All for $35.00...........

Today was one of the first Saturdays in a while Phil did not have to work and we did not have to be anywhere. So the day started out with Pilbert making pancakes for the kids and getting ready to go out for a while. We have collected money and gift cards for the kids from their birthdays, Christmas, not to mention a few on-line coupons that were about to expire. So we decided to take a small adventure.

We started out at the Build-a-Bear factory since Jack had a gift card to make a bear (Thanks, Ray and Linda). Actually he created a dog that is just too cute. I would take a picture but "Max" is currently wrapped in Jack's arms as he sleeps. So that Katie would not feel left out I allowed her to pick out one new outfit for her Build-a-Bear's already at home. Outside the store at the mall there was a big play area where the kids could play and run for a little while. Before leaving the mall we stopped at the chick-fil-a for lunch. Did you know Maddie likes waffle fries?? I didn't.

Next we went to Toy's-R-Us where Jack and Maddie had gift cards to spend (Thanks, Uncle Ted) and Jack had a little cash (Thanks Jacque and Tony). Of all things Jack picked out a Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story. He has been watching that lately. Something Maddie needed was shoes. She has become quite the walker. I have been allowing her to be barefoot to learn. However with cold and flu season quickly coming it will be better that she learn in her shoes. Due to clearance sales I was also able to get Maddie a bathing suit for next year (for $1.00) and some new jammies.

As we were leaving the second Mall area Phil remembered he had a Panera bread gift card from Christmas still in his pocket. So, he stopped there and got some goodies (bagels, bread, etc) for a special treat. As we were driving home, I remembered a Cheesecake factory gift card that has been in my purse for about two years. I confirmed it was still good and went and splurged on special treat for after dinner. The kids were very excited about the cheesecake.

So for all of you that contributed to the gift cards and birthday cash THANK YOU SO MUCH. It ended up to be a pretty fun day and it only cost us $35.00. We have been very lucky that the kids have know idea how hard some days have been for us and your gifts make it so much easier.

TTFN