Baby Bump Photo Shoot

At 29 weeks Trevor & I had a photo shoot done by the amazingly talented & cool Jack Rodriguez. Our shoot took place on a sunny Sunday afternoon at the Anaheim Nature Center. Looking at these photos I can honestly say I feel beautiful. My little Stella bump is a miracle, and I cannot wait to meet our little girl.

Two Trimesters Down... One more to go!

 19 Weeks and Happy Parents to be

 Stella Rose and her pretty profile at 20 weeks

Our Sweet Daughter at 26 weeks 4D! One pretty little girl is coming to join our family.

Trimester two was everything I expected... better than One! I had a ton more energy, and felt like "SuperPreggo"! I could work 12 hour days, clean the entire house on my days off, and surf the net for hours buying the cutest little outfits for our future fashionista. The all day nauseau was gone, my belly actually looks like a baby bump (not an ice cream bump),  and I have been able to start planning and preparing for our little babe. Although I have been a lot more comfortable, I fully admit I am NOT one of those women who "loooove being pregnant", and could have 4 or 5 kids. Trev and I have already come to an agreement, one more baby... maybe two (but that would be max). I know at the very end of this journey all the uncomfortableness will be well worth it once Stella is in my arms.

With that I give you the best and worst moments of Trimester TWO, weeks 14-26

Top 10
1. Finding out Baby Bruner was a little girl!!! YAY for tutus and bows!!! This girly girl was happily surprised.
2. Sharing the news that we are Team Pink at our Gender Reveal Party
3. Putting together our registry. Pottery Barn Kids is my MECCA.
4. SHOPPING! I have had the best time buying outfits for our sweet Stella Rose. From Miss Marc Jacobs fashionable ensembles, to preppy chic Ralph Lauren dresses, and uber cool DVF prints, she is going to be one styling little lady.
5. Feeling Stella's big kick! I had been feeling her move but hadn't really felt a big kick until the night of my friend Lindsay's wedding. I was sitting down, at the reception, and all of a sudden- KICK! From that moment on she has been a regular karate kid, kicking me from 8-10pm, and 7-9am.
6. When Daddy got to feel Stella's kicks. One evening at about 8:30pm, we were laying in bed (yes, 8:00 is now our bed time), the kicking started. I yelled at Trevor to hurry and feel, "he goes, I am not going to be able to feel it"... he then humored me and put his hand on my tummy, and BAM, then another BAM, then two more BAMS! Stella kicked him four times in a row, and Trevor finally got to feel his baby girl. I cried like a baby.... such a surreal moment.
7.Decorating the nursery! Trevor has been one hard working Daddy to be, making Stella's pretty in pink "garden" themed nursery come to life It is turning out to be so beautiful. Some days I will just sit in my rocking chair for hours, thinking about Stella Rose. Its like my little retreat at home.
8. 4D ultrasound. At 26 weeks we took all the grandparents, and proud Aunt Ally to see Stella Rose in 4D! She was a little stubborn as it was her nap time. (she was using the placentia as her pillow) lol! Then finally she turned and we got to see her sweet face!. Everybody yelled OMG she has Trevor's nose. Which she does, and it is the cutest nose I have ever seen. Then I really looked at her, and I saw me. She has my cheeks and pouty little lips. I know I am biased, but she is the most beautiful thing in the world to me <3
9. Energy. It was gone for about 3 months, so it felt great to feel like myself again.
10. Test results. So far all the tests have come back clear, and have been reassuring that Stella is one healthy little girl

Bottom 5
Unfortunately Trimester Two is not all butterfly and sunshine. There are some struggles that come along with all this joy!
1. Back Aches- Ouch! Around 20 weeks, my back started to get really sore. I can't go, go, go like I am used to. I really have to slow down, which I hate to do!
2. Indigestion. Even though the nauseau stopped, I have woken up in the middle of the night throwing up due to indigestion. Gross...
3. Pregnancy is not fashionable. Working as the Designer Manager for Nordstrom comes with high expectations, especially in the looks department which has had to be put on hold. I have not worn heels since December. (bye, bye YSLs strappy sandals, and Gucci Pumps). I bought a pair of strappy Givenchy flat sandals that have been an absolute lifesaver! I wear them almost every single day, and my feet thank me for it.
4. Stretch Marks- I have not gotten any on my belly (so far), but have noticed some pink lines forming on my hips :( Not so fun.
5. Insomnia. Waking up tp go the bathroom every hour, does not help this mama to be get her beauty rest.


Well we have at least 10 weeks left before I am considered full Term and Stella can make her arrival. As we prepare for becoming parents I can't help but thank God so much for this blessing I remember praying everyday for a sweet baby (secretly a sweet baby girl), and God has given us the most amazing gift. Although pregnancy definitely has its ups and downs, it is an absolute miracle to think that all because two people fell in love, a little life is growing inside of me. We cant wait to meet our little BABE!

Year ONE of a Family Called the Bruners

Trevor and I recently celebrated our One year Anniversary. I can't believe how fast this year has gone by. It feels like just yesterday I was scouring Style Me Pretty, and planning my Dream Wedding. We have been through sooooo much together as a couple this past year, and have learned so much. I always used to think, that since we lived together before we were married it wouldn't be much of a change, but boy was I wrong. Once I became Trevor's wife, I felt I started to hold myself to a higher standard, and sometimes held Trev to higher expectations too. Knowing that he truly was going to be my partner through this thing called life, made me rely on Trev more than I would have ever expected. We have become a family, and are learning how to not be the "perfect" partner, but how to love and respect each other for who one another is, and appreciating the little things in life.

So after one year of wedded bliss, here is a quick recap of what we have experienced in our first year as Mr & Mrs...

1. Love... My heart has truly never loved anything or anyone more than I love my Trev. It all started on our beautiful honeymoon in Jamaica. Traveling to another country is a scary thing, and I counted on Trev to protect me. We had so much fun together enjoying a full week of just relaxing, laughing, laying in the sun, and a little bit of lovins. (okay alot of it). Once we came back home, we really just wanted life to return back to normal. No more wedding stress, and just enjoy our friends and family, and of course each other. After learning of our pregnancy in June, and then miscarrying in July, I knew I had married my best friend. Trevor was there for me through what was the most depressing time of my life. He held me when I cried, never judged me at times I could have been considered a little mental, and helped me get to a happy place again. He loves me unconditionally, and I hope he knows how much I love him too.

2. Money.... Weeks after returning from our honeymoon Trevor learned that his Boss was laying him off, as he did not have enough work to have an assistant. That was so scary. I have so much respect for Trev and what he did next. I was so worried, as we are definitely a two income household, and rely on each others pay to make it through. I stressed out a little too much, not because of Trev, but based on my own insecurities of what I have gone through in the past. Trev was on it, getting his name out there for any kind of side job that he could do. Then he landed a fantastic opportunity doing all the plumbing work at a restaurant. After that restaurant opened he got work at another restaurant in Huntington Beach. This past February Trev got hired working for Arroyo Plumbing in Arcadia. He works so hard, is on call almost every weekend, and does it without complaining. He truly enjoys providing for his family, and is so talented at what he does. Proud wife, am I.

I didn't do too shabby this year either. One month after the wedding, I was offered a promotion in June to manage the Collectors & Couture Department at South Coast Plaza. Although it was considered "lateral", it was a blessing, as I only had to commute 45 minutes to Costa Mesa, instead of the dreadful 1.5-2 hour commute each way to Topanga. I also got a pretty nice raise, but with the extra pay came a whole lot more grey hair, but has given me some fantastic opportunities and experience. I have definitely learned so much in my new position this past year, and can't wait for my next step! I am praying and working hard for that next promotion (after baby of course)

3. Family... A Family called the Bruners is starting a family!!! (with people not just animals, lol) After "trying" for four months Trevor and I found out we were pregnant on Christmas Eve. We are so thrilled to become parents and love our little daughter Stella Rose Bruner sooooo much already. Trevor is going to be an amazing Dad, and I hope I can be a great Mom. I'm 25 weeks along as I write this blog, which means only 12 more weeks until I am FULL term!!! Pregnancy has definitely had its exciting and challenging moments, and we are definitely looking forward to entering our next step as a couple- Parenthood.


We had originally planned on celebrating our one year wedding anniversary at Ponte Winery, as they just opened a new hotel on the vineyards where we said I do. With our little bun in the oven, we decided to spend it a little more G rated, since Mama isnt doing any wine drinking these days. Trevor took me to San Diego for a little get away. We went to Sea World, and then took a wonderful nap at our ocean view room at the Hilton in Mission Bay. We then went out for some Mexican food & cold stone in Old Town San Diego. It was relaxing, and fun way to celebrate our first year as a married couple.

Here's to many many more years of love, marriage, and the baby in the baby carriage!

"Our Little Peanut" Gender Reveal Party

Trevor and I both were so anxious to find out if we were having a boy or girl! We definitely wanted to know, so that we can decorate the nursery, and get our little one's wardrobe started. One thing we did know, is that we still wanted to share the excitement with our family and friends with the "It's a Boy, or Its a Girl!" announcement. With the growing popularity of cutting the cake to find pink or blue icing, and my love for parties we hosted a Gender Reveal party. Our theme was "Little Peanut", so to decorate we used pink & blue elephants, and of course peanuts.

We had always said we were going to find out at the same time as our family, by waiting until we cut into the cake. Two weeks before our ultrasound appointment Trev told me he really wanted to find out, but we would keep it a secret and not tell our family and friends. Even though I really wanted to wait, I thought it would be really nice for me & Trevor to find out by ourselves, and have a moment together.

We went into our ultrasound appointment one week before the party. It was the most amazing experience. The technician was really sweet, and told us we had one active baby in there, and that she knew the sex! Then she just typed "Its A Girl" on the screen, and I just smiled from ear to ear. I was overfilled with joy and love for my daughter. I looked over at Trevor, and he was having his first moment as a dad. He was crying, and sniffling tears of joy. Although I know he was hoping for a boy, once he met his little girl, he was the proudest papa! We left the appointment so excited! We even made a trip to target, and started a baby registry. Our little girl also got her very first outfit from daddy. A little two piece outfit with pink leggings, and a onsie with an adorable elephant on it, and tiny hearts.

I never realized how difficult it would be to keep it a secret from our friends, family, and co-workers, and they were not going to make it easy on me! In fact my mom and dad were the worst!!! They gave me a guilt trip for a week straight, "Come on Melissa, after all we have done for you.We won't say a word!" Grammy (my mom) even tried to bribe me with a new outfit for the baby! I was strong and kept my mouth zipped!

Needless to say when the Gender Reveal Party came I was so excited to finally announce that We were having a little girl named Stella Rose Bruner. When we cut the cake, and the shrieks and screams of "Its a Girl", and "YAY", were overwhelming. Stella would be the first grand daughter and niece of all the Bruner and Carneys, and one of many beautiful girls in the line of girls from the Box/Persico/Armstrong family.

We love you our sweet Stella Rose, and can't wait to hold you in our arms!!!!


Pink Frosting or Blue Frosting?

Lil Peanut Cupcakes
Party Spread
Lil Peanut Cake Pop Favor



Cast your vote on the elephant piggy bank!

"A lil peanut on the way, pink or blue? What do you say?"

Pick your flavor!



Treat Boxes

Peanut Cups

The invites

Lil Peanut Banner





Baby Bruner's First Photos

Pink & Blue onsie line
ITS A GIRL!!! Stella Rose Bruner is expected to arrive on September 3rd, 2012

One Trimester Down... two to go!

The Happy Parents to Be :)

Now that I am in my second trimester, I can matter of factly say that it is much easier than trimester ONE. From my experience, I can honestly say it was miserable. Yes, I was so happy about my new +1, in fact ecstatic, but I honestly felt like a depressed, lazy, and all around miserable member of society. I honestly can say I feel like myself again, and can enjoy this beautiful time.

With that I gladly give you the Best and the Worst of Weeks 1-13...

Best 5 moments of Trimester ONE
1. Taking a pregnancy test on Christmas Eve morning, and seeing that one little word that will change our life forever... PREGNANT
2. Sharing the Happy news with our Family and Friends, and seeing the happy tears from the Grandparents to be
3. Seeing Baby Bruner's heart beat pitter patter
4. Watching our lil peanut kick and punch at the 3rd ultrasound
5. Making the Baby!

Worst 10 moments of Trimester ONE. There's just a lot to complain about...

1. The waiting game...waiting to officially announce, waiting on the news of baby's well being, waiting for the next Dr. appointment, waiting to feel better, waiting , waiting, and waiting some more.
2. Nausea... "morning" sickness should be changed to all day and all night sickness. Feeling like you are going to up chuck at any moment is just miserable!
3. Sore Boobies- My boobs have already grown almost two cup sizes. I had to go to target to get ugly old lady bras. Your Nips get big, and well they change color so that your baby can see them! They hurt a lot.
4. No nookie if you know what I mean.
5. Food Aversions. Seriously nothing sounded good. Almost all foods just sound yucky!
6. Bed Rest. Laying in Bed for 3 weeks straight can make one be a tad bored. Maury Povich can only entertain someone for so long.
7. Moodiness- In my case depression. Sad all day because, I was worried. Sad, because I didn't feel good. Sad, because I wasn't working. Mama had the blues!
8. Progesterone Suppository-yuck! Nothing is fun about a drippy liquid to disturb your sleep every night.
9. Tinkle Tinkle All Day Long, and all night long. Basically me & the porcelain king became BFFs.
10. Not being able to SHOP! I just want to know all ready... Pink or Blue?? Can I buy tutus, or bow ties!

Surviving the First Trimester was tough, but one little thing got me through it. That sweet little baby I can't wait to hold.

Hasta Lavesta Trimester ONE. It's been real...

Kung Fu Baby

At week 10 I went in for another ultrasound to see how lil Baby Bruner was doing. I was so nervous, as this would be my last appointment of the first trimester. I was starting to not feel like a zombie anymore, and was hoping my Dr. would release me to go back to work. Trevor just started a new job at a plumbing company in Pasadena, so he wasn't able to go. Luckily I had Grammy (my mom) to come with me to the appointment for support. Although my last appointment at 7 weeks, was good information I was still so nervous. In fact I hadn't announced my pregnancy yet, because I wanted to get through this last appointment just to make sure.

As I laid back for another vaginal ultrasound (ouch) my heaart started beating so fast as I saw what looked like a baby. My Dr. pointed out the legs, the arms, the head, tush, and then the steady and strong heart beat. Baby Bruner was right on track measuring 10 weeks! I couldn't believe my eyes. My baby was kicking its legs and punching its arms like a little ninja. Looks like my lil peanut is going to be one tough cookie.

After the appointment, my Dr. told me that I was not considered high risk anymore, and should just enjoy my pregnancy. He stopped the progesterone treatments, and suggested I return to work and get back on my feet. I was overjoyed, and soooo in love with my lil kung fu baby. The only thing was, now that I wasn't high risk I would have to wait another 4 weeks to see my lil one. He said at the next appointment he would use the Doppler so we could hear the baby's heart beat, and would perform another ultrasound ( a belly one). Can't wait to see Baby Bruner again!


Baby Bruner- 10 weeks

...and then there was a pitter patter

So after all the excitement of your existence, the nervousness began to set in. I was so worried, and anxious to get my first ultrasound and see my baby's heart beat. When I called my Dr.'s office to share the exciting news, they told me based on my LMP (First day of your last menstrual period) I would have to wait two weeks before my first appointment, because that would make me six weeks. The days moved slow, the hours at a snails pace, and the minutes seemed to stand still. I definitely knew I was pregnant, because I was constantly making bathroom runs. I usually have a bladder of steel, but all the extra hormones were making me have to go every 20-30 minutes! I didn't want anybody at work to know until I knew baby was healthy, but these potty runs were making it hard to conceal! I did tell my assistant because I didn't want her to think her boss was hung over, making frequent trips to the powder room to upchuck.

Two days before my appointment I noticed a small spot of dry blood on my underwear. when I was using the restroom. I immediately broke down into tears, fearing the worst. I called my Dr. immediately, who was busy with other patients. I was told the nurse would call me back as soon as possible. Three hours passed by, and I finally got a call from the nurse, Diane. By the way is an absolute angel! She told me they would squeeze me in that afternoon to check things out. Poor Trevor was at work, so he had to stand by the phone for any news. My parents meet me at the Dr.'s office so I wouldn't have to be alone. I was so lucky to have them be so supportive.

The Dr. then performed a vaginal ultrasound. (Which by the way really hurt!) He looked and looked for the baby and then finally found my little peanut. Although it was more the size of a small speck. The Dr. told me I was only measuring measuring 5 weeks, which would explain why he couldn't detect a heartbeat. He told me it is very likely that I was ovulating later on during my cycle. He told me due to my history and the spotting he wanted me to go on bed rest until my next appointment a week later, to be safe. By the sixth week, he said there should be a heart beat.

That week I was an absolute wreck. Two days after the ultrasound I noticed some more spotting, which was more like old blood, nothing red, so I tried so hard not to stress out. After that day I saw no more bleeding, however it still didn't ease my concern. Not only was I beyond worried, and depressed I started to feel those good old first trimester symptoms... nausea & fatigue. Barely being able to lift my head off the pillow, I tried to keep the faith. With the support from family and friends, I kept faith and spoke to God every night. (Actually more like 5 times a day) I prayed and prayed that God would bless us with a healthy baby, and give me the strength to have a healthy pregnancy.

After that week, which literally felt like a year, it was time for the next appointment. Trevor and I were a bundle of nerves barely speaking in the Dr.'s office. I was sweating, my heart was beating so fast, I just wanted to hear those three little words, "There's the heartbeat." I absolutely adore my Dr., he always makes things light, and makes Trevor and I feel so comfortable. He explains everything so thoroughly, so we understand all that's going on. He began the vaginal ultrasound (ouch), and there my sweet little baby was. Baby had gotten bigger, but still looked like a little ball. "Well Trevor and Melissa, I want you to look right here," as he pointed to a flicker in the middle of the ball baby, "that fast flicker is your baby's heart beat." I just started to cry tears of joy! I was beyond relieved. Seeing my little peanut's heart beating on that screen made it all so real. I never knew I could love something so much, so small.

After the Dr. printed peanut's first photo he wanted to discuss a few more things. He began to tell us that the heart beat was very strong. He said based on what he saw he would give us only a 10% rate of miscarriage. Much better than the 50% rate, he had given us the week prior. He did tell me that my progesterone levels were a little low, so he wanted me to start taking natural progesterone suppositories. I had no idea what it was, maybe a pill, a liquid medicine maybe? No... its a type of medicine you have to stick up your vagina with a tube. He told me he wanted me to do this every night until week 11, and that it would help move the pregnancy along, until the umbilical cord took over. He also told me bed rest until my next appointment (3 weeks later)!!! I always wanted a long vacation from work, but believe me when you go on bed rest during your first trimester it is no merry go round.

Even though we had some obstacles to overcome, I was still on cloud nine to see my baby's heart beat. Trevor and I were so happy, and thankful that God had answered our prayers.