Quotes to Get You in the Mood for Spring

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- It's been a rough winter, full of below zero temperatures, white-outs, and school closings. While we're not completely through with the cold season, we're certainly finishing up the worst of it. Spring is on its way, and in order to get you into the mood, we've collected a few of our favorite uplifting quotes about the season of rebirth. We hope they inspire, or at least, bring a smile to your face! 

• "Expect to have hope rekindled. Expect your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways. The dry seasons in life do not last. The spring rains will come again." - Sarah Ban Breathnach 

• "Spring will come and so will happiness. Hold on. Life will get warmer." - Anita Krizzan 

• "Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat." - Laura Ingalls Wilder

• "Springtime is the land awakening. The March winds are the morning yawn." - Lewis Grizzard

• "Don't wait for someone to bring you flowers. Plant your own garden and decorate your soul." -Luther Burbank 

• "An optimist is the human personification of spring." - Susan J Bissonette 

• "Deep in their roots, all flowers keep the light." - Theodore Roethke

• "It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart." - Rainier Maria Rillke 

• "That is one good thing about this world...there are always sure to be more springs." - L.M. Montgomery 

• "Can words describe the fragrance of the very breath of spring?" - Neltje Blanchan 

• "To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow" - Audrey Hepburn

• "Despite the forecast, live like it's spring." - Lily Pulitzer

• "Spring: the music of open windows." - Terri Guillemets 

• "April hath put a spirit of youth in everything" - William Shakespeare

• "Spring won't let me stay in the house any longer! I must get out and breathe the air deeply again!" - Gustav Wahler 

• "I have nature, and art, and poetry, and if that is not enough, what is enough?" - Vincent Van Gogh

• "No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn." - Hal Borland

• "April prepares her green traffic light and the world thinks go." - Christopher Morley

• "Spring: a lovely reminder of how truly beautiful change can be." - Author Unknown

• "The earth laughs in flowers." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

• "Spring is the time of plans and projects." - Leo Tolstoy

• "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished." - Lao Tzu 

• "I must have flowers, always and always." - Claude Monet

• "Behold my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of love." - Sitting Bull 

• "Spring shows what God can do with a drab and dirty world." - Virgil A Kraft

We hope this collection of quotes has you all fired up for the warmer months! Do you have a favorite spring quote that we missed? Comment and let us know! 

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858. 

Introducing the Fastest & Most Accessible Camaro Yet

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- Coming in late February, the fastest, most accessible, and track-capable Camaro yet, the 2019 ZL1 1LE. Available with a 10-speed automatic transmission, this vehicle is optimized for speed and endurance.

During the vehicle's development, Chevy engineers pushed the limits of the automatic transmission to be more than one half second faster than the standard manual on General Motors' 2.9-mile Milford Road Course. However, this vehicle doesn't just save you time at the track, it gives customers a  more engaging driving experience due to a plethora of other performance options like: 

• Downforce-Producing Aero: unique features include a carbon fiber rear wing, specific air deflectors and dive planes on the front fascia that produce grip-generating downforce to help the car stick harder and drive faster in turns.

• Adjustable Suspension: Racing derived, lightweight Multimac DSSV dampers front and rear offer exceptional wheel and vehicle control. The front-end ride height is adjustable, along with the camber geometry. The rear stabilizer bar also offers three-way adjustability.

• Wheels and Tires: Specific lightweight forged aluminum wheels are an inch wider but an inch smaller in diameter, front and rear, than standard ZL1 wheels and are used with new summer-only Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3R tires that deliver max lateral grip of 1.10g. 

• Lighter Weight: The lighter wheels and dampers, along with thinner rear glass and a fixed-back rear seat, contribute to more than 50-pound lower curb weight than a standard ZL1 Coupe.

• Supercharged Performance & More: The power behind the ZL1 1LE is the 650-horsepower, supercharged LT4 engine. Brembo brakes are included, along with dual-zone automatic climate control, Bose premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.

The new transmission comes with many changes that live up to the requirements of the 1LE performance package. Unique calibrations were made to the transmission, electronic limited slip differential, and performance traction management system. The front and rear Multimac DSSV dampers have been tuned to accommodate the quicker shifts in weight transfer. New hardware includes an updated transmission oil pan and an additional cooling duct for the steering gear. 

All these upgrades are just another way that Chevrolet is upping their game for 2019. Steve Majoros, director of Chevrolet passenger car and crossover marketing said of the new package: 

"Adding an automatic transmission is another example of the Camaro portfolio delivering what customers want. This ultimate 1LE package is just another appealing option that is true to its racing heritage." 

Want to purchase the ZL1 1LE Track Performance Package for yourself? The MSRP is $7,500 and the available 10-speed automatic transmission is an additional MSRP of $1,595. Want more details? Head over to the Chevrolet website now! 

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858. 

The 2020 Silverado HD is Here!

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- It's a boy...it's a girl...it's a 2020 Silverado HD! Join us in welcoming the newest addition to the Chevy truck family. This soon-to-be truck legend is the strongest, most capable Silverado ever made - offering 52% more towing capabilities, class-leading technologies, and an expanded range of customer choices. 

The vehicle's chief engineer, Jaclyn McQuaid spoke out on the truck's release saying: 

"We set out to make the best HD trucks on the market, bar none...we increased towing capabilities across the line, added class-leading towing technologies, and a host of changes to make tasks easier" 

Built at the Flint assembly plant in Michigan this truck is longer, wider, and taller than any of its predecessors, with a wheelbase that's been stretched 5.2 inches on Crew Cab models and is scaled for HD customers. It will also be available with 5 distinct trim levels: Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ, and High Country - so that you can choose the truck that fits your life. 

Customers can also choose between two new powertrains. The standard engine is a new 6.6L V-8 gas with direct injection making 401 HP and 464 lb-ft of torque. Then there's the legendary Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V-8 engine making 445 HP and 910 lb-ft of torque, coupled with the all-new Allison 10-speed automatic transmission.

Some other highlights include:

• Autotrac active two-speed transfer case on 4x4 models
• Advanced trailering system technologies 
• HD-exclusive sculpted exterior design
• Heavy-duty details designed to make work easier and more intuitive
• BedStep 
• Larger cab

Are you excited about the all-new 2020 Silverado HD? Comment and let us know why, or why not. We love hearing from you! 

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858. 

Welcome Spring With These DIY Crafts!

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- We've almost made it out of the winter months! This year, the cold season was unreasonably bitter, and if you're anything like us, you can't wait for the weather to warm up a bit. While we still have a little ways to go, you can definitely get the spring vibes rolling with these cute DIY craft ideas! If you happen to try any of these out, comment and let us know how they turned out. We love hearing from you! 

COLANDER PLANTERS

Forget flower pots! Turn your favorite flowers into this cute DIY display. 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2EbfsEF

MASON JAR SOAP DISPENSER 

Add a little springy touch to your kitchen or bathroom sink with this totally adorable soap dispenser! 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2X1H5HQ

PATIO PAVERS

Jazz up your patio pavers with this easy and cheap idea! 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2TN0Zo4

STENCILED ANIMAL MUGS

How cute are these? You'd never guess they were DIY right? 

Get the stencils now: https://amzn.to/2EdRTLM

CUTE BIRD FEEDER

Make these adorable bird feeders with cookie cutters, mason jar lids, or whatever molds you have around the house. 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2SBwowZ

RAINBOW EDGE STATIONARY 

Update your home office with this cute, springy stationary. 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2SPfpXz

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858. 

New Chevrolet Campaign Features...LEGO!

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- Chevrolet just dropped an all-new campaign series, consisting of television, social media, and movie theatre ads today featuring a LEGO brick replica of the 2019 Silverado 1500 High Country and characters from the new big-screen, animated feature "The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part." which hits theatres on Feb. 8

In the ads, Emmet and Lucy escape a mysterious alien invader in a Satin Steel Metallic Silverado 1500 High Country made of LEGO bricks. Want to see more than shown in the ad? Head to your local movie theatre on February 8th for this fun and action-packed sequel, where Emmet, Lucy, and their friends reunite to save their beloved city from a new threat and journey to unexplored new worlds.

Paul Edwards U.S. Vice President of Chevrolet Marketing explained the project this way: 

"From Emmet's custom High Country to the real-life Trail Boss that inspired the full-size LEGO brick model, we have a Silverado for everyone - both LEGO mini-figures and everyday drivers...the new ads are a fun addition to our Silverado campaign and will hopefully attract the next generation of truck buyers to Chevrolet." 

Emmet, Lucy, and the custom LEGO mini-build High Country are featured in similar social media posts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Unique to Instagram stories, fans can build their own LEGO Chevy Silverado one brick at a time, with a tap-to-assemble opportunity with the film's characters. The 30-second version of the ad will also run in Spanish target markets.

Are you planning on seeing the LEGO movie sequel? Why or why not? Comment and let us know! 

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858. 

A Guide to Enjoying Valentines Day While You're Single

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and if you're not in a relationship, you might be dreading spending the popular romantic holiday alone. Chin up! Just because you're not taken doesn't mean you can't enjoy an awesome V-day on your own! Here's our guide to enjoying Valentine's Day while you're unattached. Relationship status? Self-empowered. 

A SPA DAY IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA 

Pro Tip: When you're single on Valentines Day, you get to spoil the MOST special person: YOU! Go all out with a massage, facial, acupuncture treatment or Reiki session, whatever feels good for you, because let's be real, you absolutely deserve it. Not into spas? Head to the gym, take a hot yoga class or go for a nature walk. Do whatever feeds your soul, because you're worth it. 

PAY IT FORWARD

Not only is Valentines Day the holiday of love, but it also falls right in the middle of National Random Acts of Kindness Week! Pass some good karma out, because you never know exactly how much it will impact someone else's life. Check out volunteer opportunities in your area, visit a senior, pay for a stranger's lunch, the possibilities are endless. Plus, you'll be surprised by how fulfilling showing pure, selfless love for others can be. 

HIT UP YOUR SQUAD

If you're lacking a little romance in your life, don't despair! Celebrate the love you share with your amazing friends! Write them a platonic love letter, have a V-Day potluck, go on a friend date, or have a night in with some good old Netflix and popcorn. The best part about spending the holiday with your besties? Guaranteed fun, no expectations. 

WEAR SOMETHING FESTIVE 

Get into the spirit of the day, and wear something that makes you feel good. Turn it up a notch with a cute little black dress, some red heels, and a show-stopping makeup look. Wear whatever makes you feel strong and beautiful. If you have to be with someone else to dress up, well, you're missing the point... EMPOWER YOURSELF! 

DO YOU

It's your day and no one else's, so do what makes you feel happy and content. If the thought of going out into the world and running into happy couples as far as the eye can see makes you feel like cringing, STAY IN! Rock those sweatpants you should have thrown away 10 years ago, and slay that messy bun game. Cook your favorite food, or order a large pizza all for yourself. Cuddle with your dog or cat, and pop in your favorite comedic film. There is no judgment here because it's all about DOING YOU. 

DO SOME INTROSPECTION

A little self-evaluation is always a great idea, and what better day to look at where you've been and where you want to be than Valentines Day? Reflect on how your past loves have made you a better person, celebrate your bravery and strength as a single person, or meditate on what you want in a future partner and put that law of attraction into action. 

TREAT YOURSELF

Stop eyeing that pair of earrings, or those super cute shoes and just buy them! Take yourself out to the nicest restaurant in town and treat yourself to a meal fit for a celebrity. You don't need a partner to feel spoiled, just activate that self-love, and splurge away. It doesn't have to be a super expensive purchase, just something that will make your heart content. 

How are you planning on spending your Valentines Day? Whether you're single or with someone special, we hope that you have an awesome day celebrating all the love that exists in the world. Planning to try any of our suggestions for enjoying the holiday on your own? Comment and let us know! We love hearing from you. 

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858. 

Surviving This Gig Called Winter

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- Winter is in full swing, and so far this year's weather has been harsh, none to say the least. Severe winter weather poses numerous health and safety concerns, and in order to make it to the other side intact, making sure you're prepared for any and all situations is key. Here are a few of our favorite Michigan winter survival hacks to help you get through the snowy season as warmly and safely as possible. 

• Let Some Sunshine In: While we are inching closer to the spring equinox, with a little extra light each day, the gray, winter days of Michigan can be pretty depressing. Seasonal Affective Disorder is definitely a real thing, and the best way to beat it is to make sure you get as much sunshine into your day as possible. Open the shades, and let those rays hit your face! 

• Point Your Car East: Clearing snow off your car in the morning can be a major hassle, but parking your car in an Eastern direction creates less work for you. When the sun rises in the morning, the rays will warm your windshield and begin to melt the snow on top. Even if it doesn't completely disappear, the warmth will soften up the ice and flakes, making whatever is left, easier to remove. 

• Spray Your Shovel With Cooking Spray: Clearing off the sidewalk/driveway at your home or office is not a fun activity. Make it easier by spraying the scoop of your shovel with non-stick cooking spray before you start digging. This will prevent snow from sticking to the shovel and make the entire process less time-consuming. 

• Weatherproof Your Home: Ensure that your home is ready for the cold season by giving it a little weatherproofing makeover. Insulate all walls, doors, and windows, as well as any water lines that run along exterior walls. Have your entire HVAC system inspected by a professional to make sure that all your units are clean, performing efficiently, and don't need any serious repairs - having your furnace break down during a Michigan winter is no joke! Make sure your pantry is stocked with necessities in case you get snowed in, and that you have plenty of emergency items like battery-powered flashlights, extra blankets, and a first-aid kit on hand.

• Forget Fashion: We all love to look our best, but during the winter months, leave those cute high heels and army jackets in the closet where they belong. Layer, layer, layer. Leave your cotton pieces for the winter months and dress in wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture away from the skin. Invest in a quality pair of long underwear and pair them with outer layers of fleece and wool for maximum warmth. Waterproof shoes are a great investment as well. 

• Warm Up With Hot Water Bottles: We've all suffered from cold toes at one point or another in the winter. Warm up with a hot water bottle! While you can purchase specially-made bottles for this purpose, using what you have on hand works too! Nalgene products work particularly well as they won't break open or leak. Just pour in some hot water, seat it tight, and give your toes something warm to cuddle during the long, cold nights ahead. 

• Lather Up to Prevent Frostbite: No matter how well you bundle up, there's still going to be parts of your face exposed to the unforgiving wind. When exposed to temperatures below zero, even 20 minutes out in the cold can result in a case of good ole' frostbite. Protect your skin from the cold by lathering your exposed areas in vaseline or baby oil. It sounds gross, but it works!

• Dry Out Wet Shoes Fast: No matter how hard you try to keep your feet dry, eventually, some moisture will find a way in. Prevent yourself from having to deal with wet shoes the next time you head outdoors by stuffing them with newspapers. They'll absorb all the wayward water and your shoes will be nice and dry the next time you head out into the elements. 

• Exercise: Nothing gets your body temperature up like a little bit of exercise! Don't feel like heading out to the gym? Get active in your living room instead? There's a host of awesome and free workout videos on Youtube to get your blood moving. 

We hope you found these winter survival hacks helpful. Do you have any favorite winter tips and tricks that we missed? Comment and let us know! Stay safe and be warm out there! 

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.