Uncle Clayton was coming home for a visit from his deployment in Bahrain and the whole family went to the airport to pick him up. 

So happy to have him home safe & sound, even if it is just for a visit!

In G&G's van, on the way to the airport

 After Jessie got her very long awaited hug from Clayton, he received the most amazing applause from the people at the airport.  We couldn't get our cameras on fast enough, but you'll get the idea.  The family had several people approach us while Clayton was hugging everyone and tell us to tell him Thank You for his service!  We are just so very proud of him.

Clayton & Jessie smoochin'

Emma & Cole's sweet sign they made for Clayton

Clayton, Donald & Cason hugging tight

Clayton & his dad Uncle Kevin

Gaga & Clayton hug it out

Clayton & Aunt Holly hug while Emma & Cole wait their turns

Clayton & Pop

Absolutely precious!

Gamma finally gets her hug - ahhhh...

Mommy got a big hug too

Uncle Clayton & his best friend Uncle Ryan

Uncle Clayton got some airline wing pins from the pilot for all the kids.

Major bonus points for that!!

He's pinning Cason's wings on him here.

Mommy & Daddy's favorite picture!!

Arriving home (at Auntie Carol's house) Clayton was greeted with flags

 and "Welcome Home" & "We Missed You" signs!! 

Everyone gathered at Auntie Carol's for a while so Clayton could shower after his long flight & just chill out.  Then we all headed out to eat at Clayton's favorite mexican restaurant.  YUM!!

(This is an older picture of Clayton & Jessie,

but it's at the same restaurant, so that's ok)

Part of our group celebrating

Afterwards, we headed home to G&G's to get some rest.

We had a busy week coming up and wanted to be ready for it!!

09/09/12