Happy Birthday Austin!!!

Dear Austin,

You are 7 years old and I can't believe it. According to the doctor you have grown 3 inches this year and are going through shoes like I go through Diet Pepsi's. There is so much I love about you and I hope you know how special you are. Here are some of the things that I think are unique about you:

-you have been hitting a baseball since you were 2 years old and this year has been no different. Your coach is continually amazed at how calm you are up at the plate. You are a consistent hitter and were always the 4th to bat because you would hit everyone else in that were on the bases. I loved being your team mom and watch you progress in the game.

- You have finally begun piano lessons after a year of begging me. I am so pleased at your progress. Your teacher cannot believe how fast you are going through the book and I watch you practice and see that you are a natural.

-You are not afraid of anything. Give you a challenge and you will work at it until you have mastered it. For example, Ice Skating with you last week was so fun. You were scared and didn't know if you could do it. Not only did you stay out there longer than any of us, but you wanted to go back and did so with Dad later that night. You were determined to master it and would pick yourself right back up after falling. What a great example of determination.

-You have a strong will and when you believe in something, no one can make you change your mind. Sometimes this is a problem, but when I think about the kind of missionary you will be, I know that this talent just needs to be channelled in the right direction.

-You are hilarious and tell great jokes. I love to see you with your Tiger scout troop. You go and hug them all and they love to be around you.

-You are a great big brother to Rachael. She loves her "Austie" and you interact in a way with her that is special. You both have a unique bond.

Austin, we love you and are so proud of you. I know this move to Texas has been difficult for you and you have grown not only physically, but spiritually as well. Thank you for all you do and we are proud to call you our brother, son and friend. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!