By Jim & Sheri Iliff - Findlay, OH

Our story began over thirty years ago when we were high school sweethearts. We were celebrating a "snow-day" and decided to go sledding, laughing, throwing snowballs, and enjoying each other's company. Topping the day off with a cup of hot chocolate was icing on the cake.  Little did we know a tradition was started that would last throughout the years. 

We were married in 1983 and since that time we have visited the parks in spring, summer, fall and winter. Our boys were born in 1992 and 1994 and many happy memories have been created throughout the years by spending time at the parks. Countless hours were spent enjoying the various playgrounds. The Discovery Center was a tremendous asset when our boys were toddlers. While home schooling our children, the parks provided resources for teachable moments such as bird-watching in the spring, fishing at Giertz Lake in the summer, finding fuzzy caterpillars and buckeyes in the fall, and of course, sledding in the winter. As our children got older, we studied and identified trees and visited the different reenactments available. Many times our friends would come with us and we would share a good meal while warming ourselves beside a bonfire. Litzenberg Park also supplied us with several learning adventures such as Maple Sugaring Days and reenactments on the farm.

We feel truly blessed and enriched with the available parks within Hancock County. They have been a treasure of opportunity.  Not only have the parks strengthened our family's relationship by bringing us closer together but they have enhanced our relationship with our extended family and friends as well.

Thank you Hancock Park District for the beauty and wealth we have shared. We hope to enjoy many more years of this rich tradition.