tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-219961692012-02-09T09:20:19.264-05:00<center> <br> <br> <img src=http://webpages.charter.net/gbayley/misc/pic_1.jpg hspace ="100"> <p><i>Rebecca Smith and Andrew Bayley were married in a civil ceremony on Thursday, February 16, 2006.</p> <img src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_kGXj5UJN3xE/RvpZW7pewOI/AAAAAAAAAAk/PPwsnvE0pB0/s400/maggie_moo.jpg" hspace="100" alt="Maggie Sue"> <p>On July 23rd of 2007 they both welcomed Margaret Suzanne into their lives.</p><br> <hr> <br> </i></center>Beckinoreply@blogger.comBlogger951100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-65129188200694160142012-01-09T09:50:00.001-05:002012-01-09T09:50:19.764-05:00

Welcome Jack: Oct. 1st, 2011 A healthy 10 lbs 10 oz and 22.5 inches long.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-33270978081367743062012-01-05T19:11:00.001-05:002012-01-05T19:11:01.895-05:00

Hopefully we'll be able to update this big more often now. :)

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-21887210719382872822010-07-25T14:13:00.005-04:002010-07-25T14:21:21.879-04:00

While up in Caseville for the weekend, Maggie decided to help Daddy do a little grocery shopping at the local IGA.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-65190302477573646052010-06-10T21:07:00.002-04:002010-06-10T21:13:12.015-04:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-90909853986492568462010-05-09T22:02:00.004-04:002010-05-09T22:16:03.413-04:00

Happy Mother's day Mommy. I still love you with all my heart! -Maggie

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-37453386116532188492010-03-14T22:20:00.005-04:002010-03-15T13:50:28.885-04:00

While Becki was working a chocolate show in Oregon Ohio, Maggie and Dad decided to check out the newly renamed "imagination station" in downtown Toledo. Toledo.... who would have thought? It was surprisingly very nice and had a beautiful location right on the Maumee river. We look forward to coming back in the summer time (perhaps by boat?) and exploring the outdoor attractions. The imagination

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-74192105068557736752010-03-07T22:27:00.003-05:002010-03-07T22:32:52.811-05:00

Busy, busy, busy and fun! We started out yesterday morning by going to the Nursery School Olympics. What a great event! They had probably close to 20 different activities for toddlers and pre-schoolers. Every 'event,' like the Obstacle Course, the Marshmallow Shot-Put, the Big Wheel Race and the Pirate Tug-of-War had a special sticker to put on your sheet that listed the events (so you could be

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-41330252625752746612010-03-03T16:56:00.001-05:002010-03-03T16:56:25.275-05:00

As much as I gripe about the cold and snow, I had to put up one of my favorite winter pictures. Maggie asks a few times a week to go out and sled or make a 'snowman' (her definition is pretty liberal - she just wants to hold a piece of snow). Unfortunately, other than Maggie's cuteness, none of these activities hold any appeal for me. Luckily her daddy feels the opposite. He loves the cold and

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-22580932284617604082010-02-18T21:40:00.002-05:002010-02-18T21:46:25.840-05:00

Maggie got an airbrushed mermaid on her arm. Maggie and Daddy peaking out the porthole at Mommy: Maggie, Grandpa and a hot-dog-boat: Captain at the wheel:

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-41087717159162471352010-02-18T21:24:00.004-05:002010-02-18T21:39:02.895-05:00

Maggie and Daddy decided to explore the Children's Hands On Museum in downtown Ann Arbor. A fun day was had by all! Maggie enjoyed playing with all the fun "toys" while Dad tried to entertain the thought that he was actually teaching her a thing or two about science. Maggie had fun playing "garden" by grabbing (plastic) flowers from inside the motor home and planting them into the (plastic)

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-19875262008216220372010-02-15T16:19:00.005-05:002010-02-15T16:23:16.524-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-31968108038620964052010-01-20T21:40:00.004-05:002010-01-20T21:50:08.437-05:00

In the new year, we're finding lots of fun things for Maggie to do, since mommy would rather be inside while it's cold! The activity that has started first is swimming class. We purposely scheduled this one in the evening, as it's more daddy's style and gives Maggie and daddy some fun time together. And it meets right at good ole Churchill High, so it's nice and close. It's a pretty loosely

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-41947093338056653242010-01-10T22:51:00.004-05:002010-01-10T23:00:28.707-05:00

My long time friend, affectionately known as 'Uncle Bunny' to Maggie, joined us on a Sunday afternoon for some sledding in Hines Park. Maggie was apprehensive about taking the ride, but she did make two trips: one with Daddy and one with Uncle Bunny. She had more fun standing at the top giving us all pushes to start our way down.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-56629455578217937992009-12-16T22:34:00.000-05:002009-12-16T22:35:02.261-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-59974283876679517212009-12-10T21:18:00.004-05:002009-12-10T21:31:15.755-05:00

Maggie had so much fun blowing bubbles at Mimi and Papa's house, they broke out the "big gun" for Thanksgiving weekend. Her laugh is 100% intoxicating. We'll never get tired of hearing it.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-61286676026141783452009-11-28T16:45:00.005-05:002009-12-07T15:18:41.729-05:00

Okay. If you're looking for gift ideas for Maggie, you've come to the right place.' So far she's definitely getting the Loving Family Grand Dollhouse. She'll definitely need more accessories to go with it! The rooms/sets she does not need are as follows: ParentsTwin babiesDining RoomLiving RoomPuppy PlaytimeNurseryWork-at-Home OfficeGrandma and brotherCamping setKids' Room (girl)Mini-vanI'll try

Beckinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-33507558092701485152009-10-30T21:27:00.001-04:002009-10-30T21:27:33.863-04:00

Happy Halloween!! Wishing a hauntingly fun Halloween to you and yours!

Beckinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-88568401900020994662009-10-01T20:03:00.006-04:002009-10-01T20:36:02.078-04:00

Maggie went to her first ice show recently. Judging by her reaction, I would say she had a good time.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-19924944788961437742009-10-01T19:55:00.004-04:002009-10-01T20:02:58.202-04:00

Maggie got her first taste of a real amusement park the other weekend as we pack up the car and headed out for the opening of "Halloweekends" at Cedar Point in Sandusky Ohio. Along with her Mommy and Daddy, Maggie was able to enjoy the day with Aunt Sarah, Uncle Pete, Aunt Alicia, Uncle Rob, Uncle Nolan and Grandpamama. We tried the school bus and lolli-swing in 'Camp Snoopy', but Maggie wasn't

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-87986032906093564082009-08-09T21:09:00.003-04:002009-08-09T21:26:52.000-04:00

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-91004221424386134382009-07-29T20:37:00.000-04:002009-07-29T20:38:02.883-04:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-17178833849564801572009-07-23T07:20:00.000-04:002009-07-23T07:20:00.657-04:00

Wow. Our baby is TWO today (at 7:20 ET tonight, to be specific...)! I can't remember life without her, yet it seems like she was born just yesterday. Oddly enough, a couple weeks ago she started randomly singing, "Happy birthday to you," whenever someone lit a candle. We finally figured out the last time she heard it was July 5. Her timing is perfect. She still won't answer, "Two," when you

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-32606581987729744992009-07-22T22:26:00.001-04:002009-07-22T22:26:54.368-04:00

Becki, two years ago :)

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-33973354211631893372009-07-06T15:59:00.004-04:002009-07-06T16:12:36.146-04:00

Every year, we try to get together with all of local boating friends on July 5th to celebrate our friend Tom's birthday. The birthday celebration is really a moot point, it's more of an excuse to get everyone together at the same place on the same day. If you remember, we were out on the water for Tom's birthday last year. This is when we had the adorable little purple car / boat for Maggie

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-81830185092527953322009-06-17T21:24:00.001-04:002009-06-17T21:24:35.043-04:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-78641425801772271322009-05-10T10:02:00.007-04:002009-05-10T17:59:02.411-04:00

A tribute to the best mother in the whole wide world! Love, Maggie Sue (with some help from Dad, but only a little bit.)

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-20784705020828706342009-04-12T22:48:00.001-04:002009-04-12T22:48:58.516-04:00

Once the drama with the bunny was over, Maggie was able to go on and enjoy her Easter weekend. Saturday we went to Grandma's, where Maggie did her very first egg 'hunt,' and got a fabulous bonnet. Hopefully Grandma got some good pictures of Maggie in her dress and bonnet, because although she wore the same dress the next day, we only took pictures outside with her jacket covering her dress!

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-4950158484947517632009-04-08T10:34:00.002-04:002009-04-08T10:35:15.815-04:00

Well, the day started out well enough. Maggie and I got up and had breakfast. When it was time to start relaxing and play, I talked her into taking a bath instead. Once she was clean and dressed, I snuck in a quick shower for myself. After stashing her pretty pink dress in the diaper bag and getting the stroller into the trunk again, we hit the road. It was a little bit further to Twelve Oaks

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-61495467577031171492009-03-10T16:36:00.010-04:002011-01-17T14:14:35.917-05:00

After a long two week test drive for work into the cold northern wilderness, it was decided that a nice impromptu driving vacation was in order. Without any sort of concrete plans or expectations, we packed up the family car and drove out to our nation’s capitol. In route to Washington DC, we stopped at the Kalahari Resort and Hotel in Sandusky Ohio to bask in their clear blue (because it’s

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-87078647374777869072009-01-11T16:56:00.009-05:002009-01-11T17:32:27.785-05:00

After being cooped up in the house all day, Maggie and Dad decided to take advantage of the fresh fallen snow on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Dad makes sure Maggie is bundled up nice and warm! "I'm ready to go Dad, bring out the sled!" "I'm good to go Daddy, HIT IT!" "Too slow Dad, pick up the pace a little!" "Woot-woot! We're cookin' now!" "Uh oh, I'm not so sure about this anymore...

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-67624777171658072182008-12-14T09:56:00.001-05:002008-12-14T09:58:25.173-05:00

Happy Holidays!

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-59277269657565620482008-12-10T23:37:00.001-05:002008-12-10T23:37:18.988-05:00

Have you seen the new holiday Oreos with the red filling (they taste the same as regular Oreos)? Let's just say Maggie is a fan.

Beckinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-41919106900444774162008-11-19T14:33:00.003-05:002009-05-10T18:06:16.475-04:00

Here's an awesome video Becki's mom got while Maggie was hanging out at her 'Mimi and Papa's' house last week.

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-19565112589911753872008-11-03T12:24:00.001-05:002008-11-03T12:26:08.823-05:00

Last year we didn't really get to 'celebrate' Halloween in Germany, so this was Maggie's first REAL Halloween. She loved it! We went out to my parents' neighborhood and walked door to door to probably 20 or 30 houses with her. Maggie insisted on walking on her own. When we tried to pick her up, she immediately squirmed to get down! At each house, she would reach first one hand, then the other

Beckinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-57677061937938016712008-10-09T14:22:00.002-04:002008-10-09T14:24:30.506-04:00

We headed up to Mackinac last weekend and went camping with my parents. It was a little brisk out (some, like me, would say cold, but others, like Andy, wouldn't agree...), but we had a great time anyway. I insisted on getting the old-time photo on the island. One we had taken somewhere with my parents and my brother and I still hangs in my parents house :) For your viewing pleasure:

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-19100443226424126772008-08-24T23:21:00.007-04:002008-08-24T23:32:37.569-04:00

Another beautiful weekend equals another beautiful boat ride. Since Andy is leaving (again) for Germany this Tuesday for three weeks, this was pretty much our last guaranteed summer weekend on the boat. While we sometimes get a late Indian summer, anything towards the end of September and into October is always a crap shoot. Besides smashing a finger between the spare tire holder and a

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-73901123811417339312008-08-14T09:44:00.000-04:002008-08-14T09:45:03.873-04:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-77970475835482583532008-08-06T20:04:00.003-04:002008-08-06T20:08:47.016-04:00

Someone found the broomstick handle that we use to lock the rear sliding door. It took my little girl approximately three seconds before she went into Ninja mode. "I fight you now! Take THAT, you evil table!"

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-21792037719792145302008-08-03T14:50:00.008-04:002008-12-09T00:10:17.146-05:00

Well, can you believe that it’s been a year already? Some days it feels like just yesterday we discovered that Becki was pregnant. Other days it feels like little Maggie has been with us forever. One this is for certain though, she is growing up FAST! Her cute little staggered walk is rapidly progressing towards a full fledged RUN. It won’t be long before she starts riding bicycles with

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-21565151234791444182008-07-20T22:41:00.012-04:002008-12-09T00:10:18.154-05:00

Earlier in July, we all went to San Francisco for an old High School friend's wedding. I (Andy) had only been to the Bay Area once before, and that was ten years ago. My friend (Jeff) had just moved out to the area and was renting a flat above a liquor store in a very shitty part of Oakland. At the time, I wasn’t sure if it was safer to sleep on the floor of Jeff’s apartment or in the back seat

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-15639297932937259942008-07-06T18:07:00.002-04:002008-07-06T18:20:31.248-04:00

For the first time in five years, I brought the boat back without breaking it! Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus… and I also own a working boat. I took Becki and Maggie out to Lake St. Clair this past Saturday for my friend’s birthday. We started from the Clinton River (South River Launch to any / all the locals reading this), ran across the lake to the South Channel, and the up the St. Clair

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-63815667221228428582008-06-26T18:04:00.001-04:002008-06-26T18:05:14.172-04:00

Maggie started walking last weekend! We think her first motivating factor was trying to stay off of Jeremy's grass, but once she tried it there, she apparently decided she likes it! Here's some video of her walking in the cottage.

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-6503943976785171712008-06-18T12:53:00.012-04:002008-12-09T00:10:19.042-05:00

Last weekend our friend Prem visited. While he was here, we used some passes we had and headed to Greenfield Village for their Motor Muster weekend. It was a huge outdoor car show, with cars from the 1930s to the 1970s. The boys loved it (of course) but I'm still looking forward to seeing the real 'village' at the holidays again. ;) Here are the three Bayleys, chilling on an old fire engine near

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-18631199473170173722008-06-08T21:24:00.005-04:002008-12-09T00:10:19.150-05:00

Wow! This year is FLYING BY!! As much as I feel like I should be in touch with everyone, since I'm at home all day, nearly every day, it's impossible! I'm at home because I'm still working 30 hours a week. Luckily Maggie is a very good tempered girl who does an amazing job of entertaining herself. She starts out playing in the living room (which is baby-proofed) and when she gets bored with that,

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-42805560420134603512008-05-28T14:17:00.001-04:002008-12-09T00:10:19.493-05:00

Maggie and her Uncle Nolan in their matching shirts :)

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-42622785979882936502008-05-13T14:35:00.002-04:002008-12-09T00:10:19.870-05:00

Just over a week ago, we had a dedication (also called a naming ceremony) for Maggie at the Universalist Unitarian church we attend. It was a beautiful ceremony. Maggie wore the christening gown Maggie's Mimi Judi made for Becki me 35 years ago. Becki's younger brother also wore it when he was baptized. Here are a couple pictures Maggie's Grandpa Greg took. We had little matching necklaces on

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-28876603944711572022008-05-07T15:11:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:20.021-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-73738725839487284222008-04-30T14:03:00.003-04:002008-12-09T00:10:20.222-05:00

Here's one of the pictures we got playing out in Grandma Judi's yard a couple weeks ago while Papa, Daddy and the boys worked on tearing off the roof. Hope we get that warm weather back again soon!

Beckinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-41501806761364597522008-04-21T16:43:00.002-04:002008-04-21T16:48:25.220-04:00

Well, Maggie is coming up on nine months this week (Wednesday, to be exact). We have had our nine-month doctor visit, and she's still growing. Hahahaha... At the visit, her weight was 19 lbs, 8 oz (around the 50th percentile), and her length is 29 inches (around the 90th percentile). Her noggin circumfrence is off the charts. If you're picking out new outfits to get Maggie, don't bother with the

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-37050102945377907412008-04-16T21:30:00.002-04:002008-04-16T21:38:16.479-04:00

Yes, we are still around ;) The Rudstrom's have challenged us to post seven random facts about The Bayleys...here goes! We first met in the spring of 1997 - seven years before we started dating.Becki is almost three years older than Andy (two years, 364 days, actually).Andy misses hanging out with his friends in Minnesota.We live within a half mile of Andy's high school.Becki's mom's cousin's

Beckinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-51553508201849829702008-03-30T09:13:00.002-04:002008-03-30T09:13:50.896-04:00

Maggie and her daddy can now practice using one of the same guitars!

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-80967415086658917202008-03-14T10:43:00.000-04:002008-03-14T10:44:08.755-04:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-22133913133170294612008-01-16T17:58:00.000-05:002008-12-09T00:10:20.367-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-3454022546978878482008-01-09T10:28:00.001-05:002008-12-09T00:10:20.654-05:00

She'll be driving in no time ;) Actually she's going for the 'horn.' She loves to bang on the yellow head of the Pod chair.

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-86927251754368399912008-01-01T14:05:00.000-05:002008-01-01T14:19:17.195-05:00

I (Andy) posted this story on another website that asked us to look back and reflect on 2007. I spent a good time of time writing it, so I thought it would be nice to share on this site as well: I guess way back on January 1st of 2007, I realized how fortunate I was (still am) to have such a wonderful woman in my life. On New Years last year, my older sister and her pseudo husband took Becki

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-79446072212740550042007-11-26T09:22:00.000-05:002008-12-09T00:10:23.540-05:00

We took a few road trips over this past extended holiday weekend. I decided to blow Thursday and Friday off from work since us Americans have such few holidays when compared to our European colleagues. Since I had Mom and Nolan in town, I decided to give the family an opportunity to see whatever they wanted to see in Europe. Becki and my Mother both wanted to visit a good old fashioned mid

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1295654088244671312007-11-12T10:44:00.000-05:002008-12-09T00:10:44.294-05:00

Saturday, we decided to take a drive into the Rhineland and explore the city Zoo in “Wuppertal”. The city of Wuppertal (translation: ‘River Valley’) was about an hour drive on the Autobahn to the west. The weather forecast was for on and off rain showers with temperatures hovering around 4˚C (40˚F). We made sure that Maggie was well bundled up. Because of the cool(er) temperatures, we

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-59934754399768437122007-11-07T06:54:00.000-05:002008-12-09T00:10:44.427-05:00

Here is a picture of Becki and Maggie in front of our new apartment. If anybody feels like sending us a postcard in the next few weeks, please write to: The Bayley’s Borlinghauser Str. 33 59557 Lippstadt, NRW Deutschland (Germany)

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-76532490162670265732007-11-07T06:41:00.000-05:002008-12-09T00:10:44.593-05:00

Happy (belated) Halloween!! Pretty bad to miss posting for my very favorite holiday, eh? We're settling in at our new apartment in Lippstadt, Germany. They don't actually celebrate 'Halloween' here, so we just took pictures in the little costume I couldn't resist on our couch :) Andy works during the day (of course), and I've been doing my new work from 'home' job a bit during the day, and

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-38850231554188314062007-10-24T23:33:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:44.731-05:00

Maggie at the Parmenter's Northville Cider Mill last weekend.

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-15722375187171631712007-10-07T14:46:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:44.844-05:00

Maggie was having loads of fun at Grandma Judi and Grandpa Roger's place this past weekend. Grandma Judi hallowed out the largest pumpkin she could find and plopped her granddaughter down inside. Maggie had a blast, as the above picture clearly indicates. We are disappointed that we will likely be overseas for Halloween this year, but look forward to next year when Maggie will hopefully be a

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-29248050189494075962007-10-03T11:59:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:45.096-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-46258254102470506472007-09-26T18:46:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:45.208-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-61777788957277194382007-09-19T23:30:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:45.298-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-65867515786701763222007-09-19T09:04:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:45.409-05:00

The initial move date has been set for October 22nd of this year (2007). Andy, Becki and Maggie will all be temporarily relocating to Germany for two months. It’s not as much a relocation move as it is an extended vacation. The family will be back home in time for Christmas, but Thanksgiving will be put on hold this year. Although we are a little shaky with our European history, we’re pretty

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-36379649556036976612007-09-12T09:44:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:45.535-05:00

Beckinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-90324070802237661142007-09-07T14:46:00.000-04:002007-09-08T10:43:24.575-04:00

This year, Maggie and I will be walking in the Hartland, Michigan Relay for Life in memory of my friend, Suzanne, who passed away two years ago from breast cancer.She's part of the inspiration for Margaret Suzanne's middle name, and I hope little Maggie can get a portion of her positive outlook and love of life.To donate, please visit my page here.

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-13729725539934966042007-09-07T11:01:00.001-04:002007-09-07T11:01:25.496-04:00

Here's our baby Maggie having found her own thumb the other night as she fell asleep.

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-72839072813811694362007-09-05T09:30:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:10:45.819-05:00

This past weekend, we invited some friends from out of town up to the family cottage in Caseville MI for a weekend of good old R&R, Michigan style. Friends came up from as far as Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, D.C., South Carolina, Louisiana, Florida and even Texas. People started showing up at our home on Friday afternoon. We spent all evening catching up on events and eating some BBQ'd

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-25158314161619701142007-08-14T23:07:00.000-04:002007-09-13T13:47:18.587-04:00

Sunday, July 22nd 2007: Becki and I didn’t have any plans, so we decided to sleep in and lazily hang out around the house. In my normal fashion, I crankily laid in bed while Becki got up and shuffled around the house. Around 10AM Becki came into the bedroom and had a short conversation with me. It went something like this: Becki: ”It’s time to get up.” Andy: ”Go away, I’m sleeping…” Becki: ”Come

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1159675335110357062006-10-01T00:00:00.000-04:002006-10-01T00:02:15.120-04:00

Hey! There's now a website for all our Lapham relatives :) If you'd like to check it out, please leave me a comment with your email address and I'll send you an invite. Can't wait to see more people around!

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1151440718657991142006-06-27T16:37:00.000-04:002006-06-27T16:38:38.666-04:00

Hey! Anyone we haven't touched base with - surgery went very well. The surgeon said it was a perfect 'textbook procedure.' Woo-hoo! I'm still not up to full speed, but getting there :)

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1149449894004835642006-06-04T15:35:00.000-04:002006-06-04T15:38:14.016-04:00

I've been trying to get the Mr. to post, but no luck so far :( Of course, he's usually busy with car, boat and house stuff. Especially since I'm not much help all broken :( Today he put wider steps on the deck, so he can drive the tractor up into the shed on the deck. Creativity rules! I'm counting down to surgery on the 15th of this month. I'm haveing a micro discectomy L5-S1 left side. Or so

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1144523176912699732006-04-08T15:02:00.000-04:002006-04-08T15:06:16.933-04:00

Wow! Andy is going to be sooo happy when he gets home. I've been working today on clearing some of the PartyLite boxes out of the office. Anyone have a spare set of utility shelving? I need to put something in our lil basement to organize the billions (or so it seems...) of boxes down there now! hahaha He's working out at my parents today. Helping by brother with some brake or wheel stuff, and (

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1144205380443500922006-04-04T22:47:00.000-04:002007-09-11T13:49:31.568-04:00

Becki will be walking in Livingston County's Relay for Life to raise money for the American Cancer Society in May. Her personal goal is to raise $1000 so we are asking everyone we know to donate $10, $20, $50 or whatever you can. Every little bit helps. Money raised goes for research, educational programs, advocacy and patient services. She will be walking to honor our friend Sue, who passed

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1143166842068985282006-03-21T20:13:00.000-05:002006-03-23T21:20:42.346-05:00

So what's life like for the newlyweds? On this exciting Tuesday night, he's out working on my car (for the fourth day running, poor guy!) and I just finished washing out the fridge. While it's empty is the time to do it, right? Andy might have his own say on it, but I honestly don't 'feel' all that different married then I did just living with the love of my life. I was just saying tonight, I

Beckinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1140090716314512442006-02-16T06:47:00.000-05:002006-03-23T04:11:11.073-05:00

"Sorrow can take care of itself, but joy, to be fully appreciated, must be shared." - Mark Twain Thanks to all of our friends and family for sharing in our joy! Okay, so we're actually writing this slightly before the wedding, but here's the plan: We're headed to the courthouse in Westland to meet up with our friend Jay Blanchard and another witness and have the judge marry us! Becki was able

Beckinoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1140066558714683642006-02-16T00:09:00.000-05:002006-03-01T13:04:36.410-05:00

Laying in bed one night, Andy and Becki were making small talk about how each others days had gone. Andy: "So, how was your evening out with the girls?" Becki: “It was fun...” Andy: “Did they ask you if we were married yet?” Becki: “(sigh) yeah...” Andy: “Have they figured any of our plans out yet?” Becki: “Not that I know of.” Andy: “Did your telling them of our upcoming cruise vacation

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139615503908988872006-02-10T18:51:00.000-05:002006-04-05T14:51:21.396-04:00

Rebecca Nancy Smith was born June 13th, 1972. From 1974 until 1980 she lived (with her family) at 15405 Brookfield in Livonia, Michigan. The house was on the paper route of Andy Bayley by the mid 1980's. She went to St. Paul's Lutheran Church on Farmington Road (next to St. Aidan's). She never met Andy Bayley back then. (Becki at 2 years old) Andrew Gregory Bayley was born June 12th, 1975. He

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139545098101537712006-02-09T23:09:00.000-05:002006-02-11T12:19:36.396-05:00

In 1993, Andy graduated from Livonia Churchill High School and moved to Houghton, Michigan to start classes at Michigan Technological University. At MTU he met Drew Sulkowski. A neighbor of Drew's from back home in Howell, Michigan started attending MTU one year later. Drew's neighbor was Randy Smith, Becki Smith's brother. In the spring of 1997, Becki Smith made the 10-hour trek north (FYI:

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139543519915616902006-02-09T22:51:00.000-05:002006-02-10T19:05:59.773-05:00

The story finally started gaining momentum in February of 2004. An out of state (New York) member from the off-topic web forum was coming to Southfield, Michigan for business. The Michigan forum members decided to make Prem (the forum member) feel welcome. For two weekends in a row, Becki and Andy met up with the other forum members (including Becki's brother Randy) to enjoy dinner, drinks, and

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139543374858191072006-02-09T22:40:00.000-05:002006-02-10T19:06:30.156-05:00

For the long spring weekend, Andy and Becki headed to South Carolina to meet up with Dave Welsh (who went to MTU with Andy) and his then girlfriend (now wife) Kristie Martinez. The four of them went on to spend the weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139542740576843892006-02-09T22:31:00.000-05:002006-02-11T19:10:37.476-05:00

In May of 2004 Andy and Becki headed to a famous stretch of US Highway 129 that hugs the southwestern edge of the Smokey Mountains National Park to meet with some fellow forum member friends. Tail of the Dragon is an eleven mile stretch of highway that is said to contain 318 curves. Andy made sure Killboy didn't miss his Subaru WRX when it came time for some photo opportunities!

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139541885319923712006-02-09T22:13:00.000-05:002006-02-10T19:07:36.793-05:00

Becki's First Boat Ride... Andy, Greg (Andy's Dad) and Becki took Andy and Greg's boat (a 32 foot Sunsation) from Caseville to East Tawas for lunch. The lake (Huron) was rough that day, but Becki loved every minute of her first boat ride. Unfortunately, more engine problems were revealed, so it was her last boat ride on that particular boat for quite a while. Andy's first solo flight...

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139540844364652452006-02-09T21:54:00.000-05:002007-09-05T10:01:33.139-04:00

Andy started going to the Thousand Islands Poker Run in Kingston Ontario in 2002 to meet up with his boating friends that he had met at a Sunsation Owners' Rally in Lake St. Clair, Michigan. This was Becki's first experience with the offshore boating scene and she appeared to love every minute of it.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139539924704221982006-02-09T21:31:00.000-05:002006-02-11T12:22:54.766-05:00

Becki was now at about six months without a full-time permanent job (her last day had been January 2nd). Her lease at the apartment she lived in with Gloria and Audrey (her cats) was ready to renew... or expire September 1st. Andy didn't seem to be doing much better with the house. Everything seemed to be falling apart at the seams. A loss of coolant caused the A/C compressor to seize, causing a

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139538298669124192006-02-09T21:16:00.000-05:002006-02-11T12:25:23.970-05:00

Shortly after enjoying Thanksgiving dinners with their families, Becki and Andy hopped on a plane and flew across the Northern Atlantic for Germany. Andy’s company (BHTC) was sending him to their corporate headquarters for two weeks in the northern Germany town of Lippstadt. After getting the green light from his boss, Andy purchased a second ticket for Becki and the two of them traveled for

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139537074025661432006-02-09T20:55:00.000-05:002006-02-11T12:26:38.876-05:00

2005 was Andy's fourth trip to the Miami boat show and Becki's first. They shared a hotel room with Greg and had a great time catching up with our (mostly) Canadian friends. Admittedly, Becki was more interested in socializing than in boats, but Greg and Andy enjoyed the boat show as usual. Miami in February for the boat show is a great way to break up the Michigan winter.Saturday morning Stan

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139519018374293062006-02-09T15:48:00.000-05:002006-02-11T12:27:42.766-05:00

For the long Easter weekend, Andy and Becki decided to head south to Myrtle Beach. While on their way down, they made a side stop at the Tail of the Dragon to meet up with a friend from the off topic web forum. The friend brought with him a few other fellow Honda S2000s for Andy to play with. Unfortunately, they didn't play very nice and Andy wore out the ring and pinion gears in his front

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139516434567210932006-02-09T15:19:00.000-05:002006-03-20T08:52:09.040-05:00

In June of 2005, Becki and Andy, along with Becki's parents (Roger and Judi) and Randy, headed out to Las Vegas for the wedding of cousin Jake. While in Nevada, they all took a quick side trip to explore the Hoover Dam. On the last day of their vacation, Andy and Roger rented a 21 foot powerboat and took the rest of the family (Randy, Becki, Judi and Aunt Rheta) out for a day cruise on Lake Mead.

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139456171830989572006-02-08T22:25:00.000-05:002006-02-11T12:32:29.320-05:00

In late June of 2005 Andy, Becki, Randy and their friend Matt all headed back down to the Tail of the Dragon for their web forum's second (now annual) Dragon "Meat" run. The event this year was much larger than the previous year with more than double the number of attendees. Andy and Becki were happy to finally put faces to many friends they had otherwise only known through messages posted

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139455309813071992006-02-08T22:08:00.000-05:002006-02-11T12:34:14.716-05:00

For his fourth (and Becki's second) year in a row, Andy returned to Kingston Ontario to visit with his and now Becki's Canadian friends. Sadly, Andy was not able to take his own boat up to Kingston as he had been planning all summer. However, their good friend Jeff picked up the slack and accommodated both Becki and Andy on his 36 foot Apache. Not only did Jeff offer up the ride, but also put up

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139454038192359802006-02-08T21:54:00.000-05:002006-02-16T07:21:03.483-05:00

For Halloween of 2005, Natalie invited Andy and Becki to a party out in Royal Oak with her and some friends. Andy invited his German co-worker Wolfgang to join him and Becki. While down there, they ran into many of their friends and had a great time dancing and drinking (not necessarily in that order ;) ). Becki was dressed as Betty Page (1950's pin up girl); Andy's costume was designed after

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139453561298191362006-02-08T21:40:00.000-05:002006-02-12T21:33:41.060-05:00

Shortly after Thanksgiving, both Becki and Andy started to notice Gloria (the older of the two cats) losing weight at an alarming rate. They both also noticed her loss of appetite and her inability to get around on her own. After many trips to the vet and a feeding tube to help get her to eat again, Gloria finally gave up the fight and was euthanized in early December. The final diagnoses (never

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21996169.post-1139452682010409242006-02-08T21:33:00.000-05:002006-06-04T21:00:03.186-04:00

For New Years Eve, Becki was able to score five free tickets to watch the Detroit Pistons play the Cleveland Cavaliers. The good news was that the home team won. The bad news was that Becki and Andy took a bus down to Cleveland to watch the game. No matter, Becki, Andy, Matt, Byron (friend of Andy’s) and Keith (another friend of Andy’s) all had a good time. Becki was able to get these tickets

Bayleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06475912987927758189noreply@blogger.com7