BLOOM 2026 - Self Love + Pregnancy issue

hey, mama! A LETTER FROM THE CHIEF CURATOR

Dear East Valley Moms,

For a long time, we talked about self-care for moms

And while a quiet grocery trip or a long shower can feel like a gift, we realized something important:

Self-care isn’t the starting point

Self-love is

Because loving yourself truly loving yourself is what makes every other form of care possible.

In the season of motherhood, self-love looks different for all of us

It can look like saying yes to less

Rebuilding strength and confidence.

Healing from past seasons.

Learning to feel at home in your own body again.

Self-love is choosing kindness toward yourself

It’s honoring your body for what it can do not just how it looks

It’s giving yourself permission to rest, to grow, or simply to be exactly where you are

This issue of Bloom is rooted in that belief.

A special note to our expecting and postpartum mamas:

This issue includes a dedicated section just for you Your body is doing something extraordinary creating and sustaining life and it deserves deep love, grace, and reverence Whether you’re growing a baby, recovering, or learning your body anew, this space was created with you in mind.

Our hope is that these pages remind you that self-love isn’t indulgent or selfish it’s foundational. And in choosing it, you’re not just caring for yourself… you’re modeling it for the little eyes watching you every day.

With love, xo,

Amy J. McConnell, APR Chief Curator, East Valley Moms

Amy McConnell

Amy spent 10+ years in the corporate PR agency world before having her son and becoming owner + chief curator of East Valley Moms

As a mom, she prefers art projects to building train sets, is currently exploring homeschooling options and finding how much easier it is to parent outside in nature than inside four walls

Amy’s favorite parenting resources include Read Aloud Revival, Poetry Tea Time and the MomCo.

this issue's writing team

Megan Lankford

Megan is originally from North Florida, but has called the East Valley her home since 2009.

This year Megan left her job as an accountant to stay home with her boys. She leads a small group Bible study at her house.

Karlee Soelberg

Karlee is a busy SAHM to 4 kids ranging from ages 10-3. She loves crossing items off her todo list and loves baking treats and feeding people even more.

She has been married for 13 years and has been in the East Valley for 11 of those years. She has recently discovered a love for hiking and tries to be outside as much as possible, especially with the kids!

East Valley Moms is a hyperlocal, digital media platform to connect local parents with local resources and storytelling to inspire a more connected, joyful parenting journey across Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, Chandler, Apache Junction and Queen Creek.

Honest Motherhood Motherhood: Where Love Became a Hiding Place

WRITTEN BY CHELSIE MURTON MOM OF 1, LIVES IN CHANDLER

For a long time, my identity lived in the margins of motherhood Early mornings Naptime After bedtime I loved my daughter deeply, but I missed myself Instead of naming that out loud and sitting with the weight of it, I tried to sneak pieces of myself back into my life through old hobbies, hoping no one would see me and think, selfish

A Taste of Myself Again

I took a chance on Ragnar in 2023 and felt joy rush back in. Team-running across 24 hours cold air, a headlamp slicing through the dark reminded me of who I was before motherhood rearranged everything I loved it And then the guilt crept in The time.

The money.

The feeling that wanting this much meant I was taking something away from my family I told myself it had been a beautiful moment, but not a habit I could keep.

Staying Busy So I Wouldn’t Feel

So the search continued I filled every day on purpose: activities, playdates, story times. Staying busy felt productive, even when I felt hollow.

Then came the dramatic ideas cut my hair, move states, maybe grad school? On the outside, I looked motivated Inside, I felt ashamed for wanting to love myself as much as I loved my daughter.

If I couldn’t have both, I told myself I’d at least love her so much that it hurt

Finding Space That Fit Us Both

Then came hiking My daughter could come with me or I could go alone The gear was simple The expectations were low On the trails, we both found joy.

She ran ahead, played in the dirt, snacked, napped.

I found grounding A return to cardio Space to breathe and let go We could coexist and still be fully ourselves

GET A FREE TRIAL CLASS

Try a FREE FIT4MOM Chandler class and experience a space where you don’t have to choose between caring for yourself and caring for your kids.

Choosing Honesty Over Hiding

That’s when it clicked: wanting more wasn’t selfish it was honest I had spent years minimizing myself to make motherhood easier, smaller, more acceptable. I learned to hide what I needed because it felt safer than admitting that what I wanted felt wrong somehow.

No Longer Invisible

Starting FIT4MOM Chandler wasn’t just a return-to-work plan

It was a declaration

I’m done hiding

I’m building the place I once searched for where moms are allowed to want more for themselves and their kids Where ambition, strength, softness, and love can exist together.

Guilt-free.

Fully seen.

ABOUT THE WRITER

Chelsie holds a BS in Exercise Science and has built her career around one question: what motivates people? Through life-coaching and program development with local brands like Dutch Bros Arizona, Offerpad, and WebPT, she’s focused on helping people find belonging at work; a lens she now brings to FIT4MOM Chandler in service of the moms she leads

local dining

The Rare Restaurant That Works for Kids and Date Night

WRITTEN

BY EAST VALLEY MOMS

George & Gather is the kind of place that grows with your day and your season of life.

This downtown Chandler favorite prides itself on a seed-oil-free, from-scratch kitchen, with a casual, kidfriendly breakfast scene complete with a coffee bar and relaxed patio

By night, it transforms into a babysitter-worthy dining destination, featuring an impressive wine menu, elevated dishes, warm vibes, and genuinely excellent service It’s thoughtful dining done right for parents and food lovers alike

Arizona Ave & Frye Rd , Chandler

Fuel Your Day Without the Leftover Nuggets

WRITTEN BY KARLEE SOELBERG MOM OF 4, LIVES IN MESA

From contributor Megan (mom of 3): Weekly Protein Prep

I put 5 or 6 chicken breasts in the crock pot with a very simple seasoning . Then, I cook it enough that I can shred it with my hand mixer. Then I have a TON of chicken prepped for the week and I can easily make "chicken salad," add to a salad kit, make quesadillas, nachos, BBQ chicken sliders on King's Hawaiian rolls, etc

From contributor Jenna (mom of 3): Smoothie lunch

Most days I make a smoothie for lunch! I do a protein peanut butter banana shake a lot of times Pretty healthy and keeps me full throughout the day!

From contributor Karlee (mom of 4): Salad Swap

A couple years ago I got invited to join a group of moms in my neighborhood who take turns swapping salads in mason jars and I have never looked back! It’s so simple and if you like salads, this is so easy to start in your own neighborhood!

Mental Health

Mental Health, Through the Season of Motherhood

Because your mental health matters in every season

WRITTEN BY AMY J MCCONNELL, MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

Motherhood asks a lot of us — mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Between caring for our families, managing full days, and carrying the invisible load, it’s easy for our own mental health to slip quietly to the bottom of the list. Not because it doesn’t matter — but because we’re capable, resilient, and used to pushing through.

Even so, many moms find themselves feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected at times. And that doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you. It means you’re human.

Here’s the truth: your mental health matters.

And caring for it isn’t a weakness — it’s an act of self-respect. You deserve to feel supported, grounded, and emotionally well — not just for your family, but for yourself. And the first step doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be intentional.

You don’t have to settle for feeling anxious, depleted, or emotionally stuck. You deserve to feel supported, grounded, and well.

Last year, I reached a breaking point. I was exhausted from feeling the way I did and realized I couldn’t keep putting my mental health on hold — even though I had no idea where to start.

How do I find a therapist? What support is available to me? It felt daunting to even begin.

I see so many mothers placing their needs last, but the truth is this: now is the time to pause and make a mental health plan for yourself. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for taking that first step.

Mental Health Resources to Know About

Employee Assistance Programs (EAP):

Many employers offer an EAP that includes a set number of free therapy sessions These programs are confidential and often extend to spouses and children Ask your HR department what’s available to you

Health Insurance Benefits:

Your insurance provider can explain coverage for therapy, any deductibles, and help you find in-network therapists in your area.

Paid Leave or Short-Term Disability:

If you need a true mental health reset, it may be possible to explore paid leave or short-term disability through your employer

Therapist vs. Psychiatrist: What’s the Difference?

Therapists help you work through emotions, patterns, and experiences through talk therapy. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe and manage medication. Many people benefit from working with both.

Pregnancy & Postpartum

Pregnancy and postpartum are seasons of incredible change physically, emotionally, and mentally.

This special section was created to support you through it all, with trusted guidance, real-life encouragement, and local resources to help you feel informed, supported, and empowered from bump to beyond

mental health for moms

What a postpartum boudoir session did for my mental health

WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

I’m a thirty something mom who doesn’t feel like my body is where I really want it to be. I’d say

I’ve lost a lot of myself in motherhood, wear black leggings every day, sometimes I am fretful my earring holes will close up because I wear them so infrequently, and really don’t “do things for myself” that frequently.

But recently, after chatting with a few moms a decade farther in life than me, two common threads kept coming up:

1 I’m so glad I did boudoir when I did so I have it to look back on

2 I wish I would’ve done a boudoir session, I regret missing out

So, when I was given the opportunity to try a boudoir session with Arcadia Boudoir for myself, I felt like I’d have FOMO if I passed.

I’ve lost a lot of myself in the last few years–as many of you can relate Motherhood is hard, and I’ve got the physical battle scars to prove it: stretch marks, a little extra ‘squish’ and a lost sense of ‘sexiness ’ Within the first 15 minutes of the session, I felt empowered I felt strong I felt attractive I felt like the best version of myself.

And you know, I’ve missed her

Arcadia Boudoir gave me back a sense of myself that was so buried under years of motherhood I’m so glad I said yes to this opportunity, and I’m so grateful for the images Arcadia Boudoir captured These images reminded me of the strong, sexy woman I still am under the black leggings and day four messy bun.

Arcadia Boudoir

Boudoir portrait experiences that inspire and commemorate, Arcadia Boudoir empowers women to celebrate themselves through luxurious personalized portrait sessions in gorgeous studios and your choice of tastefully-edited digital images and elegant print products www arcadiaboudoir com

Best East Valley Walking Paths with Infants

WRITTEN BY AMANDA BACKUS

as well as a small playground if you have older kids Pathways are paved to make it stroller friendly

Mansel Carter Oasis

Sossaman and Ocotillo, Queen Creek

This park houses a nice lake that has a walking trail around it This is perfect for stroller rides or wearing your baby around the park This is also a Fit4Mom class park, so if you’re looking to join a stroller strides class, you’ll find them here!

stunning mural painted by a local Mesa-born artist and the whole pathway is landscaped and paved, making it the smoothest ride for strollers

San Tan Mountain Regional Park Thompson and Phillips, San Tan

This is a beautiful spot to take your family on a fdesert walk

While it is not stroller friendly, it has the perfect trails for baby wearing. Your infant will love seeing all the desert landscape, mountains, and animals at this park.

arizona summers

Summer Pregnancy Survival Guide

5 Tips for Getting Through a Summer Pregnancy

WRITTEN BY MEGAN LANKFORD MOM OF 3, LIVES IN MESA

Pregnancy is filled with beautiful milestones but in Arizona, summer adds an extra layer of challenge With triple-digit temperatures stretching from May through October, staying cool and comfortable becomes essential Here are our team’s go-to tips for surviving a summer pregnancy in the desert

Stay indoors when possible. Arizona heat is no joke, especially during pregnancy. Air conditioning is your best friend. Hydrate like it’s your job. Bring more water than you think you’ll need, and keep extras in your car.

Time outings wisely. Early mornings or evenings are safest for quick errands or walks. Get in the pool. Floating eases joint pressure and provides instant relief from the heat. Wear the shorts. Breathable clothing, t-shirt dresses, and swimsuits aren’t indulgent— they’re survival.

Cool off with treats. Ice cream, frozen bananas, or a cold soda count as self-care.

Listen to your body, rest often, and give yourself grace—growing a human in the desert is no small feat.

car seat coolers

We all know the dread of getting into a hot summer car that’s been parked in the sun for too long

Thinking about how hot a rear-facing carseat can be for infants makes it unbearable

Every Arizona mama needs a Cool Carats--it’s the first-of-its-kind car seat cooler featuring pioneering CoolTech™ technology and stylish, child-centered designs

Small Hikers, Big Memories hiking with kids

From baby carriers to big climbs, how family hikes became our favorite way to connect

WRITTEN BY KARLEE SOELBERG MOM OF 4, LIVES IN MESA

I was about eight weeks postpartum with my first baby when I decided I had to get out of the house So naturally, I strapped my newborn to my chest and headed up Camelback Mountain.

Wise? Debatable Worth it? Absolutely

We started early, moved slowly, and took plenty of breaks. My postpartum body was pushed harder than it should have been but the fresh air, movement, and sense of doing something again was exactly what my soul needed Along the way, friendly hikers cheered us on (“Teach them while they’re young!”), and somehow, we made it to the top.

That hike sparked something in me. What began as exercise became a genuine love for hiking not just for the views, but for the joy of doing hard things together, exploring our desert home, and creating memories outside with our kids

Now, years later, hiking is one of our favorite ways to connect as a family. It’s not always smooth there are complaints, snack negotiations, and occasional turnaround-before-the-end moments but almost every time, the kids finish proud and eager for the next adventure

Trail Picks for Little Hikers

Brown Mountain (Mesa): A short climb with big Valley views ideal for quick family outings

Silly Mountain (Apache Junction): Wide paths and playful rock formations make this a kid-friendly favorite with plenty of stop-and-explore moments.

Fill Your Cup — Together Family Connection

A restorative cabin retreat for moms and their littles

Our Mom & Mini Cabin Retreats are designed for moms who crave connection, fresh air, and meaningful time with their littles without the stress of planning it all themselves. Set in cozy mountain cabins, these small-group getaways blend guided outdoor play, simple activities, and plenty of unstructured time to slow down and just be

Days include nature walks, camp-style games, cozy meals, and space for kids to explore while moms connect with others in the same season of motherhood

It’s not about doing more it’s about doing less, together. You’ll head home rested, grounded, and carrying memories that last far beyond the weekend

2026 Mom & Mini Retreats

Our Mom & Mini retreats blend rest, community, and simple outdoor magic in a setting that feels both nourishing and doable

Join the waitlist to be first to know about new dates added; most camps offered during public school calendar breaks

Strong in This Season

Where Moms Move—and Belong

fit body boot camp

From contributor Megan (mom of 3): At Fit Body, they offer a welcoming, judgment-free environment

For moms, their unique 30-minute boot camp workouts are efficient and effective, combining HIIT, strength training, and cardio to suit all fitness levels. This approach is backed by research showing that HIIT and comprehensive fitness programs lead to better health outcomes and higher client satisfaction

Kids welcome at all 8 East Valley locations, and family workout days, as well as social outings are offered regularly Mention East Valley Moms for a FREE 4 week trial.

@fitbody Az on instagram

From contributor Amy (mom of 1): Fit4Mom is more than a workout it’s a supportive community designed specifically for moms in every season of motherhood With welcoming classes that blend strength, cardio, and connection, Fit4Mom makes it easier to move your body while feeling truly supported. We love that their Queen Creek and Chandler locations are locally owned by incredible moms who understand exactly what today’s moms need, both in fitness and in community

@fit4momqueencreek & @fit4momchandler on instagram

yoga classes

For yoga on a budget, we love Yoga on the Green at Verde at Cooley Station a free monthly class held on the community green and taught by talented instructors from the on-site yoga and Pilates studios.

Classes run October through April; check the Verde events calendar for upcoming dates @verde gilbert on instagram

BACK TO THE GYM, ON YOUR TERMS

Getting back to the gym after having a baby can feel exciting and intimidating these gentle tips are here to help you ease back in, rebuild strength safely, and honor your body in this new season

Focus on function, not “getting your body back.” Prioritize movements that support daily mom life (lifting, carrying, pushing) and rebuild stability before chasing intensity

Short workouts still count A 20–30 minute session is powerful

Consistency beats duration in this season

Listen to your body’s signals Pain, pressure, leaking, or heaviness are signs to scale back and modify not push through.

Give yourself grace Showing up is a win Strength, confidence, and energy will come with time you’re rebuilding, not starting over

Let’s Get Meal Preppin’

Say goodbye to dinner time stress and hello to delicious, ready-to-go meals!

Join us for a Citrus Pear Meal Prep Class right here at

Bashas’

in Gilbert & Mesa

Can’t make it to class? Let us deliver it right to you

With meals created by registered dietitians for you, you know you’ll be getting the healthy meal your family deserves.

ENJOY $15 OFF your class with code EVM15 at checkout.

Sign up today at www.citruspear.com Let's make mealtime easy, together!

East Valley Moms has been sharing local resources for families, hosting live playdate events and giving family-friendly activity reviews of attractions across the East Valley for 12 years.

@eastvalley.moms on Instagram eastvalleymom.com