My Son - SJMS Forever!

Last weekend we drove out to Salina,KS for the 122nd Corps St. Johns Military School Commencement and Graduation. Austin completed 9th grade on the Academic Honor Roll - and with much personal Honor. The weekend was packed full of activities - all were amazing. It was a great mix of school and military traditions - but the best part of the entire last year was looking into my young man's face and seeing how immensely proud of himself he is.

Austin,

Although this journey started off extremely hard for you - you persevered and not only got through it - you are outstanding - as a son, young man and as a cadet. I can tell you that your Dad and I, Tracy and Chris and the rest of your family are so very proud of you and your accomplishments! I know that next year is still up in the air - but weigh all of your options carefully and I know you will make the best decision for you.

Private Austin McCullough

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Last weekend the whole family went to Salina, KS. for Austin's graduation from "New Boy" and Promotion to Private. The weekend was packed full of events and was absolutely amazing! Austin is on the honor roll for the first time ever! Not only is he doing well - he is excelling! We spent the weekend with Austin's dad, Tracy Mom and his sisters Taylor, Brooke, Lexi, Emma & Talley, Nanna Jackie & Pappa Rex. It was so good to bring the two families together for Austin. We all had a really good time from the Pass and Review to the ice cold football game on Friday night to the frigid parade on Saturday! All in all, the most important thing was Austin and we were all there for him! We all love you so much Austin! We'll be seeing you!!

So Proud!

I just got a call from the newly ranked Private Austin McCullough! He took his New Boy test on Sunday and found out today that he passed with flying colors! I haven't been able to speak to him since mid-August when we said our Be Seeing You's - so the phone call was an absolute perfect end to my day! He is doing so well and is adjusting wonderfully! He says that he hates inspections (they have 3 a day) but is learning something new every day! Austin is also on the honor roll and playing on the St. John's soccer team. We will be heading out in 2 weeks to attend his New Boy official graduation and we can't wait to see him!

My dearest Austin,

You have made me the proudest Mama on the planet today! I know this experience has been hard -but you have found your way through and have excelled past your first hurdle. I can't wait to see you in 2 weeks at your ceremony - and know that I couldn't be any prouder than I am of you today. We love you with all our hearts!

mom, chris & emma

Catch Up!!

Okay, so this summer I have been horrible about updating everyone on all the things that have been happening. So I'm going to try and catch up with these next posts. I promise to keep this more updated in the future!

Cadet Austin McCullough

Over the summer Austin made a very big decision to go away to the St. John's Military Academy in Salina, KS. Chris, Emma and I made the drive in early August to check him in and give our best hugs and kisses for his journey. Although it has been a rough couple of weeks, he is adjusting well now and getting the hang of things. His Commander says he is an exemplary cadet - and we couldn't be more proud! Here's some pics of his party and during check in at the school.



Emma in the car getting ready for the 6 hour drive


Austin hangin out with us before his party


Emma and Austin and Lexi's other sister Talley


Taylor and friend doing the 'bump'


Girls on the tramp having a great time!




Austin and his buds from the neighborhood


Austin's dad got the first swipe


Austin at check in - freshly shaven and ready to go!


Me and my baby - I'm so proud


Emma loves her big brother so much


Austin and his sponsor...and all his gear


Walking into the barracks - where we said our be seeing you's

Austin Mission Trip

On Saturday Austin will be leaving home to travel to Louisiana on a Mission trip with his Church. He will be there for 5 days helping to rebuild houses for those that have been without since hurricane Katrina.

Austin,

I hope that while you are there you work hard, listen, and learn about other people and something about yourself. You are such a great son and I'm so proud of you! I know this experience will be something that stays with you for the rest of your life - I can't wait to hear all about it! Be safe and have fun!

I love you,

Mom

I'M OLD!

Today my first born - my little man - my guy with the best smile that I wish would stay little forever....got his driver's permit.

Austin - I cannot express how extremely proud I am of you for accomplishing this milestone. You studied and tried your hardest and received a 100% on your exam - WAY TO GO! I love you so much and I know that you know the amount of responsibility that comes with this achievement. This is proof positive that you can do ANYTHING you put your mind to! The only other thing I can say is practice, practice, practice =0) I love you so much and can't wait to see you in 10 short days.

All my love,

MOM