Up North

As has been tradition in our family since I was young, we packed up nearly everything we own and made the trek up to my parents' cottage at Higgins Lake for Memorial Day weekend. This was Hannah's first trip up north. Jason took Friday off, so we got a jump on the weekend (and traffic) on Thursday night. I think he was more than a little excited to get out in his boat.

We had a great time spending the weekend with not only my parents but also my brother and sister-in-law, aunt and uncle, 2 of my 3 cousins, and even my grandparents (who built the cottage). Since we live on the opposite side of the state from all of them, I really appreciate the times when we do all get together, especially now with Hannah. Of course it would be a very full house if we were all under one roof, but my aunt and uncle have a cottage kitty corner from my parents, and my brother and SIL have a mini-apartment above the garage. It works out really well.



We had nice weather, which allowed us to both work and play. Since it really is the kick-off for summer, the guys got the boat ready and put in the water. We got some odds and ends done around the cottage, too. Jason took his boat out for a spin everyday. He even took my grandpa for a ride, which both of them really enjoyed. Even I went for a ride, and I must admit that it was fun to see the pure joy on Jason's face as he was driving. Aside from boating, Jason and I went out on a date! We had dinner at a place on Houghton Lake and then caught the Indiana Jones movie at a really unique log cabin theater. What would Memorial Day weekend be without garage sale-ing? After hitting several, we had a van-load of baby things!



Jason and I also experienced Wii for the first time. I think I almost had more fun watching Jason and Todd (my brother) box than I had playing myself!



We also gave Hannah her first bath in the sink. At home, she has a little seat that sits on the tub, so she doesn't really get in the water. She absolutely loved sitting in the water in the sink, giving us all kinds of smiles. So cute!




Todd's best friend, Pat, stopped down a couple of times with their little girl Joslyn. She's a week and a half younger than Hannah. What a cutie - such a combination of him and his wife! On a sad note, Pat's family suffered a major tragedy over the weekend. Prayers for him and his family would be much appreciated.



It's hard to believe the weekend is over. Let summer begin :-)