Friday, January 31, 2014

Daydreaming

Call it stir crazy. Call it plain nuts. But I keep finding myself searching the inter-webs for 2014 races and triathlons.  

Since I started running 6 years ago, this is the longest stretch of time that I haven't been training for something. Whether it be a simple 5k, triathlon or marathon, I have always had a goal on the horizon and something to work toward. (Let's clarify: I haven't actually finished a marathon, but I've trained for two so that totally counts. Kind of).

Obviously being pregnant changed that. I couldn't push myself like before and to be honest, I didn't have much motivation. I know myself- if there isn't a race to train for, why train? Why get up early or out in the cold when there is no "real" reason to. 

(This is where someone can say, "But Alex, being healthy and active, especially during pregnancy IS a real reason." Apparently that isn't good enough for me.  Who cares about that stuff, really?) 

2013 was the year of zero fitness accomplishments. I am totally okay with that. And I'm even okay if this year doesn't amount to much either. Because let's get real, I have no idea what my life is going to look like after Baby. All the time I had for myself- mornings, evenings, weekends- I'm giving a lot of that up to snuggle, love, and take care of my sweet baby. 

On top of that, my pending thyroidectomy and subsequent radiation therapy puts another big question mark on what my life will look like. I would love to plan for a late triathlon but what if treatment, which should be around July, kicks my booty and sets me back? I would hate to have a self-imposed expectation that might only cause disappointment.

So, as I read race reviews and calculate possible training schedules for the 2014 year, I do so with a healthy amount of hesitation. I promise that I will complete at least one half marathon, and I would love to add a triathlon to that as well. But we shall see.  

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Week 35: Catching up

Whew. Man things have grown since I last checked in (aka: 4 weeks ago!)


These pictures were taken last Saturday when I was exactly 35 weeks pregnant. At that time I was feeling large, uncomfortable, and finally feeling super pregnant. I don't know if something has changed, but the past few days I have felt great. Yes, it is difficult to squat and bend over. Yes, my maternity clothes aren't fitting quite as loosely as they were. And yes, sleep isn't what it use to be. But overall I feel blessed to be as mobile and active as I am this late in pregnancy.



At the beginning of January I joined a prenatal fitness group that meets six times a week for cardio, strength training, and yoga. I am absolutely in love. Not only has it motivated me to get off my butt, but it makes me feel like I'm doing something good for Baby and me. Prenatal yoga has done wonders for the tightness of my hips and back. And I feel so thankful to be surrounded by knowledgeable instructors that are helping me prepare my body for labor.

On Tuesday ( at 35 weeks and 3 days) we went to the doctor where we were told that Baby is low and ready to go and I am 20% effaced. The doctor guessed that if we make it until due date, she may be 7 pounds, possibly smaller. That would follow history as Josh and I were both 6.something pounds at birth. If she is anything like her momma she may come early, which means we better kick preparation in gear!

Baby size: The doctor estimated about 5 pounds.

Total weight gain: According to the doctor's scale I have gained exactly 20 pounds. Right on track.

Symptoms: Reflux has finally made an appearance- no heartburn as of yet, but a constant "full" feeling. And I suppose my body is prepping me for a newborn because I am up multiple times a night to pee and it takes me forever to fall back asleep.

Things checked off the to-do list: Washed all clothes up till 3 months, washed all bedding and sanitized borrowed items, completed about 75% of the Thank You notes from showers,

Things on the to-do list: Finish up the details in her nursery, prep her cloth diapers, and FINALLY DECIDE ON A NAME!

Friday, January 17, 2014

Attempt at catching up: Maternity photos

Well, obviously one of my new year resolutions was not to blog more. Seeing as how my last post, if you even want to call it that, was on Jan 1st you can tell this place has not been high on my priority list. 

It is not that I haven't had plenty of things to share. I sadly haven't done a pregnancy update in 4 weeks,  I have yet to share photos from my shower in November (yes, that's right....only 2+ months late on that one), and I promised a nursery update. So to say I'm behind is an understatement.

So, I'll start the post-overload with maternity photos we took in December. It was insanely cold outside,  but our photographers were amazing and I am super happy with how they turned out. Andrew and Connie sure know how to make a 32 week pregnant lady feel pretty. 

At first I wasn't sold on the whole maternity-photo idea. I mean, what am I going to do with a bunch of pictures of me with a big belly? But looking through these I am so glad we did them. I know I won't regret documenting this special time in our lives and having these precious pictures to look back on. I hope to always remember this feeling- excited about the future but anxious about the changes ahead.







Now I can't wait until Baby C gets here so we can take a million photos of her! 

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Highlights of 2013

Best memories of 2013


1. learned to love beer. 
2, 3, 4. traveled to Europe, increasing my travel-bug exponentially.
5. grew long hair instantly, and loved every minute of it.
6. started baking Baby Clark

*not pictured: the weddings of many dear friends, lots of snuggles with babies, and weekends at the lake house. 

While 2013 has been quite amazing, I have a feeling that this new year will be even better!

Happy New Year Friends!