August

August ended and what a whirlwind month. We were blessed to have many wonderful visitors come through Iowa and stay with us. Granny and Pappy Heller made a few stops, we love you! Also, Edward was able to meet his GREAT-GREAT Uncle Alton from Iowa and Great-Great Aunt Lois from San Diego. That was such a treat for us all. As the month moved on, we had a surprise visit from our dear friends from San Antonio, Peter, Katie, Jonathan, and Alison. If you haven't met their family, we are sorry. Edward had a blast playing with the kids. Thanks so much for coming out of your way to see us. Of course my wonderful sister Katy and her fiance Caleb came a few times, its now our turn to visit you both in Chicago. And last but certainly not least, the month ended with cousin Greta, Aunt Sarah, and Uncle Keith visiting from Baudette, MN. Wow! We feel so very thankful to the Lord for such wonderful family and friends.
We look forward to what September holds.
Also, PLEASE come and visit us in Ames, Iowa. We would love to see you and catch up.


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Edward is now five months!

These pics were taken by my wonderful and very talented cousin Becca (Crim) Stephenson. She graduated from photography school this last May. Thanks so much for all your hard work!

My first trip to Walgreens

After reading about many of you girls amazing adventures at Walgreens, I decided to give it a try. Before attempting to shop, I talked multiple times with Jenica. Thanks to her great advice and knowledge, my first trip went pretty well.
My main goal, shop, save, spend no more then one hour and buy things that I really would use. Edward and I entered with our coupons, folder, and calculator. We also went in with some trepidation and worry. Its always a little hard going into a new store not knowing where everything is situated.
I first found the little booklet with coupons and rebates. I scrolled through it and found what I needed. We then slowly and cautiously went through each isle in search of all the items we had planned to buy. After finding each item, we headed to the check-out. Edward apparently was so bored he fell asleep, thank goodness. I purposely waited for a few customers to check-out. Once I thought it was safe and quiet, I went to the only cashier. The total was $60 something. I handed over the coupons hoping that I had followed their directions and that none were too outdated. Of course, by now there were multiple shoppers waiting behind me, ahhh the stress. Anyways, after just a couple questions and confirmations of products, the cashier gave me my grand total of $27.45. Wow!!! I grabbed my bags and hurried out of the store thinking that just maybe the owner would come and tell me that something wasn't right with the total or something.
Once I safely got into the car, I looked over my receipt and realized that i'd saved $41.15. I also had $5.00 to spend for my next purchase. Now I realize, some of you shop and leave the store with money in your pockets. Maybe one day that will be me. For now, I was pleased to know that I had accomplished my goals and actually saved a LOT more then I had anticipated. I now look forward to my next trip to Walgreens.
One of the deals I found was the Air Wick Freshmatic Kit. The mini was $9.99. Walgreens had a $4 coupon and I had a $3 Manu. coupon. Which means it was only $3 bucks.
Please keep the suggestions and ideas coming. I can definitely use the help.