Jarrod, Tricia, Austin, Waveney & Grace: Austin is 12

Austin turned 12 on June 2^nd 2009. We had a wonderful time as a family celebrating Austin. Because of the ice storm that devastated the state of KY in February, School was still in session until June 4^th. Austin was able to celebrate his birthday with his school friends. I was able to go into the school for my last tour as Captain Accella Rita, a pirate who hands out gold coins to students who have earned AR (reading) points. I retired after 3 years of service. I awarded Austin with his gold coins for earning over 350 AR points. After I was done, I changed and Jarrod and I had lunch with Austin and his class. Austin enjoyed cupcakes with his classmates later in the day. After school we had a busy afternoon. We had dinner at the neighborhood pool after his sisters had their swim practice. Then we went home and Austin opened his presents from his family. We were blessed to have cousin Katie with us for the week.

Friday night Austin had a birthday party with his friends from school, soccer, and church! We celebrated at our old neighborhood park, Belleau Wood park. The boys played dodge ball and pretty much ran around crazy! They had a great time!

On Sunday Austin was recognized for finishing his Faith in God award, and advancing to the Deacons Quorum. He was also ordained by his Father with the Aaronic Priesthood. We had a lot of family that traveled into town to be present for the event. It was a very special event. Jarrod was emotional as he passed on the priesthood to his son, and gave him a wonderful blessing from the Lord. I can’t believe my baby is so grown up. Austin has physically changed a lot in the last year. The bone structure in his face is starting to change, as he matures into adolescence. His voice is beginning to change and he stands at 5 feet tall even, 77 pounds, and wears a size 6 shoe! We are pleased to have Austin in our family. Those who were attendance from Jarrod family, Mom & Dad Brooks, Aunt Amber Brooks, Aunt Heather, Uncle Robert, and Cousin Raegan. From my family, Mom & Dad Gosnell, Uncle Jeff, Aunt Noelle, Cousins Rachel & Gabi, and Uncle Brian.

After church, we had a nice cookout in our home with all our family. We also celebrated all the June birthdays. Austin on the 2^nd turning 12, Raegan on the 5^th turning 3, Mom Gosnell on the 14^th turning 55, Kaitlyn (who was unable to attend) on the 22^nd turning 3, and Jarrod on the 23^rd turning 37. We had a lot of fun!