My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.
Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust.
Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words. I haven't gained any weight, but it's no triumph on my part. The thought of sweets makes me want to hurl, so it's more by accident than anything. I may do a small update next week. I will see the midwife for the first time on Tuesday. Then soon after I will do a end of trimester landmark update. Boring, I know, but I do want to chart my progress so I know where I'm at.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue. Hopefully hearing the heartbeat for the first time will cheer me up. Anyhow.....planning to be back next week. Have a good weekend everybody!
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
- I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
- Just a rundown of the exercise of the last few days....
*Friday: 15 min run/walk....we took the kids to the park. There is a great track there so I took advantage of it....but at 2:00 in the afternoon it was smokin hot! This poor preggy woman just couldn't gather up what it took to go another 15 minutes. Better something than nothing...
*Saturday: nothin at all.....
*Sunday: 30 minute walk/run. When I use the road here instead of the gym, I don't run as much as I do at the gym, but I feel like I push myself almost as hard. There are alot of hills --and 1 is very steep!-- and I do a power walk that would be equivalant to a 3.5 or 4. I don't take it easy. In 30 minutes I know I'm walking a full 2 miles. It's kind of hard for me to swallow that I'm not running as much at home, but my very first trainer told me that a good power walk is just as beneficial for the body as a run, and is better for the joints. So I'm trying not to get hung up on details, and concentrate more on the fact that I'm getting quality cardio.
*Monday: 1 hour weight session, upper and lower body; 20 minute run. I've had to drop back on certain weights, and obviously cut anything that strains the abs. I do lunges, squats, leg extentions, and calf exercises; also work chest, shoulders, triceps & biceps. Just good overall toning exercises. I want to keep it all up as long as I can. Chest will probably be the first to go, because I lay flat on my back to do them. Lunges probably only for the next 3 months, because my belly will most likely get in the way one day. Amazing, feel-good workout. So totally empowering!
*Tuesday: 30 minute walk
I feel good that it's only Tuesday and I've already met my 1 weight session, 3 walk goal for the week. Tomorrow I clean houses with a friend: 3 houses from 9 am till 2 pm. So I think I'll just say that will be my exercise for tomorrow! Hopefully get another walk in Thurs, then back to the gym for more weights on Fri.
Thursday I'm going to weigh and measure. I am 12 weeks today, so by Thurs I'll only have 5 days left in my first trimester. Since it's a new month I'm just going to say it's close enough....I'm holding my breath to see how much I've "grown" and to see if I met my first trimester goal of weighing no more than 125. Wish me luck!
Thursday, 01 May 2008
- 2 mile walk today...
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
Saturday, 10 May 2008
- Just a quickie......I'm not neglecting my fitness and my diet has been great (think big green salads! Yay me!). It's just that after awhile I do get sort of bored with mundane fitness posts, and I can only imagine how it must bore all of you!
A quick rundown of the week: 4/ 30-min walks/runs (for a total of over 8 miles)...wanted to get in 1 more today but didn't. 45 minutes of Pilates (got a great video on Thurs and hope to do it at least twice a week). Didn't get my weight training session in. Hope to get that done sometime tomorrow, and start the week of right. Doesn't look like much on paper....but I know I'm doing my baby and my body good with any exercise I get. My midwife recommends at least 3/ 30-min walks per week, so I guess every one over that is a bonus. I weighed this week and I'm still at 125. Hope to stay there for a couple more weeks. Some of my jeans are getting tight, but aside from a slightly thicker waist I'm not "showing" yet.
I am almost 14 weeks. I feel fabulous, with very little sickness to speak of anymore. My energy is slowly but surely returning, and with all the fresh salads my digestive issues are easing. Baby is very active and I feel it move most days, sometimes more than once.
My only real complaint....I'm swelling. I had big Shrek ankles all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and it looks like this pregnancy is following suit. I am drinking tons of water and getting exercise. I try to watch my sodium intake, and since most of what we eat is made from scratch in my kitchen, I believe that it is low. Any suggestions? Last night my feet hurt to walk, and I know this is only the beginning. Long hot summer ahead!
Well I have dishes to wash so I need to run. I'll be around from time to time. My next appt is in 1 1/2 week, and I'm getting my bloodwork done. Hopefully everything will be good. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Wednesday, 21 May 2008
15 WEEKSDazed look and bed head. Welcome to me in the morning! Barely there, but baby bump is starting if you use a microscope. Still comfortably wearing all regular clothes. Darling pile of maternity clothes sits in a dejected heap in the closet. I really do look forward to wearing them.Saw my midwife today. I fall more in love with her each time I see her. But first.....Baby's heartbeat was immediate and strong, averaging around 150. Little tyke was kicking the doppler to protest the invasion of his (don't know the sex...just don't like to say "it"!) personal space! Sandy was surprised that I'm already feeling movement, but she didn't doubt it, based on: 1.) I'm slender; 2.) the fact that if the baby implanted closer to the front, I would feel movement sooner (that can't be known of course); and 3.) if my uterus is irregularly shaped, it would make my story different from the norm (mine is, confirmed by various medical professionals.) It's nice to be met by belief rather than the polite "you're an idiot" smile!On that note.....Baby was kicking so hard yesterday morning that when I pulled up my shirt, I could see my skin jarring. Absolutely awesome! If Duane had been near he would have seen/felt it. Totally amazing!Exercise has been good, last week only got 7 miles in () but this week have already done 6 miles plus LB weight training. I'm slowing down in the weight training arena. Sandy told me today that pushing myself too hard will only hinder my body in preparing for birth. Swelling: I showed her my Shrek ankle. Left ankle, swollen all the time, even after a good night's sleep. She gave me a ton of suggestions, including the possibility that my hip is out and the (something?) is being compressed, thus causing blood to pool in the ankle. Okay I am anything but a professional here, so I could be off in what I'm saying. But it was something about compression and pooling. I need to see my chiropractor. I don't go often, but she said proper alignment is very vital during pregnancy. And my favorite: I knew about pelvic tilts, but never grasped the importance. Since I have had both a posterior and an anterior presentation, she said that my pelvis is capable of both. Meaning, I have a 50-50 chance of experiencing the posterior horror again. The posterior rates go way down for women who faithfully do pelvic tilts throughout the pregnancy. You can bet that from this day on you will find me on my hands and knees looking like a silly fish out of water. I will take every suggestion and do everything in my power to have good, "easy", front labor!Well, I don't want to drone on and on here so I'll sign off. But let me just say that now that the sickness is completely gone, I am having an absolutely fabulous pregnancy. It honestly feels just like my first time. I am so comfortable and so full of energy. By this time in my second pregnancy, I was already in pain. I think that my body just wasn't ready after only 3 months........though I would go through it all again for my little girl. Having an almost 3 year break between pregnancies has left me as good as new and just loving every minute! In fact, as crazy as it sounds, I think time is flying too fast. I can't believe that in less than 5 weeks I will be halfway done. I want to savor every day of this miraculous time. Have a wonderful day, everyone!
Thursday, 05 June 2008
- I've been needing to update but am finding it hard to journal my fitness goals without getting completely mundane and repetitive. Ever since this turned into a pregnancy fitness blog, I've found it hard to get a complete focus because everything keeps changing. I've set strict goals for myself, and I do get satisfaction from seeing them (so far) met, but don't post often for fear of sounding obsessive. I hope it is clear that I would never in a million years do anything that would harm my baby. I am a firm believer that our bodies are much stronger than we give them credit for being, and pregnancy is no exception. It is not a time of weakness (there are obvious situations it is, of course) and as long as I listen to my body and slow down when it says to, I feel that I am doing myself good rather than harm.
Okay....Sunday was time for the beginning of the month weight/measurement. Currently 17 weeks pregnant. Weight: 126.6.....for a total weight gain of approx. 4 lbs. (Up approx 2 lbs from last month)
Sm. of waist: 28"....up 1-3/4" from last month. I FINALLY have a baby bump to speak of!!!!!! (I'll do 20 week pics in 3 weeks.)
Hips: 36-3/4" (actually measuring between 1/2 and 3/4")....up just a hair from last month. How far are my poor hips going to expand in the next 5 months??!!
Thigh: 21"....very disappointed to see a 1/2" gain. More lunges!!!!
BMI is up to 19%. I have no idea what is considered healthy for pregnancy, but my midwife has nothing but good to say about my current weight, so I'm not going to worry about figures that most may consider "too low".
Trying to get in as many 2 mile walk/run sessions during the week as I can. This week I've done only 6 miles, with a LB workout. Nothing to brag about, that's for sure. I am slowing down in my running. Definitely more power walks than runs these days (4.0 at a 3.5 incline). I'm focusing on holding an extra 20 lbs during my lunges ( goal total of 46 lunges per leg). I used to be up to holding 40 extra lbs during my high points, but those days are over for now. I do tire much more easily. It's a little hard for me to go to the gym and start a workout, only to realize that my weights and stamina are much lower than they were only a few short months ago. But I keep telling myself that anything I do now will be that much of a boost in getting me back in the game once my pregnancy is over.
Baby is doing wonderfully and is very active. I won't have an ultrasound until the end of August. I have my mandatory MD visit next week, which is required by state law and is just a formality. I go to church with my doctor, so I'm guessing it will be more of a chat session than an official exam (he doesn't even have a doppler).
My energy levels are up and aside from the ankle swelling I literally have no complaints. I saw my chiropractor last week and she said my metatarsal is broken down. Common in runners. I will need to buy insoles that cost $60!! That's highway robbery, but it should help the pain. Though there is no explanation for the swelling. She is very concerned about preeclampsia, and wants us to keep a very close eye on it. I am not worried. I had swelling like this all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and was never close to having it. Since the adjustment the swelling has drastically reduced. I've tried to eat 60 grams of protein every day and take a vitamin e capsule. It is all working, because I can see my ankle bone now. That's all I ask for!
Well I'm going to run. Hope I didn't bore you all too bad. If I don't update sooner, I'll be back in 3 weeks for a 1/2 way --20 week-- update.
Thursday, 26 June 2008
- 20 WEEKS
Not feeling chatty today. I'm off to take a nap!!!!
Wednesday, 16 July 2008
- After 3 weeks I should explain the last set of pics. No, life is not gloomy and I'm not angry at the world. I dragged myself out of bed that morning with a dull, throbbing lower backache. It had started the previous evening, and I was of course scared half out of my mind with visions of preterm labor. (I have a very active imagination. Googling symptoms and reading scary articles only add to the vicious pictures my mind already paints!) I finally called my midwife and explained my symptoms. She asked a ton of questions, and after hearing what I had to say, said that it sounded kidney related to her. She was more than willing to have us come in so she could check my cervix, but she wasn't very worried. (Clear-minded hubby helped me decide that the hour-long drive might be overkill if the midwife wasn't worried!) I took her advice and got 100% cranberry juice, which I drowned myself with, along with tons of water. The symptoms left within a few hours.
She had me call her the next day to see how I was doing. She said that I was the third person in 3 days to call with the same symptoms. (This made me feel much less stupid for sounding a false alarm!) The heat had been very intense that week, and it served as a very real reminder that pregnant women NEED water, and lots of it. We had been spending hours at the lake, and even though I felt like I was drinking water, I had not been compensating enough for the fluid loss during hours in the sun. I have not made that mistake since.
Things I love about Sandy:
- When I have a pregnancy concern, she is the one who picks up the phone. I have direct, anytime contact with my healthcare provider.
- She asks tons of questions, and gets a complete feel for the problem before she comes to a conclusion.
- She is very willing to see me at any time. She leaves the choice up to me.
- She reminds me that I also have the option of using the emergency room if I need immediate care. (We live an hour from the birth center.)
So things have been going well. Passing the halfway point has meant that slowly but surely, the easy-breezy stage of pregnancy is coming to a close. I definitely "look" pregnant now, and I can feel my center of gravity shifting. I am not heavy or uncomfortable, but bending over is becoming a little awkward, and it's not always comfortable to lift a 3-and-4-year-old. Things like insomnia and heartburn are more frequent visitors. I feel grouchy and sad at times, even though I have no idea why. My appetite is insatiable!
On the other hand, I have a very real, very tiny little baby inside of me that I can actually "play" with. Duane felt it move for the first time on Saturday night. I love to feel around and find where it's tiny body is pushed against me. Last night we (the baby and I) played a game where I pushed on it's body, and it wiggled like a little fish. I could feel it's body against my hand; it's tiny hands to the right, and it's tiny feet to the left. It never did move where I couldn't feel it. Pregnancy is miraculous.
I weighed and measured at the beginning of the month, but I'm not going to post it anymore. (No, I didn't balloon and that is my way of hiding it. I had gained a couple of pounds, but all the measurements were still the same as last month, except for my waist.) I just....don't feel like it. I need to focus on the fact that my body is changing for a beautiful reason, and that measurements are not important at this time. In less than 4 months I will have my body "back" and I can obsess all I want, then. Until that time, I need to keep my focus on things that benefit the baby and not on my body image.
A few weeks ago I upped my walk from 2, to 3 miles. I am running very little these days, and I wanted to put in an extra mile to compensate. My average walk is a 4.0, but there are days that I manage to maintain a 4.5. Other days I lag at a 3.5. (This is all calculated after I get home. My walks are outside, on our hilly country road.) I try to walk every day, but I don't always get it done. So far this week I haven't missed a day.
I would like to be more consistent with my posts. My moods control alot of that these days. I have been extremely turned off lately by the vehemence that is often directed towards the world of midwifery. I am reminded over and over that it is something that one has to choose for themselves, NOT something that can ever be shared with somebody. I have alot of ignorant statements to eat, myself. I am realizing more and more that all the attitude about it being "unsafe" and all the other popular opinions, are simply the result of a complete lack of research. END of statement.
I'll post more pics at 25 weeks. I'm popping out like a balloon these days. I love it! I'm going to exchange my metal barbell for a purple flexible"barbell" insert (hubby likes purple). Won't that make a cute preggy bellybutton? (You really don't have to answer that!)
Serious question: Have any of you experienced extreme sugar cravings during pregnancy? (Like PMS sugar cravings). Eating tons of protein and fresh fruits doesn't help. I feel like I NEED sugary carbs! Heeeeelllllppp!! If any of you can offer alternatives that helped, I would appreciate it greatly. My self control is decidedly lacking in this respect. I may soon resemble the Michelin man if I don't get some help!
Goodnight to all.....
Tuesday, 12 August 2008
- 27 weeks today....last week in my second trimester!! I canNOT believe how fast time is flying!!!!! I will be on in a week to do 28 week pics and progress update as far as meeting goals. See ya then!
Monday, 18 August 2008
12 weeks to go.....(hopefully 10!)
28 Weeks (tomorrow)
Yay for the 3rd trimester! I can't believe it's here already. This pregnancy is flying by in a way I have never experienced before. Maybe it's because I know the reality of sleepless nights? I'm so in love with this little tyke and I truly can't wait to meet him/her.....but I also know that my life is much easier right now than it will be in less than 3 months!
So the big weigh-in.....my goal was to not weigh more than 135 now. I weighed in this morning at 137.2. So I have gained a total of 2.2 lbs more than my goal, for a total pregnancy gain so far of 14 lbs. To tell you the truth, I am relieved and pleased. When I set that goal, I had absolutely no hope of meeting it. But I guess countless 3 mile walks, and (trying...sometimes failing) to choose reasonable healthy foods is paying off. However I don't want to speak too soon.....I could completely blow it in the next 12 weeks. Next week I have my sugar test and ultrasound. I am not worried in the least about the sugar test....but if I fail it, I'll just work that much harder to keep a healthy diet. I go in next Thursday, so I'm going to watch my sugars between now and then. Something I did not realize in my previous pregnancies is that what you eat in the days leading up to your sugar test can make a difference as to the results. I'm very excited about the ultrasound. It's always such a comfort to me to have a visual assurance that Baby is developing okay. (And no, we're not finding out the sex.) It will also be nice to be able to say a bit more "definite" due date....although I totally know that 38-42 weeks is a healthy, full-term pregnancy! I have gone early with both of my others (2 weeks with Ty, 3 days with Sis) so I have major hopes that it will happen again this time. An overdue baby would be new territory for me, and I have to admit that it's hard to think of it happening. Second trimester has brought more energy than I have ever experienced before. I feel upbeat and physically wonderful. It's a bit hard to bend over now, and I have told hubby that soon I'll ask him to tie my shoes for me! But seriously, I feel fabulous and I'm in no way ready for this pregnancy to be over (except of course that I want to meet my sweet Baby!)I tried to upload a pic and for some reason my Xanga isn't letting me. I'll try again and hopefully I'll be able to show you my real, live, finally here baby bump!Well it's late so I need to run. I'll try to post again around 32 weeks or so, if nothing interesting happens before then!
Wednesday, 08 October 2008
- Hey if you think about it could you breathe a prayer that my baby will turn soon...it's breech and even though it's too early to be (too) worried, I could have a baby in 3 1/2 weeks. I'm doing stretches and a few other things the midwife suggested so I'm hoping Baby will respond soon....
I've got to run, but I promise I'll try to remember to have hubby take a pic soon. Trust me, there's a serious baby belly to show off now!
Tuesday, 14 October 2008
35 Weeks
33 days till D-day! I'm so ready to meet this little tyke. I feel incredible for being so far pregnant. Nothing major to whine about. In a few more days I can safely start a few natural "labor prep" things. I'm already drinking red raspberry leaf tea and being diligent about walking every day. I feel so lame but the last couple walks I've just dropped back to 30 minutes, regardless of how far I get (less than 2 miles.) Baby has been sitting so far down in my pelvis and it makes me waddle very uncomfortably. I think any exercise this late in the game is better than nothing??? I do hope so, because I just don't have the stamina for the 3 mile power walk that included a very steep hill. (I have so much pressure in my pelvis and the hill just takes it out of me. Big cop out??) I might try it a few more times but it seems like 30 minutes of sustained exercise is better than nothing. I braved the weight gain subject with the midwife last week for the first time. She had never said anything so I assumed it was okay. When I told her that I was hoping to only gain 25 lbs, she did say that wasn't enough for as small as I started out. But I've measured right all along and that is far more important to her than what the scales say. So I have officially quit stressing about my weight. It's a nice feeling. If I continue like I have been I think I'll manage to see a 28-30 lb gain. Anyhow I'm not worried about it. Has anyone else experienced really bad belly burn around where your abs split, right above the belly button? Man it's tender! Like if the baby pushes on it from inside, or if it gets bumped. This being my 3rd pregnancy I have totally missed out on all the itchy skin and painful stretching that goes with fresh skin being abused. But that one tender place makes up for all of it! Natural birth moms: I'm very interested in hearing your birth stories, as well as your recommendations for pain management. What positions worked for you? Did you experience back labor, and if so, what helped the most? (I had it with T, not with C.) Let me say here that I absolutely LOVE reading birth stories, with all the details. I have read countless ones since deciding on a natural birth, and if you would be interested in sharing, I would love to hear about it. Message or email me and don't worry about keeping it short. I have learned so much from details. I just want to experience what giving birth is truly like, minus the drugs and interferences. Please include any advice you have to offer. Thanks in advance! Oh and here's one to make me blush and you laugh. My biggest natural birthing fear is the "ring of fire". Contractions I can handle, but I have never felt that lovely sensation. Is it for real and how bad does it hurt and what exactly can you do to help and does a water birth make it better? Okay I am for real blushing. I'll try to post another preggy pic before Baby arrives. Just for whatever it's worth, a belly stud adds a cute dimension to a preggy belly. TMI, I know. Sorry bout that. When I go into labor I have all good intentions of using this site for labor updates until we leave for the birthing center. I've had other Xanga buddies that have done that and it is so awesome to follow the progress. My past labors have been very long so I'm anticipating many hours of updates before leaving you. Okay gotta run.....TTYL!!
Thursday, 23 October 2008
- Went to see the chiropractor yesterday. I get so much more than an adjustment with her....she used to work as part of a high risk delivery team in a teaching hospital. Not only is she gifted at explaining things, but she is a wealth of information about bones and pregnancy.
My pelvis has been giving me a few uncomfortable days lately. I think maybe the fact that one leg was an inch shorter than the other played it's part! She freaked when she saw the size of my ankles. In fact she said my face was swollen too. I admitted that I had cleaned a house that day and pretty much been on my feet since 6: a.m. She said that is OVER. Guess I'll have to get hubby to help steam the carpets this weekend.
She checked Baby's position, and it is head down! Such an answer to prayer! I was beginning to stress about it pretty bad.
Carpel tunnel is agonizing my right arm. I totally forgot to ask her about it. Any suggestions from any of you? It wakes me up multiple times a night. And plucking my eyebrows is really a chore since my hand goes numb every 20 seconds!
37 weeks on Saturday! I wonder if I'll go early this time. I really don't care as far as wanting the pregnancy to be over....it's been such a great time and I'm not terribly uncomfortable. I'm mainly just very hormonal and everything makes me want to burst into tears.
And it would be nice to get the bees out of my arm! But really I'm just very, very anxious to meet this tiny tyke and call it by name and hold it and kiss it and....ya know, just be its mama. I can't wait! I have such vivid dreams at night....sometimes about the birth, sometimes about meeting the baby. So far I've had a boy and a girl.
Well my last kidder just got out of bed. I'm set for a full day of doing nothing but propping my feet up and spending time with my tykes. Oh and drinking water and eating protein. We're all fighting chest colds so I'll throw some vitamin C in there too!
Be back in the next week or so with another pic....then hopefully soon some good news!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words. I haven't gained any weight, but it's no triumph on my part. The thought of sweets makes me want to hurl, so it's more by accident than anything. I may do a small update next week. I will see the midwife for the first time on Tuesday. Then soon after I will do a end of trimester landmark update. Boring, I know, but I do want to chart my progress so I know where I'm at.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue. Hopefully hearing the heartbeat for the first time will cheer me up. Anyhow.....planning to be back next week. Have a good weekend everybody!
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
- I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
- Just a rundown of the exercise of the last few days....
*Friday: 15 min run/walk....we took the kids to the park. There is a great track there so I took advantage of it....but at 2:00 in the afternoon it was smokin hot! This poor preggy woman just couldn't gather up what it took to go another 15 minutes. Better something than nothing...
*Saturday: nothin at all.....
*Sunday: 30 minute walk/run. When I use the road here instead of the gym, I don't run as much as I do at the gym, but I feel like I push myself almost as hard. There are alot of hills --and 1 is very steep!-- and I do a power walk that would be equivalant to a 3.5 or 4. I don't take it easy. In 30 minutes I know I'm walking a full 2 miles. It's kind of hard for me to swallow that I'm not running as much at home, but my very first trainer told me that a good power walk is just as beneficial for the body as a run, and is better for the joints. So I'm trying not to get hung up on details, and concentrate more on the fact that I'm getting quality cardio.
*Monday: 1 hour weight session, upper and lower body; 20 minute run. I've had to drop back on certain weights, and obviously cut anything that strains the abs. I do lunges, squats, leg extentions, and calf exercises; also work chest, shoulders, triceps & biceps. Just good overall toning exercises. I want to keep it all up as long as I can. Chest will probably be the first to go, because I lay flat on my back to do them. Lunges probably only for the next 3 months, because my belly will most likely get in the way one day. Amazing, feel-good workout. So totally empowering!
*Tuesday: 30 minute walk
I feel good that it's only Tuesday and I've already met my 1 weight session, 3 walk goal for the week. Tomorrow I clean houses with a friend: 3 houses from 9 am till 2 pm. So I think I'll just say that will be my exercise for tomorrow! Hopefully get another walk in Thurs, then back to the gym for more weights on Fri.
Thursday I'm going to weigh and measure. I am 12 weeks today, so by Thurs I'll only have 5 days left in my first trimester. Since it's a new month I'm just going to say it's close enough....I'm holding my breath to see how much I've "grown" and to see if I met my first trimester goal of weighing no more than 125. Wish me luck!
Thursday, 01 May 2008
- 2 mile walk today...
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
Saturday, 10 May 2008
- Just a quickie......I'm not neglecting my fitness and my diet has been great (think big green salads! Yay me!). It's just that after awhile I do get sort of bored with mundane fitness posts, and I can only imagine how it must bore all of you!
A quick rundown of the week: 4/ 30-min walks/runs (for a total of over 8 miles)...wanted to get in 1 more today but didn't. 45 minutes of Pilates (got a great video on Thurs and hope to do it at least twice a week). Didn't get my weight training session in. Hope to get that done sometime tomorrow, and start the week of right. Doesn't look like much on paper....but I know I'm doing my baby and my body good with any exercise I get. My midwife recommends at least 3/ 30-min walks per week, so I guess every one over that is a bonus. I weighed this week and I'm still at 125. Hope to stay there for a couple more weeks. Some of my jeans are getting tight, but aside from a slightly thicker waist I'm not "showing" yet.
I am almost 14 weeks. I feel fabulous, with very little sickness to speak of anymore. My energy is slowly but surely returning, and with all the fresh salads my digestive issues are easing. Baby is very active and I feel it move most days, sometimes more than once.
My only real complaint....I'm swelling. I had big Shrek ankles all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and it looks like this pregnancy is following suit. I am drinking tons of water and getting exercise. I try to watch my sodium intake, and since most of what we eat is made from scratch in my kitchen, I believe that it is low. Any suggestions? Last night my feet hurt to walk, and I know this is only the beginning. Long hot summer ahead!
Well I have dishes to wash so I need to run. I'll be around from time to time. My next appt is in 1 1/2 week, and I'm getting my bloodwork done. Hopefully everything will be good. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Wednesday, 21 May 2008
- 15 WEEKSDazed look and bed head. Welcome to me in the morning! Barely there, but baby bump is starting if you use a microscope. Still comfortably wearing all regular clothes. Darling pile of maternity clothes sits in a dejected heap in the closet. I really do look forward to wearing them.Saw my midwife today. I fall more in love with her each time I see her. But first.....Baby's heartbeat was immediate and strong, averaging around 150. Little tyke was kicking the doppler to protest the invasion of his (don't know the sex...just don't like to say "it"!) personal space! Sandy was surprised that I'm already feeling movement, but she didn't doubt it, based on: 1.) I'm slender; 2.) the fact that if the baby implanted closer to the front, I would feel movement sooner (that can't be known of course); and 3.) if my uterus is irregularly shaped, it would make my story different from the norm (mine is, confirmed by various medical professionals.) It's nice to be met by belief rather than the polite "you're an idiot" smile!On that note.....Baby was kicking so hard yesterday morning that when I pulled up my shirt, I could see my skin jarring. Absolutely awesome! If Duane had been near he would have seen/felt it. Totally amazing!Exercise has been good, last week only got 7 miles in () but this week have already done 6 miles plus LB weight training. I'm slowing down in the weight training arena. Sandy told me today that pushing myself too hard will only hinder my body in preparing for birth. Swelling: I showed her my Shrek ankle. Left ankle, swollen all the time, even after a good night's sleep. She gave me a ton of suggestions, including the possibility that my hip is out and the (something?) is being compressed, thus causing blood to pool in the ankle. Okay I am anything but a professional here, so I could be off in what I'm saying. But it was something about compression and pooling. I need to see my chiropractor. I don't go often, but she said proper alignment is very vital during pregnancy. And my favorite: I knew about pelvic tilts, but never grasped the importance. Since I have had both a posterior and an anterior presentation, she said that my pelvis is capable of both. Meaning, I have a 50-50 chance of experiencing the posterior horror again. The posterior rates go way down for women who faithfully do pelvic tilts throughout the pregnancy. You can bet that from this day on you will find me on my hands and knees looking like a silly fish out of water. I will take every suggestion and do everything in my power to have good, "easy", front labor!Well, I don't want to drone on and on here so I'll sign off. But let me just say that now that the sickness is completely gone, I am having an absolutely fabulous pregnancy. It honestly feels just like my first time. I am so comfortable and so full of energy. By this time in my second pregnancy, I was already in pain. I think that my body just wasn't ready after only 3 months........though I would go through it all again for my little girl. Having an almost 3 year break between pregnancies has left me as good as new and just loving every minute! In fact, as crazy as it sounds, I think time is flying too fast. I can't believe that in less than 5 weeks I will be halfway done. I want to savor every day of this miraculous time. Have a wonderful day, everyone!
Thursday, 05 June 2008
- I've been needing to update but am finding it hard to journal my fitness goals without getting completely mundane and repetitive. Ever since this turned into a pregnancy fitness blog, I've found it hard to get a complete focus because everything keeps changing. I've set strict goals for myself, and I do get satisfaction from seeing them (so far) met, but don't post often for fear of sounding obsessive. I hope it is clear that I would never in a million years do anything that would harm my baby. I am a firm believer that our bodies are much stronger than we give them credit for being, and pregnancy is no exception. It is not a time of weakness (there are obvious situations it is, of course) and as long as I listen to my body and slow down when it says to, I feel that I am doing myself good rather than harm.
Okay....Sunday was time for the beginning of the month weight/measurement. Currently 17 weeks pregnant. Weight: 126.6.....for a total weight gain of approx. 4 lbs. (Up approx 2 lbs from last month)
Sm. of waist: 28"....up 1-3/4" from last month. I FINALLY have a baby bump to speak of!!!!!! (I'll do 20 week pics in 3 weeks.)
Hips: 36-3/4" (actually measuring between 1/2 and 3/4")....up just a hair from last month. How far are my poor hips going to expand in the next 5 months??!!
Thigh: 21"....very disappointed to see a 1/2" gain. More lunges!!!!
BMI is up to 19%. I have no idea what is considered healthy for pregnancy, but my midwife has nothing but good to say about my current weight, so I'm not going to worry about figures that most may consider "too low".
Trying to get in as many 2 mile walk/run sessions during the week as I can. This week I've done only 6 miles, with a LB workout. Nothing to brag about, that's for sure. I am slowing down in my running. Definitely more power walks than runs these days (4.0 at a 3.5 incline). I'm focusing on holding an extra 20 lbs during my lunges ( goal total of 46 lunges per leg). I used to be up to holding 40 extra lbs during my high points, but those days are over for now. I do tire much more easily. It's a little hard for me to go to the gym and start a workout, only to realize that my weights and stamina are much lower than they were only a few short months ago. But I keep telling myself that anything I do now will be that much of a boost in getting me back in the game once my pregnancy is over.
Baby is doing wonderfully and is very active. I won't have an ultrasound until the end of August. I have my mandatory MD visit next week, which is required by state law and is just a formality. I go to church with my doctor, so I'm guessing it will be more of a chat session than an official exam (he doesn't even have a doppler).
My energy levels are up and aside from the ankle swelling I literally have no complaints. I saw my chiropractor last week and she said my metatarsal is broken down. Common in runners. I will need to buy insoles that cost $60!! That's highway robbery, but it should help the pain. Though there is no explanation for the swelling. She is very concerned about preeclampsia, and wants us to keep a very close eye on it. I am not worried. I had swelling like this all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and was never close to having it. Since the adjustment the swelling has drastically reduced. I've tried to eat 60 grams of protein every day and take a vitamin e capsule. It is all working, because I can see my ankle bone now. That's all I ask for!
Well I'm going to run. Hope I didn't bore you all too bad. If I don't update sooner, I'll be back in 3 weeks for a 1/2 way --20 week-- update.
Thursday, 26 June 2008
- 20 WEEKS Not feeling chatty today. I'm off to take a nap!!!!
Wednesday, 16 July 2008
- After 3 weeks I should explain the last set of pics. No, life is not gloomy and I'm not angry at the world. I dragged myself out of bed that morning with a dull, throbbing lower backache. It had started the previous evening, and I was of course scared half out of my mind with visions of preterm labor. (I have a very active imagination. Googling symptoms and reading scary articles only add to the vicious pictures my mind already paints!) I finally called my midwife and explained my symptoms. She asked a ton of questions, and after hearing what I had to say, said that it sounded kidney related to her. She was more than willing to have us come in so she could check my cervix, but she wasn't very worried. (Clear-minded hubby helped me decide that the hour-long drive might be overkill if the midwife wasn't worried!) I took her advice and got 100% cranberry juice, which I drowned myself with, along with tons of water. The symptoms left within a few hours.
She had me call her the next day to see how I was doing. She said that I was the third person in 3 days to call with the same symptoms. (This made me feel much less stupid for sounding a false alarm!) The heat had been very intense that week, and it served as a very real reminder that pregnant women NEED water, and lots of it. We had been spending hours at the lake, and even though I felt like I was drinking water, I had not been compensating enough for the fluid loss during hours in the sun. I have not made that mistake since.
Things I love about Sandy:
- When I have a pregnancy concern, she is the one who picks up the phone. I have direct, anytime contact with my healthcare provider.
- She asks tons of questions, and gets a complete feel for the problem before she comes to a conclusion.
- She is very willing to see me at any time. She leaves the choice up to me.
- She reminds me that I also have the option of using the emergency room if I need immediate care. (We live an hour from the birth center.)
So things have been going well. Passing the halfway point has meant that slowly but surely, the easy-breezy stage of pregnancy is coming to a close. I definitely "look" pregnant now, and I can feel my center of gravity shifting. I am not heavy or uncomfortable, but bending over is becoming a little awkward, and it's not always comfortable to lift a 3-and-4-year-old. Things like insomnia and heartburn are more frequent visitors. I feel grouchy and sad at times, even though I have no idea why. My appetite is insatiable!
On the other hand, I have a very real, very tiny little baby inside of me that I can actually "play" with. Duane felt it move for the first time on Saturday night. I love to feel around and find where it's tiny body is pushed against me. Last night we (the baby and I) played a game where I pushed on it's body, and it wiggled like a little fish. I could feel it's body against my hand; it's tiny hands to the right, and it's tiny feet to the left. It never did move where I couldn't feel it. Pregnancy is miraculous.
I weighed and measured at the beginning of the month, but I'm not going to post it anymore. (No, I didn't balloon and that is my way of hiding it. I had gained a couple of pounds, but all the measurements were still the same as last month, except for my waist.) I just....don't feel like it. I need to focus on the fact that my body is changing for a beautiful reason, and that measurements are not important at this time. In less than 4 months I will have my body "back" and I can obsess all I want, then. Until that time, I need to keep my focus on things that benefit the baby and not on my body image.
A few weeks ago I upped my walk from 2, to 3 miles. I am running very little these days, and I wanted to put in an extra mile to compensate. My average walk is a 4.0, but there are days that I manage to maintain a 4.5. Other days I lag at a 3.5. (This is all calculated after I get home. My walks are outside, on our hilly country road.) I try to walk every day, but I don't always get it done. So far this week I haven't missed a day.
I would like to be more consistent with my posts. My moods control alot of that these days. I have been extremely turned off lately by the vehemence that is often directed towards the world of midwifery. I am reminded over and over that it is something that one has to choose for themselves, NOT something that can ever be shared with somebody. I have alot of ignorant statements to eat, myself. I am realizing more and more that all the attitude about it being "unsafe" and all the other popular opinions, are simply the result of a complete lack of research. END of statement.
I'll post more pics at 25 weeks. I'm popping out like a balloon these days. I love it! I'm going to exchange my metal barbell for a purple flexible"barbell" insert (hubby likes purple). Won't that make a cute preggy bellybutton? (You really don't have to answer that!)
Serious question: Have any of you experienced extreme sugar cravings during pregnancy? (Like PMS sugar cravings). Eating tons of protein and fresh fruits doesn't help. I feel like I NEED sugary carbs! Heeeeelllllppp!! If any of you can offer alternatives that helped, I would appreciate it greatly. My self control is decidedly lacking in this respect. I may soon resemble the Michelin man if I don't get some help!
Goodnight to all.....
Tuesday, 12 August 2008
- 27 weeks today....last week in my second trimester!! I canNOT believe how fast time is flying!!!!! I will be on in a week to do 28 week pics and progress update as far as meeting goals. See ya then!
Monday, 18 August 2008
12 weeks to go.....(hopefully 10!)
28 Weeks (tomorrow) Yay for the 3rd trimester! I can't believe it's here already. This pregnancy is flying by in a way I have never experienced before. Maybe it's because I know the reality of sleepless nights? I'm so in love with this little tyke and I truly can't wait to meet him/her.....but I also know that my life is much easier right now than it will be in less than 3 months!So the big weigh-in.....my goal was to not weigh more than 135 now. I weighed in this morning at 137.2. So I have gained a total of 2.2 lbs more than my goal, for a total pregnancy gain so far of 14 lbs. To tell you the truth, I am relieved and pleased. When I set that goal, I had absolutely no hope of meeting it. But I guess countless 3 mile walks, and (trying...sometimes failing) to choose reasonable healthy foods is paying off. However I don't want to speak too soon.....I could completely blow it in the next 12 weeks. Next week I have my sugar test and ultrasound. I am not worried in the least about the sugar test....but if I fail it, I'll just work that much harder to keep a healthy diet. I go in next Thursday, so I'm going to watch my sugars between now and then. Something I did not realize in my previous pregnancies is that what you eat in the days leading up to your sugar test can make a difference as to the results. I'm very excited about the ultrasound. It's always such a comfort to me to have a visual assurance that Baby is developing okay. (And no, we're not finding out the sex.) It will also be nice to be able to say a bit more "definite" due date....although I totally know that 38-42 weeks is a healthy, full-term pregnancy! I have gone early with both of my others (2 weeks with Ty, 3 days with Sis) so I have major hopes that it will happen again this time. An overdue baby would be new territory for me, and I have to admit that it's hard to think of it happening. Second trimester has brought more energy than I have ever experienced before. I feel upbeat and physically wonderful. It's a bit hard to bend over now, and I have told hubby that soon I'll ask him to tie my shoes for me! But seriously, I feel fabulous and I'm in no way ready for this pregnancy to be over (except of course that I want to meet my sweet Baby!)I tried to upload a pic and for some reason my Xanga isn't letting me. I'll try again and hopefully I'll be able to show you my real, live, finally here baby bump!Well it's late so I need to run. I'll try to post again around 32 weeks or so, if nothing interesting happens before then!
Wednesday, 08 October 2008
- Hey if you think about it could you breathe a prayer that my baby will turn soon...it's breech and even though it's too early to be (too) worried, I could have a baby in 3 1/2 weeks. I'm doing stretches and a few other things the midwife suggested so I'm hoping Baby will respond soon....
I've got to run, but I promise I'll try to remember to have hubby take a pic soon. Trust me, there's a serious baby belly to show off now!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words. I haven't gained any weight, but it's no triumph on my part. The thought of sweets makes me want to hurl, so it's more by accident than anything. I may do a small update next week. I will see the midwife for the first time on Tuesday. Then soon after I will do a end of trimester landmark update. Boring, I know, but I do want to chart my progress so I know where I'm at.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue. Hopefully hearing the heartbeat for the first time will cheer me up. Anyhow.....planning to be back next week. Have a good weekend everybody!
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
- I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
- Just a rundown of the exercise of the last few days....
*Friday: 15 min run/walk....we took the kids to the park. There is a great track there so I took advantage of it....but at 2:00 in the afternoon it was smokin hot! This poor preggy woman just couldn't gather up what it took to go another 15 minutes. Better something than nothing...
*Saturday: nothin at all.....
*Sunday: 30 minute walk/run. When I use the road here instead of the gym, I don't run as much as I do at the gym, but I feel like I push myself almost as hard. There are alot of hills --and 1 is very steep!-- and I do a power walk that would be equivalant to a 3.5 or 4. I don't take it easy. In 30 minutes I know I'm walking a full 2 miles. It's kind of hard for me to swallow that I'm not running as much at home, but my very first trainer told me that a good power walk is just as beneficial for the body as a run, and is better for the joints. So I'm trying not to get hung up on details, and concentrate more on the fact that I'm getting quality cardio.
*Monday: 1 hour weight session, upper and lower body; 20 minute run. I've had to drop back on certain weights, and obviously cut anything that strains the abs. I do lunges, squats, leg extentions, and calf exercises; also work chest, shoulders, triceps & biceps. Just good overall toning exercises. I want to keep it all up as long as I can. Chest will probably be the first to go, because I lay flat on my back to do them. Lunges probably only for the next 3 months, because my belly will most likely get in the way one day. Amazing, feel-good workout. So totally empowering!
*Tuesday: 30 minute walk
I feel good that it's only Tuesday and I've already met my 1 weight session, 3 walk goal for the week. Tomorrow I clean houses with a friend: 3 houses from 9 am till 2 pm. So I think I'll just say that will be my exercise for tomorrow! Hopefully get another walk in Thurs, then back to the gym for more weights on Fri.
Thursday I'm going to weigh and measure. I am 12 weeks today, so by Thurs I'll only have 5 days left in my first trimester. Since it's a new month I'm just going to say it's close enough....I'm holding my breath to see how much I've "grown" and to see if I met my first trimester goal of weighing no more than 125. Wish me luck!
Thursday, 01 May 2008
- 2 mile walk today...
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
Saturday, 10 May 2008
- Just a quickie......I'm not neglecting my fitness and my diet has been great (think big green salads! Yay me!). It's just that after awhile I do get sort of bored with mundane fitness posts, and I can only imagine how it must bore all of you!
A quick rundown of the week: 4/ 30-min walks/runs (for a total of over 8 miles)...wanted to get in 1 more today but didn't. 45 minutes of Pilates (got a great video on Thurs and hope to do it at least twice a week). Didn't get my weight training session in. Hope to get that done sometime tomorrow, and start the week of right. Doesn't look like much on paper....but I know I'm doing my baby and my body good with any exercise I get. My midwife recommends at least 3/ 30-min walks per week, so I guess every one over that is a bonus. I weighed this week and I'm still at 125. Hope to stay there for a couple more weeks. Some of my jeans are getting tight, but aside from a slightly thicker waist I'm not "showing" yet.
I am almost 14 weeks. I feel fabulous, with very little sickness to speak of anymore. My energy is slowly but surely returning, and with all the fresh salads my digestive issues are easing. Baby is very active and I feel it move most days, sometimes more than once.
My only real complaint....I'm swelling. I had big Shrek ankles all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and it looks like this pregnancy is following suit. I am drinking tons of water and getting exercise. I try to watch my sodium intake, and since most of what we eat is made from scratch in my kitchen, I believe that it is low. Any suggestions? Last night my feet hurt to walk, and I know this is only the beginning. Long hot summer ahead!
Well I have dishes to wash so I need to run. I'll be around from time to time. My next appt is in 1 1/2 week, and I'm getting my bloodwork done. Hopefully everything will be good. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Wednesday, 21 May 2008
- 15 WEEKSDazed look and bed head. Welcome to me in the morning! Barely there, but baby bump is starting if you use a microscope. Still comfortably wearing all regular clothes. Darling pile of maternity clothes sits in a dejected heap in the closet. I really do look forward to wearing them.Saw my midwife today. I fall more in love with her each time I see her. But first.....Baby's heartbeat was immediate and strong, averaging around 150. Little tyke was kicking the doppler to protest the invasion of his (don't know the sex...just don't like to say "it"!) personal space! Sandy was surprised that I'm already feeling movement, but she didn't doubt it, based on: 1.) I'm slender; 2.) the fact that if the baby implanted closer to the front, I would feel movement sooner (that can't be known of course); and 3.) if my uterus is irregularly shaped, it would make my story different from the norm (mine is, confirmed by various medical professionals.) It's nice to be met by belief rather than the polite "you're an idiot" smile!On that note.....Baby was kicking so hard yesterday morning that when I pulled up my shirt, I could see my skin jarring. Absolutely awesome! If Duane had been near he would have seen/felt it. Totally amazing!Exercise has been good, last week only got 7 miles in () but this week have already done 6 miles plus LB weight training. I'm slowing down in the weight training arena. Sandy told me today that pushing myself too hard will only hinder my body in preparing for birth. Swelling: I showed her my Shrek ankle. Left ankle, swollen all the time, even after a good night's sleep. She gave me a ton of suggestions, including the possibility that my hip is out and the (something?) is being compressed, thus causing blood to pool in the ankle. Okay I am anything but a professional here, so I could be off in what I'm saying. But it was something about compression and pooling. I need to see my chiropractor. I don't go often, but she said proper alignment is very vital during pregnancy. And my favorite: I knew about pelvic tilts, but never grasped the importance. Since I have had both a posterior and an anterior presentation, she said that my pelvis is capable of both. Meaning, I have a 50-50 chance of experiencing the posterior horror again. The posterior rates go way down for women who faithfully do pelvic tilts throughout the pregnancy. You can bet that from this day on you will find me on my hands and knees looking like a silly fish out of water. I will take every suggestion and do everything in my power to have good, "easy", front labor!Well, I don't want to drone on and on here so I'll sign off. But let me just say that now that the sickness is completely gone, I am having an absolutely fabulous pregnancy. It honestly feels just like my first time. I am so comfortable and so full of energy. By this time in my second pregnancy, I was already in pain. I think that my body just wasn't ready after only 3 months........though I would go through it all again for my little girl. Having an almost 3 year break between pregnancies has left me as good as new and just loving every minute! In fact, as crazy as it sounds, I think time is flying too fast. I can't believe that in less than 5 weeks I will be halfway done. I want to savor every day of this miraculous time. Have a wonderful day, everyone!
Thursday, 05 June 2008
- I've been needing to update but am finding it hard to journal my fitness goals without getting completely mundane and repetitive. Ever since this turned into a pregnancy fitness blog, I've found it hard to get a complete focus because everything keeps changing. I've set strict goals for myself, and I do get satisfaction from seeing them (so far) met, but don't post often for fear of sounding obsessive. I hope it is clear that I would never in a million years do anything that would harm my baby. I am a firm believer that our bodies are much stronger than we give them credit for being, and pregnancy is no exception. It is not a time of weakness (there are obvious situations it is, of course) and as long as I listen to my body and slow down when it says to, I feel that I am doing myself good rather than harm.
Okay....Sunday was time for the beginning of the month weight/measurement. Currently 17 weeks pregnant. Weight: 126.6.....for a total weight gain of approx. 4 lbs. (Up approx 2 lbs from last month)
Sm. of waist: 28"....up 1-3/4" from last month. I FINALLY have a baby bump to speak of!!!!!! (I'll do 20 week pics in 3 weeks.)
Hips: 36-3/4" (actually measuring between 1/2 and 3/4")....up just a hair from last month. How far are my poor hips going to expand in the next 5 months??!!
Thigh: 21"....very disappointed to see a 1/2" gain. More lunges!!!!
BMI is up to 19%. I have no idea what is considered healthy for pregnancy, but my midwife has nothing but good to say about my current weight, so I'm not going to worry about figures that most may consider "too low".
Trying to get in as many 2 mile walk/run sessions during the week as I can. This week I've done only 6 miles, with a LB workout. Nothing to brag about, that's for sure. I am slowing down in my running. Definitely more power walks than runs these days (4.0 at a 3.5 incline). I'm focusing on holding an extra 20 lbs during my lunges ( goal total of 46 lunges per leg). I used to be up to holding 40 extra lbs during my high points, but those days are over for now. I do tire much more easily. It's a little hard for me to go to the gym and start a workout, only to realize that my weights and stamina are much lower than they were only a few short months ago. But I keep telling myself that anything I do now will be that much of a boost in getting me back in the game once my pregnancy is over.
Baby is doing wonderfully and is very active. I won't have an ultrasound until the end of August. I have my mandatory MD visit next week, which is required by state law and is just a formality. I go to church with my doctor, so I'm guessing it will be more of a chat session than an official exam (he doesn't even have a doppler).
My energy levels are up and aside from the ankle swelling I literally have no complaints. I saw my chiropractor last week and she said my metatarsal is broken down. Common in runners. I will need to buy insoles that cost $60!! That's highway robbery, but it should help the pain. Though there is no explanation for the swelling. She is very concerned about preeclampsia, and wants us to keep a very close eye on it. I am not worried. I had swelling like this all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and was never close to having it. Since the adjustment the swelling has drastically reduced. I've tried to eat 60 grams of protein every day and take a vitamin e capsule. It is all working, because I can see my ankle bone now. That's all I ask for!
Well I'm going to run. Hope I didn't bore you all too bad. If I don't update sooner, I'll be back in 3 weeks for a 1/2 way --20 week-- update.
Thursday, 26 June 2008
- 20 WEEKS Not feeling chatty today. I'm off to take a nap!!!!
Wednesday, 16 July 2008
- After 3 weeks I should explain the last set of pics. No, life is not gloomy and I'm not angry at the world. I dragged myself out of bed that morning with a dull, throbbing lower backache. It had started the previous evening, and I was of course scared half out of my mind with visions of preterm labor. (I have a very active imagination. Googling symptoms and reading scary articles only add to the vicious pictures my mind already paints!) I finally called my midwife and explained my symptoms. She asked a ton of questions, and after hearing what I had to say, said that it sounded kidney related to her. She was more than willing to have us come in so she could check my cervix, but she wasn't very worried. (Clear-minded hubby helped me decide that the hour-long drive might be overkill if the midwife wasn't worried!) I took her advice and got 100% cranberry juice, which I drowned myself with, along with tons of water. The symptoms left within a few hours.
She had me call her the next day to see how I was doing. She said that I was the third person in 3 days to call with the same symptoms. (This made me feel much less stupid for sounding a false alarm!) The heat had been very intense that week, and it served as a very real reminder that pregnant women NEED water, and lots of it. We had been spending hours at the lake, and even though I felt like I was drinking water, I had not been compensating enough for the fluid loss during hours in the sun. I have not made that mistake since.
Things I love about Sandy:
- When I have a pregnancy concern, she is the one who picks up the phone. I have direct, anytime contact with my healthcare provider.
- She asks tons of questions, and gets a complete feel for the problem before she comes to a conclusion.
- She is very willing to see me at any time. She leaves the choice up to me.
- She reminds me that I also have the option of using the emergency room if I need immediate care. (We live an hour from the birth center.)
So things have been going well. Passing the halfway point has meant that slowly but surely, the easy-breezy stage of pregnancy is coming to a close. I definitely "look" pregnant now, and I can feel my center of gravity shifting. I am not heavy or uncomfortable, but bending over is becoming a little awkward, and it's not always comfortable to lift a 3-and-4-year-old. Things like insomnia and heartburn are more frequent visitors. I feel grouchy and sad at times, even though I have no idea why. My appetite is insatiable!
On the other hand, I have a very real, very tiny little baby inside of me that I can actually "play" with. Duane felt it move for the first time on Saturday night. I love to feel around and find where it's tiny body is pushed against me. Last night we (the baby and I) played a game where I pushed on it's body, and it wiggled like a little fish. I could feel it's body against my hand; it's tiny hands to the right, and it's tiny feet to the left. It never did move where I couldn't feel it. Pregnancy is miraculous.
I weighed and measured at the beginning of the month, but I'm not going to post it anymore. (No, I didn't balloon and that is my way of hiding it. I had gained a couple of pounds, but all the measurements were still the same as last month, except for my waist.) I just....don't feel like it. I need to focus on the fact that my body is changing for a beautiful reason, and that measurements are not important at this time. In less than 4 months I will have my body "back" and I can obsess all I want, then. Until that time, I need to keep my focus on things that benefit the baby and not on my body image.
A few weeks ago I upped my walk from 2, to 3 miles. I am running very little these days, and I wanted to put in an extra mile to compensate. My average walk is a 4.0, but there are days that I manage to maintain a 4.5. Other days I lag at a 3.5. (This is all calculated after I get home. My walks are outside, on our hilly country road.) I try to walk every day, but I don't always get it done. So far this week I haven't missed a day.
I would like to be more consistent with my posts. My moods control alot of that these days. I have been extremely turned off lately by the vehemence that is often directed towards the world of midwifery. I am reminded over and over that it is something that one has to choose for themselves, NOT something that can ever be shared with somebody. I have alot of ignorant statements to eat, myself. I am realizing more and more that all the attitude about it being "unsafe" and all the other popular opinions, are simply the result of a complete lack of research. END of statement.
I'll post more pics at 25 weeks. I'm popping out like a balloon these days. I love it! I'm going to exchange my metal barbell for a purple flexible"barbell" insert (hubby likes purple). Won't that make a cute preggy bellybutton? (You really don't have to answer that!)
Serious question: Have any of you experienced extreme sugar cravings during pregnancy? (Like PMS sugar cravings). Eating tons of protein and fresh fruits doesn't help. I feel like I NEED sugary carbs! Heeeeelllllppp!! If any of you can offer alternatives that helped, I would appreciate it greatly. My self control is decidedly lacking in this respect. I may soon resemble the Michelin man if I don't get some help!
Goodnight to all.....
Tuesday, 12 August 2008
- 27 weeks today....last week in my second trimester!! I canNOT believe how fast time is flying!!!!! I will be on in a week to do 28 week pics and progress update as far as meeting goals. See ya then!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words. I haven't gained any weight, but it's no triumph on my part. The thought of sweets makes me want to hurl, so it's more by accident than anything. I may do a small update next week. I will see the midwife for the first time on Tuesday. Then soon after I will do a end of trimester landmark update. Boring, I know, but I do want to chart my progress so I know where I'm at.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue. Hopefully hearing the heartbeat for the first time will cheer me up. Anyhow.....planning to be back next week. Have a good weekend everybody!
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
- I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
- Just a rundown of the exercise of the last few days....
*Friday: 15 min run/walk....we took the kids to the park. There is a great track there so I took advantage of it....but at 2:00 in the afternoon it was smokin hot! This poor preggy woman just couldn't gather up what it took to go another 15 minutes. Better something than nothing...
*Saturday: nothin at all.....
*Sunday: 30 minute walk/run. When I use the road here instead of the gym, I don't run as much as I do at the gym, but I feel like I push myself almost as hard. There are alot of hills --and 1 is very steep!-- and I do a power walk that would be equivalant to a 3.5 or 4. I don't take it easy. In 30 minutes I know I'm walking a full 2 miles. It's kind of hard for me to swallow that I'm not running as much at home, but my very first trainer told me that a good power walk is just as beneficial for the body as a run, and is better for the joints. So I'm trying not to get hung up on details, and concentrate more on the fact that I'm getting quality cardio.
*Monday: 1 hour weight session, upper and lower body; 20 minute run. I've had to drop back on certain weights, and obviously cut anything that strains the abs. I do lunges, squats, leg extentions, and calf exercises; also work chest, shoulders, triceps & biceps. Just good overall toning exercises. I want to keep it all up as long as I can. Chest will probably be the first to go, because I lay flat on my back to do them. Lunges probably only for the next 3 months, because my belly will most likely get in the way one day. Amazing, feel-good workout. So totally empowering!
*Tuesday: 30 minute walk
I feel good that it's only Tuesday and I've already met my 1 weight session, 3 walk goal for the week. Tomorrow I clean houses with a friend: 3 houses from 9 am till 2 pm. So I think I'll just say that will be my exercise for tomorrow! Hopefully get another walk in Thurs, then back to the gym for more weights on Fri.
Thursday I'm going to weigh and measure. I am 12 weeks today, so by Thurs I'll only have 5 days left in my first trimester. Since it's a new month I'm just going to say it's close enough....I'm holding my breath to see how much I've "grown" and to see if I met my first trimester goal of weighing no more than 125. Wish me luck!
Thursday, 01 May 2008
- 2 mile walk today...
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
Saturday, 10 May 2008
- Just a quickie......I'm not neglecting my fitness and my diet has been great (think big green salads! Yay me!). It's just that after awhile I do get sort of bored with mundane fitness posts, and I can only imagine how it must bore all of you!
A quick rundown of the week: 4/ 30-min walks/runs (for a total of over 8 miles)...wanted to get in 1 more today but didn't. 45 minutes of Pilates (got a great video on Thurs and hope to do it at least twice a week). Didn't get my weight training session in. Hope to get that done sometime tomorrow, and start the week of right. Doesn't look like much on paper....but I know I'm doing my baby and my body good with any exercise I get. My midwife recommends at least 3/ 30-min walks per week, so I guess every one over that is a bonus. I weighed this week and I'm still at 125. Hope to stay there for a couple more weeks. Some of my jeans are getting tight, but aside from a slightly thicker waist I'm not "showing" yet.
I am almost 14 weeks. I feel fabulous, with very little sickness to speak of anymore. My energy is slowly but surely returning, and with all the fresh salads my digestive issues are easing. Baby is very active and I feel it move most days, sometimes more than once.
My only real complaint....I'm swelling. I had big Shrek ankles all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and it looks like this pregnancy is following suit. I am drinking tons of water and getting exercise. I try to watch my sodium intake, and since most of what we eat is made from scratch in my kitchen, I believe that it is low. Any suggestions? Last night my feet hurt to walk, and I know this is only the beginning. Long hot summer ahead!
Well I have dishes to wash so I need to run. I'll be around from time to time. My next appt is in 1 1/2 week, and I'm getting my bloodwork done. Hopefully everything will be good. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Wednesday, 21 May 2008
- 15 WEEKSDazed look and bed head. Welcome to me in the morning! Barely there, but baby bump is starting if you use a microscope. Still comfortably wearing all regular clothes. Darling pile of maternity clothes sits in a dejected heap in the closet. I really do look forward to wearing them.Saw my midwife today. I fall more in love with her each time I see her. But first.....Baby's heartbeat was immediate and strong, averaging around 150. Little tyke was kicking the doppler to protest the invasion of his (don't know the sex...just don't like to say "it"!) personal space! Sandy was surprised that I'm already feeling movement, but she didn't doubt it, based on: 1.) I'm slender; 2.) the fact that if the baby implanted closer to the front, I would feel movement sooner (that can't be known of course); and 3.) if my uterus is irregularly shaped, it would make my story different from the norm (mine is, confirmed by various medical professionals.) It's nice to be met by belief rather than the polite "you're an idiot" smile!On that note.....Baby was kicking so hard yesterday morning that when I pulled up my shirt, I could see my skin jarring. Absolutely awesome! If Duane had been near he would have seen/felt it. Totally amazing!Exercise has been good, last week only got 7 miles in () but this week have already done 6 miles plus LB weight training. I'm slowing down in the weight training arena. Sandy told me today that pushing myself too hard will only hinder my body in preparing for birth. Swelling: I showed her my Shrek ankle. Left ankle, swollen all the time, even after a good night's sleep. She gave me a ton of suggestions, including the possibility that my hip is out and the (something?) is being compressed, thus causing blood to pool in the ankle. Okay I am anything but a professional here, so I could be off in what I'm saying. But it was something about compression and pooling. I need to see my chiropractor. I don't go often, but she said proper alignment is very vital during pregnancy. And my favorite: I knew about pelvic tilts, but never grasped the importance. Since I have had both a posterior and an anterior presentation, she said that my pelvis is capable of both. Meaning, I have a 50-50 chance of experiencing the posterior horror again. The posterior rates go way down for women who faithfully do pelvic tilts throughout the pregnancy. You can bet that from this day on you will find me on my hands and knees looking like a silly fish out of water. I will take every suggestion and do everything in my power to have good, "easy", front labor!Well, I don't want to drone on and on here so I'll sign off. But let me just say that now that the sickness is completely gone, I am having an absolutely fabulous pregnancy. It honestly feels just like my first time. I am so comfortable and so full of energy. By this time in my second pregnancy, I was already in pain. I think that my body just wasn't ready after only 3 months........though I would go through it all again for my little girl. Having an almost 3 year break between pregnancies has left me as good as new and just loving every minute! In fact, as crazy as it sounds, I think time is flying too fast. I can't believe that in less than 5 weeks I will be halfway done. I want to savor every day of this miraculous time. Have a wonderful day, everyone!
Thursday, 05 June 2008
- I've been needing to update but am finding it hard to journal my fitness goals without getting completely mundane and repetitive. Ever since this turned into a pregnancy fitness blog, I've found it hard to get a complete focus because everything keeps changing. I've set strict goals for myself, and I do get satisfaction from seeing them (so far) met, but don't post often for fear of sounding obsessive. I hope it is clear that I would never in a million years do anything that would harm my baby. I am a firm believer that our bodies are much stronger than we give them credit for being, and pregnancy is no exception. It is not a time of weakness (there are obvious situations it is, of course) and as long as I listen to my body and slow down when it says to, I feel that I am doing myself good rather than harm.
Okay....Sunday was time for the beginning of the month weight/measurement. Currently 17 weeks pregnant. Weight: 126.6.....for a total weight gain of approx. 4 lbs. (Up approx 2 lbs from last month)
Sm. of waist: 28"....up 1-3/4" from last month. I FINALLY have a baby bump to speak of!!!!!! (I'll do 20 week pics in 3 weeks.)
Hips: 36-3/4" (actually measuring between 1/2 and 3/4")....up just a hair from last month. How far are my poor hips going to expand in the next 5 months??!!
Thigh: 21"....very disappointed to see a 1/2" gain. More lunges!!!!
BMI is up to 19%. I have no idea what is considered healthy for pregnancy, but my midwife has nothing but good to say about my current weight, so I'm not going to worry about figures that most may consider "too low".
Trying to get in as many 2 mile walk/run sessions during the week as I can. This week I've done only 6 miles, with a LB workout. Nothing to brag about, that's for sure. I am slowing down in my running. Definitely more power walks than runs these days (4.0 at a 3.5 incline). I'm focusing on holding an extra 20 lbs during my lunges ( goal total of 46 lunges per leg). I used to be up to holding 40 extra lbs during my high points, but those days are over for now. I do tire much more easily. It's a little hard for me to go to the gym and start a workout, only to realize that my weights and stamina are much lower than they were only a few short months ago. But I keep telling myself that anything I do now will be that much of a boost in getting me back in the game once my pregnancy is over.
Baby is doing wonderfully and is very active. I won't have an ultrasound until the end of August. I have my mandatory MD visit next week, which is required by state law and is just a formality. I go to church with my doctor, so I'm guessing it will be more of a chat session than an official exam (he doesn't even have a doppler).
My energy levels are up and aside from the ankle swelling I literally have no complaints. I saw my chiropractor last week and she said my metatarsal is broken down. Common in runners. I will need to buy insoles that cost $60!! That's highway robbery, but it should help the pain. Though there is no explanation for the swelling. She is very concerned about preeclampsia, and wants us to keep a very close eye on it. I am not worried. I had swelling like this all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and was never close to having it. Since the adjustment the swelling has drastically reduced. I've tried to eat 60 grams of protein every day and take a vitamin e capsule. It is all working, because I can see my ankle bone now. That's all I ask for!
Well I'm going to run. Hope I didn't bore you all too bad. If I don't update sooner, I'll be back in 3 weeks for a 1/2 way --20 week-- update.
Thursday, 26 June 2008
- 20 WEEKS Not feeling chatty today. I'm off to take a nap!!!!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words. I haven't gained any weight, but it's no triumph on my part. The thought of sweets makes me want to hurl, so it's more by accident than anything. I may do a small update next week. I will see the midwife for the first time on Tuesday. Then soon after I will do a end of trimester landmark update. Boring, I know, but I do want to chart my progress so I know where I'm at.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue. Hopefully hearing the heartbeat for the first time will cheer me up. Anyhow.....planning to be back next week. Have a good weekend everybody!
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
- I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
- Just a rundown of the exercise of the last few days....
*Friday: 15 min run/walk....we took the kids to the park. There is a great track there so I took advantage of it....but at 2:00 in the afternoon it was smokin hot! This poor preggy woman just couldn't gather up what it took to go another 15 minutes. Better something than nothing...
*Saturday: nothin at all.....
*Sunday: 30 minute walk/run. When I use the road here instead of the gym, I don't run as much as I do at the gym, but I feel like I push myself almost as hard. There are alot of hills --and 1 is very steep!-- and I do a power walk that would be equivalant to a 3.5 or 4. I don't take it easy. In 30 minutes I know I'm walking a full 2 miles. It's kind of hard for me to swallow that I'm not running as much at home, but my very first trainer told me that a good power walk is just as beneficial for the body as a run, and is better for the joints. So I'm trying not to get hung up on details, and concentrate more on the fact that I'm getting quality cardio.
*Monday: 1 hour weight session, upper and lower body; 20 minute run. I've had to drop back on certain weights, and obviously cut anything that strains the abs. I do lunges, squats, leg extentions, and calf exercises; also work chest, shoulders, triceps & biceps. Just good overall toning exercises. I want to keep it all up as long as I can. Chest will probably be the first to go, because I lay flat on my back to do them. Lunges probably only for the next 3 months, because my belly will most likely get in the way one day. Amazing, feel-good workout. So totally empowering!
*Tuesday: 30 minute walk
I feel good that it's only Tuesday and I've already met my 1 weight session, 3 walk goal for the week. Tomorrow I clean houses with a friend: 3 houses from 9 am till 2 pm. So I think I'll just say that will be my exercise for tomorrow! Hopefully get another walk in Thurs, then back to the gym for more weights on Fri.
Thursday I'm going to weigh and measure. I am 12 weeks today, so by Thurs I'll only have 5 days left in my first trimester. Since it's a new month I'm just going to say it's close enough....I'm holding my breath to see how much I've "grown" and to see if I met my first trimester goal of weighing no more than 125. Wish me luck!
Thursday, 01 May 2008
- 2 mile walk today...
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
Saturday, 10 May 2008
- Just a quickie......I'm not neglecting my fitness and my diet has been great (think big green salads! Yay me!). It's just that after awhile I do get sort of bored with mundane fitness posts, and I can only imagine how it must bore all of you!
A quick rundown of the week: 4/ 30-min walks/runs (for a total of over 8 miles)...wanted to get in 1 more today but didn't. 45 minutes of Pilates (got a great video on Thurs and hope to do it at least twice a week). Didn't get my weight training session in. Hope to get that done sometime tomorrow, and start the week of right. Doesn't look like much on paper....but I know I'm doing my baby and my body good with any exercise I get. My midwife recommends at least 3/ 30-min walks per week, so I guess every one over that is a bonus. I weighed this week and I'm still at 125. Hope to stay there for a couple more weeks. Some of my jeans are getting tight, but aside from a slightly thicker waist I'm not "showing" yet.
I am almost 14 weeks. I feel fabulous, with very little sickness to speak of anymore. My energy is slowly but surely returning, and with all the fresh salads my digestive issues are easing. Baby is very active and I feel it move most days, sometimes more than once.
My only real complaint....I'm swelling. I had big Shrek ankles all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and it looks like this pregnancy is following suit. I am drinking tons of water and getting exercise. I try to watch my sodium intake, and since most of what we eat is made from scratch in my kitchen, I believe that it is low. Any suggestions? Last night my feet hurt to walk, and I know this is only the beginning. Long hot summer ahead!
Well I have dishes to wash so I need to run. I'll be around from time to time. My next appt is in 1 1/2 week, and I'm getting my bloodwork done. Hopefully everything will be good. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Wednesday, 21 May 2008
- 15 WEEKSDazed look and bed head. Welcome to me in the morning! Barely there, but baby bump is starting if you use a microscope. Still comfortably wearing all regular clothes. Darling pile of maternity clothes sits in a dejected heap in the closet. I really do look forward to wearing them.Saw my midwife today. I fall more in love with her each time I see her. But first.....Baby's heartbeat was immediate and strong, averaging around 150. Little tyke was kicking the doppler to protest the invasion of his (don't know the sex...just don't like to say "it"!) personal space! Sandy was surprised that I'm already feeling movement, but she didn't doubt it, based on: 1.) I'm slender; 2.) the fact that if the baby implanted closer to the front, I would feel movement sooner (that can't be known of course); and 3.) if my uterus is irregularly shaped, it would make my story different from the norm (mine is, confirmed by various medical professionals.) It's nice to be met by belief rather than the polite "you're an idiot" smile!On that note.....Baby was kicking so hard yesterday morning that when I pulled up my shirt, I could see my skin jarring. Absolutely awesome! If Duane had been near he would have seen/felt it. Totally amazing!Exercise has been good, last week only got 7 miles in () but this week have already done 6 miles plus LB weight training. I'm slowing down in the weight training arena. Sandy told me today that pushing myself too hard will only hinder my body in preparing for birth. Swelling: I showed her my Shrek ankle. Left ankle, swollen all the time, even after a good night's sleep. She gave me a ton of suggestions, including the possibility that my hip is out and the (something?) is being compressed, thus causing blood to pool in the ankle. Okay I am anything but a professional here, so I could be off in what I'm saying. But it was something about compression and pooling. I need to see my chiropractor. I don't go often, but she said proper alignment is very vital during pregnancy. And my favorite: I knew about pelvic tilts, but never grasped the importance. Since I have had both a posterior and an anterior presentation, she said that my pelvis is capable of both. Meaning, I have a 50-50 chance of experiencing the posterior horror again. The posterior rates go way down for women who faithfully do pelvic tilts throughout the pregnancy. You can bet that from this day on you will find me on my hands and knees looking like a silly fish out of water. I will take every suggestion and do everything in my power to have good, "easy", front labor!Well, I don't want to drone on and on here so I'll sign off. But let me just say that now that the sickness is completely gone, I am having an absolutely fabulous pregnancy. It honestly feels just like my first time. I am so comfortable and so full of energy. By this time in my second pregnancy, I was already in pain. I think that my body just wasn't ready after only 3 months........though I would go through it all again for my little girl. Having an almost 3 year break between pregnancies has left me as good as new and just loving every minute! In fact, as crazy as it sounds, I think time is flying too fast. I can't believe that in less than 5 weeks I will be halfway done. I want to savor every day of this miraculous time. Have a wonderful day, everyone!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words. I haven't gained any weight, but it's no triumph on my part. The thought of sweets makes me want to hurl, so it's more by accident than anything. I may do a small update next week. I will see the midwife for the first time on Tuesday. Then soon after I will do a end of trimester landmark update. Boring, I know, but I do want to chart my progress so I know where I'm at.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue. Hopefully hearing the heartbeat for the first time will cheer me up. Anyhow.....planning to be back next week. Have a good weekend everybody!
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
- I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
- Just a rundown of the exercise of the last few days....
*Friday: 15 min run/walk....we took the kids to the park. There is a great track there so I took advantage of it....but at 2:00 in the afternoon it was smokin hot! This poor preggy woman just couldn't gather up what it took to go another 15 minutes. Better something than nothing...
*Saturday: nothin at all.....
*Sunday: 30 minute walk/run. When I use the road here instead of the gym, I don't run as much as I do at the gym, but I feel like I push myself almost as hard. There are alot of hills --and 1 is very steep!-- and I do a power walk that would be equivalant to a 3.5 or 4. I don't take it easy. In 30 minutes I know I'm walking a full 2 miles. It's kind of hard for me to swallow that I'm not running as much at home, but my very first trainer told me that a good power walk is just as beneficial for the body as a run, and is better for the joints. So I'm trying not to get hung up on details, and concentrate more on the fact that I'm getting quality cardio.
*Monday: 1 hour weight session, upper and lower body; 20 minute run. I've had to drop back on certain weights, and obviously cut anything that strains the abs. I do lunges, squats, leg extentions, and calf exercises; also work chest, shoulders, triceps & biceps. Just good overall toning exercises. I want to keep it all up as long as I can. Chest will probably be the first to go, because I lay flat on my back to do them. Lunges probably only for the next 3 months, because my belly will most likely get in the way one day. Amazing, feel-good workout. So totally empowering!
*Tuesday: 30 minute walk
I feel good that it's only Tuesday and I've already met my 1 weight session, 3 walk goal for the week. Tomorrow I clean houses with a friend: 3 houses from 9 am till 2 pm. So I think I'll just say that will be my exercise for tomorrow! Hopefully get another walk in Thurs, then back to the gym for more weights on Fri.
Thursday I'm going to weigh and measure. I am 12 weeks today, so by Thurs I'll only have 5 days left in my first trimester. Since it's a new month I'm just going to say it's close enough....I'm holding my breath to see how much I've "grown" and to see if I met my first trimester goal of weighing no more than 125. Wish me luck!
Thursday, 01 May 2008
- 2 mile walk today...
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words. I haven't gained any weight, but it's no triumph on my part. The thought of sweets makes me want to hurl, so it's more by accident than anything. I may do a small update next week. I will see the midwife for the first time on Tuesday. Then soon after I will do a end of trimester landmark update. Boring, I know, but I do want to chart my progress so I know where I'm at.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue. Hopefully hearing the heartbeat for the first time will cheer me up. Anyhow.....planning to be back next week. Have a good weekend everybody!
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
- I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
- I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
I'm doing my best to get my walking/running in....haven't since Friday. There wasn't a good place in VA, and yesterday I was just plain too sick to get off the couch. As much as I want to keep it up, I know the next 6 weeks are likely to be bum weeks so I will only do what I can and not beat myself up when I just can't. Today I do feel a bit better, so I'm hoping I'll feel up to it this evening.
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned.
**************************************On to other subjects........
I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
Anyhow, that puts them in writing. I may cry in 7 months when I look back on them, but again, I'm going to do my best. I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like.
And I leave you with my first belly pics. No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it.
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust. Otherwise, it takes eggs, sugar, and butter. I used raw sugar and it turned out very tasty.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumber if when I get hungry this evening?
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
- Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
My 3rd pregnancy. Journalled March through November, 2008. Re-posted from another blog.
***Before reading, please take note that these posts were not written by a fitness professional. In March of '08 I had been on my personal fitness journey for approx. 6-7 years. I had no formal schooling in nutrition or fitness. 2 years later, I would definitely recommend my pregnancy fitness routine to a healthy, fit pregnant woman. However, I feel that my nutritional viewpoint was off in some areas and I was definitely too obsessive about my weight.
I included my pregnancy journal in my blog because I hope to someday work closely with pregnant and post-partum women. Fitness during pregnancy is definitely possible; but always get clearance from your doctor or midwife before beginning an exercise routine.
This journal is not intended to be used as a source of information for pregnancy nutrition or exercise routines.***
Tuesday, 25 March, 2008
Where to start......
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site. People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start.
Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!)
So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:
First of all, I've realized in the last few weeks that a few people do actually read this site.
People who, like me, have been taught nothing about health and nutrition, and who are on a quest to become healthier but don't know where to start. Duane and I are very new to the "health nut" world. Our journey started just over a year ago, when we did Body For Life to lose weight. I don't really know how or when, but that led to intense research about the things that we were putting into our bodies. There have been literally hundreds of hours of research done since then, and countless questions asked to those who are much more knowledgeable than us (among others....thank you islandlife!!!
)So the big question we get asked is....where do you start? We have made massive changes in our lifestyle in the last 13 months. I know we still have a long way to go. It seems like every time I turn around I learn something new that requires another change, another sacrifice. So to answer the million dollar question of where to start when it's all so new, let me just say this: start with what you know. Take baby steps. Decide what your biggest unhealthy vice is, and substitute it with a healthier choice. I'm going to make a small list of a few basics, and I hope it will help. The most important thing you can do for yourself: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. You will find in the "health nut" world, that there are as many variations as there are people. Vegetarians disagree with vegans. Both are dead right and can tell you why. Meat eating health nuts can swear why meat is okay. It is a personal choice, and only you can decide what is right for you. Here is a small list that is a great start:
- Ban processed foods . In other words, learn to make it from scratch. Set your own standards. Read labels and look for additives and chemicals. Replace canned goods with fresh stuff.
- Try whole wheat....that's a pretty big one in my book. White flour turns to pure sugar in your system and is very unhealthy. Start by just subbing 1/2 ww for white. As you acclimate to the taste, you will find yourself adding more and more until you won't even think of adding white.
- Restock your fats with healthy alternatives. Islandlife shared with me that the only fats found in her home are organic butter; olive oil; and coconut oil. I threw out the Crisco, margarine, and Vegetable oil, and wow, what a difference! Baked goods may have a different consistency at first, but soon you won't even notice. And your heart will thank you!
- Drink more water, and ditch the soft drinks. We used to drink alot of tea and soda, but it's a rare treat now. When we go out to eat, the kids don't even ask for it anymore...they assume we're getting water. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.)
Okay I don't mean to sound like a know-it- all here. I am far, far from that! We still have a long way to go, and I learn something new every time I turn around. But I always love it when I hear of someone else that wants to make changes, and I will do everything I can to share what we have learned. Duane still drinks coffee, and we drink raw milk and 100% fruit juice (kids are limited to 8 oz diluted a day...Duane and I rarely drink juice.) **************************************
On to other subjects........I feel pretty stupid after my last post. Probably all of you saw it from a mile away, but it was the last thing I thought of! I've taken a positive pregnancy test since then......
So I have a different nutritional focus now. I am determined to do this pregnancy differently than I did before. With my others, I let my cravings control my life. I didn't gain huge amounts, but I definitely hit the 35 # maximin, possibly more ( I quit weighing because I didn't want to know!) With this pregnancy, I am trying very hard to make wise choices in my eating, even if my body is demanding something else. Thank God there have been zero sugar cravings. It has been very easy to eat fresh and healthy.
I am continuing my running, but I have started running on the road by our place. There are some hills, and just breathing the fresh air makes for a harder workout! I do 2 miles, and it takes me around 25 minutes instead of 20 like on a flat treadmill. I will continue to run as long as I can, then I will bump up to 3 miles and power walk.
I have weight trained some but can tell that won't last long. Anything that pulls on the lower abs is already uncomfortable. I think lunges will be possible for a long time yet, but I may have to hold less weight. I do think the cardio will be the most beneficial during the pregnancy.
I am setting weight goals for myself. Please note that these are GOALS, and I will not harm my baby to keep them. I am setting very high standards, so that even if I gain more weight, I will still be in a very healthy range.
Here are my goals:
- First trimester: No more than 125 lbs. (a 2-3 lb gain).
- Second trimester: No more than 135 lbs. (obviously, 10 lbs.)
- Third trimester: I truly don't want to see more than 150 on the scales by the time the baby is born. (For a total of 20-25 lbs.) I would love to only see 140, but that may not be possible. Actually none of this may be possible, but I am going to do my best.
I'm hoping that running and walking will help for a good delivery this time. I don't know what that would be like. And I leave you with my first belly pics.
No I don't think I have a great belly. But it is great compared to what it will be in a few months and I want to remember it. 
Feeling skinny at 7 weeks preggy.
Truly savoring the feeling of holding 6's up with a belt! Aah....what we give up for our sweet babies!
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
- Thought I'd do a quick rundown of today's eating.....I may not be sick (yet) this time, but I am a BOTTOMLESS PIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hungry every time I turn around. Eating keeps me feeling good....I've started feeling slightly yucky when my tummy is empty. Please tell me....how will I ever attain my goals with an unsatiable appetite??!! I'll try to remember what I've eaten so far today.....
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ a bit of baked salmon
S- 1 apple
L- egg salad (eggs, omega 3 fortified mayo) on 2 slices ww flax bread; 1 orange
S- 1/4 cup almonds
S- 1 serving (20) mini pretzels
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small spoonful omega 3 natural peanut butter; a few raisins
Walked/ran 2 miles after eating last snack. I have no choice but to eat before exercise these days! If I looked at the clock right it only took me 20 min tonight. Gooooooood cardio!!
D- We were supposed to have a friend over tonight, and had planned a hotdog roast. He canceled last minute, but I had already promised the kids so we went ahead with it. I bought kosher dogs for us, which are pork, additive, etc free. As healthy as hotdogs can be, I suppose? I ate 1 with a slice of ww flax bread w/ organic ketchup and mustard. 1 more w/ out bread. Followed it with a generous helping of to-die-for lemon curd dessert....I started craving it yesterday. The only sweet I've craved so far. I'm slam out of whole wheat, so I used white flour in the crust.
S- Saw the hotdogs sitting on the counter and ate ANOTHER one!!!!!! With organic ketchup.....do ya think I got my calorie quota for the day in hotdogs alone??!!
Okay seriously guys, that's 8 meals/snacks today! Embarrassing!!!!! I don't know how much water I've drank today, but I drink it all day and don't worry about not getting enough.
Need to eat those veggies.......maybe some cucumberifwhen I get hungry this evening?
Felt more yucky this morning. Forced myself to eat because I knew it would make me feel better. Spent a wonderful morning with a friend, which helped keep my mind off my woes.
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile. Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.
D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
B- 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon....could barely choke that down! Usually I love it...sigh....
S- 20 mini pretzels
L- 1 orange, PB&J on 2 slices wheat bread.....not natural pb or j, or homemade bread since I wasn't at home
S- 1 cup of coffee, 1 slice of apple pie
S- 1 apple
S- a few bites of lemon curd dessert
I've been drinking water off and on this morning but I need to step it up. I wish I could go longer w/out eating. As long as there's something in my stomach I feel fine....
S- a few almonds
S- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; a few grapes
Walked/ran 2 miles....made good time, 22 minutes I think. Felt sick after about 1 3/4 mile....kept running, made it home and had to sit awhile.
Sipped 1/2 ginger ale thinking maybe it would help. I don't like the stuff and never keep it on hand but bought it "just in case". I guess tonight was "just in case"....I do think it helped some.D- turkey loaf; mashed potatoes & gravy; brussels sprouts w/ condensed milk & butter.....this is our belated Easter dinner. Very fattening, and too many processed ingredients. The first year we were married, when I didn't know how to cook, I bought the turkey loaf for our first Easter. It's been our tradition ever since....I figure once a year won't hurt us. The brussels sprouts are a family holiday tradition my Grandma always made. I had bought everything for Sunday, and at the last minute we were invited somewhere for lunch. Let me just say, having a frozen main dish I could just pop in the oven was very timely for this tired pregnant lady!
Thursday, 27 March 2008
- How is it possible to feel sick when you really don't feel sick at all? I know this is why people say it's all in a pregnant lady's head. If I actually try to pinpoint what is off, I have no idea. But it's all just off!
Last night we watched a movie, and I had to eat some pretzels to keep from being sick. I also try to drink a glass of milk w/ molasses before bedtime.
B- glass of milk, 2 eggs scrambled w/ baked salmon
I am craving milk and milk products with a vengeance. I could truly drink milk all day in place of water. It settles my tummy and makes me feel instantly better. But, I am trying to only save it for extreme times. I have little hope of only seeing 125 in the next 5 weeks.
If you think about it, say a prayer for me today. I am trying to clean the house, do laundry, and prepare to leave for Virginia tomorrow morning. It's almost 10:00 and I have succeeded in getting us breakfast and sitting on the couch. I have no energy....
L- 5 brussels sprouts; small piece of turkey loaf
S- small slice of cheese
S- grapes (1/2 cup maybe??); 1/2 grilled cheese sandwich....1 small slice of cheese on 1 slice ww flax bread fried w/ organic butter.....made it for Sis and she didn't eat it and instead of throwing it away......
S- 1 hard boiled egg
S- 1 slice of ww flax toast w/ butter
D- Duane took us out to eat Mexican. I ate the chips and salsa, and had a taco salad. I have been craving tacos for some reason.
I weighed and measured this morning. I like to start out a new month with an idea of where I'm at. For as much as I've been eating, and as awful as our diet was over the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised with the results. Here is the comparison from last month:
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
- Weight: 124 (up 2 lbs from last month.....big HA HA about not seeing more than 125 in the next 4 weeks! Oh and waaaaay tmi here, but I swear at least 1 of those 2 lbs gained is in my boobs! I just spent around $100 in new bras that fit perfectly, and already they are miserably tight to wear. Sorry, I know you didn't want to know that!)
- Sm. of waist: 26 1/4" (up 1/2" from last month) I don't know if this is actual gain, or if it is due to how grossly bloated I feel. My gut is suffering.
- Hips: 36" (no change)
- Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
- BMI: around 15%....maybe just a tiny bit more than last time
As far as diet.....sickness has struck, so I have no control over what my crazy body tells me I can eat. I know that yesterday I didn't get enough calories, but everything made me want to puke and I simply couldn't swallow. I've been drinking lots of milk as that is the only thing that truly goes down well.
I'm not a pregnant puker. I wish I was. As crazy as that sounds, it is miserable to sit around and wish for the relief of puking. I know it would make me feel better. Okay here's more craziness: have any of you heard of SNEEZING while preggy??!! I mean sick sneezing. When my tummy gets miserable, I make myself cough and soon I do this belly sneeze that I swear is the equivalent of puking. I feel instantly better. Weird, weird, weird.
Well I need to get off of here....I hope I don't bore you all to death with this fitness-turned-pregnancy blog. It helps me to have a place to chart my goals and grumble when I feel sick. I know that within 6 weeks I should feel awesome, and I look forward to that, even though I don't want to rush my pregnancy. I want to enjoy every stage as it will most likely be our last. Gotta run....have a great day everyone!
Friday, 18 April 2008
- Still around.....trying to gear up for another update. I've simply been too sick and tired to eat right or exercise, and it would be unbearably depressing to see my failures put into words.
Sorry this isn't upbeat.....guess I shouldn't update when I'm feeling blue.
I felt the baby move today! I've been feeling suspicious taps for the last couple of weeks, but today I was laying still, flat on my back on the couch, and suddenly there was an unmistakable, tiny thump. It kind of shocked me but it was so precious and I'm hanging onto the feeling, because it could be days or weeks till the baby gets in the "perfect position" again. I felt Cierra this early too. I love it!
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
I was sick off and on today, though I was able to drink over 60 oz water, take my vitamins, and eat well. It's more an annoying sickness at this point, nothing dramatic, but still not comfortable.
I didn't feel well enough to head to the gym, but I made myself get outside and walk down the road. I ran some, but didn't have the energy for alot. I walked/ran just over 2 miles. It took me 35 minutes so you can see that I took my time. I definitely didn't feel better physically after the exercise, but mentally I like it that I pushed myself even though I didn't feel like it. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get an upper body workout in, plus a good run.
It was very late last night when I posted, and I realized today that I was off in my broad use of the the word "grains" when I talked about eliminating foods from my diet. The main source to eliminate is wheats of any kind, including whole wheat, wheat germ, etc. There are plenty of other grains that I can still eat. I by no means put alot of stock in eating for blood type. I haven't done alot of research, but from what I can tell there is very little evidence to back it. But I still think it is a very interesting concept, and worth looking into. My reason for wanting to eliminate wheat is to see if it is the source of my digestive issues. I have eliminated dairy in the past and that is clearly not the issue. Of course there could be many other culprits but the only way to find out is to eliminate possibilities one at a time.
Well nothing else is new since yesterday. I need to get off my hiney and tidy up the house. All I really want to do is go to bed.....
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
- Just a rundown of the exercise of the last few days....
*Friday: 15 min run/walk....we took the kids to the park. There is a great track there so I took advantage of it....but at 2:00 in the afternoon it was smokin hot! This poor preggy woman just couldn't gather up what it took to go another 15 minutes. Better something than nothing...
*Saturday: nothin at all.....
*Sunday: 30 minute walk/run. When I use the road here instead of the gym, I don't run as much as I do at the gym, but I feel like I push myself almost as hard. There are alot of hills --and 1 is very steep!-- and I do a power walk that would be equivalant to a 3.5 or 4. I don't take it easy. In 30 minutes I know I'm walking a full 2 miles. It's kind of hard for me to swallow that I'm not running as much at home, but my very first trainer told me that a good power walk is just as beneficial for the body as a run, and is better for the joints.
*Monday: 1 hour weight session, upper and lower body; 20 minute run. I've had to drop back on certain weights, and obviously cut anything that strains the abs. I do lunges, squats, leg extentions, and calf exercises; also work chest, shoulders, triceps & biceps. Just good overall toning exercises. I want to keep it all up as long as I can. Chest will probably be the first to go, because I lay flat on my back to do them. Lunges probably only for the next 3 months, because my belly will most likely get in the way one day.
*Tuesday: 30 minute walk
I feel good that it's only Tuesday and I've already met my 1 weight session, 3 walk goal for the week. Tomorrow I clean houses with a friend: 3 houses from 9 am till 2 pm. So I think I'll just say that will be my exercise for tomorrow! Hopefully get another walk in Thurs, then back to the gym for more weights on Fri.
Thursday I'm going to weigh and measure. I am 12 weeks today, so by Thurs I'll only have 5 days left in my first trimester. Since it's a new month I'm just going to say it's close enough....I'm holding my breath to see how much I've "grown" and to see if I met my first trimester goal of weighing no more than 125. Wish me luck!
2 mile walk today...
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
New month, time to weigh and measure. I am going to get a digital scales tomorrow so I can keep more exact track of my weight, but my scale showed just under 125 this morning. That makes for just under a 3 lb gain first trimester gain. Within the goals I set so I'm happy about that.
Measurements:
Waist: 26 3/4" (up 1/2" from last month. In the last week my waist has started thickening a little.)
Hips: 36 1/2"....here's where I get very, very nervous! That is up 1/2" from last month!!! Please tell me why my BUTT is pregnant too??!! If I continue like this....no, I won't even go there.
*EDIT: I was complaining to my hubby about my hips, and right away he said that he thinks that hips widen during pregnancy in preparation for the birth. You'd think that by my 3rd go around I'd know this but....I googled it and found that this is indeed true. So it's a relief to realize that I'm not magically packing pounds on my hips even though there's really been no pounds to have packed on! I'm feeling a little "duh" right now, but also happier.
Thigh: 20 1/2" (no change)
BMI: 15-16%; up a hair from last month.
Today I wore my skinniest jeans for the last time. I will fold them up and tuck them away and dream of wearing them again. They are super low rise and starting to complain about being buttoned.
I think I'm officially over the morning (or in my case, evening) sickness. Yay! Cooking hasn't been a bit of a problem for a little bit now so we're starting to be able to eat healthier again. My kids were introduced to hamburger helper and raman noodles and canned soups and other such completely unhealthy, over processed junk that they call food. But the alternative was eating out every night --which we did way too much of anyway!-- and what do you do anyway when the thought and sight of food makes you want to hurl (again!)
I'm hoping that picking up our healthy diet again will make for a even second trimester weight gain. I don't want to gain more than 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I think that is very reasonable for the time when the baby still won't be that big. It still allows me almost a pound a week. So next goal: to see no more than 135 by the beginning of August. Wish me luck...I'm hoping, but not holding my breath!
Saturday, 10 May 2008
- Just a quickie......I'm not neglecting my fitness and my diet has been great (think big green salads! Yay me!). It's just that after awhile I do get sort of bored with mundane fitness posts, and I can only imagine how it must bore all of you!
A quick rundown of the week: 4/ 30-min walks/runs (for a total of over 8 miles)...wanted to get in 1 more today but didn't.
I am almost 14 weeks. I feel fabulous, with very little sickness to speak of anymore. My energy is slowly but surely returning, and with all the fresh salads my digestive issues are easing. Baby is very active and I feel it move most days, sometimes more than once.
My only real complaint....I'm swelling. I had big Shrek ankles all through my pregnancy with Tyson, and it looks like this pregnancy is following suit. I am drinking tons of water and getting exercise. I try to watch my sodium intake, and since most of what we eat is made from scratch in my kitchen, I believe that it is low. Any suggestions? Last night my feet hurt to walk, and I know this is only the beginning. Long hot summer ahead!
Well I have dishes to wash so I need to run. I'll be around from time to time. My next appt is in 1 1/2 week, and I'm getting my bloodwork done. Hopefully everything will be good. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
15 WEEKS
Dazed look and bed head. Welcome to me in the morning! Barely there, but baby bump is starting if you use a microscope. Still comfortably wearing all regular clothes. Darling pile of maternity clothes sits in a dejected heap in the closet. I really do look forward to wearing them.
Saw my midwife today. I fall more in love with her each time I see her. But first.....Baby's heartbeat was immediate and strong, averaging around 150. Little tyke was kicking the doppler to protest the invasion of his (don't know the sex...just don't like to say "it"!) personal space! Sandy was surprised that I'm already feeling movement, but she didn't doubt it, based on: 1.) I'm slender; 2.) the fact that if the baby implanted closer to the front, I would feel movement sooner (that can't be known of course); and 3.) if my uterus is irregularly shaped, it would make my story different from the norm (mine is, confirmed by various medical professionals.) It's nice to be met by belief rather than the polite "you're an idiot" smile!
On that note.....Baby was kicking so hard yesterday morning that when I pulled up my shirt, I could see my skin jarring. Absolutely awesome! If Duane had been near he would have seen/felt it. Totally amazing!
Exercise has been good, last week only got 7 miles in () but this week have already done 6 miles plus LB weight training. I'm slowing down in the weight training arena. Sandy told me today that pushing myself too hard will only hinder my body in preparing for birth.
) but this week have already done 6 miles plus LB weight training. I'm slowing down in the weight training arena. Sandy told me today that pushing myself too hard will only hinder my body in preparing for birth. Swelling: I showed her my Shrek ankle. Left ankle, swollen all the time, even after a good night's sleep. She gave me a ton of suggestions, including the possibility that my hip is out and the (something?) is being compressed, thus causing blood to pool in the ankle. Okay I am anything but a professional here, so I could be off in what I'm saying. But it was something about compression and pooling. I need to see my chiropractor. I don't go often, but she said proper alignment is very vital during pregnancy.
I need to see my chiropractor. I don't go often, but she said proper alignment is very vital during pregnancy. And my favorite: I knew about pelvic tilts, but never grasped the importance. Since I have had both a posterior and an anterior presentation, she said that my pelvis is capable of both. Meaning, I have a 50-50 chance of experiencing the posterior horror again. The posterior rates go way down for women who faithfully do pelvic tilts throughout the pregnancy. You can bet that from this day on you will find me on my hands and knees looking like a silly fish out of water. I will take every suggestion and do everything in my power to have good, "easy", front labor!
Well, I don't want to drone on and on here so I'll sign off. But let me just say that now that the sickness is completely gone, I am having an absolutely fabulous pregnancy. It honestly feels just like my first time. I am so comfortable and so full of energy. By this time in my second pregnancy, I was already in pain. I think that my body just wasn't ready after only 3 months........though I would go through it all again for my little girl. Having an almost 3 year break between pregnancies has left me as good as new and just loving every minute! In fact, as crazy as it sounds, I think time is flying too fast. I can't believe that in less than 5 weeks I will be halfway done. I want to savor every day of this miraculous time.
Have a wonderful day, everyone!
Thursday, 05 June 2008
- I've been needing to update but am finding it hard to journal my fitness goals without getting completely mundane and repetitive. Ever since this turned into a pregnancy fitness blog, I've found it hard to get a complete focus because everything keeps changing. I've set strict goals for myself, and I do get satisfaction from seeing them (so far) met, but don't post often for fear of sounding obsessive. I hope it is clear that I would never in a million years do anything that would harm my baby. I am a firm believer that our bodies are much stronger than we give them credit for being, and pregnancy is no exception. It is not a time of weakness (there are obvious situations it is, of course) and as long as I listen to my body and slow down when it says to, I feel that I am doing myself good rather than harm.
Okay....Sunday was time for the beginning of the month weight/measurement. Currently 17 weeks pregnant. Weight: 126.6.....for a total weight gain of approx. 4 lbs. (Up approx 2 lbs from last month)
Sm. of waist: 28"....up 1-3/4" from last month. I FINALLY have a baby bump to speak of!!!!!!
Hips: 36-3/4" (actually measuring between 1/2 and 3/4")....up just a hair from last month. How far are my poor hips going to expand in the next 5 months??!!
Thigh: 21"....very disappointed to see a 1/2" gain. More lunges!!!!
BMI is up to 19%. I have no idea what is considered healthy for pregnancy, but my midwife has nothing but good to say about my current weight, so I'm not going to worry about figures that most may consider "too low".
Trying to get in as many 2 mile walk/run sessions during the week as I can. This week I've done only 6 miles, with a LB workout. Nothing to brag about, that's for sure. I am slowing down in my running. Definitely more power walks than runs these days (4.0 at a 3.5 incline). I'm focusing on holding an extra 20 lbs during my lunges ( goal total of 46 lunges per leg). I used to be up to holding 40 extra lbs during my high points, but those days are over for now. I do tire much more easily. It's a little hard for me to go to the gym and start a workout, only to realize that my weights and stamina are much lower than they were only a few short months ago. But I keep telling myself that anything I do now will be that much of a boost in getting me back in the game once my pregnancy is over.
Baby is doing wonderfully and is very active. I won't have an ultrasound until the end of August.
My energy levels are up and aside from the ankle swelling I literally have no complaints. I saw my chiropractor last week and she said my metatarsal is broken down. Common in runners.
Well I'm going to run. Hope I didn't bore you all too bad.
20 WEEKS
Not feeling chatty today. I'm off to take a nap!!!!
Wednesday, 16 July 2008
- After 3 weeks I should explain the last set of pics. No, life is not gloomy and I'm not angry at the world.
She had me call her the next day to see how I was doing. She said that I was the third person in 3 days to call with the same symptoms. (This made me feel much less stupid for sounding a false alarm!) The heat had been very intense that week, and it served as a very real reminder that pregnant women NEED water, and lots of it. We had been spending hours at the lake, and even though I felt like I was drinking water, I had not been compensating enough for the fluid loss during hours in the sun. I have not made that mistake since.
Things I love about Sandy:
- When I have a pregnancy concern, she is the one who picks up the phone. I have direct, anytime contact with my healthcare provider.
- She asks tons of questions, and gets a complete feel for the problem before she comes to a conclusion.
- She is very willing to see me at any time. She leaves the choice up to me.
- She reminds me that I also have the option of using the emergency room if I need immediate care. (We live an hour from the birth center.)
On the other hand, I have a very real, very tiny little baby inside of me that I can actually "play" with. Duane felt it move for the first time on Saturday night. I love to feel around and find where it's tiny body is pushed against me. Last night we (the baby and I) played a game where I pushed on it's body, and it wiggled like a little fish. I could feel it's body against my hand; it's tiny hands to the right, and it's tiny feet to the left. It never did move where I couldn't feel it. Pregnancy is miraculous.
I weighed and measured at the beginning of the month, but I'm not going to post it anymore. (No, I didn't balloon and that is my way of hiding it.
A few weeks ago I upped my walk from 2, to 3 miles. I am running very little these days, and I wanted to put in an extra mile to compensate. My average walk is a 4.0, but there are days that I manage to maintain a 4.5. Other days I lag at a 3.5. (This is all calculated after I get home. My walks are outside, on our hilly country road.) I try to walk every day, but I don't always get it done. So far this week I haven't missed a day.
I would like to be more consistent with my posts. My moods control alot of that these days.
I'll post more pics at 25 weeks. I'm popping out like a balloon these days. I love it!
Serious question: Have any of you experienced extreme sugar cravings during pregnancy? (Like PMS sugar cravings). Eating tons of protein and fresh fruits doesn't help. I feel like I NEED sugary carbs! Heeeeelllllppp!! If any of you can offer alternatives that helped, I would appreciate it greatly. My self control is decidedly lacking in this respect. I may soon resemble the Michelin man if I don't get some help!
Goodnight to all.....
27 weeks today....last week in my second trimester!! I canNOT believe how fast time is flying!!!!! I will be on in a week to do 28 week pics and progress update as far as meeting goals. See ya then!
Monday, 18 August 2008
12 weeks to go.....(hopefully 10!)
28 Weeks (tomorrow)Yay for the 3rd trimester! I can't believe it's here already. This pregnancy is flying by in a way I have never experienced before. Maybe it's because I know the reality of sleepless nights?So the big weigh-in.....my goal was to not weigh more than 135 now. I weighed in this morning at 137.2. So I have gained a total of 2.2 lbs more than my goal, for a total pregnancy gain so far of 14 lbs. To tell you the truth, I am relieved and pleased. When I set that goal, I had absolutely no hope of meeting it. But I guess countless 3 mile walks, and (trying...sometimes failing) to choose reasonable healthy foods is paying off. However I don't want to speak too soon.....I could completely blow it in the next 12 weeks.Next week I have my sugar test and ultrasound. I am not worried in the least about the sugar test....but if I fail it, I'll just work that much harder to keep a healthy diet. I go in next Thursday, so I'm going to watch my sugars between now and then. Something I did not realize in my previous pregnancies is that what you eat in the days leading up to your sugar test can make a difference as to the results.I'm very excited about the ultrasound. It's always such a comfort to me to have a visual assurance that Baby is developing okay. (And no, we're not finding out the sex.) It will also be nice to be able to say a bit more "definite" due date....although I totally know that 38-42 weeks is a healthy, full-term pregnancy! I have gone early with both of my others (2 weeks with Ty, 3 days with Sis) so I have major hopes that it will happen again this time. An overdue baby would be new territory for me, and I have to admit that it's hard to think of it happening.Second trimester has brought more energy than I have ever experienced before. I feel upbeat and physically wonderful. It's a bit hard to bend over now, and I have told hubby that soon I'll ask him to tie my shoes for me!I tried to upload a pic and for some reason my Xanga isn't letting me. I'll try again and hopefully I'll be able to show you my real, live, finally here baby bump!Well it's late so I need to run. I'll try to post again around 32 weeks or so, if nothing interesting happens before then!
Hey if you think about it could you breathe a prayer that my baby will turn soon...it's breech and even though it's too early to be (too) worried, I could have a baby in 3 1/2 weeks. I'm doing stretches and a few other things the midwife suggested so I'm hoping Baby will respond soon....
I've got to run, but I promise I'll try to remember to have hubby take a pic soon. Trust me, there's a serious baby belly to show off now!
I've got to run, but I promise I'll try to remember to have hubby take a pic soon. Trust me, there's a serious baby belly to show off now!
Tuesday, 14 October 2008
35 Weeks
33 days till D-day! I'm so ready to meet this little tyke. I feel incredible for being so far pregnant. Nothing major to whine about.In a few more days I can safely start a few natural "labor prep" things. I'm already drinking red raspberry leaf tea and being diligent about walking every day. I feel so lame but the last couple walks I've just dropped back to 30 minutes, regardless of how far I get (less than 2 miles.) Baby has been sitting so far down in my pelvis and it makes me waddle very uncomfortably. I think any exercise this late in the game is better than nothing??? I do hope so, because I just don't have the stamina for the 3 mile power walk that included a very steep hill. (I have so much pressure in my pelvis and the hill just takes it out of me. Big cop out??) I might try it a few more times but it seems like 30 minutes of sustained exercise is better than nothing.I braved the weight gain subject with the midwife last week for the first time. She had never said anything so I assumed it was okay. When I told her that I was hoping to only gain 25 lbs, she did say that wasn't enough for as small as I started out. But I've measured right all along and that is far more important to her than what the scales say. So I have officially quit stressing about my weight. It's a nice feeling. If I continue like I have been I think I'll manage to see a 28-30 lb gain. Anyhow I'm not worried about it.Has anyone else experienced really bad belly burn around where your abs split, right above the belly button? Man it's tender! Like if the baby pushes on it from inside, or if it gets bumped. This being my 3rd pregnancy I have totally missed out on all the itchy skin and painful stretching that goes with fresh skin being abused.Natural birth moms: I'm very interested in hearing your birth stories, as well as your recommendations for pain management. What positions worked for you? Did you experience back labor, and if so, what helped the most? (I had it with T, not with C.) Let me say here that I absolutely LOVE reading birth stories, with all the details. I have read countless ones since deciding on a natural birth, and if you would be interested in sharing, I would love to hear about it. Message or email me and don't worry about keeping it short. I have learned so much from details. I just want to experience what giving birth is truly like, minus the drugs and interferences. Please include any advice you have to offer. Thanks in advance! Oh and here's one to make me blush and you laugh. My biggest natural birthing fear is the "ring of fire". Contractions I can handle, but I have never felt that lovely sensation. Is it for real and how bad does it hurt and what exactly can you do to help and does a water birth make it better? Okay I am for real blushing.I'll try to post another preggy pic before Baby arrives. Just for whatever it's worth, a belly stud adds a cute dimension to a preggy belly.When I go into labor I have all good intentions of using this site for labor updates until we leave for the birthing center. I've had other Xanga buddies that have done that and it is so awesome to follow the progress. My past labors have been very long so I'm anticipating many hours of updates before leaving you.Okay gotta run.....TTYL!!
Went to see the chiropractor yesterday. I get so much more than an adjustment with her....she used to work as part of a high risk delivery team in a teaching hospital. Not only is she gifted at explaining things, but she is a wealth of information about bones and pregnancy.
My pelvis has been giving me a few uncomfortable days lately. I think maybe the fact that one leg was an inch shorter than the other played it's part! She freaked when she saw the size of my ankles. In fact she said my face was swollen too. I admitted that I had cleaned a house that day and pretty much been on my feet since 6: a.m. She said that is OVER. Guess I'll have to get hubby to help steam the carpets this weekend.
She checked Baby's position, and it is head down! Such an answer to prayer! I was beginning to stress about it pretty bad.
Carpel tunnel is agonizing my right arm. I totally forgot to ask her about it. Any suggestions from any of you? It wakes me up multiple times a night. And plucking my eyebrows is really a chore since my hand goes numb every 20 seconds!
37 weeks on Saturday! I wonder if I'll go early this time. I really don't care as far as wanting the pregnancy to be over....it's been such a great time and I'm not terribly uncomfortable. I'm mainly just very hormonal and everything makes me want to burst into tears. And it would be nice to get the bees out of my arm! But really I'm just very, very anxious to meet this tiny tyke and call it by name and hold it and kiss it and....ya know, just be its mama. I can't wait! I have such vivid dreams at night....sometimes about the birth, sometimes about meeting the baby. So far I've had a boy and a girl.
Well my last kidder just got out of bed. I'm set for a full day of doing nothing but propping my feet up and spending time with my tykes. Oh and drinking water and eating protein. We're all fighting chest colds so I'll throw some vitamin C in there too!
Be back in the next week or so with another pic....then hopefully soon some good news!
My pelvis has been giving me a few uncomfortable days lately. I think maybe the fact that one leg was an inch shorter than the other played it's part! She freaked when she saw the size of my ankles. In fact she said my face was swollen too. I admitted that I had cleaned a house that day and pretty much been on my feet since 6: a.m. She said that is OVER. Guess I'll have to get hubby to help steam the carpets this weekend.
She checked Baby's position, and it is head down! Such an answer to prayer! I was beginning to stress about it pretty bad.
Carpel tunnel is agonizing my right arm. I totally forgot to ask her about it. Any suggestions from any of you? It wakes me up multiple times a night. And plucking my eyebrows is really a chore since my hand goes numb every 20 seconds!
37 weeks on Saturday! I wonder if I'll go early this time. I really don't care as far as wanting the pregnancy to be over....it's been such a great time and I'm not terribly uncomfortable. I'm mainly just very hormonal and everything makes me want to burst into tears.
And it would be nice to get the bees out of my arm! But really I'm just very, very anxious to meet this tiny tyke and call it by name and hold it and kiss it and....ya know, just be its mama. I can't wait! I have such vivid dreams at night....sometimes about the birth, sometimes about meeting the baby. So far I've had a boy and a girl.Well my last kidder just got out of bed. I'm set for a full day of doing nothing but propping my feet up and spending time with my tykes. Oh and drinking water and eating protein. We're all fighting chest colds so I'll throw some vitamin C in there too!
Be back in the next week or so with another pic....then hopefully soon some good news!
Sunday, 02 November 2008
38 Weeks
Final countdown. From here on out I feel overdue, because I had a baby by this time my first time around. 13 days left! It's nice to finally be able to say, "any day now!"
I feel so awesome! A couple weeks ago I had a cold and was just so fatigued. I was so afraid that my energy was gone till D-day. But I've got another energy burst and have been filling the freezer with all kinds of yummy things. Tomorrow I think I'm going to rake leaves and maybe even push-mow the grass. Maybe that will help things along! Tonight we took the kids to a park to play and I walked on the track. 5 laps = 1 mile so I did 10 laps. Ran the last one. That had to have looked funny but I'm seriously trying to make things happen here!
I was at the midwife this past Monday. I was so discouraged when she told me that I was doing nothing. Not even the teeniest, tiniest bit of dilating or softening. Also that instead of the baby's head engaging in my my pelvis, it was sitting on the bone. Yay yay. She said that could be the reason my other labors were so long.....and if it doesn't change, I could be in for a long labor this time. I've been planning on a long labor, so it won't be a disappointment or surprise if it happens.
The good news: last night I had a bit of spotting. That has to mean that things are softening up at least a tiny bit, right? I'll have her check me again on Tuesday. Hopefully the evening primrose gel caps have been doing their job.
The chiropractor told me that the pain in my arm is due to my neck being out. It is getting worse and is so bad at night that often I can hardly sleep. My right hand is swollen and numb and especially in the mornings it's hard to do anything that requires my hand to clasp at all. I was adjusted on Friday but it doesn't seem to do much good. I think I pop back out as soon as I pay her! On the bright side, the adjustments help with any pelvic or back pain that I occasionally have. I think it's kind of weird that at 38 weeks pregnant, I feel great in the tummy area and it's really only my arm that makes me want to have this baby soon!
Well I'll leave you with the interesting part! I don't know if I'll post any more belly pics before Baby comes. I don't think it's possible for me to get any bigger! So for those of you who thought I was "so small"......you can officially change your thinking! I measured my belly this morning and found that I am the proud owner of a 36 1/2 inch waist!!!!! It's so nice to know that soon I will enter the world's fastest weight loss program!
I feel so awesome! A couple weeks ago I had a cold and was just so fatigued. I was so afraid that my energy was gone till D-day. But I've got another energy burst and have been filling the freezer with all kinds of yummy things. Tomorrow I think I'm going to rake leaves and maybe even push-mow the grass. Maybe that will help things along! Tonight we took the kids to a park to play and I walked on the track. 5 laps = 1 mile so I did 10 laps. Ran the last one.
That had to have looked funny but I'm seriously trying to make things happen here!I was at the midwife this past Monday. I was so discouraged when she told me that I was doing nothing. Not even the teeniest, tiniest bit of dilating or softening. Also that instead of the baby's head engaging in my my pelvis, it was sitting on the bone. Yay yay. She said that could be the reason my other labors were so long.....and if it doesn't change, I could be in for a long labor this time. I've been planning on a long labor, so it won't be a disappointment or surprise if it happens.
The good news: last night I had a bit of spotting. That has to mean that things are softening up at least a tiny bit, right? I'll have her check me again on Tuesday. Hopefully the evening primrose gel caps have been doing their job.
The chiropractor told me that the pain in my arm is due to my neck being out. It is getting worse and is so bad at night that often I can hardly sleep. My right hand is swollen and numb and especially in the mornings it's hard to do anything that requires my hand to clasp at all. I was adjusted on Friday but it doesn't seem to do much good. I think I pop back out as soon as I pay her! On the bright side, the adjustments help with any pelvic or back pain that I occasionally have. I think it's kind of weird that at 38 weeks pregnant, I feel great in the tummy area and it's really only my arm that makes me want to have this baby soon!
Well I'll leave you with the interesting part! I don't know if I'll post any more belly pics before Baby comes. I don't think it's possible for me to get any bigger! So for those of you who thought I was "so small"......you can officially change your thinking! I measured my belly this morning and found that I am the proud owner of a 36 1/2 inch waist!!!!! It's so nice to know that soon I will enter the world's fastest weight loss program!
Tonight the kiddo's fingerpainted handprints on my tummy.
The finished work of art!
