Jared's 23rd

Jared's 23rd birthday was on October 6th.

On October 6th we were en-route to Kentucky to help his Aunt Sarah move and we wouldn't return until October 14th.  Once again, I'm traumatized to be so late on someone's post that means so much to me but I know he'll understand because he's a great guy and also because he told me he would.

Jared was our fourth grandchild and our third grandson.

He's a very important part of this large family

and of course a very important part of this beautiful family.

I wrote about Jared on his birthday last year in this post and visiting that post will take you to links to all his previous posts.  They tell lots about Jared through the years and the multitude of pictures will show how he's changed so I'll just post a few pictures here

and talk about what's been going on in Jared's life during the past year.  After completing the fall semester in Nebraska last year, Jared returned home to Iowa.  He's spending some time regrouping, working at Subway, and reconnecting with his family.  He plans to finish school in Iowa probably next summer with a Bachelor's in Economics and a minor in Management.

It's easy to understand Jared's need to be close with his family.  When he was little, his best friend was his brother, Ryan

and some things just don't change.

He's also happiest having fun with family

and even partying with them sometimes.

Right now Jared says he's focusing on bettering himself in every way  

but I struggle with that because he's so great and so sweet and so smart that he just doesn't seem like he needs 'bettering'.

He's also helpful and kind.  He loves kids, animals, and family.  And kids, animals, and family love Jared!  We're so proud of him - the kind of person he is and his motivation to always improve.  We're hoping he had a really wonderful birthday and that the coming year is his best one yet but only half as awesome as the many more to come.  We love you, Jared!  Happy Birthday - a little late.