkids@jamesriver.org

Praying...kind of!

2009-03-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

Sweet Kelly Grace was joining in on the prayer at a wedding we recently attended...I guess she could tell I was about to take a picture because she peeked right when I snapped it!

Bria's First Love!

2009-03-17T10:57:00.000-07:00

Bria has already declared that she is marrying Isaac Porter (son of Eric and Trish who oversee the jr.high ministry at Realife)! We successfully captured this shot of her trying to kiss him at the dinner table...I am not sure he is ready for the relationship yet!

Miss Patti!

2009-03-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

I captured this picture when returning from a date with Scotty. What a beautiful sight to see when we came home to know our girls were cared for and nurtured by Miss Patti. Patti is a true blessing to our family!

Haley's Wedding Day!

2009-03-17T10:27:00.000-07:00

Here's a shot of three of the girls at Nick and Haley Venturella's wedding day! The girls love dressing up and celebrating all the "frills" and excitement of a wedding...espcially the fun food at the reception!

Allison's Giggle!

2009-03-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Allison's middle name is "Joy" and that is exactly what she is to us all! She has the cutest giggle that we have been trying to capture on video but never seem to get it. However, today we did it! At first she just does a fake laugh or two then by the end she lets out the real one! So cute!

Deep Thoughts from Candice

2009-02-18T21:14:00.000-08:00

We were upstairs on the computer and I put my old high school glasses on Candice and asked her, "Share something you think is important and you want others to know." We have labeled this portion "Deep Thoughts" and each of the girls have had something to say. I never know what they are going to say but I love hearing what is dear to their hearts and see their personalities!

Deep Thoughts from Kelly Grace

2009-02-18T21:04:00.000-08:00

Deep Thoughts from Bria

2009-02-18T20:50:00.000-08:00

Deep Thougths from Allison

2009-02-18T20:36:00.000-08:00

Girl Time!

2009-02-18T20:19:00.000-08:00

When Scotty travels, we girls miss him tremendously but we also take advantage of some girl time! There is never a dull moment in this house! I am blessed beyond measure to have these memories! -Casey

UPS Delivery

2009-02-18T19:59:00.000-08:00

Today Scotty flew out to Dallas, Texas to do a follow-up appointment. We wanted to say "hello" to him while he was down there so we did a fun video! We love you, Daddy-Boy!

9.12 Girls Valentine's Day Party

2009-02-14T21:14:00.000-08:00

On Friday night we had a house full of wonderful teenage girls and Realife Leaders! We decorated cookies, made cards, painted nails, played games and ate snacks! After that, we had a a good chat time about Gaurding the Heart during high school years, Giving Your Life during the "in-between years" (after high school and before marriage), and Going for It with all your heart when it (and if) God calls you to marriage and motherhood.
I am soooo proud of the students God allows us to work with at James River...and the leaders that helped that night are cool too!

Gracie Tapping Away

2009-02-12T20:18:00.000-08:00

Gracie fights for modesty while she taps away!

First Gingerbread House

2009-01-27T14:59:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of the first gingerbread house we have ever made! (Even I, Casey, have never made one!) We couldn't get 1\2 of the roof to stick on but everything else was great. I am proud of the girls and thanks to Papa and Annie for the supplies!

Allison at Gymnastics!

2009-01-27T14:15:00.000-08:00

Allison has fun on the big trampoline at gymnastics!

Gibbons Basketball Team!

2009-01-27T13:57:00.000-08:00

In only a few days our girls will join their very first basketball team! It will be coached by their Uncle Jason and will have their cousin Ryan as a fellow team mate. Candice especailly is excited about the new activity. Scotty told them today the "rules" of the game and then let them practice. It is something to see! I think we may need to do "two a days" until the girls start to make a few more baskets! :-)

Allison is sooo Cute!

2009-01-27T13:33:00.000-08:00

Everytime we have tried to capture Allison's laugh, she doesn't do it! We didn't get it this time either but we did capture a cute smile when she goes to drink from Mama's cup. It will make you want to smile back at her!

Gymnastics with Cousins!

2009-01-27T10:13:00.000-08:00

Nothing beats the winter cold like going to an open gym and being free to play! We went to All-Star Gymnastics with family and had a great morning together!

The Hartley Hub!

2009-01-27T10:01:00.000-08:00

Here are the Hartley children! Casey's brother Austin has three adorable treasures named Lyric, Jet, and Norah. They are all sweet babies!
When we add all the Gibbons and Harltey children we have a grand total of 11 blessing ages 6 years old to 6 months old! God is raising up a generation of world changers!

The Gibbons Gang!

2009-01-27T09:39:00.000-08:00

Here's a look at the Gibbons children this Christmas! Four are ours and four are our nieces and nephews. What a joy to be able to have them grow up together!

Ryno Provides the Encore

2009-01-01T18:34:00.000-08:00

Just when I though 2009 couldn't get any better, Ryan (my nephew) agreed to give us a little impromptu performance. He's not only a good basketball player, baseball player, and soccer player...he can sing too!!!

Hannah Gibbons Sings the House Down

2009-01-01T18:27:00.000-08:00

On New Year's Day, I (Scotty) enjoyed a delicious dinner (cooked by my sister-in-law Angela) then Jason (my younger brother) and I watched a little football. Before I left I was fortunate to enjoy a beautiful song by our sweet, little niece Hannah.

Bria Brings Holiday Cheer

2008-12-27T13:37:00.000-08:00

Few people enjoy a good performance more than Bria. And there aren't many people I'd rather watch.

Allison's Bathtub Surprise - Rated M (for mothers only...or those who have the strength of one)

2008-12-24T09:59:00.000-08:00

It was another night at the Gibbons home. I love being a mother but it is not for the faint at heart! :D

A James River Christmas

2008-12-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

The church did an amzazing job with the Christmas program this year! I wish everyone in the world could have been there to experience it with us! We did have over 13,000 people come out and 73 people gave their hearts to Jesus! That is awesome and that is why we do what we do at James River Assembly! I videod some clips and wanted to share them with you. Enjoy!

Rejoicing with Renda!

2008-12-23T19:51:00.000-08:00

Renda Higby is part of our lives in many amazing ways. She came over for dinner on Tuesday and announced to the girls that she had made them pumpkin bread and snicker doodles! They were excited (. . .well, Allison was happy and also ready to get out of her high chair.) Thanks to Renda for all the love she shows our family!

Allison says, "Ho, Ho!"

2008-12-23T19:16:00.000-08:00

Check out Allison's impression of Santa Clause and...her tummy to match his!

2008-12-20T11:20:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for bed is always fun at our house! This past week I grabbed the camera to show you a glimpse of the girls! Bria is especailly funny on this one!

Kelly Grace raises $100.00 for orphans!

2008-12-20T11:02:00.000-08:00

At our Bible time after breakfast one morning this past October, we were talking about how God speaks to us. We talked about how He speaks to us through the Bible, through authorities in our lives, through nature, through love from friends and family, and He also places things in our hearts. When we got to the part about speaking to the heart, we all paused and closed our eyes and listened to see if God was telling us anything.
Kelly Grace closed her eyes for a brief moment and then said, "He just told me something! He told me to give $100.00!" I said, "Wow! Where would you give the money?" She candidly put up her finger and said, "Hold on..." and she went back to closing her eyes! Then she opened them and said, "To orphans!".
And that is exactly what she has done! We talked about how to raise the money and she went for it. She wrapped candy for her grandparents gourmet food store, she was blessed with donations, collected spare change, and (my favorite one) she asked to babysit her counsins!
As of this past Wednesday, she hit her goal and came in at $102.76! Last night she choose 3 orphan care ministries to bless. It is amazing how God uses us to change the world when we listen to Him...even if you are 5 years old!

Deep Theological Discussion

2008-12-18T14:18:00.000-08:00

Casey talks with the girls on the way to church last night. It's too dark to see them but you can hear the deep thoughts shared in the mini van.

Candice and Gracie at the Ballet Recital

2008-12-11T17:43:00.000-08:00

Classic footage!

Bennett to the Rescue!

2008-12-11T15:01:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday night was the Joy to the World Concert. The girls had a blast! Getting all four ready for the lights, cameras, and action was no easy task. We sure were thankful for Bennett Thurman's help.

Bowling for the first time!

2008-11-29T19:01:00.000-08:00

Part of our Thanksgiving break was a trip to Lake of the Ozarks with family.
The girls couldn't wait to go to the bowling alley! I (Casey) haven't been in years and have to admit I was excited too! Under normal circumstances, Scotty and I would not choose bowling ... something about helping three samll children roll 10-pound balls sounds like a backache waiting to happen! Thankfully, we had enough extended family there to help. It was fun!

Drenched!

2008-11-29T18:45:00.000-08:00

Poppy (Scotty's dad) was a brave man at the Lake of the Ozarks indoor water park! He did every one of activities offered! I think the most impressive was when he gathered the children and waited to have gallons of water dumped on them!
(Sorry it is sideways...not sure how to correct it!)

Bria's latest activity!

2008-11-29T18:27:00.000-08:00

Bria had alot of fun at the water park! She rode the same slide over and over and over! I am thinking about installing one inside our bathroom to keep her occupied this winter . . .lol!

Laura is a blessing!

2008-11-25T12:19:00.000-08:00

Laura Virnig is a true blessing to our family! She is a part of an elite group of five girls that we call the "Home Team." These girls become an important part of our lives and the ministry as they help us keep things going. We don't take their involvement lightly because much of what we do could not be done if we didn't have a great team coming alongside of us. In this video, Laura demonstrates true loyalty ...

Learning to be Content

2008-11-22T14:37:00.002-08:00

No matter what I serve Allison, she cries and points to everyone else's food at almost every meal! Reminds me to be thankful for what God gives me in life and not be jealous of what others have ... funny for a one year old to do but not a pretty sight if you are a grown up!

Family Recording

2008-11-13T14:48:00.000-08:00

Christmas is coming! Today we went over to Uncle Austin's house and recorded our 3rd annual Gibbons Girls Christmas CD. This year we picked up a special guest ...cousin Lyric Hartley! Be on the lookout for the latest amazing album! P.S. Don't worry, my (Casey) singing won't be on there . . .that was terribly off key . . .I was trying to coach and didn't think about what I sounded like!

Casey Wins the JRA Thumb-Wrestling Championship

2008-11-13T12:23:00.000-08:00

Casey triumphed over 200 participants at the JRA Staff Chapel. The placed was shocked and rocked by her performance.

Bria having fun!

2008-10-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

We have a lot of fun playing around with the iPhoto options on the Mac. This is Bria's latest picture. What if the world had two of Bria? . . .It would be a better place!

Welcome Baby Brooklyn!

2008-10-31T20:52:00.000-07:00

Bryan, Lauren (Scotty's Sister), and big brother Weston welcomed Brooklyn Reese to their family on June 30th. She was 7.2 lbs, 221/2 in., born at 8:02. She is definitely "out" in this picture! Lauren looks great already. We love you Brooklyn!

Candice lost her front tooth!

2008-10-31T20:42:00.000-07:00

Kelly Grace Singing

2008-10-31T20:24:00.000-07:00

New Playground

2008-10-31T19:13:00.000-07:00

Let the games begin! Instead of getting multiple gifts for all of the girls' birthdays, we put all of the money together to buy one BIG gift. The girls got a new playground with swings, rockwall, and slide. The girls love it! They spend hours outside playing.

We're so thankful for all of the family members who pitched in to make it possible. This is definitely a gift our girls will enjoy for years!