I want to talk for a moment about a matter that has become a bit controversial, largely due to the way people choose talk about it. Ever heard of a “push present”? This unfortunate term was coined to indicate a gift, typically jewelry, that a woman receives from her significant other upon the birth of their child.

I have NO problems with marking such an incredibly special moment in the life of a family with a special keepsake gift. In fact, I will tell you now that I received a beautiful platinum necklace from Tim when Darah was born. It has 3 interlocking circles, representing our new family. I wear it almost constantly (I’m wearing it in the picture on my home page, as a matter of fact!).

I DO have a problem with the term “push present” as it can be perceived to mean that the woman needs some sort of sparkly “treat” for delivering a baby. The work of carrying and delivering a baby FAR exceeds whatever jewels could possibly be offered, people. There’s no way to create some sort of “fair exchange…baby for bling.” I think most any mom will tell you that upon reflection, that concept doesn’t make any sense.

I think of my daughter and my family every time I touch my necklace. It is a reminder of my amazing family that I am blessed to have. I also know that one day I will pass this piece of jewelry on to Darah; it will mark some special occasion for her down the road, and it will be a true treasure to pass on. Not because I “earned” it by delivering her, but because it symbolizes the gift Tim and I were given the day she entered the world.

I have spent a bit of time thinking about what symbol might represent the arrival of our second daughter. It could be a piece of art, a sculpture for our backyard, or yes, even a piece of jewelry. I wasn’t really sure what to look for, but fortunately, something found me. I discovered the jewelry artist Vanessa Gade, and after taking just one look at her pieces, I fell madly in love. For me, her necklaces were capturing what I have been feeling about becoming a mother of two…an interesting dance between chaos and complete harmony.

Piece after piece in Vanessa’s collection show asymmetrical patterns, but all are captured inside perfect circles. There it is…the essence of my day-to-life life as a mom! The particular piece I received to review speaks so clearly to me about having two children. There are two beautiful chains that cut right through the circle (which I am inclined to think of as a symbol of my heart). They intersect with each other and look to me as though they are running and dancing, just as my children will run and dance through my head and my heart every day from now until it stops beating.  The circle is oxidized silver (though it is also available in sterling). I really like this effect. Part of the sacrifice of becoming a parent is that you do get a bit worn down as you stand up against all the elements. Perhaps I’m not as shiny as I was 5 years ago. But look at the light (the gold chains) that radiate from inside of me! Motherhood, even with all of its pains and scars, is a thing of the most tremendous beauty. I have never shined more brightly in my life. Vanessa Gade took all of those complex feelings and captured them perfectly in this piece. This necklace retails for $136 but can be yours for $95.20 (see below for details!).

Vanessa is an incredible artist. Her pieces likely speak to many different people for many different reasons, but I can guarantee that they will tug at your heart as a mother. Please take a look at her collection of stunning pieces. If you are looking for a special memento or perhaps wanting to give your significant other a few ideas for Valentine’s Day, you are sure to find something that calls out to you on her website.

Vanessa is so excited to have you learn about her collection here on Stuff Parents Need that she has decided to offer a BIG discount to my readers…30% off (if you have been following the crazy increase in gold and silver prices, then you know that to offer this sort of a discount is MAJOR)!!!! All you need to do is like Vanessa’s Facebook page and then email her at vanessagade@gmail.com with the piece of interest and she’ll set up a discount code just for you! 

Wanna see my top pick (aside from the piece you already heard about that I obviously adore)? This sterling silver piece with 3 lines going through it is simply stunning! What about you? What do you love the most from her collection? With the 30% discount, this piece could be yours for just $103.60. What a steal for something so unique and special!

Show Vanessa some love by liking her Facebook page. There will be plenty of eye candy to see there as she releases new and gorgeous designs. She also offers her fans special discounts from time to time!

Disclosure: I received a complimentary product for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are strictly my own.