Hi Travis, I've not been around for awhile for various reasons but I also have a D5000 and just recently bought the Nikon 24-70 and am more than happy with it I was going to get the Tamron however they didn't have one available so got the Nikon. I have the 35mm 1.8 but hardly use it now but wont get rid of it but sometimes think I should have bought the 50mm 1.8 or 1.4. But the lenses I get now are going to be in consideration of a full frame in mind so good luck with your hunting and if you can hold out a bit longer to get the better quality lens then it is worth it.

Cheers for now.

Milton