Hello, fellow Moms! I’m so excited for the launch of Genesee County Moms Blog.
My name is Katie, and I’ve been living in Grand Blanc since my husband and I purchased his grandparents’ house three years ago. Joel and I met at Grand Valley State University, where I studied photography. We lived in Seattle, WA for a few years before returning to Michigan. I enjoyed city life, but really missed the friendliness of the Midwest. I’ve had no trouble meeting other Moms in the area, thanks to MOMS Club, and now this welcoming group of ladies!
I originally grew up in Petoskey. You can take the girl out of Northern Michigan, but… you know how the saying goes! I prefer craft beer over wine, board games over pedicures, and camping over glamping. No seriously — it’s not camping if you’re not sleeping in a tent! 🙂
Luna, our first child, was born in June 2016. Everyone tells you how hard and isolating it can be staying at home with a baby, but you can’t comprehend until you’re there! Luckily they’re so darn cute.
Before becoming a Stay at Home Mom, I was commuting an hour everyday for work. On weeknights and weekends, Joel and I were always checking out new restaurants in the Genesee County and Northern Oakland County areas. We also enjoy parks, museums, and local shops.
Here are my most frequented & favorite stops:
Flint
Gotta love free Saturdays at the Flint Institute of Arts! Other favorite activities include: walking at Stepping Stone Falls, brunching at Flint Crepe Company, and lunching at the Flint Farmer’s Market or Hoffman’s Deco Deli (did I mention there’s an adjoining antique store?). I’m also crazy for a good rock show, and love having The Machine Shop so close by.
Grand Blanc
I especially love living in Grand Blanc in the summer – thanks to the outdoor farmer’s market, and Ziggy’s Ice Cream. Bicentennial Park is my favorite place to take Luna on strolls, thanks to the extensive trails. We also enjoy the Baby Steps program offered at the McFarlen Library. The Grafted Root Eatery is my favorite spot for breakfast!
Holly
A friend in the outskirts of Holly let us stay at his house until we moved into ours. I had only heard of Holly because of the Renaissance Festival, but ended up falling in love with its downtown. The Blackthorn Pub has some of the tastiest food (and beer) around! Cupcakes and Kisses is conveniently located across the street for dessert, and endless antique finds are up and down the block.
Fenton
When I want to take out-of-town foodie guests to a great dinner, I usually think of The Laundry or Fenton Fire Hall — both located in downtown Fenton. Afterwards, The Rough Draught offers delicious warm adult beverages (perfect on a cold winter day!). There are great boutique stores to shop nearby, such as The Iron Grate, where I splurged on baby items upstairs while waiting for Luna to arrive!
What area are you from? Share some of your favorite spots around town with the GCMB team, and our readers!
