six

Somehow it doesn't seem possible that we have a six year old in the house.  It hit me this year that 1/3 (likely) of his years in our home are now over.  The week leading up to his bday was also a bit nostalgic - this year his birthday fell on the same day of week (Friday) on which he was born.  It was so fun to think back on all that we were doing that week, and the intense excitement and anticipation we experienced as we waited to become parents and hold our precious boy for the first time.

Thursday he celebrated at school with cupcakes, since Friday was a half day.  Then we headed straight from school to pick up Grandma at the airport (and got back just in time for the YCF pumpkin carving party)!

Friday morning - with Grandma, out the door early for school.

Gathering at morning assembly with his classroom (it was COLD!).  It was a rare out of uniform day - a Friday finale with a cowboy theme.  They had three large inflatables which they got to enjoy later that morning.  What a fun way to start his birthday!

Opening presents later that afternoon.  We also had fun pulling out home videos from when he was a baby.  That might just have to become an O'Connell birthday tradition.

Cake pops and ice cream with pizza/movie night.

And then on Saturday came his bowling party.  I scored a major deal online for a party at a bowling alley (Bowlmore) just a mile from our house.  Grandma Kathy and I made cake pops - a basket to eat, and a basket of bagged up pops to take.

He had very specific instructions for his cake.  Lots of different colored sprinkles.

Ready to party!  I couldn't believe how much EASIER it was to have a party somewhere else.  They had an event coordinator there to make sure we had everything we needed, a server to give the kids food. And the kids were completely entertained the entire time. WOW.

With buddies Peter and Kosta.

The grandparents....actually relaxing - LOVED that.

Unlimited soda.  Very exciting.

Food was served 30 min in (fries, pizza, chicken nuggets, fruit - all part of the package!).  I think Will ate over half a pizza.

The glow necklaces were a nice touch - they matched the neon lights.

Cousins <3.

The scene.

Will was very interested in holding the cake pops, but not quite sure how to eat them.

Cake time!

Happy 6 year old - he loved this party.

Watching the pins come down.

I somehow didn't get many pictures of Dave - he was either holding this guy, and behind the camera himself.

Cake and soda aftermath.

Cozy, quiet present opening at home afterwards.  OH, and I forgot to mention - we had SNOW that afternoon!  Parts of the Northeast were hit hard - but nothing stuck in the DC area.  Such a fun little addition to the day for Andrew though.  And overall, so many sweet provisions of which we are so so grateful.

Andrew, we love you to pieces.  And I will forever be so thankful that you are my little boy...and that I get to be YOUR mom.