That State Up North

December 7-9, 2018

Age: 8 Months

As we near the end of 2018, I’m feeling pretty lucky that my parents got me out and about to explore quiet a bit this year!

A quick weekend road trip to Michigan marks my 6th state visited. Despite our family allegiance to OH, Mom & Dad were eager to get me up north to see some dear friends that moved from Ohio about a 1.5 years ago. They reside in Jenison, MI; a southwestern suburb of Grand Rapids. Mom & Dad were pretty impressed by all the city had to offer when they first visited in 2017, so now it was my turn!

Friday evening was spent at Perrin Brewing Co., which was a cool fusion rustic-industrial spot. It was packed with families and friends relaxing after a busy week, and our family had fun catching up while sampling many of Perrin’s brews (the Dad’s took on “conquering the world” taster 🌎 ☺️). Favorites included their hot chicken (but, Mom & Dad only let me try the grilled cheese and sweet potatoes), Clear Coast (Mango/Guava Sparkling Malt beverage) and Push-Hop (Strawberry IPA).

Saturday morning we were introduced to Post Family Farm’s delicious pumpkin donuts, and enjoyed a low key start to the day. We attempted to grab lunch at the Electric Cheetah (we’ll have to give it a try next time, as all the food looked fabulous); but, due to nearly a two hour wait we wondered into a casual pizza spot for lunch in the East Grand Rapids neighborhood. Very “cute” area as the mom’s would say, peppered with coffee shops (including one that had outdoor seating set up in “igloos!“) and various boutiques.

Following lunch, we explored the “Christmas & Holiday Traditions Around the World” exhibit at the Meijer Garden Center. What a beautiful property – looks like a fun spot to return in better weather too (amphitheater, children’s and sculpture gardens, etc.). We had a nice time learning about various country’s traditions as we saw different trees lining the common areas. Many very unique stories that I’ll hold on sharing should you have the chance to checkout for yourself. Everything was so festive. From the added holiday decor in the arid garden (nothing like cactus and Christmas coming together!) to the mini village set up with a comprehensive train set in other indoor garden areas (my favorite) – there was a lot to see! The train even had a Great Lakes Brewing car on it (way to represent, CLE)! Outside we got to see reindeer and I had fun seeing the older boys we were with play in the outdoor children’s play area/tree house village that looked like it belonged to the Lost Boys in Neverland (or maybe from a scene in Lord of the Rings)! The children’s garden is one of the largest in the US, and also included a log cabin we got to pop into for a quick warm up between the outdoor fun. We returned back indoors and also checked out another play area where the Mom’s couldn’t help but smile at the “Mad Mom” statue to encourage good play time etiquette and we took some green screen pictures with penguins. 🐧

While I settled in for the night with the other young lads and a nice sitter, Mom & Dad enjoyed a night out at One Bourbon followed by an excellent dinner at Butcher’s Union.

Although I’m becoming a great eater at 8 months old, my parents have become fast adopters of keeping some of my favorite meal pouches on hand for travel. My must haves include:

– Beets, Guava, Banana

– Apple, Sweet Potato

My Dr. Browns Soft-Spout Transition Cup has also been a stable for our adventures. Mom & Dad love that it has a cover and doesn’t leak, and I find it easy to use/it has a little indent on the top of the lid that leaves plenty of space for my little nose while sipping.

We have to get back up to visit our friends in the nice summer weather so we can see just what else “Pure Michigan” has to offer…but, I’m also counting down the days till I’m just a little older to get back for more winter fun at Muskegon Winter Sports Park! While I’ll stay true to my Buckeye heritage, MI was a fun spot to visit. Looking forward to returning again!