Hancock Happenings

Michael and Teresa's Wedding Day

2011-05-23T13:07:00.000-07:00

Greg's parents at the wedding. They have been married 66 years.

Michael and Teresa and their special day turned out beautiful. We had a warm summer day and many family and friends to join us.

Retirees....Florida

2011-03-01T13:15:00.000-08:00

Greg and I pulled out on February 19th to escape the snow and find sunshine. We will be in Florida close to a month and then head up the east coast to visit Becky and Trent on our way home. Everyday has been wonderful and full of new adventures for Greg and I.

Indiana hiking with Michael and Teresa....

2011-01-06T14:56:00.000-08:00

WII- Dancing with the Family

2010-12-28T10:43:00.000-08:00

Winding down 2010

2010-12-27T05:49:00.000-08:00

Christmas breakfast with Becky and Trent and Christmas dinner with the Smiths.

New Year, New Address

2010-03-06T16:01:00.000-08:00

I could not believe I had not done one entry since Octoberfest 2009. Let me catch everyone up on the Hancock family. Greg and I bought a house in the city of Davison, becoming city dwellers for the first time in our marriage. We live in the same subdivision as Lori and her family. Are house is about two blocks away but close enough to walk. We moved in the middle of January and have been pretty busy getting settled in since then. Lori has been working overtime on Saturdays so we have been lucky enough to watch our grandchildren and do not doubt that we find this a wonderful opportunity to bond with them. Now that winter is winding down Greg and I are starting to venture out walking around our neighborhood and farther. We have walked to the post office a couple of times which is a little over two miles from our house. We took the grandkids to the Davison Expo today and then out to lunch and we walked to everything we did which is good for all of us. Michael and Teresa are coming to visit next week and it will be the first time they see our house since we moved in and then two weeks after that we will be headed to DC with Lori's family and visit Becky and Trent for Easter.

OCTOBERFEST 2009

2009-10-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

Everyone should have a weekend like the one that we just had. We picked up Trent and Becky at the airport on Friday. Michael and Teresa drove up from Bloomington, Indiana and Lori and her gang came out from town and we had our annual Ocotberfest. Saturday morning we had a family portrait done and then we headed to Porter's Orchard. We all took a hayride out to the pumpkin patch where each of us got a pumpkin to take home. Then we had delicious warm donuts with apple cider and a couple had carmel apples. Then we all loaded up in the Michivan and headed to Perry to our most favorite corn maze. Every year they have a new design and we all enjoy the trip and trying to find our way through. Last year Michael and Teresa were the first ones through but this year Trent beat them. Then we headed home and did our yearly craft that Becky always puts together for us. This year we all made ghosts with some type of plaster paris. After dinner everyone (but me) headed out to the dark to play kick the can and sardines. Pull up the pictures on the left and you can see the fun we all had.

Fun adventures

2009-09-13T13:09:00.001-07:00

Greg and I headed out Friday morning to Mackinaw City. Greg wanted to see the Icebreaker, Mackinaw. So we spent a few hours on board and Greg says it reminded him a lot of the time he worked on a ship on the war. Then we had fish and chips at a local stand and headed to Mill Creek State Park. There are a few nice trails that we wanted to hike on and Greg has been waiting to try the zip line and go over the bridge. I gave it my best shot of getting pictures but it was not easy once he started down. I posted the pictures to the right so take a minute and view. On Saturday we headed to Petoskey to try there bike trails along Lake Michigan. All I can say is totally awesome. We had a great time and then took a very winding road to Cross Village which is the end of the road on that side of Lake Michigan. Sunday we headed back home since I had been fighting a nasty cold all weekend. Next weekend we head to Kris's house to see her granddaughter, Grace, and Rick and Celeste.

2009-09-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend checking out our crops

Tennis Time

2009-08-15T17:31:00.000-07:00

Well today Greg and I started our new adventure. Michael is teaching us how to play tennis and as you know Ms. Breaunna had to be a part of the show. I knew it would be a work out but I thought it would be something we could take with us on our travels in the RV.

My Girls

2009-07-03T15:02:00.001-07:00

With Becky here from D.C. and Lori able to take a few days off from work we headed north. I have very nice memories of my Mother with my sisters and I want to be able to give the same to my girls. We spent one day at Petoskey and one day at Mackinaw City. When you view the pictures to the left you will see that Lori and Becky decided to be a little more adventurist than Breaunna and myself. Breaunna has a lot of her Grandma in her when it comes to the fear of height. Each night we came back to the 5th wheel and told Greg all about our fun. I hope we can always find time for each other as adult women and our little Breaunna.

36th Anniversary

2009-06-30T08:17:00.000-07:00

Well who would of thought it. Boy what a roller coaster ride we have had. I was nineteen and head over heels in love with Greg who was twenty-five. We started out renting on Murphy Lake until the house burnt. Then we bought a house in Unionville where we lived and had our first two children, Greggie and Lori. We moved to Vassar where we had our last two children, Michael and Becky. We stayed in Vassar until 1991 when we headed to Davison, where we still live. Hopefully in the next year we will make our final move to Beverton and build a home on Tobacco River. As I said 36 years ago I still say today. I love you Greg and pray we have many more years together.

Becky brings summer fun to the family

2009-06-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

The one nice thing when school is let out is that we know Becky is on her way. Becky came home on Father's Day to spend two weeks with us here in Michigan. It is hard when two of your three children live in different states so it is special when one of them can make it home. I have posted pictures from a day at Blue Bell Beach in Flint and then a day at Lake Huron in Caseville. We had a wonderful time and the only thing that would of completed the day was our missing three (Michael, Teresa, and Trent). I am hoping some time this year we can get a family picture with all of us in it. Enjoy the pictures.

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T07:07:00.001-07:00

Thank you....I love being a Mother and I always have. I became a Mother when I was 20 years old and had my last child when I was a month from being 30. My oldest daughter Lori's family gave me an IPOD with music already loaded that I can wear when I walk, bike ride, or even mow the lawn. Michael and Teresa designed a family book of memories and Becky and Trent gave me four quilt squares (one of each of the family) to create a wall hanging. Greg bought me a bike rack for my car so we travel further and find more adventures.

A Special Day for our Family

2009-05-03T17:54:00.000-07:00

Breaunna and Lori
Greg and I with our grandchildren

Kevin, Lori, Cameron, Brandon, and Breaunna

Becky, Michael, Teresa with Breaunna
Breaunna handing out programs More pictures to the left...enjoy

Wadhams Trail and Trestle Bridge

2009-04-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

When Greg and I was hiking on Friday we met a retired couple and they suggested us to check out this trestle bridge over by Port Huron.....so...........that is exactly what we did today. When I got home from Church, Greg had everything ready for our excursion. It was 55 degrees so we pulled out the jeans and sweaters and headed out for the day. We had a great walk even though it was probably no more than 5 miles total. Then we went over by St. Mary river and found our next hiking trip. It was to late in the day to try a trail we knew nothing about so we will try it out
in the weeks to come. More pictures to the left.
.

Rail to Trail and a little hiking at Murphy Lake

2009-04-18T15:46:00.000-07:00

Greg and I had decided through the cold winter months that we were going to either hike or ride or bicycles each weekend. Yesterday we went to an old stumping ground that Greg hiked during his youth over by Murphy Lake. Today we did our first rail to trail trip for the year. The trail is about 9.5 miles and today it seemed longer because of these old winter legs. Then we had a sack lunch and took a hiking trip in the afternoon. One of our dreams has always been to hike and bicycle in all the States once we retire so we need to get healthy. Here are a few pictures of the day.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T15:52:00.001-07:00

Easter 2009 found us doing things a little differently. First, Becky spent the beginning of the week with us but went back to her home in DC to spend Easter with Trent. Michael and Teresa had school on Friday and then Monday so they were spending today with Teresa's family and will be here for Breaunna's first communion. Lori, Kevin and kids spend Palm Sunday with us and our annual Easter egg hunt that Becky was able to join us with so today they spent with the Smiths. SO, today we went and picked up Greg's parents and went out to dinner. Afterwards we placed flowers on my Ma and Dad's grave along with Greggie. I hope you enjoy some of the pictures of the week.

Spring is Here...maybe

2009-03-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

Greg and I have been walking at the Malls on my days off (Friday thru Sundays) to get us ready for spring and summer. We would like to start hiking this year. Our first adventure together will be mushroom hunting. I understand that will be the end of April or first of May. Our plan is to go each week to a new spot to hike and Greg has a Michigan book that shows hiking trails in lower Michigan and maybe we will bring our bikes along. Today we planned on raking leaves but when snowflakes started falling we decided to walk the mall and read.

Michael's Birthday and Kiddie's Valentine

2009-02-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

Greg and I headed to Bloomington, Indiana to spend the afternoon and evening with Michael and Teresa yesterday. We went on a tour of where Michael plans to live in August and then walked around campus with the two of them. Last night we ate at a pub, Irish Lion,to celebrate Michael's 28th birthday. Then they joined us at the motel and played a a couple new games that Michael got for his birthday.

On our way home today we stopped and dropped off Valentine goodies to our sweetheart grandkids.

Frankenmuth 2009

2009-01-23T15:21:00.000-08:00

Twas the Season

2009-01-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

It is very,very, quiet in our house today. I had taken off work from December 17 until the 29th so I could enjoy my children and grandchildren this season. Becky flew in on December 20th and stayed until the 29th. Michael arrived on the 22nd and Trent flew in on Christmas Eve. The Smith family were able to spend Christmas Day with us. Greg's Ma and Dad along with his brother Charles and sister, Becky also were able to join us on Christmas Day. Teresa arrived on the 27th which brought us all together on the 28th. Michael and Teresa stayed with us until Friday, January 2nd so as you can guess now that everyone has gone home, my home is quiet. I posted all the Christmas pictures so please take some time and enjoy them. Next Christmas Greg will be retired so he will be able to spend more time with all of us. I hope all of you had as wonderful time with your families that we did with ours. We have been truly blessed.

Sherman Christmas Party 2008

2008-12-14T14:38:00.000-08:00

Well another year has gone by and six of my siblings were able to join in on the festivities. I have posted the pictures to the right so please take a minute and see how our family continues to grow. Russell and Helen's whole family were able to join us this year. Rosemary, Bob, and Kori families were not able to join us this year but Lori and her family were there with Greg and I. Merry Christmas to all my families who were not able to join us and hopefully next August (second weekend) we will see you all.

Cookies and pillowcases

2008-11-15T11:09:00.001-08:00

I got up early this morning and got my grandchildren. Lori had school today and Kevin went to work so they spent the day with us. Breaunna and Brandon make some chocolate chip cookies with splenda white and brown sugar plus low fat butter. They were okay but did not spread when they cooked. Then I had each of the kids draw pictures on material that were then attached to more material which we then made pillowcases.

SISTERS,SISTERS, I LOVE MY SISTERS

2008-11-11T15:44:00.000-08:00

Helen and I went to our sister Rosemary's home for two days of sewing and chatting. When us three girls were little I would never of told anyone that the three of us would become so close but it is true and I am so grateful. Well we made a dress, an apron, and slippers this time.

Helen and Rosemary checking out a pattern

2008-10-31T17:25:00.000-07:00

OCTOBERFEST 2008

2008-10-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

Well Everyone the shirts have arrived now I need my family home to wear them. See everyone next weekend for the third annual corn maze/kick the can weekend.

Enjoying Each Other

2008-09-21T14:56:00.000-07:00

Greg and I both usually have Fridays off from work now giving us a three day weekend. We try to get the work done around the house on Friday allowing us to enjoy a weekend. This weekend was no exception to that. Saturday morning we started our day with our weekly visit to the lake to see Greg's Ma and Dad. We decided about a year ago as long as we are blessed to have them in our lives we would make a point to visit each week. So after our morning visit we headed to the rail to trail located in Otter Lake. We rode our bikes to Columbiaville which is about 5 miles and had lunch and then did the return trip. Greg has been riding Michael's bike that he used while in Kalamazoo a few years ago. That bike had seen its better days so after the bike ride we decided it was time for Greg to get a new bike. Greg purchased a schwinn bike and I got a new seat for my bike, which use to be Becky's bike. So Saturday evening we took a ride through Davison. As the evening came to a close we visited the Pearsalls. I had made a weight watcher apple/blackberry pie using phyllo pastry instead of crust. The pie was a success and I will make another one soon.

Today we headed to the Renaissance festival in Holly. No kids we did not dress up this year but we had a nice day. The temperature was around 68 degrees so it was very comfortable to walk around in. Greg wanted to get a new walking stick but he never found one that he liked as well as the one he has. The festival is getting larger every year and has always been one of the few places that Greg likes to go to each year and it was great walking for me.

When your children grow up and start lives of their own it is a wonderful feeling to know that you and your spouse still very much enjoy each other.

Apple Pickers

2008-09-07T16:54:00.000-07:00

The Smith Family joined us for a late summer day dinner and checked out the orchard. The kiddies each got a chance to use Papa's apple picker. More pictures to the left.

Grandma's pick up day

2008-09-06T04:25:00.000-07:00

Another wonderful thing about working four ten hour days is that I now have Fridays off. I was able to pick Breaunna up from school and bring her to Grandma's house for a little bonding time. While I shortened her new jeans for school she made me some sparkle blinks. I also had to take a picture of her with her first tooth gone. Is she not precious? Well we certainly think so at this house.

Happy Labor Day

2008-09-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

Greg, Lori, Breaunna, and I went on a ten mile bike ride this morning. We took the rail to trail from Otter Lake to Columbiaville and back. It was a beautiful morning and great company. I posted all our summer pictures so take some time and enjoy them.

The Smiths come to visit upnorth

2008-06-29T12:17:00.001-07:00

This weekend the Smith family came to visit us in Beverton at our future homesite. There was a 60% chance of rain but we worked to have a wonderful weekend. Kevin put their tent up first thing on Friday afternoon when they arrived but by that evening we all knew everyone would be sleeping in the fifth wheel. I made supper for everyone and we all just vegged out for the evening. It rained most of the night but we woke up to blue skies on Saturday. The Smiths took a trip down the river on the kiaks. Girls in the red one and the boys took the green one. When they returned we packed up and headed to the beach in town for a picnic and swimming. On our way back to the trailer we stopped for ice cream and seen a quilt show sign. While everyone ate ice cream I went to the quilt show. The ladies in Beverton told me they had a two year waiting list to join their quilt guild so I gave them my name and address and placed my name on the list. By late afternoon the clouds turned black and we had another rain storm. After the rain stopped Greg, Lori, and the kiddies went on another boat trip to treasure island. Supper was made by the Smiths which was pizza sandwiches over the fire. The rain was non stop in the evening so smores were made over my stove. This morning was beautiful and the kids fished all morning before they headed home. It was a great weekend and the rain did not stop us. Enjoy the pictures to the left.

Zoo 2008 with my grandchildren

2008-06-24T07:38:00.000-07:00

Each summer I am fortunate enough to take a week off work and spend the days with my grandchildren. Yesterday we went to Frankenmuth and to the wilderness Zoo. It is such a nice zoo to take young children to. It is a 1/3rd of the Detroit Zoo but you get to see a lot of animals. Here are a few pictures from the adventure. Enjoy the rest of the pictures to the right on the blog.

Give Me a B R E A U N N A

2008-06-14T19:05:00.000-07:00

Breaunna getting ready for her cheerleading program Waiting with her team to perform Receiving flowers after a great performance
Headed home and still flying high

Class of 2020

2008-05-29T17:48:00.000-07:00

Washington DC

2008-05-20T17:45:00.001-07:00

Greg and I drove to Washington DC over the weekend to see Becky. Becky had her first art show and we wanted to show our support. Becky is a wonderful art teacher and you can tell how much the children enjoy her.

Trent and Becky at the Art Show

Trent and Becky at the Museum

Trent and Becky picking on each other

Last but not least two precious children that fell asleep on the metro

Sunday Dinner with new friends

2008-04-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

Michael brought a young Saudi Arabian couple for dinner and cards afterwards. Check out the pictures of the day. Michael has introduced us to a world that we never knew and it is wonderful. Lori, Kevin and the kiddies joined us also. We played a little kickball after dinner and did chalk work on the driveway.

Vlogging [Video Blogging!]

2008-04-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

You know they say it's the future - video blogging! Here's our little Miss Breaunna Smith singing and gesturing her heart out on the stage at Central Elementary. Enjoy!

First Spring Day

2008-04-05T16:54:00.001-07:00

I love SpringBrandon drawing a rainbow with chalk
Cameron standing by his chalk drawing of a swimming pool

Breaunna drawing a barbie tent

Lori and Michael visiting

Easter

2008-03-24T05:46:00.000-07:00

We started our Easter by picking Becky up at the airport on Good Friday. Breaunna did not have school so she joined us. When we picked Becky up we had no snow but by Saturday morning the ground was covered and here is a picture of Ms. Becky not liking Michigan weather anymore.By Easter morning the snow was gone and we were on our way to see our grandchildren ring bells at Easter services.

Breaunna in long pink dress
and Cameron and Brandon with
white shirt and tie.

Then the Smiths came over and had Easter dinner with us. Unfortunately Michael was not able to join us for the holiday.

Sleepover 2008

2008-03-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

Our three grandkiddies spent the night while their parents went out on the town. They had mac and cheese with hot dogs for supper. Popcorn and one of Papa's nuttybutty for snack. All three slept sideways in Uncle Mike's bed and was up bright and early this morning. Lori was here before breakfast was even made and was able to enjoy the morning with us. Here are a few pictures of the sleepover. ENJOY :o)

Daddy Daughter Dance

2008-02-21T15:30:00.001-08:00

I was fortunate enough to be able to be a part of Breaunna's first Daddy Daughter Dance. I made Breaunna's dress and a tie to match for her Dad. Enjoy the pictures:

Greg in glasses

2008-02-10T07:13:00.000-08:00

Yes Greg has his first prescription glasses. He has been wearing over the counter glasses for the last couple of years for reading. I told him to make it to 60 years old is not a bad thing.

Playing Hooky

2008-02-07T15:12:00.000-08:00

Greg and I struggled to get home last night from work. We both drove through some of the worse snow conditions in a very long time. We were eating dinner at 8:30 and we were exhausted.

I sent a quick email to my job to let them know that I arrived safely and was not going to be attempting work today.

Greg usually has Friday off from work but his crew decided to take today off and go in on Friday.

SO......we played hooky. It felt funny laying in bed when we should of been on the road to work but we adapted.

Greg went out and plowed us out and by lunch time we were on our way to Millington to visit Greg's parents. Charles is at a union conference in Detroit until Saturday and we wanted to make sure they were okay.

We did our Saturday shopping on our way back home and now we are just vegging for the evening. I am tired of the snow but I sure liked looking at the landscape from inside our home.

This weekend we head to the annual RV show that Greg loves and then to Ann Arbor for a Sunday drive and time with our son.

Birthday Boy and another quilt

2008-01-27T13:09:00.001-08:00

Greg and I realized today on our way to our youngest grandson's birthday that all our grandchildren's birthdays are in the winter months. I guess we will not be taking long trips once we retire in the winter. Greg and I both want to be a part of all our grandchildren's lives. Here are a few pictures of the birthday boy today.

Also, as I have mentioned in the past I would like to make quilts to put up in our retirement home. I liked this one for the holidays. I think I would like to make two quilts for each season and then have Greg make a dowl (sp) to hang on the entrance wall. We shall see but any ways here is one I completed over the weekend.

COLD,COLD Winter has arrived

2008-01-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

Well it is official...winter has arrived. It was -1 degrees yesterday morning when we headed to Ann Arbor to hear Michael sing at his church. Lori and Breaunna joined us. Fortunately we got there early enough to get a parking spot at the church and did not have to walk. In Ann Arbor most people park in the streets because there is so little space. After Church we went to a nice grill for lunch and a wonderful visit. Afterwards we took Michael to pick up some grocery and then we headed back home.

I am trying to keep my dear friend Nancy's plants alive while they are enjoying their first winter on the Gulf Shores in Alabama. So far so good, I go each Sunday and water them and they seem to be happy with me.

Greg is working on his ship and as you can see by the instructions this is going to be a long winter project and it may even end up a couple winters.

Here is the quilt I am working on. The quilt is called 'yellow brick road' I am using fall colors to create this quilt.

I did not work today so I decided to clean cupboards. I found a couple cans of blueberry pie fillings and now Greg gets to have a blueberry pie tonight when he gets home from work.

Quiet Time

2008-01-11T15:50:00.001-08:00

It has been two weeks since Christmas and having all the family home. NOW it is quiet and we have to find things to do.

I finished up two wall quilts and put them in the mail to Becky. Becky will hang them in her classroom and the kids love them on her wall. One quilt has a deer, penguin and a bear and the other one is for spring with rabbits and carrots.

Greg has started a new ship model. As all of you know Greg has been building models his whole life, but I think I finally found one that might actually slow him down. We shall see.

I have started a quilt for Michael to take to grad school next fall. Where ever he ends up I am sure he will need a quilt to keep warm.

I am off to breakfast with my two retired sisters tomorrow and then over to Lori's house to watch the boys while Breaunna goes for an eye examination. She did not pass her eye test at school again this year so off she goes to an eye doctor. Lori and Michael both wore glasses in elementary school but they were older than Ms. Breaunna. I will let you know the outcome.

Happy New Years 2008

2008-01-01T10:49:00.001-08:00

I looked out my sewing room window this morning and this was my view.

Breaunna and I went downstairs and found some old leggings for her and headed outside.

Greg started the snowblower and began plowing us out.

Breaunna wondered through the front yard and made snowangels. Greg figures we got about 9 inches of the white stuff to start 2008. It ing twas beautiful

Christmas is over

2007-12-29T10:20:00.001-08:00

The Kids before Becky heads to the airport

Helpful Christmas Techno-elf

2007-12-28T12:35:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

This is Michael. At my mother's request, I've added a couple bells and whistles to 'Hancock Happenings.' The first you've probably noticed - the picture at the top. There's also now a couple links to the kids' blogs, namely my sisters' and my own. There is also a handy-dandy link to mom's new photo page through Google Picasa, which should allow her to make all of her pictures accessible with a lot less brain sweat.

For your troubles and the Holiday Spirit, here's a cute little slideshow of this Christmas's pictures. Enjoy, and Happy Holidays!

The Hancock Christmas

2007-12-24T10:59:00.001-08:00

On December 23rd we had our Hancock Christmas. The Smith family (Lori and her gang), Michael and Sasha (friend from Kazakhstan) and Becky and Trent. I made eleven stockings to be hung by the fire. Greg and I have been truly blessed with our large family. Both of us grew up in large families and know how important it is to be together. I tell our three children all the time that it does not matter if we argue with each other or get frustrated enough to scream. With out family you have nothing but loneliness and that is something you would never want so smile and forgive. Each of the grandkiddies bought gifts for all of us and as you would of guess their gifts stold the day. I received precious gems from Breaunna, foot lotion from Brandon and a stuffed owl from Cameron. Greg recieved sharp tools from Brandon, Debbie cupcakes from Breaunna and a stuffed ghost from Cameron.

Eleven stockings hanging

Enjoying each others company playing Left,Right,Center. A fun dice game.

Michael and Sasha
Breaunna and Cameron in their new dress up clothes Lori and Kevin

Trent and Becky

Roger and putting up the trimmings

2007-12-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

My brother, Roger, is staying with us until the Sherman's Christmas Party which is a wonderful gift to me. Here are a few pictures of Roger and my crew.

Greg and I bought our first Christmas Tree that is not real today. It was tough because I knew my children would miss going to get a real tree with their Dad but it is done and it doesn't look to bad. Take a look

Giving Thanks

2007-11-24T12:06:00.000-08:00

We were blessed to have Greg's parents, Ruth is 84 and Floyd is 88 to join us along with Charles and Kris for Thaksgiving Dinner this year. There were 12 of us sitting around the table. In order of age: Floyd, Ruth, Greg, Kris, Charles, Marilyn, Kevin, Lori, Michael, Becky, Trent, and Breaunna.

In the early morning hours Michael picked up my brother, Roger to spend some time with all of us for a few weeks.

On Friday morning Lori, Becky, and myself did our annual day after Thanksgiving shopping and breakfast for three. It is just a great time to spend with my girls. Breaunna will need to wait a few more years before she can join us.Here are a few more pictures of the day.

Sisters are fun when you get old

2007-11-12T15:22:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to get to spend another day with my sisters Rosemary and Helen. Unfortunately our oldest sister, Lil, lives to far to join us on our sister days. Today we made a Christmas Santa table topper. I thank God that little girls that fight grow up to be good friends.

Our New Kitty

2007-11-12T15:19:00.000-08:00

Well as most of you know Becky and Trent took Brownie to live with them in Washington DC. Well finally last weekend we found just the right cat for us. I think you will all agree this cat is the one we will keep and never give away. hehe

Harvest Table

2007-11-03T11:48:00.001-07:00

Trick or Treat

2007-11-01T17:09:00.001-07:00

Another year of fun at the Smith's home. Kevin, Lori , and Kevin's Dad took the kids out and I handed out candy.

Some Days are just Perfect

2007-10-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday was a perfect day in my life. Becky came home from Washington DC for the weekend so the family could celebrate her Birthday since she would not be home on the 4th of November. It was decided by our children what the adventures of the day would be. Lori, Becky, and the grandkiddies headed over to the Orchard to get pumpkins. Once they returned then Greg, Michael, and I helped turn them into jack o lanterns. Once Kevin got out of work we headed to a corn maze that was totally awesome as it was last year. We added Michael, Cameron, and Brandon to the adventures this year but Trent was not able to join us but hopefully next year. After the corn maze we all went out for dinner and then back home for cake, pie, and ice cream to celebrate 24 years since Becky's birth. Afterwards we headed outside in the dark and played kick the can and sardines. This was the first time the little ones got to play and I think if you asked them they would say that was the best part of the day. I thanked God that night for giving us these children and that they still love going with their parents on adventures. Thanks kids

Octoberfest by the Hancock/Smith crew

2007-10-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Stride for Breast Cancer 2007

2007-10-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

After layering my clothes I headed outside to 35 degrees weather and to Lori's house. Yes, my Lori always keeps me on the right path to help others. Lori, Breaunna, and I received donations from family and friends and headed to Flint to participate in the strides towards Breast Cancer walk. Greg's Mother has been a survivor for over 20 years. It started at the mall and we walked 3.5 miles. Ms. Breaunna's feet got tired half way through and Lori had to carry her a little bit but we made it. It always makes me feel better once I get back from an event like this.

WHAT ...Court area is gone

2007-10-07T11:29:00.000-07:00

After many hours of tearing down the wall it is gone. We spent about ten days knocking down the wall and hauling bricks. A Mason came over and fixed the end pieces of the walls and the chimneys. Here is a couple pictures of Lori, Michael and Greg standing where there was once a wall

3 grandkiddies + 2 grandparents= camping at the property

2007-09-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

First we picked up these sweet little grandchildren and headed upnorth to Beverton. We did not head out of Davison until 7 p.m. and the traffic was horrible.

The next morning I sent the kiddies in to wake up their Papa so we could start the day. When the driveway was put in the contractors left a large pile of dirt and that is where the kids played most of Saturday. In the afternoon we loaded up and went and seen the big dam. The boys through rocks in the river and Breaunna gathered shells. Then we went in to town and had an ice cream cone.

Hauling dirt is not easy

Then a trip to the dam with Papa
leading the way.

Then finishing the evening by the fire.

The wall came tumbling down

2007-09-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

Greg walked out the front door last Sunday and noticed that the cement block wall was leaning away from the house. After talking with Clyde the two decided to bring the wall down before it came crashing down on someone. These are the times it is great to have friends that are willing to work together to do a project. It is going to be a project for sure and many weeks of work.

A Fall Day of Merryment

2007-09-15T16:15:00.001-07:00

The guys playing rummikub after dinner
Greg picking plums in the orchard
Breaunna helping her Ma take a turn

Today started out with breakfast with my sisters, Helen and Rosemary and Breaunna joined us. Then we headed to the store to buy material for a quilt that we will do together. It is always enjoyable to spend time with family. Then Breaunna and I headed home to do some baking for a carepackage to Washington DC. Michael is here today so he will be able to take his own carepackage to Ann Arbor tomorrow. Kevin and Lori came over and had supper with all of us and a game of rummikub was played. It was nice having noise in the house. Enjoy some pictures that were taken.

Breaunna and Uncle Michael playing video Breaunna making cookies for the care packages
Let the game begin

Apple Pie and Tinkerbell

2007-09-11T06:32:00.001-07:00

Greg did his first picking of apples Sunday and tonight he will have his first apple pie for the season.

It is a cool Tuesday morning and I am home for the day so I also started on PJs for my grandkiddies.
The first one is for Ms. Breaunna and tinkerbell is her choice of fabric.

Sixty,Kick the Can, and Sardines

2007-09-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

Greg celebrated his birthday (60) with the whole family attending. The last one that everyone was able to attend was three years ago so that in it self was nice. Kevin and Lori with the three grandchildren got Greg two Navy flags to fly at both here and at the Beverton property. Trent and Becky got a DVD for Greg to enjoy. The weather was perfect enabling us to spend the whole day outside. BQ chicken, baked potatoes, corn on the cob and Lori brought ice cream cake for the Birthday Boy. When nighttime arrived I snuggled with my grandbabies and watched movies while the grownups played kick the can and sardines until midnight. When they came inside they found me and my grandkiddies sound to sleep in my bed. It was a wonderful day. Greg and I both are very grateful for the children we have been blessed with. Today we dropped off Trent and Becky at the airport. Then we took Michael to his new digs in Ann Arbor. On our way to Millington we spoke to Lori and her family. After putting fall flowers on our family's graves Greg said there now I have seen all my children this weekend. It was moving for sure that even after all these years we both feel the Lord had blessed us with four wonderful children. Okay I will stop being sappy but it is my first night with my empty nest again. Enjoy the pictures :o)

The Enforcer

2007-08-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

Who would of thought when I met this man thirty six years ago that he would become the enforcer. Yup he is out spraying the orchard to keep those darn bugs from eating our fruit.

Blackberry Cobbler at last

2007-08-19T05:54:00.000-07:00

Greg planted blackberry bushes at our place in Beverton about four years ago and each year we have gotten more and more blackberries. This year after many fingers eating the blackberries as soon as they were ripe I still had enough to make Greg his first blackberrry cobbler. TADA

Snuggly warm on an early Saturday morning

2007-08-18T06:52:00.000-07:00

Becky heads back to DC tonight but had time to snuggle with Breaunna when they woke up at our house. Today we are headed to our first twin baby shower. My niece, Jill, is having twins and already knows she is having a boy and girl.

ZOOrific!

2007-08-17T14:52:00.001-07:00

A day at the zoo is always well spent when you have sunny skies, a cool breeze, and family to enjoy it with. We at started the adventure in a borrowed vehicle that held us all comfortably. We arrived early, dressed in style! The triplets were dressed in matching blue shirts and adorable visors fashioned by their aunt. Though to be honest, I think they were only called triplets once or twice today. I just love the zoo because grownups can have just as much fun as the kids. Making memories can be just too much fun!

Aloha Rob and Ruth's 84th Birthday

2007-08-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

Sunday was spent at Kris and Raleigh's home. Rob was here from Hawaii closing up his home in Flint getting ready to sell and making Hawaii his permanent address. Greg's Ma celebrated her 84th Birthday and as always looked great. The older Lori gets the more she reminds me of her Aunt Kris.

While girls play

2007-08-08T17:20:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we spent time working at our property in Beverton. Lori and Breaunna joined us for the fun. As you see by the pictures, Greg pumped water from the river to create a sprinkler to play in.

Here are the girls behind the wire fence...little jailbirds

Me and my oldest daughter and my granddaughter

Finding babies where babies do not belong

2007-07-23T02:27:00.000-07:00

When we first started our orchard at the property in Beverton, a large fence was put up to keep animals out. Well Greg was watering the new planting and little bunnies came out of a drenched hole. They were so cute but bunnies become rabbits and eat leaves off our baby trees.

Stumps be gone

2007-07-23T02:21:00.000-07:00

After seven years the stumps are being removed from the property in Beverton. When we first purchased the property, Greg cut down some pine trees so the sun would shine and grass would grow. Now it was time to pull the stumps up and Michael and Breaunna were on hand to help.

Taking time to be a Grandma

2007-07-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

I took the week off from work to spend sometime with my three grandchildren. Day one we went to the Children museum in Flint and had a great time.

Day two was spent at Great Aunt Helen and Uncle Dan at the lake. Slip and slide is awesome

My Mother I am

2007-07-12T13:10:00.001-07:00

I am sitting in my sewing room, yup I have a sewing room. Two of my sisters always sewed their children clothes and some for them self. My baby sister also made quilts. BUT me, no way...I stood with my oldest sister and did not sew a stitch. Then, my Mother passed away and now I sew and love to. I believe that is the gift my Mother left me. So here are the latest outfits made for my granddaughter, Breaunna.

Summer Fun with the kiddies

2007-07-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

Having all three children home is a rare thing these days. It was a perfect 4th of July and we spent the day outside. Was able to take in a t-ball game with the boys.

Thirty Four Years and running

2007-06-30T06:22:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate thirty-four years of marriage. Has it been a roller coaster ride, yes but oh what fun we had. We were blessed with four children and today we have three grandchildren. Our children still talk to us and like to be around us, what else do we need. We have our health and dreams for the future. Take a look at my family....

Just giving it a try

2007-06-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

Well Ms. Becky is showing me the ropes to this new technology.

A blog for Mom and Dad

2007-05-29T09:27:00.001-07:00

Okay Mom and Dad, now's your chance to get caught up in the technical world.
If you need any help you know where to find your kids!