Experiencing a New Normal

For Christmas this year my parents gave my kids an experience instead of buying them a gift.  I was super excited when Mom told me they were thinking about doing this.  I am all about doing things with the kids instead of buying them more stuff.  They were having a hard time getting what they thought the boys would enjoy most - Iowa and/or Iowa State basketball tickets, Barnstormer tickets - so they decided on Rodeo tickets - they even got them western shirts to wear that night.  I thought that was perfect!  My kids are such seasonal sports fanatics (and toy players) that I thought this would be a good switch and a perfect new thing to experience.  They absolutely love mutton bustin' at the Iowa State Fair so I was such they would enjoy this too.  They even got tickets for Jon and I to go. Plus what was even better - Mom and Dad were going too - they would be able to watch the boys experience their gift too!   So, since neither Mom and Dad or us have a vehicle big enough for all

I shared already a little bit about our Christmas this year, so I won't go into a lot more detail.  We only have three places we go each year plus our own with the boys - so it's not too crazy for us.  The usual get togethers are my parents, Jon's parents and then the Ferguson's - my dad's side.  I remember the times when we used to have more to go to - seven!  And honestly it makes me a little sad that we don't do that anymore.  You may think I'm crazy, but with loosing TJ and getting older - I value family so much more.  I miss seeing cousins, aunts, uncles and also those grandparents who aren't here anymore.  I treasure the memories I do have of those times and love to tell the boys about them.  My hope is that my boys will have the same fond memories and stories to tell their kids some day.  Just wanted to share with you a couple of my favorite pictures of some of our Christmases! (not sure how I forgot to take a single picture at the Goemaat Chris

I'm at a loss of what to share and for the words of those things I want to share right now.  There are so many things that have been going on  - I still haven't even blogged about our Christmases.  The truth is...I have no clue where to start.  I'm not sure what to share and what to leave out.  You might be asking why?  "Gee, Tami you've been sharing your heart with us for almost two years now.  What's the problem now?"  I want to share with you the fun and joys we've had - yet with all of that there has been some real heartache.  I don't want this to be a post leaving you feeling sorry for me - I don't want that - AT ALL!  However, I don't want you all thinking that everything is all flowers and sunshine!  So forgive me if it sounds like I'm rambling - it just might be hard to put exactly what I'm feeling into words.  In fact just thinking about all the things I'm thinking about sharing is already producing tears. Christmas w

This post is long overdue - pictures of the basement.  We have since added the boys beds, living room furniture and toys.  There are still a few more things yet to bring in, buy or add - but for the most part it is DONE and we are enjoying it!  Still have to put up some trim in the entry way and living room  The upstairs bathroom needs to be finished and putting the office and now spare room back together.  Otherwise our project should be finished.  It seems like it has been a process - but it sure is nice - so glad we were able to do it!    The stairway down - we opened up the stairway two stairs.  Need the railing back on yet.       The hallway between the bedrooms, bathroom and laundry room.     The family room - this side has the tv, and furniture.  I didn't take a picture of the other half - that is the toy side.   The laundry room.  Still waiting for a counter top for the south wall.          The bathroom.