Happy Birthday Jared!

For the past 3 years I've always wondered what birthdays are like in heaven.  You see, we have a very special angel looking down on us and each August we celebrate his birthday in a big way.  Jared was an avid golfer and having a golf "get together" just seems right every year.  And every year, we have a great turnout, wonderful weather and always a great time!  And every year, Addilyn knows we have to buy flowers and take them out to Jared.  She normally sings Happy Birthday to him, but this year some of his buddies were visiting him the same time we were and she got too shy.  Here's a pic of some of Jared's buddies visiting with Jared and having a beer too!

I want to take the time right now to thank the guys who come every year to participate in this event.  You all were true friends to Jared, and I think I can speak for the whole family when I say you guys are awesome for still coming out and keeping his memory alive.  Thank you!!

I'll share some pictures now from the day...

Addi posing for a pic at the driving range with her golf clubs.  When someone commented on "how good she was" Addi replied with "I play putt putt!"  What a diva!

Evan putting

Uncle Russ going for the drive

Gotta love little Aniston's dress!!  Her Uncle Jared would be sooo proud!

Griffin taking part in the day!

Saundra's tean.  Thank guys for coming in and for all the fun! 

Ethan, Josh, Brad and Dusty.  I think (actually I know) they had a lot of fun!!

Austin, Dee, Zach and Trampus.  And I know they had a lot of fun and laughs as well!

Saundra and Brady.  Must've been a good putt!

Father and Son team-Greg and Keiland

Such a pretty view!

GO TOPS!!!  Jared would be proud!

Jared's memorial garden at Russ and Saundra's hous.  And the concrete with Jared's initials in nothing else but golf balls!

 
 
The next two picture are very sweet. Even at the innocent age of 4, Addilyn seems to have such an understanding of where Jared is and that even though he's not physically here to celebrate with us, we continue to celebrate him. The day after the golf outing, we gathered as a family at mom and dad's and had a cookout. There was leftover ice cream cake from Russ and Saundra's the night before (we go there and eat and party after golfing). Addi said it was a birthday cake and was adamant on singing. She made mom find a candle and light it and all by herself (I think the rest of us were holding back some tears) sang "Happy Birthday" to Jared in the sweetest voice. God love her heart, she was only 13 months old when he was taken from us too soon, but yet, she talks and acts as if she knew him for so long. I know he was definitely smiling down on her as she sang to him!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JARED!