Austin's Name & Blessing

This last Sunday we were able to bless Austin while surrounded by family and friends. The thought of hosting a luncheon and organizing the blessing was a little too overwhelming for me at two months, so we waited until three months and finally just made it happen because we couldn't put it off forever! I just tried to hold onto the lesson that I learned with Lydia's blessing, that it's about Austin and the priesthood ordinance - not about the logistics or luncheon. It ended up being a beautiful day. It worked out that we were able to do the blessing on the last Sunday of the month instead of the first Sunday, because that way David's brother, Bruce-who lives in New York, and my sister Jenna - who lives in Idaho, were all able to be there. 

I was so proud as I watched my husband take our baby in his arms and as I saw Austin surrounded by so many wonderful examples of worthy priesthood holders. The circle was large and I felt incredible blessed to have so many men to be there to participate with Austin. It was special to know that someday Austin will be able to hold his own baby in his arms the same way that his father was holding him to give him a name and a blessing. 

Austin Scott Peaden.  

Austin means "majestic dignity" which we hope reflects the type of man that Austin will become. The world is filled with lies about what boys are/should be. We want Austin to live his life knowing of his divine nature and acting with majestic dignity.  Scott is David's middle name and is also my Dad's name. Being named after two of the most wonderful men I know is a legacy that Austin can be proud of. Scott also means "painted warrior" and a warrior he must be as he faces the battles of the world. We are proud to have Austin and hope that his name will guide him through his life.

The blessing that David gave Austin was beautiful. He was blessed to have the gift of spiritual courage to do what is right, even when others aren't. The gift of faith to believe in things he can't see, that are true. Empathy. A calm presence. Kindness. To be trusted and to be helpful to others. To be cheerful and happy. 

What a wonderful blessing that already seems to fit this little man. I feel so blessed to be his mother and I only hope that I can raise him to be a man of spiritual strength and courage. I know that his spirit is strong. I can sense the faith of the Stripling Warriors in his tiny heart and hope that someday he will be able to say that he has no doubt, because his mother knew it. 

Austin was so calm and happy the whole day. We did things a little bit backwards because our church started at 1:30, and both David and I have callings that we couldn't really miss. Instead of doing the blessing and then coming home for a little gathering afterwards, we invited our family to come to our home for a lunch before church. David and I barely had to prepare any food, just BBQ pork and some rolls. All of our family members pitched in and brought delicious sides/dessert and everything came together seamlessly. People were there early enough that we had plenty of time to take pictures before we all headed over to the meeting. He was happy through all the pictures, then did fabulously through the blessing. Not only was everyone in my family able to make it, but also my Grandma and Grandpa Walker and my Aunt Kim and Uncle Marti made the trek down from Lyman Wyoming to be with us. We snapped a few precious pictures with my grandpa and Austin, and I already treasure those photos. 

 {Scott & Lori Walker, Jenna & Kevin Haderlie,  Melissa & Blake Larson, Matthew Walker, Marti & Kim Walker, Grandma Verla & Grandpa Ramon Walker.}

We also had an incredible show of support from David's family. We are so blessed to have such support and so many family members close to us. Plus Bruce who is close in spirit.

{Cal & Sue Peaden, Bruce Peaden, Amy Peaden, Melissa & little Zachary Peaden, Jeff & Kaylee Peaden, Kevin Peaden  aannnnnddd the Rencher Family who wasn't able to make it to the luncheon, but did make it to the church for the blessing.} 

And our best Cooper-Friends were also able to make it to support our little family. We love these guys so much. Emily and Austin, Lydia and Elsie, Ashley and Shantel. So many best friends! 

 

We truly are so blessed. There are a whole-lotta people who love this little boy. And with this face, how could you not?

I wanted to make sure to get a few good pictures of our little family. Lydia wasn't feeling super great - but I'm glad that we were able to get these pictures. I love them. 

We truly do love this little boy.