Austin's Birthday

I think of all my children I have learned the most from Austin.  He has helped me grow and learn lessons I never dreamed I would have to learn.  Because of how much work he has had to do to make small accomplishments his victories are that much more sweet.  I have come to realize that as he was small we fought and struggled with so many things but now you see him at almost 6 feet tall on honor roll, and happy. You would never know of all the small victories he has had in order for him to stand as the 13 year old you see today. Today I celebrate his 13 victories one for each year.

1. Austin can hear and see.  He spent his first 3 years of life hearing as if he was always underwater.  He wore glasses to correct his sight in kindergarten.  I am grateful for preschool screenings that helped us help him.
2. Austin can speak!  Now you would never know the hours spent in speech therapy. 
3. Austin can read.   Through all the meetings with teachers and education specialist Austin's progress has been great.  He has been on the honor roll in middle school and reads above the reading level for his grade.
4. Austin can feel and share love.  As a small child Austin was angry and hated about everyone, now you see him with a smile on his face and many friends.
5. Austin has a wonderful sense of humor.  I love when 7 years old get into knock knock jokes and they just keep repeating them over and over again.  Austin did that forever but now has moved on and has developed a keen way with word meanings that makes you say that was funny.
6. Austin likes to wear jeans.  After years of only wearing pants with elastic waist he will now wear jeans. Its much easier to find jeans that fit.
7. Austin likes to cook.  He is a good cook with simple and not so simple foods.  This includes complete dinners not just cookies.
8. Austin likes to do his priesthood duties by passing the sacrament and helping the widows.
9. Austin is great at tech things.   Whenever I can't figure out something about our new car or the computer I just ask Austin he already knows the answer and he shows me how its done.
10. Austin is a hard worker.  He sticks to doing the dishes even if it takes him an hour.
11. Austin stands up for what he thinks is right!
12. Austin is helpful.  He likes to help Lydia and Willy
13. Austin made it to 13 without being killed of maimed by his brother because at times they get along very well.