Everyone tied to warn us, everyone tried to tell us, but now we understand! Being brand new grandparents is the most loving and wonderful thing in the world!!!!!

 Autumn Marit Raatz entered our lives on September 13 at 7:05 pm at 5.5 lbs! She is so tiny and precious. It is amazing how one can just sit, cuddle and stare at a newborn baby and feel such love toward the newest member of the family. We are so blessed and wish Luke and Kendall all of the best as they raise their daughter. 

Auntie Jess was able to be here to snuggle Autumn, as she had planned to fly from Vietnam to Des Moines, Iowa for work. From there, she was to head to Viroqua for the baby shower planned by her. But, Autumn had other plans and with her early arrival Jessica changed her flight and spent time in Mankato with Autumn and us in our new coach.

Great grandparents are thrilled and can't wait to see the little bundle. When doctors give the ok, the Raatz family will all head to La Crosse WI area for a weekend. 

Rick and I are now camping at Bray Park near Madison Lake, MN. We plan to leave on Sunday and head to Coon Valley, WI. After a catch up with parents, we will head to the Viroqua Fairgrounds for Kathi's turn to host Bunco. That will be a first! Bunco in a coach and at the fairground, ha.

From there, we go to Lake Arbutus which is near Hatfield, WI. Brother Dave and Teresa will join us there to explore the Cranberry Fest. Hoping for nice weather to roam the zillion booths. Today has turned colder and the weatherman reminded us that it is the last day of summer! Yuck!

Back to the blog! We are now full time RVers! We are giving it the one year try. Today, we stood in long lines, filled out lots of paper work, and are now residents of the state of South Dakota. My husband has tried for years to get me to his favorite Black Hills!

With winds of 30 mph and tired from our long day, I suggested a pizza supper. After three attempts using the GPS, and all places were closed or not there, we pulled up to a bar and grill. As we started to get out of the vehicle, a man and wife walked out. Rick asked them if they had pizza, to which they replied a thumbs down, but yes. We asked for suggestions. They recommended Darios, the best pizza in the town. The conversation continues as the man complimented Rick on our Jeep. So, after some Jeep talk and me finding the pizza place in the GPS,  Rick says, "Do you own this place that you are sending us?" The stranger replies, "Yes, I own a few." As we drove away, we were unsure if he was teasing or serious. 

When we arrived at the pizza place, placed our order, and had a cold beer, the waitress came over to tell us that our meal was paid for by the owner who had just called. Wow, what a nice treat to end our first day as South Dakota residents! He really did own the place!