I have to admit I’m not the biggest fan of Valentine’s Day from a romantic standpoint, but I have learned to love it through my children’s eyes. How their tiny hands fumble to peel stickers off a sheet and choose just the right combination of colors and flair for each recipient. The moment a little man you love hands you a Valentine with his eyes all lit up is most definitely something I wish I could bottle and play back on a gloomy day. So, perhaps, I am a bit of a believer in this heart-filled holiday after all.

While I love all the boys who surround me in my life, it’s always women who absolutely amaze me most. So, as we prepare for a weekend of hearts and kisses with our gals or guys, I would love to share a few “galentines” this year who completely have my heart…starting with this stunning woman pictured here.

Through a friend of a friend I stumbled on Mimosa’s story. She is a young mother with a 2-year-old son not too far off in age from my baby boy. She is battling for her life with Stage 4 Colon cancer and on a journey that would shake anyone to their core, young mother or not. Despite this, she is filled with such light and happiness. A sweetness but a fortitude. When I looked back at the pictures from our session, I see goosebumps on her arms and a cold she never even bothered to mention or let it stop us. An unwavering smile with big warm brown eyes. So gorgeous that I took a quick inhale when I saw her get out of the car.

We danced around over 2 feet of snow with a mix of flurries and sun choosing the only paths we could manage to walk on. Dad threw snowballs to make everyone squeal out and laugh. And their little boy fell in love with a gifted bracelet with his name on it (in his favorite color red) and insisted on proudly wearing it on his tiny wrist for the day.

Some moments are so simply beautiful that time seems to stand still. Everything else seems to get a bit muffled and so much is said in the small things. Tiny looks and handholding. Kisses and laughs. I am so thankful to have stood still for a quiet snow-covered moment with this family and witness a love that made my heart so full.

If you would like to donate, large or small, you can read more about Mimosa’s story here.

I want to give such a tremendous THANK YOU to the tribe of women who made this day so special and who opened their small businesses to give anything they could. Their time. Their services. Their talents. These women, mothers, aunts, and all-around amazing individuals definitely know how to add even more magic and heart to a very special day. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Wardrobe & Accessory Styling: Kristen Ronan

Children’s Attire & Gifts: Small Wonders

Earrings: Katie Diamond Jewelry

Custom Bracelet: Brett Lauren Jewelry

Valentine Treat Box: Say Cheese Bergen County

Flowers: Piece & Pollen

Overnight bag: Birdling Bags