Family Fashion Spring

Freebird

February 20, 2015

Booties: Freebird | Denim: old, similar HERE (crushing on THESE) Tunic: Free People (love THIS one too) | Necklace: c/o Page Sargisson | Bangles: old (plus THIS one) | Lip: Buxom ‘Samantha’ | Nails: Formula X ‘Wondrous’ | Rings: Midi Ring + Golden Bear

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This baby chick. She’s about to rock our nest. Will she be like me? Will she hold her Daddy’s heart? Will the boys be gentle with her? How will we all change? Please tell me I can do this. It seems like just as life gets comfortable, we’re asked to stretch, to step outside our cozy boundaries. Some say the jump from one to two was a rough flight. Others say it doesn’t happen until the third. I know it’s different for every mother; but I’m not going to lie, I’m a little anxious about it all. Change, new chapters, and uncharted territory (especially in motherhood) always seems to nerve me a little. Traditionally, I go through a mini ‘mourning phase’ of sorts. I try to simultaneously hold onto the past and present, knowing it will all change in the very near future. The first time it happened, I was engaged to be married. Then it came knocking again as soon-to-be parents. Yes again (eyes-rolling), when I was 8 months pregnant with Beckam: cuddling Gage a little longer at naps, singing him more songs before bed, holding his hand a little tighter — trying to cling to what was left of our time as a little duo. As a creature of annoying habits, here I am experiencing it yet again. Relishing the moments that are only ours being a “boy” mom… doing only things boy moms do. For soon, that will all change. Not in a bad way; it just will. Maybe the thing to be learned from this repetitive behavior is that I value time more than anything else. I savor it. And that some of the accompanied sorrow means I’ve appreciated the time that’s been. But just as before, I know I’ll look back and say, “This miraculous thing happened, my heart just tripled in size! It’s so much better with three! Why was I even worried? Look at how much we all love her!” As unsettling as transitions can be, they’ve always served as a confirmation that I need to grow and accept that invitation courageously. So for now, I feel like a freebird trying on a new set of mama-wings for a third time. Doing my best to willingly let them attach at their own pace and in their own way. (sigh). The sky is wide, calling me to fly… Here’s to hoping I’ll somehow find a way to soar.

 

  • Ashley February 20, 2015 at 2:00 am

    It is incredible how your heart just expands to love a new addition. I just had my third and it’s incredible. My hardest transition, honestly, was going from no kids to 1 kid. You’re going to rock it!

    Also this outfit is super cute and your hair!!!!! Love your hair!

    • missy February 20, 2015 at 3:59 pm

      At least it’s familiar with each new child. With my second I was able to enjoy it so much more not having to worry as much because I had done it before. With Gage I was constantly wondering if everything was okay! Thank you for your comment, Ashley!

  • Staci February 20, 2015 at 3:18 am

    Darling you will soar !! As a mother of three I know this all to well. I could never explain to my husband how I always felt sad for the other child that was no longer going to be the baby. Of course I was over the moon excited for my new little bundle but you do grieve what you had. It’s a strange thing that only us mothers can understand . But know you will get through it your family will adjust once again. Then one day you will realize ” hey this is our new norm” and everything will seem as natural as ever !! Not gonna lie, lol, there will be bumps in the path and frustrating moments of overwhelm ness but it does go away !! Hope you have a wonderful remainder of your pregnancy and I will be praying for a speedy and healthy delivery

    • missy February 20, 2015 at 4:00 pm

      You’ve touched my heart. The kindness of your heart and willingness to pray for me, means the world. Thank you, Staci!

  • Jill February 20, 2015 at 3:40 am

    i so love your outfit here! you look gorgeous. i love your blog SO much. i am a “boy” mom too and expecting my third. your reflexion brought me to tears! i can just really relate to the emotions you are going through. two questions: did the belt come with the tunic? also, are your jeans maternity? thanks for your posts!

    • missy February 20, 2015 at 3:53 pm

      Thank you for your kind words, Jill. No, the belt came with a dress I already owned and the jeans are regular jeans I just let expand with a rubber band through the button hole! ha!

  • Michelle February 20, 2015 at 4:01 am

    You are absolutely stunning my friend! I can totally relate to your “mourning phase” I am feeling pretty anxious becoming a first time mom , come August. Are those the forever 21 jeans? If so I have them too and my knee ripped the exact same way from wearing them ALL the time! How are you still rocking them this far along!? Tips please!! Xo

    • missy February 20, 2015 at 3:55 pm

      I’m so excited for you, Michelle! Motherhood is the best gift! Yes, they’re the super old ones from a few years ago! I just use a rubber band through the button hole and wear them unzipped (have to have a long enough top is the key). 🙂

  • Laura Wagner February 20, 2015 at 2:50 pm

    I can’t say that I relate too too much, as I have not experienced the joy of having children yet, but I am definitely the same way when it comes to change. Sure, it’s probably going to be a bit challenging juggling a new life with a new little one, but that is where all of the fun lies – in the details of finding that new routine (which you will)!!!! You are a wonderful mother and I LOVE following your blog! You said it best yourself – your heart is going to grow 🙂 So happy and excited for you and all of your new adventures.

    • missy February 20, 2015 at 3:56 pm

      Yes, I agree. I think the principle is the same regardless of children or not – it can be any stage of transition (new work, new place, loss or gain). Thank you for your loving support, Laura! xo

  • Ari February 20, 2015 at 3:16 pm

    This was so beautiful and you are breathtaking!!! Im buying everything!:) i had a question on the gorjana rings-is the midi one the gorjana rope one or is that the one on your ring finger? Is the midi one a different gorjana one and what size did u get for the midi? Thanks so much-i cant wait to get them!!:)

    • missy February 20, 2015 at 3:58 pm

      The midi rope ring is the one on my right hand. My fingers are really small so it fits like a normal ring on me (size 4). Excited for you too!

  • Ari February 20, 2015 at 4:36 pm

    Thanks Missy!! I hope you got my email-just wanted to send some kind words your way!!:)

    • missy February 23, 2015 at 12:52 am

      I did, thank you, Ari. My apologies for not replying yet! Sorry!

  • Lynda February 20, 2015 at 5:26 pm

    You look lovely as usual! We only had one child. He is now 10 years old. I would have loved to have had more, but I was an older mom when I had him. Everything will be so much fun with a little girl! I guarantee the boys will have fun with her too! Looking forward to your birth announcement.

  • Heather J. February 20, 2015 at 11:43 pm

    We are so excited for your family! I loved your words. I was just telling someone last week (as he was sharing that they are “thinking about” having a third) that I’m not the person to talk him out of it. Three is busy, challenging, and has changed me in ways I didn’t know I needed to be changed. I still snuggle them longer, cry with every swap-out of outgrown clothes, and often remind myself that they just need me to be their mom. Not a perfect mom, just “their” mom.

  • Jane February 21, 2015 at 2:22 pm

    I remember feeling the same way that you do before my 3rd child and was relieved to discover that the 3rd baby was the easiest transition and most enjoyable experience. All the best to you and your family during this exciting time.

  • Shannon February 21, 2015 at 5:39 pm

    So much fun! I have followed for a while and love your blog. We had two boys to start then when my second was 8 months old we found out we were expecting again. We were so excited. Then we found out we were having a girl! She is now 7 and independent as ever. She is the first to take caree of me when I am not feeling that great and the first to jump at chance to help her siblings out. Since her we had a second daughter that is now 5, just as amazing!! We lost another daughter named Alexis “Lexi” over a year ago at 21 weeks geatation due to a chromosomal problem called Triploidy. Very rare and hit us hard. Now we are expecting another sweet little girl due in May. We are truly blessed by each one. All of this to say, you will do great and embrace all of their fun and different personalities. Wishing you the best!

  • rhea February 21, 2015 at 7:17 pm

    I just wanted to say that I had some concerns like you when I was expecting my little girl after 3 rowdy boys, but I can promise you that she will steal your heart and steal your boys hearts too! There is much joy coming your way!

  • Laura February 21, 2015 at 11:54 pm

    Great website Melissa 🙂 I get depressed a little before and after each baby, then wonder why. It’s our spirits adjusting to a new life I suppose. I’ll bet your boys will think she’s special. Audra gets all kinds of loves and extravagance from her gang of brothers.

  • Stephanie February 22, 2015 at 6:28 pm

    Hi Missy,
    You look adorable. I love the tunic. I am a similar size to you and pregnant as well. I wanted to know what size did you get your tunic in? I want it to fit now when I am pregnant but I don’t want it to be huge for after. Did you hsve to go up a size. Thanks for all the inspiration.

    Steph

    • missy February 23, 2015 at 12:50 am

      I got it in Small with every intention to save it for post-pregnancy; but found it also works now! You’ll LOVE it!

  • Betsy February 22, 2015 at 11:50 pm

    Beautifully said, and I have a lump in my throat. I think all us mothers understand where your heart is. I would love to offer a hug of encouragement (I’m a hugger) or sit quietly with you in a show of support and understanding. You will fly! And your boys, all of them, will treasure her, and she…she, my dear will change your life…forever. My sweet baby girl did…!
    Hugs to you!

    • missy February 23, 2015 at 12:51 am

      Betsy, thank you for your love. I felt it. Truly. Thank you! xo

  • Maritza March 2, 2015 at 6:23 pm

    I have to say… I’ve been following you for awhile now, and just reading on how you talk about your family is something so beautiful… I’ve come to know you just through pictures and blog posts but I feel like I personally know you, and you are such a wonderful person! I look up to you, and [if and when] I have children, I hope to be the mother you are!! xo.

  • Stephanie March 9, 2015 at 12:24 am

    Hi Missy,
    What color booties are you wearing? Stone or tan? So
    Cute. Thanks!
    Steph

  • Mish Young March 17, 2015 at 12:42 pm

    I am going through a transition period of my own at the moment and although it is not related to becoming a parent again, it is a major adjustment in my life.
    Like you, I am concerned about my ability to handle what lies before me with grace and humility; to be able to step up to the mark and fulfill the new role.
    Thank you for sharing your thoughts and concerns, as you have helped me see that I have sufficient courage to face the challenges ahead of me.
    I pray for an easy delivery, a healthy baby and blessings upon your beautiful little family.
    Thank you for letting us share your joy and happiness.

  • Tiffany Ables June 29, 2016 at 2:46 pm

    I LOVE that top! Any idea where I can find it?> The free people website isn’t working right now!!

    • missy June 30, 2016 at 1:14 pm

      Nordstrom has a similar one right now: http://bit.ly/295S4a4
      It’s not exactly the same; but since this top is a year old it might be hard finding the exact one.