I didn’t speak at Jaryd’s service, but if I did I would have said this.
My favorite memory of Jaryd is the evening I became Bonus Mom, and he became Bonus Son. We were sitting on the back porch talking for hours one night in front of a fire. I told him how I regret the way things were between him and I when he lived with us that first time. Things happened that scared me and I didn’t handle it well. He told me he knew and never held it against me. Once I had more understanding I was able to do better the next few times but still, that first time always stayed with me and I felt really bad. He then told me what it’s like for him to live with addiction and some of the things he has been through because of it. A lot of it broke my heart. Before we finally put the fire out and said goodnight was when we declared each other Bonus Mom and Bonus Son. We even put that in our phone contact names. Apparently that makes it official. I will forever be grateful for that evening.
After that I would have spoken about a few other memories. Like how it was never unusual to find him on my roof or high in a tree. Whenever he was here there were usually steaks grilled, fires, and marshmallows. Jayrd could always make my marshmallows perfectly. I might have told about how a few months ago, I walked out my back door to see Jaryd standing on the fence sawing down tree branches. I am not sure how he even got up there without a ladder. I wanted to tell him to come down immediately, but he was clearly enjoying himself. I would definitely have told about Jaryd’s special way with dogs. He loved Pecklepoo a lot. Later on he bonded with our dog Sarah. Nobody else existed for her when he was at the house.
I think everyone learned about his talents, mechanical abilities, how he was always thankful, helpful, kind, and always ready for a hug. But one thing I will mention is that look of pride and accomplishment whenever he fixed something on one of our car. I loved that satisfied look.
I hope his spirt felt all the love for him at his service.
Rest in peace my Bonus Son.