Connor-paloza!

We drove out to Pittsburgh to celebrate with our familes this year for Connor's birthday.

We arrived late in the evening on Thursday.

Friday was the first of two parties.

Here are some pictures and captions from the "Barton party"

game face on, ready for presents!

hugging the sock monkey from Erin and Jared

His shirt said "I'm a wild 1" to match the invitations and semi-theme of the party. :)

hugging the camo from Uncle Paul and Aunt Sandy

trying on suspenders from Pap and Grandma, with Jacob and Grace looking on :)

LOVING the singing!!!

Family photo - Connor's got his eyes on the prize!

Connor signing "please" to have more cupcake... he loved it!

Saturday was Connor's 'official' birthday.  He celebrated after breakfast with another present from Grandma, and presents from Aunt Michelle.

While I went to see wedding dress shopping/buying (!!!!) with bride-Michelle, Connor and Bill went to the Hoffman's for some pre-train Open House time.  We had a nice time at the Open House visiting with family and friends.  Connor LOVES the trains and so it was a great way to spend his birthday - doing something he likes!  He took a great nap (even with all the commotion) and had fun spending time with he cousins.  After the open house was over, we had a birthday party with Connor, Macey and Selah.  Since their birthdays are so close together, we figured it would be more fun that way!  And it was! :)

Macey opening her gift from us with some help from the 'big girls'

Connor opening a gift

It's My Birthday!  :)

Selah liked her Hello Kitty blanket that we gave her ~ Can you believe she will be NINE years old!?!?!

although he doesn't look so happy here, this picture shows Connor's shirt for this party :)

More cupcakes!!! Yum!!!

We left for home on Sunday morning to avoid rain/snow/ice weather that was supposed to come.  No school delay Monday though... bummer.

This week was the start of grad classes for the semester, the end of the semester for Bill at work (meaning, new kids start tomorrow) and a whole lot of organizing all the wonderful gifts we brought back with us!

Our family is so generous and thoughtful.  Everything Connor received is great!

zuu-zuu pet... I'm affectionately calling it Hammie 2 :)