Today is Jared's birthday. He is 20. Oh Fatty! (Whenever I mention something about Fatty, Dan always says that in a pouty voice to tease me about getting all sentimental). But it's the first time in 20 years we won't be together to celebrate his birthday. It's definitely for a good reason. I'm just missing him a little. He has been through so much while he has been on his mission. He was heartbroken when he got the news he wouldn't be able to serve in India anymore. He has had some tough companions, and has been disappointed many times just like every missionary has experienced. But he has never given up. He has always wanted to serve a mission. Since knowing he was going to be permanently reassigned to the Kennewick, Washington mission, Fatty has made the very best of his situation. He has worked so hard, and in the process, he has become a stronger person, a better missionary, and has become closer to his Father in Heaven. He seems to be happier than he has ever been. He is having the time of his life while serving his mission. He has been able to participate in six baptisms in ten short months. I am so proud of him. So while I am missing him a lot right now, there is no where else I would want him to be. It makes me beyond happy to hear how his testimony has grown, or to hear him say in his letters and emails, "I can't even explain how happy I am right now." I am learning so much about him, about myself, and about our family while he has been on his mission. We are closer than we have ever been. And everyone seems to want to strive to be a little better since Jared has been serving. People always say their family is very blessed when they have a missionary out. I never understood that until now. I love you, Elder Garrick. And even though you won't be reading this, I hope you have the best birthday ever! And here are some pics of the cutest missionary out there.
Elder Cashin, Adrian Sanchez, and Jared at his first baptism
Hank Huxoll, Jared, and Sarah Huxoll at his second and third baptisms
John Janovich and Jared at his fourth baptism
Elder Buchanan, Trisha, Destiny, and Jared at the fifth and sixth baptisms
Jared and his Mission President, President Belnap, who will be leaving in July
Buying a bike!
Fatty with some buddies in his district
P-Day=Temple Day
These look like puppies, but they are actually goats that belong to Jared's bishop
Elder Parlogean, Elder Buchanan, and Elder Garrick with Hank Huxoll on his baptism day
Riding in the car, riding in the car, we love riding in the car!
A sister in Fatty's ward took the missionaries this day to the temple and to buy new bikes. And then she posted all the pictures for us on Facebook. She is so thoughtful. It's so comforting to know there are people in Washington and all over the world taking care of the missionaries.
Here is Jared with some guys in his district. He has loved these guys. Last week his companion, Elder Buchanan was transferred. They had so much success and so much fun together at the same time. We can't wait to hear about his new adventures with his new com
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