Connor Turns Seven!

I can't believe it.

Connor is seven.

He has been for almost 2 weeks now (his birthday was on June 13th), and it still feels a little surreal to me to say it. How time flies! I still remember bringing him home from the hospital in his teddy bear onesie, wondering exactly how it was God figured we were the right people to raise the little bundle. Each and every day has been a blessing with him in our lives.

Connor is our sweet, sensitive soul. He is also very smart (give me a second here to brag). He is incredibly aware of what other people think and feel and is so KIND to everyone he meets. People remark, over and over again, how good he is with younger children. He is exceptionally patient and gentle (unless he's frustrated while playing Mario Kart). He can read very well, and he loves to learn....about science, math, reading, and life in general. He loves to ride his bike, swim, and draw.

Just today, he asked me why my sister and I don't live together, since we're family. I explained how, after he goes to college, he, too, will have a place of his own and won't live with Daddy, Kylee, and I anymore (gulp). He wondered if he had to have a wife at that point in the game. I assured him that it wasn't a requirement.

He is an amazing older brother. He is so good to his sister, even when he would have every right to kick her into next year. He tolerates A LOT...and is also gradually learning how to get under sister's skin without being obvious about it.

Connor loves to be social...his birthday party is evidence of that. He had 25 friends over for a birthday carnival on his special day, complete with cotton candy (and a wonderful Daddy that looked like a hairy monster as he operated the machine) and carnival games. He had a great time playing, running, and, of course, opening presents. Thankfully, the weather held up and we were able to stay outside for the party.

Here are some pics:

We started the party with popcorn and drinks on the patio.

"Juggling Jeff" put on quite a show. Connor was his assistant for a couple tricks.

As great as Juggling Jeff was, I am afraid he was a close second to the cotton candy machine. The kids LOVED it! Brandon was the operator and was COVERED in the sticky stuff.


Grandpa and Grandma Lori were on hand for the fun (Dad thought Juggling Jeff was hilarious if that tells you anything about the caliber of dialogue in Jeff's show). :)


Sister had fun, too.

Presents from Mom, Dad, and Kylee were all GI Joe toys (question...was this a present JUST for Connor, or Daddy, too? Hmmmm....). Connor has quite the collection now!

Those of you that know our young man understand that no occasion is complete without a new accessory. Connor used his giftcards to purchase a Bumblebee voice changing helmet. Loads of awesomeness!

We look forward to continuing to watch our guy grow and explore the world around him and are so thankful for all of the color he brings to our world. We love you, Con-Man!