Tuesday, January 4, 2011

My "baby" is 17


How does this happen?
And why does it happen so fast?

Happy Birthday Jared!

Little did I know 17 years ago when you entered this world what JOY you would bring to this family.  My little hard-headed, stubborn, strong willed toddler (who I didn't know if I would live through) grew into the most compassionate, sweet, easy going (mostly) tender hearted young man.  The twinkle in your eyes when you smile should have been my clue!

I remember many times when you were young and we were battling wills, looking at your dad and saying "I am really not sure who won this battle!"  

But that strong will has grown into a confidence that is so rare in teenagers.  

Your love for God is so apparent to everyone around you.  I love that you are willing to share it with whomever God leads into your path.  And also that you are not willing to be easily swayed by other's opinions.

It is so wonderful to see you serve around the church, where ever you are needed, and also in school. I can't visit there without your teachers singing your praises!!!

Jared, you are a precious gift to me and I love you dearly.  I am so proud of the young man you have become and look forward to seeing what God has ahead of you!!!

Happy 17th!!!

13 comments:

Rebecca Jo said...

Ahhh - Happy Birthday to your baby! They are ALWAYS your baby... ours is 22 :) You always see them as that little child...

Darla said...

Happy Birthday Jared! ...what a sweet post, made me tear up. :')

Mocha with Linda said...

Wow - I was already nostalgic about my boy, then I read this. Precious tribute. You have a fine young man! Happy Birthday to Jared!

LuAnn said...

o.k. I did get the kleenex. Made me think of my baby too.

Happy Birthday Jared !!! Enjoy your day and being with your awesome family:)

Jill from Killeny Glen said...

Hope Jared has a FABULOUS day!

shell said...

okay i totally needed to hear this morning that your strongwilled child turned out wonderful. :) i will not giving up for my house full of stubborn children!! can't believe he is 17!

Angie said...

Happy Birthday, Jared!

Mimi said...

What a loving tribute!

Happy birthday to your boy.

xoxo

Penny said...

Awww...happy birthday to Jared!!

Johnna said...

January birthdays are alright, aren't they? (One in our house two days ago and another in 4 more days . . .)

About your book of photos from Project 365-- it was EXCELLENT and very fun to look at! You go, girl!!

Sara@iSass said...

Oh I am so glad there is hope with those stubborn last borns! :)
Happy Birthday Jared!

Cathy said...

Happy Birthday Jared

Michelle said...

Hi Sara, I love your blog and would like to wish Jared a very happy birthday! I'm a friend of LuAnn's who recently introduced me to the fun of blogging. It is so nice to "meet" you!