the first run

I delivered on April 22.  
On May 13 I ran for the first time.  

6X400m intervals on treadmill
They went well.  
I had no pain associated with stitches. 
No increase in bleeding.

I did notice that my upper body took a bit of a beating.  I felt like it was work to keep my upper body upright.  Basically, there is a noticeable decrease in muscle ability. I got a few painful stitches and really benefited from the rest/walk period in between intervals. I was not sore at all afterwards.  All in all, I am glad I did the work out.  I do not feel that it was too early or too much.  All that I noticed was that I had zero core muscles.  That makes a difference in quality of workout. 

On May 14 I ran for the second time. 
Fun run-30 minutes roughly 3 miles.  I went with zero expectations.  I just wanted to get out the door and let my body try it out.  This run was a little more challenging.  That upper body thing is kind of weird.  I got a huge stitch and walked it out for several minutes along the route.  I feel that I would not been able to go any faster.  Again, no increase in bleeding, no weird pain. 

For future reference with future pregnancies...
I think I did the right thing with these early workouts.  I still have a long road ahead of me.  I am extremely aware of my vulnerbaility of my body.  I am freaked out about relaxin screwing with my joints and my lack of core.  It will come slowly but surely. 

post delivery

Callum is here.  I wrote all about his arrival on the other blog.  
For this blog, it is enough to say that the goal I had set for pregnancy did happen.  I was able to have the natural birth I wanted.  It was intense but worth it.  

I am now a little over 1 week post partum.  My doctor says zero running for two weeks minimum.  During the third week I am allowed to very slowly and carefully resume running.  Truth be told, I am not in a hurry.  I fully respect that my body is healing. It just did something amazing, and like training for a marathon, deserves some R &R.  During that third week I will try something slow but that is that. 

For now I am hanging out with Callum and learning to be a mom.  That is enough for me. 

joys of swimming

Oh the joys of swimming.  
Yesterday I worked all day.  Moved stuff into our new house.  Unpacked some of it-not much. and topped it off with swimming laps. 

Technically I could have rested since I am 38 weeks.  I decided not to because a) my fear of him being the wrong way is looming b) swimming is never regrettable.

I soldiered to the pool and took the initial icy plunge below the surface. I. hate. that. It kills me every time. 

Once I started the first lap I was fine.  I knew I would be.  With no pressure to break world records, or burn 9999 calories I just pushed my pace and got a workout.  It was lovely. 

I always aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of continuous swimming.  I completed 32 lengths.  This is above what I have done on the most previous occasions. 

As I was swimming I couldn't help but realize that I didn't feel 38 weeks pregnant. No pressure, pain, or waddling.  It was as if I was my normal self. Truth be told, I did not slow my workout in any noticeable fashion.  This makes me very grateful for a healthy body that can sustain another life and still enjoy somewhat strenuous work on one's body.  It also gives me hope that it may help me, somehow someway, during labor. 

I would like to think that an athlete's mindset, determination, meditation, and goal orientation can only help someone with such a challenging feat.  

It is with these thoughts that I embark on 38+ weeks of pregnancy.  
I am making an effort each day to be an athlete who practices breathing and pushing one's self.  At the same time I am lessening my work load at work.  All lesson plans are done, and my teaching style is rarely direct instruction.  I try to find time each day for me.  That is usually reading a book for a little bit.  Lastly, I try to do at least one thing for Motorcycle.  

I keep thinking it's any day...who knows.  I look forward to another swim tonight. 

wrong way

Last week an ultrasound revealed that Motorcycle has not oriented his body the right way for birth.  It isn't a full on breech but more of a sideways/diagonal position.  It is enough to have me slightly worried and enough for my doctor to recommend some weird things that might encourage him to turn.  

I am supposed to crawl around on my hands and knees with my butt in the air as much as possible.  Can you please visualize that for a second?

I asked about handstands in the pool.  He shot that one down right away.  Despite his disagreement on its effectiveness I did swim laps and try handstands yesterday.   I can't help but think that the forward learning anterior posture has a lot to do with getting him the right way.  

The more I am in that posture the better.  Swimming laps was glorious as usual.  I got 24 laps in and did about 10 handstands.   My goal is to do that every day this week. 

The frequency of my contractions has dwindled in the past week.  I have not gotten any ridiculous contractions in well over a week.   The little cramps come here and there, but they are not worth talking about. 

I have continued my 1 mile walk/run each morning.  

Today marks 38 weeks. 

36 week wake up call

Physically speaking, I have been a little edgy.  

I went to Phoenix several days ago and was admittedly nervous about the elevation and length of travel. During the car ride I did have some contractions and even got lightheaded  at some points.  However, we stopped frequently for walking breaks, and I chugged water like there was no tomorrow. 

I have reached a point where I have contractions irregularly pretty much on a daily basis.  Some are more painful than others.  Each time it happens I freak out.  It is hard to believe that I am about to go through the most intense thing of my entire life.  Each contraction is a wake up call.  

My activity level seems to vary by the day.  I notice that some days I just have zero desire to be active.  There are not many, but they do occur here and there.  On majority of days I am so anxious to run that I literally hold myself back.  Like today.  I ran for a few minutes and switched to walking. 

Yesterday I had yet another prenatal appointment. I was excited to hear that labor would soon be approaching.  No such news.  He is measuring 35 weeks, which is good news.  The big shocker of the appointment was that I am 170 pounds.  That is a whopping 35 pounds of weight gain.  

I expressed my sheer horror at this number to my doctor.  He thought I was crazy to be upset by this number.  Apparently 35 pounds is an okay amount to gain if you don't start your pregnancy obese.  How did I not know that?  Either way, I hate that number.  That makes me even more ready to run ridiculous when this is over.  

In this home stretch of pregnancy I have decided to at least make a few dietary changes.  I have been very liberal in my consumption of all things unhealthy.  I take seconds.  I never turn down dessert.  I get more special treats.  Basically, I was way out of character.  I know that processed foods and sugars are not awesome for Motorcycle.  

In this final stretch I will push myself by abstaining from those things.  Usually I would pick up the miles, but I can't.  This will do. 

Cheers to the final weeks. 

the end

What can be said?  I am at the end of this pregnancy road.  It is not easy to be as active as I want to be.  Not only am I finally scared of inducing labor, but I am just big and uncomfortable.  

The last two weeks have been characterized by walking and minimal running.  I have not ran outside in over two weeks.   I have completed a walk run interval on my tredmill quite regularly.  This allows me to continue running but never get to the stage where I am in pain.  

I must say that I am absolutely to a point where I want to run again.  I want to wear my old clothes and get the heck outside to run in warm weather.  I have brand new vibrams that have hardly been worn.  I want to try those babies out asap.  

When I look back at my pregnancy miles, I can't help but feel good about what I did.  As late as 28 weeks I was running over 6 miles.  I ran over 13 miles on many occasions.  

I never got sick or nauseous.  My aches and pains were so minimal that I never had anything to complain about.  

My belly didn't show until I was about 26 weeks.  This was nice because I didn't need to wear maternity clothes the whole time.  

Bottom line is that I made it through running and working out while pregnant.  Now that even I can admit that running at 36 weeks plus is not the most comfortable thing to do, I am striving to get 30 minutes of walking a day.  

After he comes I am excited to embark on the next fitness journey.  Recovering and returning to running after a baby.  I plan on documenting my progress.  

32 weeks

On Saturday I ran 3 miles with no limitations.  It felt normal and exhilarating.  I was so tempted to keep running.  What little sensibility I have, prompted me to end on a good note and not try to be a superhero.  I ended it at 3 miles and walked away feeling like a champion.  

I feel incredibly lucky that I have been able to sustain my running throughout an entire pregnancy.  I know that is a blessing in and of itself.  

Today was a bit of a rough day.  It was an all day on your feet kind of day at work.  I was wearing heels.  mistake. Between not having enough time to eat lunch and standing all day, I found myself thoroughly exhausted at 2:35.  

I had planned on trying a 3 mile run again today.  After noticing that my ankles were swollen and that I felt exhausted, I quickly changed my game plan to a walk.  I went for a 1.5 mile walk with my mom.  The runner in me was a little disappointed  but there is something to be said for listening to your tired pregnant body once in awhile. 

Here is a basic summary of how things are going at this point...

• The kicks and Braxton Hicks contractions are a regular part of my day.  During the night it can sometimes keep me up or holding my breath.  
• I am at a point where I am both thrilled and terrified of what is to come.  I am dying to meet this little boy, but I am terrified that I won't be ready or something.  
• I am at a point where I realize that I could technically go into labor at any time.  This reminds me that my ideal birth may or may not come to pass.  I need to have an open mind. 
• My weight gain seems to be normal.  I don't see the weight gain in weird places.  I admit that I stopped weighing myself at home.  The increasing number starting freaking me out.
• Overall I feel great.  I am not overly tired, in pain, or without sleep.  I can honestly say that my sleep is more deep than it was during 2nd trimester. I hope it stays that way to the end. 

   

the thirties

Have you noticed that I haven't been posting nearly as regularly as I used to?
Chalk that up to the natural order of entering 30 weeks plus.  
Sure, there has been some little bumps along this pregnancy road.  Not nearly enough to complain about or pretend like I have had a challenging pregnancy.  With that being said I am going to entitle myself to complain for a bit. 

Challenges at this point 

• wearing clothes.  I hate bundling up to face the cold when my clothing selection has dwindled to a few normal items and a few maternity things.  I don't get the simple satisfaction of wearing a favorite outfit or leaving the house knowing I look good.  I will be happy when it's warm again, and I can tough out the last weeks of pregnancy by wearing comfortable dresses, capri length leggings, and maternity shorts.  
• sleeping.  I am so sick of wearing out my two options.  Left side. right side. reverse. I would give anything to sleep on my stomach again.
• junk food.  What the heck is my deal?  Somehow chocolates and treats have slipped into a more than regular occurrence in my diet.  While I am always one to savor chocolate treats. I also like to think I exercise control.  This control has dwindled significantly.  I am so embarrassed to admit how much chocolate I have consumed in the past two weeks.  Not good. 
• the realization that running is different.  I have accepted the natural slowing down.  I am not in denial or upset with myself.  I am proud of myself when I am able to push it and accomplish a strong run without pain.  That is a triumph.  However, the part that is hurting me is the frequency.  I just am not feeling the idea of running 5-6 days a week.  I have tapered down to 2-3 runs per week.  Mix in yoga once a week, swimming laps at least once a week, and a walk or 2, and there you have my workout regimen.  It works for me, but I do crave the intensity.  It will come. 
• acceptance of everything slowing down.  Walking, balancing, shaving my legs, bending down, sitting for long periods of time, and other simple tasks are challenging.  
• fear of bouncing back.  Everyone tells me I'll bounce back because of my high activity level.  Somewhere in my mind there is an irrational thought in my mind that I might struggle to get back to my normal weight and normal routines.  I know it's a reality only if I turn into a lazy bum.  That won't happen, but I still need to be acutely aware of the possibility. 
• stress.  This is my biggest challenge bar none.  I am having an extremely hard time with managing all of the stresses in my life.  While I am blessed with many temporal and spiritual things, I am still overwhelmed with my plate.  Simple stresses can tax me and make me curl up into a ball.  That is both literal and figurative. I feel like it sometimes casts a very dark cloud over my head and clouds my vision of the wonderful and exciting blessings on the horizon.  For example, sometimes I worry myself sick about being financially prepared and emotionally capable of being able to be a mom.  I sometimes add it all up in my head and feel like the numbers and hours in the day don't add up.  Doubt, fear, worry, and selfishness are real struggles for me right now.  I have had a wake up call.  I think I hit rock bottom with stress this week.  Somehow I managed to pull myself out of this and see sunshine in our future.  How did I do it?  Love and support from my dearest one, encouragement from a friend, and diving into my to do list.  I also recognized that my stress is nothing more than a toxin to Motorcycle's cocoon.  He could not have been enjoying the hormones being released as a result of my stress and sadness.  Just like moms do everyday, I had to put my big girl panties on and buck up for the little guy.  Moms can't have bad days.  

Here is to stress free day tomorrow.  Cheers

big

This week I felt great.  Slept great.  No pains or aches.  Overall great. 
Despite feeling great my running took a backseat.  There were 2 days where I literally had to say no because of homework.  I had a ton of paper grading this week and a signature assignment due.  Usually these things wouldn't deter me-regardless of how time intensive they are.  I admit that I am softening my opinion on rest and running days.  I am learning to just go day by day and not let missing a workout ruin my outlook on life.  It can do that you know. 

Don't get me wrong.  I am reaching a point where I day dream about what it will be like to run in the hot sun at a fast pace with no maternity belt.  Oh glorious day.  Sure, I'll have Motorcycle at home to think about.  I will have to figure it out.  For now, I am day dreaming. 

Well, I can still salvage 2 days.  I plan on swimming laps after school and running 5-6 miles tomorrow.  How will it be to run 6 miles at 30 weeks pregnant?  

I will end on a positive note.  I did have a fantastic swim workout on Tuesday.  I rocked 40 laps.  
On Monday I ran 3 miles on the treadmill.  My pace is slowing, but it still felt great.  I know how to listen to my body and get it right.  

10 more weeks give or take...

5 miler saturday

Dude.  This 5 miler was one of the most successful runs of the past several weeks. 

The play by play

Mile 1-stopped at Mickey D's to pee. So worth it.  It was not a phantom pee. I actually had to go.  As soon as we resumed running I knew I was going to be fine. 

Mile 2-is this too good to be true?  where is the circulation leg pain?  where is the bladder pressure?  no where!

Mile 3-4-nothing.  consistent pace, not even slightly uncomfortable, mostly loving the sunny weather

Mile 4-5 end on a good note.  could have technically kept going, but why ruin a good thing?  end it on a smile and be  proud of feeling so good




I just need to take a moment and thank my lucky stars for being able to run this far.  I am so grateful that my body and Motorcycle have agreed to let me keep doing this.  I am being safe and feeling great.  Pregnant life is a cake walk.  :)  

several reasons why this was good

2 miles today. 
not something I usually post about. 
however, it is notable for these reasons:

I ran in shorts. outside. enough said.
I ran at roughly an 8:35 mile pace.  This makes me pleased that my pacing is not that far off.  It has naturally slowed, but I feel like it is ever so gradual that I hardly notice.  I am hoping it makes for an easy transition.
I ran without the maternity belt and had zero discomfort. You could have sworn I was not 7 months pregnant. 

starting monday right

Monday thus far..

12am-tossing and turning.  

1am-frustrated enough that I get up to get a drink and stretch for a second

1:05am-convinced that I won't fall asleep again, so I vacate to the couch

1:30am-Jason feels sorry for me.  He tries to make me comfortable and gives me a Tylenol PM.

2:30am-start feeling sleepy.  I began to be excited, because I can sense that I am going to fall back asleep. 

5:22am-alarm goes off.  I feel so peaceful and make an executive decision to continue sleeping.  I will start my workout at 6.  Go back to my bedroom and sleep peacefully for another 45 minutes

6:05am-on the treadmill.  NO LEG PAIN.  the weird circulation issue was nowhere to be found.  but my bladder was dying.  I had a lot of pressure on it.  a quick pee break that resulted in nothing, helped reassure my mind that I could resume.

6:40-am off the treadmill.  feel like a champion.  3 miles-just like I said. 

post 3 miles-27 weeks

committing to a plan for the week

Last week I tried to change my time of day for exercising.  I did see some improvements.  However, I am not fully convinced of it being the solve all problems approach.  
There were many things that made last week rough.  It wasn't lack of time either.  
I am not disappointed in my mileage for last week (about 12 miles I think).  I just want to make more of a solidified schedule to use and work towards.

How January has felt.  Sick of the dark and cold.  

  
So, in the name of being Type A and trying to be way too organized at aspects that probably don't need it...here I go

Monday=Morning:  3 miles on treadmill Evening:  Pilates on Spark (weather permitting, walk with Mom)  

Tuesday=Morning:  5X800m repeats on treadmill Evening:  Walk with Mom (weather permitting)  back up-walk on treadmill 20 minutes while reading school work  

Wednesday=Morning:  2 miles on treadmill  Evening:  Yoga

Thursday=Morning:  3 miles on treadmill    Evening:  Swim 36 laps

Friday=Morning:  1 mile   Evening:  Swim 36 laps

Saturday=Outside morning run 6 miles/walk with Mom

Sunday=Walk with Mom

Overall nutritional goal:  No treats to finish up January

struggles

I am struggling to maintain a balance of sleep and working out.  As expected, I toss and turn for the whole night; struggling to find comfort on either side I am allowed to sleep on.  The most peaceful hours of sleep seem to be the most precious ones right before it is time to go to work. When my alarm goes off around 5 am to workout, I find myself with no will power to get up.  This little pattern has just started.  And even though it has only been a few days of misery, it is enough for me to a) write about it and b) think of an appropriate intervention.

As I battled this fatigue and lack of getting out of bed when I actually feel comfortable, I find that running on the treadmill is incredibly uncomfortable.  It feels like the circulation in my legs is constricting   My belly and back have nothing to do with it.  The constricting feeling goes down into my feet even.  Sometimes I push through it and other times I try and let it subside for a few minutes.  

So, here is my intervention.  For the next 2 work days I will not workout in the morning. Alternatively, I will try running outside after school.  (or treadmill if it is freezing).  My hope is that my body will be more tired and prone to restful sleep from working out closer to bed time.  It is worth a shot.  

continued love of the pool

I cannot get over how great I feel in the pool.  I feel like there are no restrictions or aches and pains associated with the growing baby inside of me.  It is glorious.  

Yesterday I swam 30 laps.  That translates to just under a 1/2 mile.  Nothing fancy or too impressive-just a good solid workout.  

Confession:  I could have stayed for much longer.  I was in the zone.  However, I am terrified of being in the pool by myself.  I was the only swimmer yesterday.  I get major creeped out when I am in the big empty lap pool by myself.  I have always been this way.  

10 miles at 25 weeks

Here is the breakdown:

10 miles
1 hour 21 min
8:05 pace

Negatives: 
constant urge to pee--though I knew it was a phantom pee caused by my bladder being pushed upon by other body parts
significant leg fatigue in the first 3 miles and last 3 miles-almost felt like bad circulation
16 degrees outside. are you kidding me?

Positives:
the pace was not too fast-I handled the 8:05 pace without struggling or feeling pain
did not get thirsty or hungry
the maternity belt really did make a difference.  I can usually feel my SI joint early into the run.  Back and SI joint pain subsided for virtually the whole run. this belt is awesome.




I would like to thank the following product for its help in making this run possible:

3x1600m

Speedwork.  How funny is that when you are 6 months pregnant?

I did my best to push the pace safely and effectively. 
Here is the breakdown

Mile 1-8:45
Mile 2-8:38
Mile 3-8:18

2 minute rest in between each interval

I am pleased with the outcome.  I am finding a pattern in all of my running.  The first 10-15 minutes is uncomfortable.  Leg pain, back pain, general fatigue are the norms.  Once I break through that barrier, I find that I feel like my old self.  This is evidenced by the stats above.  First mile was hard and painful.  2 and 3 were a night and day difference. 

8.43

I exceeded my expectations today.  I ran 8.43 miles.  Here is the breakdown.

Miles 1-4
heavy, pressure, poor leg circulation, freezing cold, trouble finding pace

Miles 5-6
finally felt comfortable, bladder pressure subsided, pace picked up, was able to carry light conversation without dying

Mile 7-8
tempted to go farther but realistic about taking care of my body.  

Recovery
almost immediate aches and soreness in general womb and pelvic area.  put legs in air for 2 minutes and did a few stretches

In all honesty, it was not that bad.  I never experienced pain.  I only experienced what is unexpectedly an adjustment to my new size.  I still feel like I can carry on with running.  I think the best thing I can do is keep to an every other day schedule.  On the off days I will swim. 

Usually I do some fancy fast long runs in celebration of a new year's resolution.  Because speedwork is not a realistic objective for me, I decided to choose a nutrition challenge. 

I am cutting out sugar for the month of January.  6 days in and I am good.   

a new found gem for pregnant exercise

I knew swimming was low impact on muscles, joints, and legs.  I knew that it serves as a hardy cross training regimen for days off of running.  I even vaguely knew that swimming was a worthwhile activity for pregnant ladies.  

For the first time this week I have experienced pain due to running.  This sharp pain set in hours after workout but stopped me in my tracks.  It was a very sharp pain that was clearly in my uterine area.  Both times it happened I was not able to stand up straight or breathe in deep enough to take a full breath.  It lasted for about a minute. 

I am no expert but my hunch is that this has to do with several key factors

a) I have just returned to running after a 3 week battle with cold/flu/sinus trouble.
b) I attempted a speed workout after months of only long endurance runs
c) I am now clearly pregnant with a baby bump.  

My changing body and ever expanding womb is obviously taking a bit of a beating out there.  Here is my response to this event.

1)  swim more.  I tried it today and was utterly impressed at how I did not feel pregnant in the water.  I moved and stretched and kicked as if I was my normal self. 
2)  not do speed work again. 
3)  regrettably, slow my pace down a little

2013 running resolution

I will run a Boston qualifying time. 

2013 will be an extraordinarily exciting year for running.  
Simply stated, I am entering a new phase in life. Becoming a mother, experiencing child birth, and learning to put others before myself will make me a better runner.  It just will. Additionally, I am ready to reach my secret goal.  

2013 is the year I will aim to run a Boston qualifying time.  I do not feel that I am too far off to accomplish this task.  However, it will take an incredible amount of speed and additional distance during marathon training to accomplish.  

Where will I make this happen?  
I am considering Carlsbad, Huntsville, Malibu, Albuquerque, or any highly comprehended race from a friend. 

What are the setbacks or challenges?
I am working full time.  I will be a new mom with a new born.  I will be a nursing mom.  I will be working on a masters degree full time.  I will be juggling time with a very busy working husband.  

What are the obvious reasons for success?
I tried once before and failed.  This failure became a learning expeirence.  I know what I need to do this time.  I feel that being a new member of the mom club will open a door of being able to do hard things in a more clear way.  I have been training in a much more challenging way for the past 4 years.  My body is used to rigorous training.  

I am so very excited for running through pregnancy, child birth, post partum, nursing, and beyond.  Cheers for resolutions!

the 1000th mile

the 1000th mile

Ragnar Relay-200 miles with my sis/ February 2012

Today marks 1000 miles in 2012.  In celebration of 1000 glorious running miles, I would like to take a look back at the best runs of the year.  

Carlsbad Marathon-sunny and warm oceanside marathon/Jan 2012

Ragnar Del Sol-200mi/Feb 2012

Breast Cancer 10k Overall Female Winner-Oct 2012

Track Coach-running with junior high kids for a whole track season/Feb-Apr 2012

Sprint Triathlon-first tri/Aug 2012

Running safely while pregnant-priceless.  Today was a windy 10 miles at 21 weeks.  I love Motorcycle. 

oceanside marathon

downtown Carlsbad 

look for the girl in pink--2nd from right, next to the green guy

14 weeks post 8 miler

10 weeks post speed work at track

refreshing sea breeze during marathon

Homolovi Ruins State Park-10k pseudo race

15 miles at 17 weeks pregnant

2012 was a great year for running.  Most of it was done in the deserts of northern Arizona.  However, there was an ocean marathon, a rainy run on the morning of my Grandma's funeral, many race routing runs for our community races, tons of speed work days, barefoot runs in vibrams, predawn prework runs, and pregnant runs.                                                It is so good to be a runner. 

Yee'go Yee'go Yee'go

988 miles

Just 12 miles short of reaching 1000 miles in 2012!!!!!  

halfway mark

Today marks 20 weeks.  Up until this week, I truly have not looked pregnant.  

There are some sure signs that Motorcycle is growing:

1.  undershirts roll up on my stomach

2.  tshirts reveal a little bump

3.  jeans are snug in hips and butt

4.  can no longer comfortably or safely lay on my stomach

5.  siblings are telling me to start wearing maternity and stop trying to fit into my clothes

6.  while running I am completely aware of that fact that my stomach is somewhat sticking out

7.  my spandex shorts worn underneath running shorts are rolling up because of my growing size

Due to a rough week in terms of flu/cold, I only ran 5.2 miles today.  I made an executive decision that I would have a short run that was successful, rather than fight through a long endurance run without being able to breathe. 

Pace has still not slowed.  I was able to run a pace under 8:30 despite 20 weeks and being sick.  I am listening to my body and will indeed slow down when the time comes.  

When I look back of the first half of my pregnancy, I have to really look hard.  I did a lot of wondering and hoping without a whole lot of symptoms.  Besides the fact that I saw him several times on a screen and heard his heartbeat, I really had no physical proof that a baby was inside of me.  I did go on a Taco Bell craving kick for about 4 weeks very early on, other than that, no cravings.  I honestly felt great in every way possible. 

This next half of pregnancy will be the bigger challenge.  The physical changes will take a toll on everything I do.  Working out is so huge for me.  I need to find ways to feel satisfied with my fitness while still accepting that the intensity is going to be different.

Just to summarize my pregnancy goals, 

I want to continue running throughout the entire pregnancy.  

I want to continue lifting weights and swimming throughout. 

I want to continue living a healthy lifestyle, which Jason has made very easy for me. 

the flu

I have not had the flu since I was in college.  That is a long time folks.  Due to my weakened immune state, I succumbed to the flu earlier this week.  
What was different about this flue was how quickly it rushed through me.  At lunch I started to feel a little sick.  I thought it was because my lunch was super lame.  No big deal.  By mid afternoon I was starting to feel hot and legitimately nauseous.  I'm pregnant.  These things happen.  I tried to soldier on.  By 1:00 I told a coworker that I may need to dart to the bathroom during class, only because I'm pregnant.  By 2:00 I got a teacher's aide to watch my class while I went and laid in the lounge.  I still didn't think it was flu.  I thought I just didn't eat enough for today.  2:35.  The bell rings and I literally sprint to my car.  I was thinking that if I just ate something quickly that things would subside.  Detour to Taco Bell.  I ordered a quesadilla.  This is when I knew I was in trouble.  Waiting in the drive thru line became unbearable.  I knew I was going to be sick.  Somehow I made it home and into the bathroom to be sick there.  Not good. 
Fast forward 24 hours.  By the time this happened until 24 hours later, I lost 6 pounds.  I could not keep anything in my body.   It was rough.  
My only explanation is that I was more susceptible to flu because I am pregnant.  I went down big time.  

I am now recovering and fighting a head cold.  I don't want to go for a run until I can breathe normally again.  I'll see how I feel tomorrow.  For today, I plan on lifting weights only.  No cardio/heart rate increase. 

another notable 13 miler

13.3 miles 1 hr 53 min
approximately 8:27 mile pace

are you kidding me?  

I keep thinking that every long run I do is going to be the last.  Contrary to popular belief, I am very careful about being safe as I am still logging fast miles. 

Today we set water bottles out on the course once again.  Going off of my doctor's advice, never ever get dehydrated while running.  I sipped water at mile 4, mile 6, mile 8, and mile 10.  This was a winning combination of staying hydrated and not drinking so much that my bladder couldn't handle it.  

I also ran with a Larabar; thinking that I would need to feed Motorcycle.  wrong.  I tihnk my peanut butter covered graham cracker was enough to hold me over for an entire half marathon. 

I cannot describe to you how easy this run was.  I seriously felt like a champion the whole time.  I had zero discomfort pregnancy or other.  

I am so grateful that Motorcylce is okay with me running.  I feel great and will continue to do what I can do as I my belly grows bigger and bigger. 

Cheers 

15 miles

I am a day away from being 18 weeks along.  Pregnancy life is not too shabby.  I know, I know I always have to bring up running.  Here I go again.  Today I ran 15.1 miles at an 8:37 mile pace. Last week I ran a half marathon.  Basically, I haven't slowed down  yet.  I have been very cautious about approaching my workouts.  For the first time ever I laid out water bottles in the desert so that I could get a drink while running.  One of the biggest changes I have noticed since pregnancy is that I am constantly thirsty while running.  Without those water bottles, I know I could not have done that.  Luckily, I have a supportive big sister who still runs with me even though I have all kinds of annoying needs now that I'm with child.  What can I say, sisters are the only way to go when it comes to workout partners. 

stupendous results

Yesterday I found out that little Motorcycle is most definitely a boy.  That gave me a little purpose and comfort in knowing that my little one is taken care of. 

In light of this wonderful news and the fact that there was no school, 

I did what I always do. 

I ran. 

I ran a tempo run with my sister.  Not expecting to push the pace or do something amazing out there, I trekked through it.  The first 3 miles were somewhat uncomfortable.  Tired, short of breath, cold.  After fighting through these obstacles, I finally found a comfortable place.  This comfortable place was still pushing it though.  I knew we were booking it, but I wasn't clocking it.  

At the end my natural tendency to kick switched on in my head.  Ever so slightly I did kick.  This is where Motorcycle comes first.  There is just no need to sprint all out with Motorcycle in need of my oxygen too.  

Here are the results.

7.3 miles

59 min

8:05 mile pace

nearly 18 weeks pregnant.  no complaints here.  

I truly am grateful for the rather graceful and easy pregnancy I have had thus far.  Exercising helps me feel my best.  I feel like I have a hold on my body, both physically and nutritionally, to support a healthy and safe place for Motorcycle.  

Cheers

modification

Today marks the first modified long run thus far into pregnancy.  I hadn't left the house with a set distance in mind.  I figured I could go somewhere around 10+ miles.  I dressed in tights, gloves, head band, and 2 fleece tops.  This was the first mistake.  40 degree weather does not require this amount of cold weather gear.  By mile 1 I was sweating.  Mile 2 marked the first sign of thirst.  With my doctor's only advice about running in the back of my mind, I started getting worried.  His advice being:  never get thirsty.   Sweating and thirst didn't seem like a winning combination for a pregnant lady's long run.  My pace was fine, and I felt fine.  This was me being protective of little Motorcycle.  I ran to the top of the bridge and headed for my parents' house.  I figured I could get a quick drink and prepare to slow the pace down, so I wouldn't overheat.  It worked.  I was able to maintain a little bit of respect in my "long run".  I didn't time it and didn't map it.  My guess is somewhere around 6.5 miles at an 8:45 ish pace.  Just guestimating here. 

Here's the beef.  I don't feel disappointed or discouraged.  I screwed up on my clothes and didn't have accessible water, and I paid the price.  Lesson learned.  

17 weeks tomorrow.  Things are starting to look a little more pregnant in my world.  A little mini beer belly going on.  I don't think you could tell if you saw me on the street. 

half marathon at 16 weeks pregnant

I keep doing things that I didn't think were possible while pregnant.  Today my sister and I ran 13.3 miles.  Here is the synopsis

Mile 1---so cold.  face is freezing and rest of body perfect due to layering
Mile 2---weird cramping begins.  very low cramps in pelvic region, not painful but slightly present
Mile 3---cramping continues and back pain starts.  lower left side right along tailbone.  it is a pain I have been dealing with in other capacities like sleeping, yoga, laying down in general-never in running until this time
Mile 4---wondering if I should stop.  back and cramps are weird enough that I'm debating if it is worth it.  also climbing a very large hill.  out of breath at the top.  by the bottom of the hill's descent, I find my groove.  back pain magically disappears and cramps are no more.  
Mile 5---finally in the zone.  good playlist, took off gloves, loving the painted desert view, and feeling great, not pushing it not out of breath and not slowing down either
Mile 6---approaching the turnaround point, still feel great, wore too many layers, can feel sweat on my back and neck
Mile 7-10---walk in the park, doing what I love, being smart about my pace, no pain, no cramps, great
Mile 11---ready for water, should have placed water on the course so that I could have replenished.  getting thirstier and hungrier much earlier into the run these pregnant days
Mile 12---a million dollars.  retrieve water bottle that I threw in the desert by Maverick.  too back I have less than a mile to go.  I could have used that way before.
Mile 13---Kimmy sprinted in.  I am usually all over that.  However, I took the precaution to just maintain pace.  No kick or sprint just a strong finish

Recovery===I actually stretched.  I could feel that my body needed stretching, so I spent 5 minutes to help my muscles out.  

Hunger note:  I was hungry the whole time.  I need to start taking a small snack with me because eating before is no longer enough for endurance runs.  Motorcycle needs to eat!  

super proud of this accomplishment. 1:54 overall finish time at about an 8:37 mile pace.  Not bad for 16 weeks. 

bust

My precious husband bought me a tredmill.  A timely gift for an ever growing pregnant lady.  This morning I planned an inaugural run.  Something went wrong.  I could not do it this morning.  I got to 10 minutes of running and was totally done.  Not physically, but mentally.  I pushed stop and got off the dang tredmill.  I think I need to not always be super person.  sometimes it is okay to have a sub average workout.  Life goes on.  I may try the weight room after school

week recap

the 14th week was a great one.

I had some great early morning workouts, along with a bonus 7 miler after school, a winning volleyball game, and a hardcore 11 miler on Saturday.  

14 weeks

the 7 miler was tough because we ran it after school.  the truth of the matter is that running after school is very tiring for me.  I put my whole heart and soul into teaching all day.  at the end of the day I want to call it a day.  however, we are still milking the 70 degree temps in late afternoon.  my muscles were achy and I was generally exhausted.  I still managed to run an 840 ish mile pace.  

today we ran 11.05 miles.  the coolest thing about this was that it was at an 8:35 pace.  it was one of those runs where you just run and before you know it you are home and feeling accomplished.  I was weathered from head to toe, including running gloves, tights, long socks, long john shirt, fleece top, and headband.  the temp was 32 degrees when we left.  around mile 8 I started to feel very hungry.  I had 3 handfuls of cheerios before we left.  I know it is not enough for that long of a run, but I hate eating before a run.  

for the first time this week I am noticing weight gain and some change in my stomach area.  as scary as weight gain, I welcome the changes and am excited to rock a pregnancy belly.  

so far my pregnancy has been complaint free.  I am doing everything that I want to do.  I am blessed.  

combo meal

Week 13

Not very much mileage
I ran 10 miles last Saturday.  Since then I haven't ran.  Embarrassing?  A little.  But, I really shouldn't be.  I naturally eased into swimming and yoga this week--instead of having crappy runs all week.  The low impact activities have been good, and I feel like I have earned this little rest.  After all, I made it through trimester 1!!  

In other pregnancy details, I have felt great in terms of fatigue and other such symptoms.  I feel less hungry and a little more back to normal.  My emotions took a roller coaster ride, and I feel like there is a little more control in that arena.  

10 miler version 2

I was a bit nervous on Friday.  I knew I would be going for the usual long run on Saturday morning.  The last two weeks I have experienced significant sore muscles in my calves and quads.  I was feeling like I couldn't recover from some of those harder workouts.  I had made a mental decision to just go with it.  If I couldn't do it then I would stop.  

I am pleased to say that I felt wonderful.  I felt even better than the previous 10 miler aforementioned in an earlier post.  I didn't feel like I was doing too much too quick, and I didn't feel like I was in pain or discomfort at all.  Those were the main things I was worried about.  

We were way bundled up for this run.  This is the first official cold run of the season.  

After I ran the 10k race, I have been extremely cautious.  Something mentally has switched on in my brain to make me more inclined to be safe and not as hard core.  Natural order of things I guess.  

Tomorrow I will be 13 weeks. 

a new concept

For the first time in the history of forever, I am taking it easy.  As in taking days off in between workouts.  I have never lived by this rule.  After such a hard core workout week last week, I am putting Motorcycle first.  It feels good to workout every other day.  I am not saying this is a patter.  I am just saying this is what works after grueling work the previous week. 

Notes on pregnancy:  I have noticed that I am very hungry.  I think my calorie consumption is not adequate for what my body truly needs.  I need to work on this.  My weight has dropped 4 pounds from my last appointment 2 weeks ago.  

Breast Cancer 10k win

On Saturday I ran a 10k in 47:30 (roughly).  The course was a little long--closer to a 6.5 rather than a 6.2.  In that case, I probably ran around a 46:00 ish.  Either way, it was a strong showing for a race at 12 weeks pregnant.  I had planned on running a 48:00.  That was my plan all along.  However, right at the beginning a girl tried to creep out in front of me.  The competitive racer in me thought, no way.  Not going to happen.  I quickly got defensive and sped out in front of her.  I played this defense game for the first mile.  By mile 2 she had stepped back and I had found my comfortable mile pace.  Even though my doctor gave me the greenlight, I still wanted to be careful with Motorcycle in tow.  I was waiting for a sign to slow down, pain, discomfort. Nothing of the sort came.  So I continued on with the strong pace.  Amazingly, I ran that strong pace the whole way-with very very little fight from my mind or body.  It was easy.  When I crossed the line I was pleasantly surprised with my showing.  Who would've thought I could do that while pregnant?

Now, here is how I am feeling post race. I felt like I didn't do anything I hadn't done before being pregnant.  But after a week of tough workouts, riding a kid roller coaster at a carnival, and generally feeling like I am being a bit hard core, I feel that I now need to be a tad more conservative.  It is the natural order of things.

That being said.  I will never stop running.  Won't happen.  What I will do is not race for time.  There's no reason that I need to run 7:30 mile pace while pregnant.  That competitiveness is going to go in hibernation for the next 6 months.  

I like this perspective

So you want a natural childbirth? It's a lot like running a marathon - The Clinical Advisor http://www.clinicaladvisor.com/so-you-want-a-natural-childbirth-its-a-lot-like-running-a-marathon/article/193963/

work it

Tuesday was glorious.

We ran 8X400m repeats
Here are the stats:

1:35
1:32
1:29
1:27
1:32
1:33
1:32
1:25

They pushed us but gave us time to work on our form.  I ran on my toes the entire time.  I am fully convinced that running on your toes/balls of your feet during your kick is the surefire way to run through the finish line with a burst of energy.  It isn't about running 187 mph.  Though speed is a definite factor.  We had a 2 minute recovery.  I timed the 200m pace at roughly 44 seconds.  Not too shabby for 11 weeks pregnant and no speedwork in the last few weeks. 

But wait, that's not all!

After we ran 400s we got in the pool for another speed workout.  3 sets of 6x50m.  Think it sounds short?  Wrong.  This workout is a test of speed, strength, and lung capacity in the pool.  There is only a 15 second break in between 50s.  A 1 minute break in between sets.  It was a jackpot. 

I need to note that this was the most I have pushed my heart rate post bun in the oven.  I really really pushed it.  By the end of the pool I was totally done. 

Post speed work I have sore calves.  Attributed to running on my toes.  I'll take it. 

This morning I ran for 21:00.  (just under 3 miles).  easy run.. just trying to loosen up.  I will ride my bike later.

my pregnancy goals

Pregnancy Goals

1. Continue running 5-6 days a week as always.  Listen to my body and rest when needed.  Continue logging a minimum of 20 miles per week.
2. Avoid running injuries by stretching and staying away from steep downhill terrain, off road, and speed intense workouts.
3. Continue practising yoga one day a week. 
4. Discipline my eating habits.  shorter and more frequent meals with nutrition packed elements
5. Turn down sweets. Enough said.
6. Work in the weight room 3-4 days a week.  Light resistance.
7. Swimming 3-4 days a week. 
8. Incorporate me time.  Whether it is running or reading, do something for me once a week.
9. Enjoy it.  

In summary, I want to continue to be a runner who stays injury free, cross trains, eats healthy, and enjoys life.  This is my thesis statement for my pregnancy!