Yup I get that. So that covers what the settings you recommend are doing. I can easily set the settings that way and make this happen. And actually have now and it works. Thank you. With that, I can consider this thread now Partially answered.

I would like an understanding of WHY though. I am appreciative of people like you guys who can help others find and execute the correct settings for their store. Huge help! However if I do not understand WHY I am choosing one method over the other it leaves me feeling dependent on the forums each time I want to make a change. If I my store / business situation should change over time it would be nice to understand what the other method of free shipping can do for me. This makes me a little more capable of making the proper decisions later. And seeing it spelled out a bit in this thread may help others searching for the same thing.

Doesn't the Modules>Shipping>Free Shipping Options accomplish exactly the same thing if I set up the Total >= field accordingly?

If the answer is no, what is the difference then?
If the answer is yes, why would I choose one way of doing this over the other?

If the answer is too complicated and can not by explained easily don't worry about trying. I have my settings good to go now thanks to help from you guys. If however it can be broken down as to why I would use one method over the other I would love to hear about it.

Luke