Making memories

I'll be the first to say that it often seems like Toys R Us exploded in our basement, but contrary to it, we don't actually like to buy things for our kids. I am more of a minimalist. I don't like clutter. I hate knick-knacks. If it has to be dusted, it's probably not a necessity in our house. The items in our house either serve a purpose, or they were a gift. 

Instead of giving each other 'things' we like to focus on spoiling each other with experiences. Chances to collect memories instead of collecting items. In this regard, my children are extremely spoiled. We want to show them the world. Whether that be road tripping across the US, or taking them to see a show, we feel like these experiences are money well spent as they can keep the memory forever. 

Will is no exception. This little boy has experienced more in his short time with us than many ever get the opportunity. He has traveled to 15 different states, hiked in the Badlands, rode the cable cars of San Fran, drove the Pacific Coast Highway, picnicked in the Redwoods, crossed the continental divide, summited Rendezvous Mountain, sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge and explored the Rocky Mountains. He has felt the joy of a Cubs victory at Wrigley Field, cheered on the Hawks at Kinnick Stadium and the Saints at Saints Field.  He has tubed the Maquoketa river, experienced the beach and felt the cold of the ocean all before even leaving the womb.

Once he arrived the adventures continued. He celebrated snuggled in the arms of his dad as the Cubs won the world series. He witnessed his mom vote for what could have been the first woman president. He has celebrated Mass, weddings, a funeral and the births of 5 new friends. He has felt the sun hit his face as it broke the horizon and beheld some of the most beautiful skies as he watched it set for the evening. He has smelled the dry, powdery scent of harvest and heard the scratchy rustling of corn stalks. He has taken in the sweet aroma of the apple orchard and the cool, damp evening of the pumpkin patch. He has felt the wet kisses of man's best friend on his toes and the warm touch of his sisters hands stroking his cheeks. Above all of this, he has experienced love. There is no doubt that he has made the most of every day with us.