AMERICAN PETAL

On September 28th, 2017 I was 39 weeks pregnant to the day. That was the day I went into labor with our beautiful baby boy. I didn't have a birth plan, or doula- I didn't want all of that. If anyone knows me I worry a lot. I stress over things that haven't even happened or possibly won't happen. That is just my nature, and I am working on it. So, for this huge event that I clearly had no control over I chose to let go and let God. My plan was to trust my body, the doctors, an

A Jersey summer isn't complete until you hit the shore, enjoy the boardwalk, and dip your toes into the cool sea water. When Jessie told me she wanted to do a fun family shoot at Asbury Park in late August I was sold! I immediately marked her on the calendar and eagerly waited for the day to come. Can you blame me?! I mean...look at how adorable this family is! Asbury Park is such a fun place to shoot. There are so many colorful murals, people, and restaurants. Everywhere yo

Time is certainly starting to fly by. I cannot believe in just 6 short weeks Baby B will be with us Earth bound. Everyday he is moving more and I am cherishing every single minute of it. Whenever he adjusts himself I can't help but smile and ask him if that's a better spot, ha. I still love to eat breakfast foods and Japanese food. My most recent craving is maple and brown sugar oatmeal with honey, mmm. But sadly my appetite has gone back down like it was pre-pregnancy, ha. I

Lately, I find myself waking up early and looking out my bedroom window. I wake up to the slow rising sun peeking through the blinds accompanied by the sweet summer whispers of critters outside. I feel Baby B move around my tummy from left to right trying to find a comfy new spot. I try to find him by placing my hand where I think he is. I close my eyes embracing Baby B the only physical way I can and wonder what he will feel like in my arms. I can't help but smile in knowin

A couple weeks ago one of my favorite bloggers', XO Mrs Measom, posted an entry about being a millennial this day and age. If you haven't read it yet please do so. She is amazing! Now, on her blog post she wrote about her dreams, and desires- as well as her reality as a millennial. Let me just say: It. Was. Inspiring... and just the push I needed. Now, push for what you may ask? Well you see social media is powerful. It can be used for good to help others or it can help us pl

This past Saturday we celebrated Gabi's final days of being a Miss before becoming a Mrs! From the very beginning I knew I wanted to make the theme of her shower: Parisian. She has always loved the French culture and took French in high school, so what better way than bringing a bit of Paris to her. :) Below are more pictures from that day! As the guests made their way to the hall there was a table with a tip jar for the newlyweds. I found the printables here. It was so wonde

This year for our 2nd anniversary (and 1st baby moon) we decided to go to BERMUDA! Once Tim and I found out we were expecting the first thing we did was search for places that were Zika-free. Luckily, Bermuda is only a 2 hour flight from JFK, and great place for expecting mama's to go and relax! While in Bermuda there were hardly, if any, flies or mosquitos on the island making the vacation truly enjoyable. Here are some snapshots that were taken in Bermuda! I took so many pi

Today we celebrate all the father's that love, care, and tend to their families. So, without further ado- Happy Father's Day, sweetheart. Today we honor you a little more, and love you a little harder. There are so many things I want to say to you, but the words I come up with seem to fall short but I'll try. You truly encompass the most Christ-like heart, and your actions speak volumes to that statement. You work 24/7 to provide for our family and that is something I will al

This past Saturday was a day filled with lots of festivities! My brother-in-law graduated from college, and my mother-in-law celebrated her 60th birthday. I love these kinds of days where the family meets and spends time together catching up. It truly was a wonderful time in the city of brotherly love. Dad putting on Mom's birthday crown. This was such a tender moment to witness. The man that still gives me butterflies. I love you, sweetheart. Zayden taking care of business :

How Far Along? 20 weeks Weight Gain: Yes. I haven’t stepped on the scale recently so I’m not quite sure how many pounds. Maternity Clothes? You bet! Sine getting maternity pants for everyday wear, I bought one black jean for work, and a couple maternity shirts. I didn’t realize how small my shirts really were until I started popping ;) Sleep? Much better than the beginning Best moment this week? My uncle was traveling to NY, and when I found that out I asked if he could joi