Hebdon Homefront: Turning 8 is Great!

Connell turned 8 years old on July 8th! We had a busy week, since we were getting everything planned and ready for his baptism on the 11th. On his actual birthday, we didn't do too much, but he did get one Lego book/building set and we went out for ice-cream at Baskin Robbins. He said it was the "Best day ever!" which is what he always says after a day when we do anything out of the ordinary or exciting. I love his enthusiasm for life and his willingness to try new things. He is a wonderful older brother and always watches out for his younger brothers when we're out and about to make sure they don't get lost or cause problems. He even helps me buckle both of his brothers into their seat belts in the van when we get ready to go somewhere, which helps me a ton with this big pregnant belly! He's my buddy and is always willing to help me out and help me loosen up and have fun. I'm so thankful for this special kid!

Ice cream cones at Baskin Robbins!

Then on the 11th, Connell had his baptism and was baptized and confirmed by his daddy to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and received the Holy Ghost! He was so excited and he and JayC did a great job! I couldn't be more proud! I even kept my emotions mostly in check when I gave the talk on Baptism! (I had been praying all day the day before that I wouldn't be a blubbery mess! :) We were so blessed to have 3 of my siblings and their families (Kory and Heather, Ross and Sherida, and Marlene) there with my mom and dad! It was so cool to have so many people supporting us in this exciting milestone for Connell. Both JayC's parents were able to be there also, as well as his brother Cole and his wife Lauren, and grandma Jeniece Hebdon and grandma Della Woods. Everything turned out perfectly! I'm so thankful for Connell's enthusiasm for the gospel of Jesus Christ, and I hope he will continue to learn and grow in preparation for his mission and temple marriage someday!

Dressed all in white!

Our cute family! And me in all my 39 weeks pregnant glory! :)

Connell's dinosaur birthday cake! We took him to see Jurassic World, so now he's obsessed with dinosaurs.

After the baptism, we invited everybody to join us for Connell's birthday party at Leo's Place, where we had pizza and cake, played games, and visited with everybody. It was so much fun! Connell even got some presents to open, so he had the time of his life!