We’re excited to share that our family recently grew by one precious member.

On Friday the 14th at 5:57 pm, Clara Kenley Petersik arrived weighing 7 lbs 10 oz and measuring 20.5 inches long. We are completely smitten. From the moment she came home she and Burger have been inseparable—he has already taken on the role of loyal guardian, faithfully positioning himself nearby as if to keep a close watch over her.

Clara’s name has special meaning for our family. Her first name honors John’s grandmother on his father’s side. Her middle name, Kenley, is a blend of family connections: it acknowledges my dad, Ken, incorporates John’s mom’s maiden name, Kelley, and nods to my great aunt on my mother’s side, Lee. We love names and rooms that multitask—each element carrying a piece of family history and affection.

We’re home now and settling into life back at Casa Petersik. After four days in the hospital, there’s nothing quite like coming back to your own space; the comforts of home feel especially sweet. Our stay was longer than planned because we experienced a frightening complication during Clara’s delivery: an unexpected placental abruption alongside an umbilical cord prolapse. Thanks to the rapid response of a skilled team of doctors and nurses, an emergency C-section was performed in under three minutes, and Clara was quickly stabilized. While her arrival was far from calm, we are incredibly grateful that she is completely healthy and thriving.

This intense beginning has only deepened our appreciation for each other and for the medical professionals who acted so swiftly. Those first hours and days were a mix of relief, awe, exhaustion, and a profound sense of gratitude. Watching Clara sleep, listening to her tiny breaths, and seeing her calm presence has been a surreal and joyful experience. We recognize how fortunate we are and do not take any of it for granted.

Back at home, Clara has been exploring her new surroundings in her own quiet way. We are learning the rhythms of parenthood: late-night feedings, gentle swaddles, and the small, tender moments that make such a huge transition feel magical. John and I already feel like the luckiest people alive, and every smile or soft sigh from Clara reminds us why this new chapter is so meaningful.

To our readers and friends who have sent warm wishes, helpful advice, and support throughout this journey: thank you. Your messages have meant the world to us during the excitement and the moments of uncertainty. We look forward to sharing how our home adapts to include a little person—everything from organizing and storage solutions to practical, budget-friendly room makeovers and DIY projects. Expect updates that blend parenting notes with the home improvement and design content you’ve come to enjoy from us.

For now, we’re soaking in this incredible time—those unrepeatable early days—and slowly getting back into our usual routine. We have a house tour planned to share soon, and we can’t wait to show you the spaces we’ve been working on and how they evolve with Clara in mind.

Psst—Tomorrow we’ll also announce the random winner of our big baby pool and the $100 West Elm gift card, so be sure to check back if you entered.