Sonoma County Maternity Session: The Garlands

Between my aunties, uncles and cousins, my family's pretty big. But with the youngest "baby" now 4-years-old, it's been a while since we've snuggled a newborn. So you could imagine our joy when we found out that a little one is on the way! So excited for my cousin, Charlene, and her husband, Tom! Little man will be making his debut this month and we can't wait to meet him!

How and when did you the two of you meet?

We met on match.com in April 2009.

Was there a moment when you knew he was "the one?"

There wasn't a particular moment per se, but I knew about 3 months into dating that he was someone I wanted to be with when I was old and grey :)

How did he propose?

For our 3-year anniversary we did a weekend trip to Santa Cruz and booked a zip-lining tour. I was the last person from our tour group to go across the longest zip line, which was so long that I couldn't see the other side hidden by trees. As I got closer to the end of the line I could see the people from our tour group all gathered to one side of the tree, looking at me with cameras ready and then there was Tom, down on one knee holding a bouquet of red roses. I couldn't believe my eyes because, in my mind, there was no possible way he could have had time to get my ring and get it customized the way I wanted it. He was sneaky and had gotten it done without me knowing. For not being a planner, he pulled out all the stops to surprise me that weekend.

What's your best marriage/relationship advice?

Find little ways to let your partner know they're loved. It's the small gestures that can have the largest impact.

How did you feel when you found out you were pregnant?

Cautiously optimistic, but deep down, very excited!

What has been the best part about pregnancy so far?

Not being ashamed to eat twice as much as Tom at each meal!

Is there anything about pregnancy that surprised you or anything you wish someone would have told you?

I didn't realize how uncomfortable it can be during the third trimester when the baby is moving limbs around against the inside of your belly. There have been a handful of times it's been really painful.

What are your hopes and dreams for your son?

I hope that he grows up to be well-adjusted, caring and self-sufficient. I want him to find happiness and enjoyment in whatever it is he decides to do and to find the kind of love that me and his dad have for each other.

Where do you see yourselves in 10 years?

In 10 years I see us living in Marin County with 2 kids (ages 10 and 8), in the throws of parenthood (shuttling the kids to and from school, friend's houses and soccer games). At that point, my business would have taken off and Tom and I would have quit our day jobs to enjoy raising our family and traveling! ;D