10th Annual What should Corey buy Beth for less than $250?

Red Valentines Heart made of petals Corey and Beth recently celebrated 22 years of marriage. Valentine's Day is quickly approaching on February 14th and Corey needs your help again this year.

Thanks to the more than 75 entries that we received, but we could only pick 2 winners. The two winners are:

Rick & Amy Mally who put in a lot of work and suggested a The M22 virtual vacation. This involves highway M22 apparel for 22 years of marriage, sweets (perhaps the chocolate covered cherries) and other items from Cherry Republic along with a nice serving bowl made of cherry wood from Holland Bowl Mill, a great fish dinner and / or smoked salmon in staying with the theme and jewelry with Leland Blue and / or Petoskey stones. You can find a multitude of videos (over 50) on youtube highlighting the areas I have mentioned and others on M22

Julie Watts who said Try recreating your first date, bring up something new that he has never told his wife about something he noticed about her when they were first together. Make this day all about her not the usual chores or daily chaos. Maybe a day out doing things she likes. Maybe help her pick out a new outfit for your night out complimenting her on what looks the best on her. If you cannot recreate the first few dates. Make new memories. Maybe a piano bar or buy a box of fortune cookies remove the fortunes using tweezers and stick in several new things you have never told her. Sounds goofy but, yes this has been done before and yes it was amazing. Have the waitress bring the fortunes randomly during dinner. A traditional gift for 22 years (even if it’s not your anniversary) is copper! Copper is a tricky one. However, if Corey were to look up shimmering copper necklaces there are a few cute ones.

Thank You again for all the great suggestions!!

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Amy Townsend Pickering 01/29/2020 06:17 PM

Nice bracelet - maybe one with kids birthstones

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A spa day

Pat Pirc 01/29/2020 10:25 PM

Mother’s Ring

Denna Large 01/29/2020 11:50 PM

A day of pampering... massage, manicure, and pedicure.

sandy richardson 01/30/2020 03:24 PM

For Valentine's Day I suggest 4 roses, 2 in red for Corey, 1 white for son and 1 pink for daughter mixed with babys breath, a meal with Corey, and $100 cash in a red envelope that says "spend how you would like" along with some heart kisses....

Martin Quiring 01/31/2020 04:59 PM

A Pearl bracelet

Lori Havran 01/31/2020 05:22 PM

Corey should buy Beth a 2-ring necklace with both kids' names on it in rose gold.

LeAnn Bruckman 02/01/2020 11:57 AM

Spa day followed by an Iowa winery tour.

Karen Vink 02/01/2020 09:46 PM

Take Beth to the Ox Yoke Inn, Amana Iowa for their Feb. 15 Valentine Wine & Dine special meal (need asap Reservation!) and then stay at the Zuber Inn there (select the Amana theme room) or another motel there in the Amanas!!! Great food and drink and relaxing stay!!! shop the stores open!

Rita Wolfe 02/02/2020 08:46 PM

I think Corey should take Beth on a nice evening out. Dinner and a movie or an outing that Beth really enjoys. The gift of time together is always the best.

Richard Pint 02/03/2020 01:49 PM

Take her to a nice quiet restraunt, maybe playing some soft music. Have some nice roses on the table; possibly a violin player. Keep it soft, quiet; maybe even a close slow dance. Want it to be romantic.

Ruth Van Heukelom.com 02/03/2020 07:17 PM

I think Corey should give Beth a gift certificate for a night in one my hometown Pella’s little quaint bed and breakfasts, which are around 100 a night - then with the remaining 150 , take Beth shopping in uptown , or out to the vineyard tassel ridge to purchase some wines , and it doesn’t have to be pella, it can be any smaller , pretty town that has a lot of great atmosphere and at least one little bed and breakfast to stay out! :). It would be romantic ❤️

Jodi Nelson 02/03/2020 08:28 PM

Valentines flowers and chocolates with Dinner and dance at Van Wijk Winery.

LuAnne Ginger 02/03/2020 10:28 PM

I believe you should start with breakfast in bed, a dozen roses delivered to her at work with a note attached to be ready by 6:30pm for dinner date. Take her out to dinner and then a little dancing the night away. Throughout the day send her messages of how much she means to you and how much you love her.

Heather Russell 02/05/2020 10:12 AM

Couples cooking class! Cooking With Alessandra! http://cookingwithalessandra.com/

Mike alexander 02/05/2020 02:56 PM

A personalized funny/romantic song, written and performed by me!

Lindsay Johnson 02/05/2020 07:15 PM

I'm sure she would appreciate anything....but....a Pedicure, manicure and spa day would be great! She will appreciate it after walking a three day golf tournament with Corbin this summer!

Sally Dow 02/05/2020 07:36 PM

Beth deserves a champagne spa day. The works!

Cathy Elkins 02/06/2020 03:45 AM

A trip to the Peace Tree Brewing Company and a couples massage.

Jess Alexander 02/06/2020 07:48 AM

Des Moines playhouse is playing the Great Gatsby, and it’s just across the street from the Cheese Bar. Walk around downtown playing Valentine Bingo. Find a couple who is over dressed, someone under dressed for the weather, a gang of rowdy singles, etc.

Kassie Jordan 02/06/2020 05:19 PM

Based on celebrating 21 years of marriage together and 21 Valentines Days having come before this one: Write down a short description of the 21 most romantic or memorable times you’ve spent together and why each one is meaningful to you. You can frame it and have it outlined in a heart to always remind her of all the wonderful times spent together. And after she reads it tell her to pick her favorite of the 21 memories and you will recreate it for this Valentine’s Day along with maybe a few new fun twists.

Amanda Lorenzen 02/06/2020 10:19 PM

A weekend getaway to the McNeill Mansion B&B in Oskaloosa would be memorable, romantic and relaxing.💕

Marian Poulson 02/06/2020 11:26 PM

The best/most memorable gifts that I have received are the ones that my husband made/did himself. You can make a valentine, write a poem, rewrite a song, etc. Leaving a chalk drawing or message on the driveway is great. Leave a message on the bathroom mirror that shows up when she showers. Leave post-it-note messages and or pictures created with them on a frig, or a car, etc. One that my husband did was a love message that he taped to the bottom of the garage door so it was there in front of me when I came home and opened the door. You can also do a love coupon book—with coupons “made to order”/things she likes—foot rub? back rub? seeing a “chick flick” or something else that she likes but you may not be fond of, etc. Or if you don’t plan “getaways”, do so—a night in a special/new place where you can do something that you know she enjoys. You can do this! Have a wonderful Valentines Day.

Chantel Boyd 02/07/2020 10:39 AM

Corey helped my husband of nearly 12 years 14 years ago after he had a bad break in his ankle from a work-related incident. He had lost everything - his apartment, his girlfriend before me, his pets, and his job. Corey helped him win his worker's compensation case. I entered this contest back then and won! It blessed us so much in our hard financial time, back then. We're in a hard financial time again as I am a cancer patient, and my husband lost his job before Christmas because our medical insurance was too expensive. Here's what we've learned in the time since regarding gifts & Valentines (or any holiday), given our tough seasons. Time spent together is THE MOST important thing in a relationship! A gift doesn't even have to cost much, let alone $250. It can cost that much, or more, but in the end, the things that matter the most will not be the things at all. It will be the people you spent time with. We would imagine that Corey and Beth are very, very busy most of the time with their families and their very involved jobs, so their Valentine's could be a fantastic retreat from the ordinary busyness. We lived in Newton for years, and we served on the Centre for the Arts and Artists' board (Andrew's an artist, and I'm a grant writer). We would suggest they start by enjoying the art around the town of Newton. From there, they could either make a picnic and eat within Maytag park if the weather permits, or they could go to PJ's deli and have a sandwich and the chips and dip (we loved that before I had to be gluten-free/dairy-free because of my illnesses)! Then, we would suggest a walk around the antique shop on the square. We always used to do this and play "I spy" and make it a game to see if the other one could spy things that meant a lot to them; things like art that Andrew would like or old books that I would like (I've always been a writer). That's a way to speak to each other's love language, and you don't even have to buy anything! Lastly, we would suggest going to one of the Amazing coffee shops to sit in a corner and talk about the 22 years that have passed. We often do this, even when we don't have more than a few bucks to our name. We've always done this since the beginning, back in Newton when we lived in a tiny apartment, before cancer, before the miracle daughter, before finishing college. And even as I write this, I'm brought to tears of how my marriage has been full of blessings, because we've been together! So Beth and Corey, take a tour around the town and take some time to slow down, even if only for a day, and remember how your lives have been blessed because of your marriage. And because of your contributions, how other marriages have been blessed, too. I know we can't be the only ones! Lastly, whatever money you didn't spend in your $250, you could donate to a great cause like a scholarship fund or even to the Centere for Arts and Artists. Happy anniversary you two! Enjoy. :)

Darvin Smith 02/07/2020 08:10 PM

I think a gift certificate for a spa package for her hair and nails and then a Romantic Champagne dinner at a nice restaurant in Des Moines and a Show at the Civic Center.

Tina Lansing 02/09/2020 09:35 AM

I would make a scrapbook date book for a year which includes a different date day each month with something you both like to do. Leave a spot on the page to take a pic of your date so you can look back on your fun dates. Some ideas may include ice skating with dinner, going to a hockey game, bowling, going to watch your favorite sports team, couple massage etc. Some dates will be minimum $ & some a bit more. This is a nice gift that will have something Beth can look forward to for the next year☺️

Sue Springer 02/09/2020 03:42 PM

I would like to see you donate your gift together to “The Friends of Rock Creek State Park” group that are raising money to build a new playground in the camp ground. They are a non profit hard working group of volunteers who donate their time for many projects at the park like clean up days, building a shelter for handicapped access and planting trees as well as many other activities. Last year Rock Creek had over 11,000 camping days and visitors from all over the world. The camp ground is open to the public, not just campers. It would be wonderful to to think how you helped achieve the goal when you see the children playing and having fun in the near future. If I would win the contest, I would donate my winnings to the fundraiser also. It’s a win, win situation.

Cathy Major 02/09/2020 06:50 PM

Something you made for her or a coat with her favorite activity her kids have been in or a special place you both have been too. It's the little things that mean a lot .

Takaysha Johnson 02/10/2020 12:34 PM

Henlo. You should buy the gemstone of the birthday!

Marian Murley 01/30/2021 05:12 PM

How about a Bed and Breakfast Date at Roses Place Bed and Breakfast, 1007 --26th Ave, Middle Amana, IA 52307. The phone number is: 319 622 6097. It is an especially beautiful area in springtime. I think you two would really enjoy it! I lived in the Amana area for 14 years and loved it. (Recently moved to New Hampton because of getting married in October 2020. Thank you for the opportunity to be able to suggest this. Happy Valentine's day to you both ! :) Marian (Murley) Frey

Sandi Brown 01/31/2021 10:24 AM

Massage gift certificate, bouquet of 22 roses, box of favorite chocolates, new comfy robe, bath oils, and a good book! The Last Mrs Parish is a good one😜

Bryant Raleigh 02/01/2021 03:12 PM

I think you should get your lovely wife a $250 gift certificate to Apple bees restaurant or to the Olive Garden. It can be used for take out or eat in. Great to have good food when your tired from a long day! No dishes Either!

Sheryl Beals 02/01/2021 04:57 PM

I would believe the most appropriate gift would be Brunch at the tea room in town & the rest go to Beth favorite Charity ..... like one of these Salvation Army, Christian Conference Center or Team Challenge of the Midlands location Colfax..

Marilyn 02/02/2021 01:56 PM

Give her a certificate to have the house cleaned!

Rick & Amy Mally 02/03/2021 03:55 PM

Before we explain our idea on your 22nd anniversary, I want to thank you. My wife and I have had a lot of fun putting our heads together and thinking about how to celebrate. Even if we don’t win one of the prizes, it has been a pleasure working through everything. Here’s our idea: The M22 virtual vacation. As my wife and I mused on the significance of 22 we landed on one of our favorite destinations in the summer . . . the M22 highway in Michigan. In this case, the “destination” has been the milestone of marriage of 22 years for you, hence M (for marriage) 22 (for the years). Congratulations!!! The M22 highway has become so popular the M22 signs have been stolen for a number of years. ( Not recommended ) What we are proposing is a virtual tour of some of the highlights on M22. First, regarding gifts, go to the M22 store (yes they have trademarked it) where you can purchase clothing with M22 on it. www.m22.com Shirts, hats, hoodies, blankets and an assortment of other items all available. On the M22 highway you will find many sites. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has won many awards and was one of the best kept secrets until it was featured on Good Morning America. On one visit to the area we were at Platt River Campground Fish Weir when the salmon were running. There were thousands of fish at the weir. In Leeland, Michigan there is Fishtown and there are some great places for a fish dinner. We recommend the smoked salmon but there are many other mouth watering delights as well. Leland is also known for Leland Blue stones which is slag from a manufacturing facility in the area. In addition to the Leland blue stones, the petoskey stones are pretty and also make nice jewelry. Here is one store you might wish to check out www.Lelandblutique.com In several of the towns you will find the Cherry Republic, great for chocolate covered cherries and many other sweet ideas. www.cherryrepublic.com I called Cherry Republic since we had seen a number of beautiful items made of cherry wood and was advised they are sourced from Holland Bowl Mill. www.hollandbowlmill.com Which would be ideal for holding any items purchased from Cherry Republic. So, there you have it . . . the virtual tour would take some work as you decide what to get from the various places, but I am sure your wife will appreciate it. That could be the taste of Michigan that eventually draws you to the area. It has drawn us on a number of visits and it appears we will be going again soon now that so many fine memories have resurfaced. To summarize, M22 apparel for 22 years of marriage, sweets (perhaps the chocolate covered cherries) and other items from Cherry Republic along with a nice serving bowl made of cherry wood from Holland Bowl Mill, a great fish dinner and / or smoked salmon in staying with the theme and jewelry with Leland Blue and / or Petoskey stones. You can find a multitude of videos (over 50) on youtube highlighting the areas I have mentioned and others on M22 that you might enjoy previewing as you shower your wife with gifts. Above all, hoping you have a great anniversary!!!

Rometta Hart 02/04/2021 01:49 AM

If you don't already have a housekeeper, hire one to clean the house on February 13th. Then have a favorite meal catered in on February 14th. (Make sure they clean up!) Then get some nice wine and rent a favorite movie to watch together while sipping wine.

Julie Schultz 02/04/2021 03:46 AM

Some forever roses. They are really roses that last a year or longer. https://www.venusetfleur.com/pages/valentines?utm_source=google&utm_campaign=TPA-Brand&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=Cj0KCQiA0-6ABhDMARIsAFVdQv_OnVG92-uh9zsUzxkuHt2-_7z764ctt79Uyqj-AEe_50e4Z-oCks8aAq6XEALw_wcB

Taige Lensch 02/05/2021 09:02 AM

Get her a personalized mug with an animated photo from your wedding from the Etsy shop AvvonieStudio. https://www.etsy.com/listing/683496039/custom-portrait-mugpersonalized-wedding?ref=related-2

Julie Watts 02/05/2021 12:33 PM

Wow 22 years is a long time, congratulations! Unfortunately, with time comes to a point where it is easy to get stuck in the same mundane routine. If this is not Corey and his wife then you two truly are amazing! I know it is valentines and not their anniversary, but I feel like Corey needs to step up his game and make this Valentine’s more memorable. Try recreating your first date, bring up something new that he has never told his wife about something he noticed about her when they were first together. Make this day all about her not the usual chores or daily chaos. Maybe a day out doing things she likes. If it is shopping then go full blown, attentive new husband, (women like that). Remember, stay off your phone! Maybe help her pick out a new outfit for your night out complimenting her on what looks the best on her. Don’t lead on that you have other plans for the night. Take her out! If you cannot recreate the first few dates. Make new memories. Maybe a piano bar or buy a box of fortune cookies remove the fortunes using tweezers and stick in several new things you have never told her. Sounds goofy but, yes this has been done before and yes it was amazing. Have the waitress bring the fortunes randomly during dinner. A traditional gift for 22 years (even if it’s not your anniversary) is copper! Copper is a tricky one. However, if Corey were to look up shimmering copper necklaces there are a few cute ones. DO NOT get the magnet copper necklaces, that’s for old people and I am afraid you night could be over quick. Good luck to Corey and Beth!

Shirley Pird 02/05/2021 09:33 PM

Tickets to a grandstand show at the Iowa State Fair https://www.ticketsonsale.com/venues/iowa-state-fair?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuOWgvO_Q7gIVsvLACh1fwgb7EAAYASAAEgJu6vD_BwE

Jodi Nelson 02/06/2021 11:41 AM

Congrats on 22 yrs! we are approaching 27! ❤ I have never been to or have any connection to this place but recently saw it on FB. Its called the Alta house and they have a Valentines day package that inclkudes a choice of dinner, chocolates and wine, portraits, beer and wine tasting, Dj and dancing, newlywed game and a comedy show! This package caught my eye and sounds like a fun night with some laughs which we could all use! They are limiting the number of tickets sold to this event so it wont be crowded. Its $125 per person but it includes alot and sounds like a fun evening out!

Rick & Amy Mally 02/07/2021 05:22 PM

Just to add a little to our previous note. We were so focused on how to make your anniversary the best, we forgot to add that Valentine's Day will be the 35th anniversary of our first date at Iowa State. Thanks!!!

Little Deb 02/07/2021 05:36 PM

First of all Congratulations. I feel you cannot put a price on a relationship that has withstood the test of 22 years. It's a wonderful accomplishment.so.....maybe sit together for 22 minutes and just say Thank You,it doesn't cost a thing. Happy Anniversary

Little Deb 02/08/2021 09:56 AM

First of all Congratulations. My idea would not cost anything and yet possibly be the most valuable. Take 22 minutes just to sit and say Thank You..It's a wonderful blessing. Happy Anniversary

sandy richardson 02/10/2021 12:39 PM

corey should ask beth where she would like to do as go out to eat and call then call ahead to have flowers and chocolates waiting for her at their table with corey's handwritten note and a $100 bill in an envelope sealed with a big KISS AND HEART.

Linda Dlouhy 02/11/2021 09:36 AM

Three ideas: • Interior auto detailing—having a well-working, well-maintained vehicle is a normal part of owner responsibility; on top of that, to be able to slide into a beautifully cleaned and freshened interior would be a real luxury! • A new purse—top grain leather, with handle and adjustable shoulder strap. • 22 massages—one for each year of your marriage. More than a muscle relaxer, a massage is “assigned time”-permission, if you will- to rest, receive, and be rejuvenated… times 22.

10th Annual Contest. What do you think Corey should buy Beth for less than $250?