three little moores (surprise!)

If you follow me on instagram, you've probably already seen our big news, but if you don't, then surprise! It's true - we're officially expecting another little Moore baby in early April of 2019, and we couldn't be more thrilled!

A few people have asked why we announced (and why we've historically done the same) our pregnancy so early. It's pretty simple, really. Ryan and I truly believe that life begins at conception, and we believe that this little life should be celebrated and loved from day one. And, should the worst happen, we would want to be surrounded and uplifted by our family and friends, rather than alone in grief. Obviously, I've had two very healthy pregnancies, so we're expecting and praying for the same this time, but you never know. This isn't everyone's cup of tea, and that's okay! For us though, this feels right :)

Some down and dirty details for the curious-minded people who've asked these questions:

// Was this baby planned?

I always find this such a funny question! But yes, essentially. We knew our family didn't feel complete with just two, so we'd been hoping and trying for a third. Ryan's endless TDYs often interfered with trying, but God's timing is always perfect.

// Will we find out the sex of the baby?

Nope! You might remember that Ryan and I didn't find out until Spencer was born either. We found out with Porter, and while I don't regret it, there's nothing quite like that surprise on baby's birthday.

// Are we hoping for a girl?

Truthfully, yes! I think a girl would be so fun. That said, I would be thrilled with another boy. I know how to raise little boys now, and I think a little boy gang would be pretty awesome, too. 

// Will you stay active this pregnancy? 

Yup - as long as physically possible! Because of my knee surgery, running may take a backseat somewhat as my ligaments stretch, but I'll definitely be swimming throughout.

// Are you going to keep working after baby number 3? 

That's a good question. I love writing, and I love what I do. That said, daycare is astronomically expensive, and it's starting to weigh on us how much we miss while they're at school. We're weighing all the options, but right now, yes, I'm planning to keep working.

This baby is so loved already, and we're thrilled to be embarking on this journey (God willing) one more time. Please cross those fingers and say a prayer that Ryan's impending deployment changes though, because that might seriously impact timelines.

5 tips to get started running

As my upcoming knee surgery gets closer (we're under two weeks now), I've been thinking a lot about running - and waxing nostalgic about how I got started with a sport I used to hate. I'm by no means a great runner. I don't think I'll ever be anything to write home about when it comes to running, but I love it. It's therapeutic. It's a challenge. It's something I never thought I could do, but I do it, and I love it. I've run seven half marathons to date, as well as one full marathon. And, once I've recovered from my MPFL reconstruction, I want to get right back it.

For those curious, no, running is not the reason I need knee surgery. I talked a little about it on my instagram, but this is an issue I've had for a long time. My left knee likes to subluxate and dislocate, and I've done it about 20 times in my 32 years. In December, it happened randomly, and I wasn't able to bounce back. This surgery should tighten my ligaments and kneecap back up, and I should be able to run pain-free - finally! Basically, my point is that running isn't the cause for me...it's the cure, and I can't wait to get started again. Here are five tips to starting from zero like I did (and will do again) soon.

1 // Set a goal. I like to think that being intentional helps in any regard, but especially with fitness. My first goal when I started running was to stay fit through my first pregnancy. I ran for the first 32 weeks, and it was incredible. I was out running again just three weeks after giving birth, and we set big goals. I wanted to do a half marathon, so we ran Lake Placid. It doesn't matter how big your goal is, honestly. Just set a goal. Whether it's to be fit, do five miles a week, run your first 5k, or beyond, your goal will be your driving force.

2 // Invest in proper running gear. One of the biggest mistakes I made when I got started was not investing in good gear - mainly shoes. Running is hard on the joints. However, great shoes absorb a lot of the shock, and actually protect your feet and joints from damage. I got fitted for shoes at Fleet Feet Syracuse, and I fell in love with Adidas Supernova running shoes. They fit my neutral stride, and I learned a lot about how my knees and feet track when I run. Quality athletic gear is also important. I wear a reflector vest (regardless of the time of day) from Nathan. I also invested in great headphones, and I have this hydration belt for longer runs. Buy gear and clothes that you will be comfortable in for a long time. Remember, it's an investment.

3 // Focus on time over distance. This was a hard one for me when I started. I'm an all-in kind of girl, and I wanted to start off running three miles. Some people are able to. Others, like myself, are prone to injury if they go from zero to 60 too quickly. When I started running, I ran for a certain amount of time versus a certain distance. I started with 30 minutes, and as I progressed, I was able to run further in that amount of time. Only after about a month of running 30 minutes consistently four-five days a week, did I start to focus more on distance.

4 // Choose a running app. Regardless of your goals, a running app is a great way to visually see just how far you've come through the process. Two of the most popular running apps are Strava and Nike+ Run Club. I, personally, prefer the Nike app. I like that it pauses if I have to stop my runs, and I've been using it since the beginning, so it's familiar. Both offer ways to connect with other runners, too, which is motivating. Nothing beats a sense of community.

5 // Train your brain - and your body. Your brain will tell you that running is too hard. It'll convince you that you want to stop. Here's the thing. When you first start, running is uncomfortable. For me, it was so far beyond my comfort zone that I really didn't want to do it. Teach yourself to shut off that negative voice, and convince yourself that you can and you will do it. A great way to do this is to listen to postive podcasts while running. They encourage you to get out of your own headspace. Ultimately though, remember that your body is the boss. Listen to your body. Know the difference between discomfort and pain. 

I hope that these five tips help someone get started running because I really wish I'd known more when I began. Running might not seem like a feasible goal or solution, but if you want to start, you can. It's transformed so much of my outlook on fitness, as a whole, and I've truly fallen in love with running.

Are you a runner? What are your favorite tips to give those hoping to get started?

baby moore: 26 weeks

For my 30th birthday, I offer up a bumpdate because, what's better than being 26 weeks pregnant on your 30th birthday?! But seriously, we woke up this morning to a 2-hour delay for Ryan on post due to ice, a happy baby and a morning with a cup of coffee in bed...it really doesn't get better than that!

How far along: 26 weeks

Size of Baby: A head of lettuce

Gender: We're not telling - but we do know…and we're thrilled!

Weight Gain: My scale taunts me daily. If I go by the first weight I had at the doctor at 6 weeks, I'm up 16 lbs. It's okay...I'm dealing ;)

Movement: Oh yes! Ryan's seen the peanut dance through my dress at skirt, and this bean seems to think that early mornings are now the best time of day to let mama know that they are having a blast in there.

Sleep: I sleep like the dead, and it's wonderful! I do have the weirdest dreams though. Last night, for example, I was aboard the star ship Enterprise, which crashed into the water off a cliff and turned into a cruise ship, which then proceeded to sink at port. I think I should quit working in cruising.

Workouts: Working out has become a bit of a painful topic with my. I've had very bad sciatic nerve and round ligament pain this time around, which seems to force me to cut my runs short. I try to run about 5 miles total a week now, and I do a mix of yoga and walking to supplement.

Maternity Clothes: My pants are all maternity. All my tops are normal. I've got a penchant for long shirts anyway, so it works out :)

Cravings/Aversions: Baby does not want spinach. Baby wants pizza...all. day. long.

Best Part of the Week: I finally got out for a run two days ago, and it was amazing. It was slow, and it felt like poo, but moving felt like such freedom again. This mama can't wait to put the miles back on her legs!

Can't Wait For: Oddly enough, I can't wait for my glucose test. That bugger is looming over my head this time around haha

baby moore: 23 weeks

How far along: 23 weeks

Size of Baby: Grapefruit

Gender: We're not telling - but we do know…and we're thrilled!

Weight Gain: After a 7-day monster plague/stomach virus that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy, I'm back down to a cumulative gain of 9 lbs.

Movement: All the time! Baby Moore is a mover and a shaker in there - especially at night. This peanut likes to move around reallllllly low, and I feel like I might regret that later in pregnancy.

Sleep: I'm finally getting some sleep again, which I truly love. I felt like death last week, which was really hard because I never got any real rest. Now, I feel alive when our alarms go off early in the morning, and I can actually function.

Workouts: Sadly enough, I did absolutely nothing last week. Nothing. I got out and did a run this morning…just one mile…and it felt amazing. My OB has told me that he's much more interested in frequency of workouts than duration and the longevity of my runs.

Maternity Clothes: I'm still wearing a mix, but I'm living mostly in leggings and sweaters, which I think is totally kosher for winter - whether pregnant or not!

Cravings/Aversions: Now that I can finally eat again, all I want is pizza and mango. That's a ridiculous combination!

Best Part of the Week: I had my 23-week appointment today, and heard peanut's heartbeat right at 140 bpm. I'll be having a repeat ultrasound in the next couple of weeks, as well, because baby's kidneys were showing a little wonky on our 20 week ultrasound, and my doctor wants to do the ultrasound himself. He has a hunch it was just a tech error, but fingers crossed either way.

Can't Wait For: I can't wait to have this baby bean in my arms, but at the same time, I can, too. It's a weird mix of emotions!

baby moore: 19 weeks

I can't believe I'm already almost halfway with this pregnancy...and that my last update was seriously a month ago. They weren't kidding when they said that time flies the second/third/fourth time around. I'm so busy with Spencer, work, life and everything that I barely have time to reflect on it. That said, I'm so thrilled to share another update with you.

How far along: 19 weeks

Size of Baby: Papaya

Gender: We did an early ultrasound while we were in Utah around 16 weeks, so we're pretty certain we know what baby Moore is, but you know there's always a margin of error! We find out for sure on the 12th...but I'm still not sure whether we'll share.

Weight Gain: Woof. I'm up 11 lbs. Hello, double digits! Here's the thing - I'm still not at my starting weight that I was when I got pregnant with Spencer. I consider that a victory.

Movement: I started feeling the peanut a few days ago for sure, and I finally felt the little bean on the outside for the first time two nights ago!

Sleep: I am finally sleeping like the dead. I take a potty break or two at night, but then I'm back out until I have to wake up to work out at 6 AM.

Workouts: I've been making a point of getting a run in every single day - even if it's just a mile. Granted, that's the past few days. Spencer and I have been passing the same cold back and forth for a few weeks, and I'm finally getting over it, so I'm happy to be back to activity.

Maternity Clothes: I'm wearing a mix. I live in my Blanqi leggings if I'm not wearing my pre-pregnancy jeans with a hair tie. For church, I'm definitely wearing maternity dresses because my pencil skirts obviously don't fit anymore!

Cravings/Aversions: It depends on the day. I'm still not really into chicken, and the smell of cooking olive oil makes me nauseous, but other than that, I can do most things in moderation! 

Best Part of the Week: I got to hear the sweet peanut's fast heartbeat on Tuesday! It was hovering right at 150 bpm - strong and steady. Baby is low, low, low, and doctor thinks I'm measuring a touch on the small side, but it was so good to hear that sweet sound again. 

Can't Wait For: Finding out the gender for sure on the 12th! I really have no doubts at all, but I'll be happy to have the health, size and everything else confirmed. Here's to a really good screening next week!

baby moore: 15 weeks

Second trimester bliss is in full swing, so I figured it's time to give another brief update on wee little baby Moore part deux growing over here. It's crazy how fast time flies the second time around!

How far along: 15 weeks

Size of Baby: Orange

Gender: We've decided to find out this time! For practicality's sake, I think it will help in knowing what we can reuse, as well as what we need to (read: what I want) to buy new this time around. We have our anatomy scan on January 12th, so it's just around the corner! 

Weight Gain: I had an appointment on Tuesday with my OB, and I hadn't gained any weight from the last time. I'm still 4 lbs up, and I think that finally feeling better and being able to run again has helped level out that immediate weight gain, thankfully.

Movement: I haven't felt anything yet, but I remember that I didn't with Spencer until about 16 weeks. I finally have that weird little bump when I lie down though from my uterus moving up a bit, and I think that's about the time I started feeling flutters the first time around. We'll see!

Sleep: Sleep has been a little better! I still average about 3 potty breaks over here, and I do one wakeup with Spencer, but we're working on weaning that out soon. Logically, I know he doesn't need it, but it saddens me to make him cry and retrain him that way overnight.

Workouts: It feels so good to run again! I did a 4 mile indoors on Monday at the on-post track, and I did 3 miles outside yesterday. I feel energized, and that's the best feeling ever.

Maternity Clothes: Do the leggings count? I can still fit fairly comfortable into my normal clothes, but I love the leggings, so I'd be lying if I said I wasn't wearing those a lot already.

Cravings/Aversions: I still can't really do chicken. I also hate the taste of vinegar right now - and this is from someone who always loved the taste of apple cider vinegar and oil + vinegar dressing. I want to eat all the clementines though, and I'd give my left leg for a sausage biscuit.

Best Part of the Week: Feeling less nauseous and getting to hear the baby's heartbeat again! It's still a little surreal knowing we're having number two, so hearing a steady heartbeat of 147 bpm made me one happy mama.

Can't Wait For: Feeling the baby kick! And, I'm really, really looking forward to finding out the gender in a month! 

34 week bump date

Well, I fail at blogging, now don't I? Honestly, not too much exciting has been going on around here except for a nasty bout of the flu in the Moore household. Plus, Ryan's 150U course is kicking his butt, and work has definitely kicked into high gear for me lately, too. With maternity leave fast-approaching, I feel like there's never quite enough time to get stuff done. On the one hand, this pregnancy is going at a snail's pace now that we're nearing the finish line. On the other hand though, holy moly…time is flying. It might be time to start assembling the baby's bassinet…just a thought.

How far along: 34 weeks

Gender: We're not finding out!

Weight gain: 17 lbs

Maternity clothes: It's a mix. I have a bunch of maternity dresses that I rotate between, as well as maxi dresses and skirts. I definitely still wear my pre-prego jeans with the hair-tie closing them (per the above picture) though.

Stretch marks: Coconut oil, my friends, is heaven. I have no stretch marks. I rub it all over my breasts, belly, back and sides both night and day, and it's been working perfectly.

Belly button in or out: It's still an innie, but it's getting flatter.

Sleep: It was rough while Ryan and I had the flu, but the last few days I've slept amazing. I even slept through my alarm today, which never happens!

Best moment this week: I had my 34 week appointment this past Wednesday, and my OB said that baby Moore has dropped and is head down. He thinks I'm a good 5 to 6 days, at least, ahead of my due date, which is a relief! He also said he estimates baby is around 5 lbs right now and close to 18 inches. AND we finally picked a girl's name. We had a our boy name and we thought we had a girl name, but we've been debating it for a while now.

Miss anything: I miss working out and being able to walk without feeling as though I might wet myself on a daily basis. Other than that, I'm pretty content!

Movement: All the time! Baby really enjoys kicking me in the ribs, which is quite the sensation. I also get the occasional punch to the bladder when he/she doesn't like my position.

Cravings: Ice water and pesto. I don't even ask questions anymore. I'm just glad when I can eat because I feel so full all the time.

Food aversions: Avocado

Looking forward to: I'm flying to Boston and then NY this weekend! Ryan won't be able to make it because of his 150U course, but we're hoping beyond hope that we love this house as much in person as we do online. If so…we might have news soon!

27-week bumpdate

I swear that when Ryan and I first found out we were expecting, I didn't know how I was ever going to make it to the third trimester, but here we are! It's insane. On the one hand, I feel like time is flying - probably because we don't yet have everything we need for this baby. On the other hand though, I feel like time is just dragging. I think that's because I feel large and in charge (less so in charge of my own body these days though). Ryan's coming home in just 12 days, and we couldn't be more excited for him to be finally be home and a part of this process, so here's to the last 13 weeks of this pregnancy!

^^^ looks are deceiving, folks. I included two pictures because the bump is different all the time.

How far along: 27 weeks + 3 days

Gender: We're not finding out!

Weight gain: 11.5 lbs - I'm SO bloated these days though, too, so I don't know how much is water, how much is baby...and how much is copius amounts of horrible food I want.

Maternity clothes: I'm most comfortable in maternity pants these days. I can still fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans with a hair-tie, but once I sit down, all bets are off. I generally wear my maternity shorts from target, yoga pants from Victoria's Secret, leggings or maxi dresses.

Stretch marks: None. Friends, there is NO need to buy expensive creams. I've been using pure coconut oil since 14 weeks and slathering it on my belly, back, waist and boobs twice a day. It's been a game-changer thus far.

Belly button in or out: In. That indent over my belly button is definitely getting more prominent now though!

Sleep: Sleep is still so hit or miss. I usually lie awake for a few hours at night just thinking, and it's annoying. Then, when I finally fall asleep, I sleep hard for 2-3 hours, then I wake up every 2 hours to pee. It's a joyful time. 

Best moment this week: I ran 2.5 miles in full. I've been doing a lot of intervals since running has been a lot harder lately, but I felt good, and I ran the full thing. It felt awesome! I also toured the labor and delivery wing at our hospital...and unfortunately, I hate it. It's a military hospital - drab, gross and simple. It's a good thing that I plan to labor at home as long as possible. 

Miss anything: I miss Ryan like nobody's business. I also really miss seeing a much smaller number on the scale, and I miss the feeling of being able to button up my jeans. It's the little things, people. 

Movement: Constantly! I managed to get a good video of it for family the other day, and they all got a kick out of it. I'm not sure which body part is which yet, but Ryan can't wait until we can see little feet poking out here, there and everywhere. 

Cravings: Ice water, alfredo sauce, sundried tomatoes and salted caramel mochas from Starbucks.

Food aversions: Red meat, eggs, avocado. I also have no desire for kale or spinach, but I stick them in my green smoothies, and we're all good.

Looking forward to: I have my 28 week appointment a little early this week on Wednesday since I'm going out of town to Salt Lake City for my first baby shower this weekend! This is the last monthly visit...after this, visits are every two weeks. Holy reality check!

maternity workout must-haves

From day one when Ryan and I found out we were expecting a little baby Moore, I knew I wanted this to be a very active pregnancy. From what I've read, heard and learned from my OB, the more physically active you are - consistently - the easier labor, delivery and recovery time are. Obviously, this is barring no complications (ie: c-sections, etc.). I've always been active, but I've only just started learning how different growing a human and working out is. 

Here's the thing, I didn't start gaining weight really until around 20 weeks, but it felt like I was long before that, and that added weight adds pressure in places I didn't know existed. Furthermore, my boobs skyrocketed from a small C-cup to a full D-cup in a matter of about 12 weeks, and you wouldn't believe how much extra weight that is - and stress on the spine. So, naturally, I've had to adapt both my workout routines, as well as those essentials that I always have on hand now. Here are a list of my workout must-haves for maternity.

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Clothing Essentials

^^^ images via here and here

For running these days, I focus on two types of bottoms. If I'm running outside, I wear my Lululemon Speed Shorts because of the southern Arizona heat. If I'm running inside, I usually wear my Nike Pro Compression Capris. There's two different fits for these bad boys. 

The Lulu shorts sit right below my bump now, which is getting a little less comfortable the heavier my gut is. However, they stretch amazingly, so they're worth the hefty price tag ($54 for basic black). And, I promise you, they last a long time. The compression crops tend to have a higher waistband, which is getting more comfortable the bigger the bump gets. It pulls comfortably over the belly now, and it adds a little extra support in the lower back area, which is awesome. The price is still a bit steep on these ($42 at Dick's), but they last a long time, and you can wear them before and after pregnancy, too.

^^^ image via

Compression socks and calf sleeves have recently become my newest best friend. At over 24 weeks, I've noticed my feet and ankles start to swell the longer I run. This is totally normal, and it's totally uncomfortable. These Brooks Infiniti Run Happy Calf Sleeves keep me sane and keep the swelling at bay. Plus, they've started to cut my recovery time in half, which I call a win-win scenario.

In terms of shirts, honestly, I wear what fits these days. A lot of my stretchy tanks still comfortably fit, so I wear them, and I wear them with pride. Plus, they add a little extra support where I need it most. If investing in new tops, I highly recommend scouring the discount racks at Marshall's. There are some great, cheap finds there!

Extra Gear

^^^ images via here and here

Hydrating is essential when running, so if I'm outside these days, I run with my Nathan QuickView Handheld Water Bottle. This kills two birds with one stone...I can hydrate and I can have my phone. If I'm running inside, which is more common these days during monsoon season, I run with my Camelbak Eddy bottle. Both are great in design, and neither is too bulky.

iPhone, FitBit Flex, Good Running Shoes

These are all things I always recommend to any runner, but especially to pregnant women. The iPhone or cellphone is a must these days. If I'm running outside and something should happen, having my phone for music and emergencies is incomparable. Watching your heart rate is also vital during pregnancy. I'm not always the world's biggest advocate of staying within that 160-180 range, but my FitBit Flex lets me know if I'm working out too hard for baby to be getting enough oxygen.

Shoes are probably the most important part of the equation. I invested in new shoes right before I did the first time tri at 20 weeks, and I'm surprised with how much I love them. I generally go with Brooks or Mizunos, but I went for the Nike Lunaron shoes because I desperately needed new shoes in a day. These have been awesome - minimalist, higher around the arch and ample room around the toes. Plus, the have just enough padding to keep my feet comfy for 2+ miles daily still! 

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I am by no means a great runner (and all opinions about these products are solely my own - I was not compensated in any way), but I am passionate about health and fitness. If you're a pregnant athlete, or you're a runner, what do you plan to use (or currently use) that you'd add to this list?

getting back in the groove + 26 week bumpdate

It's official. I'm the world's worst blogger ever. I swear that I wake up every day with every intention of blogging, but it somehow gets pushed to the back of my mind each time. If it's any consolation, my book blog has suffered, as well. Ryan's officially been gone for 5 weeks now. We have a little bit less than 3 weeks to go, and it looks like he'll be home on the 26th - finally! BOLC has been hard for him - I think he's really just ready to be home and to be a part of this awesome baby-growing process. But, thankfully, his training out of state is coming to an end! 

I've been MIA forever, and I feel like it's necessary to give a bumpdate/update upon my return, if only to get back in the swing of things. Plus, let's be honest, it's pretty much the most exciting thing happening in the Moore household right now.

^^^ sorry about the selfies. the hubs is my photographer, and he's clearly away right now.

How far along: 26 weeks 4 days

Gender: We're not finding out!

Weight gain: 9 lbs - though I'm weighing myself only once a week now. My OB told me to stop stressing about it because everything looks good, the baby is healthy, and all systems are go.

Maternity clothes: I've been wearing a mix. I can fit into my normal shirts, though I did purchase a few new options from Old Navy's maternity section the other day. I can also fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans, though I use the hair-tie trick to close them, or a belly band. I've bought one pair of maternity shorts thus far from Target (amazing), and I just bought some black stretchy pants/leggings. Other than that, maxi dresses, Lululemon shorts and my husband's pajama pants :)

Stretch marks: None. Friends, there is NO need to buy expensive creams. I've been using pure coconut oil since 14 weeks and slathering it on my belly, back, waist and boobs twice a day. It's been a game-changer thus far.

Belly button in or out: In…I do have a fun new indent over my belly button now, which my OB says indicates that the baby is lying with his/her back to my back, creating a pocket effect. 

Sleep: Sleep is crazy hit or miss these days. I'm exhausted, but if I nap, I can't sleep at night. I've also started to have insane dreams and a lot of anxiety at night lately. I did buy a body pillow, but I tend to kick it away from me in the middle of the night. 

Best moment this week: I assembled the baby's stroller the other day, and it was easy! After a LOT of thought and consideration, we purchased the Graco FastAction Fold Jogger Click Connect travel system in charcoal. We were sold on the quality of tires for all terrain, plus the fact that it's highly rated for running. And yes, it folds and clicks super easy, which is a huge plus for me. 

Miss anything: I miss my husband. A lot. I want him to experience these crazy little antics of our peanut because it drives me insane with love. I also miss my smaller boobs…and having boobs that didn't leak.

Movement: This baby is constantly moving, and he/she is most active early in the morning and late at night. After a rough few weeks of lots of crotch punches, the peanut has taking to tackling my ribs instead, which is actually preferable. 

Cravings: Ice water, cheese and salted caramel mochas from Starbucks. 

Food aversions: Red meat, eggs, avocado. I also have no desire for kale or spinach, but I stick them in my green smoothies, and we're all good. 

Looking forward to: Surprisingly, I'm looking forward to my glucose test and getting it out of the way. I'll be having it this coming Friday, and I'm hoping it comes back clean! Also, my Utah baby shower is on September 20th, so I'm super excited for that!

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I'm super proud to say that I'm still running at over 26 weeks pregnant, so tomorrow I'll be sharing some of my fit pregnancy must-haves!

small victories

^^^ sleep. my new favorite hobby.

I may be speaking too soon here, but barring the insane fatigue that continues to plague me,

my morning sickness seems to be lessening a little bit. 

That means I'm not feeling as sick 24/7 as I was before,

but I still have those fun food aversions as before, 

and I have a feeling those might stick with me for a little while longer. 

I've been doing a lot of reading and research lately to discover what is normal about my symptoms,

and what might or might not just be in my head.

My mother is uber-European, and she told me, sweetly, that morning sickness is an American thing.

Have I mentioned I love her a freaking lot?

But seriously...I'm just ready for this first trimester to be over already.

I know that I'll be gaining weight like crazy from the second on, 

but I figure I haven't gained anything (except bloat and water weight) yet, 

so maybe I'm on the right track.

That's been alleviating my fears about that aspect of pregnancy thus far.

I'm not looking forward to going through this alone with Ryan headed off to WOCs.

He might bear the brunt of most of my moodiness, 

but he's been a godsend, as well, and he's kept me mostly sane throughout.

I've been fighting my own psyche to get in the gym most days right now, 

simply because I feel like I got hit by a truck then run over four times...on a good day, that is.

I'm forcing myself to do my workouts earlier and earlier in the mornings, too,

because by 12 PM, my body is slowly but surely melting down, 

and by 2 PM, I could totally go to bed for the night.

We've bought one thing for the baby, and that's a crib.

The only reason we bought it is because I knew exactly what I wanted,

and Ryan, being the saint he is, gave into my pleadings and said we could buy it before the other stuff.

It now sits in a box in the garage waiting to be assembled.

In November, I'm sure.

summer in arizona (is hot)

It's not even the throes of summer yet here in Arizona, but it is hot, my friends.
I will never understand why Fort Huachuca doesn't open its outdoor pools until Memorial Day, as well,
because as far as I'm concerned...it's been  hot since I got here in February.
Regardless, finally, the pool is opening next week,
and I fully intend to beach myself (see what I did there?) by the pool to work after my morning swim every day.

The countdown is on to Ryan's departure for WOCs now, which I'm dreading,
so we're doing our best to enjoy as much of Arizona as possible before he leaves and before I get uncomfortable.
We've been taking little evening trips to Bisbee, and we did a short hike to the Peace Wall,
which was awesome, but I can't tell you how winded I was by the end of a tiny little hike.

Other than the occasional hike outside though, most of my workouts have had to move indoors.
Once the outdoor pool is open, I'll do an early morning swim there every day,
but right now, running, biking and swimming are all indoor activities.

I found that being pregnant both dehydrates me crazy fast, and makes me lose my breath insanely fast.
When I run on a treadmill, I'm able to better hydrate myself and monitor my heart rate,
which is definitely something I've had to listen to better.
I don't have the best history of listening to my body during workouts, so this is a whole new ballgame.

There will be an exception for me this weekend though.
Ryan's company is hosting a cross-country 5K on Saturday, and seeing that I'm only 11 weeks right now,
I fully intend to get out there, support my husband and do the race.
Do I think I'll actually race? No.
Will I do my best to do a light jog the entire time? Yes.

I've also been adding in a bit more light weight training again to boost my metabolism and keep some muscle.
I've modified a bunch of the workouts, but I'm proud to see I still did tabata handstand push-ups!
That won't last long though once the second trimester rolls around.
On the days that I don't want to do a longer run, bike, or elliptical though, I've been working in these movements:

^^^ images via here, here and here

I've been reading a lot of books and articles that remind women that we're pregnant, not powerless,
and I freaking love that.
Yes, I'm giving up my body for this baby for the duration of this pregnancy,
but I have a say in it, as well, and I can remain as healthy as I want to be.
I think that that knowledge is what will help me get through this pregnancy healthily and happily :)

11-week bumpdate

^^^ as stated on instagram, Ryan and I are on the fence about whether that's bloat, a food baby or baby baby

How far along: 11 weeks - though I measured small at my OB appointment last week, so I'll have an ultrasound this Friday to know for sure. 

Gender: We're not finding out!

Weight gain: My weight's been fluctuating depending on whether or not this baby is making me constipated. However, when everything is running *ahem* smoothly, I haven't gained anything. 

Maternity clothes: None. I do, however, live in yoga pants and my lululemon shorts these days. 

Stretch marks: No. I've started taking preemptive measures though, and rather than buying expensive creams, I've done some research and I'm using pure coconut oil around my belly, back and thighs. It's especially great in the dry Arizona weather.

Belly button in or out: In

Sleep: Sleeping is getting better! I'm always tired, but I'm trying to make sure I'm in bed by 9 every night so I get a full 9 hours of sleep before work. I still get up 2-3 times to pee though.

Best moment this week: The best moment was meeting my OB last week. He's great, and despite my reservations about having a man that's not my husband all up in my lady bits, he really put me at ease. 

Miss anything: Sushi. I would give my left leg for a good spicy salmon roll right about now. I'm also really missing my excessive coffee drinking. I think that my headaches are, in large part, because of my caffeine reduction.

Movement: Nope.

Cravings: Nectarines. They're like crack to me, and they're only a million times better if I put nutella on them. They are divine. 

Food aversions: Steak, chicken, bacon, eggs - pretty much all poultry right now, really. Also, I can't do peppers. We went to Chipotle this past weekend for burrito bowls, and it ended really badly. I slept in the guest room. 

Looking forward to: I'm looking forward to the ultrasound this Friday! I can't believe it's the first time we'll get to see our nugget! I'm also really looking forward to the second trimester. I can't wait to feel human again.

10- week bumpdate

I missed week 9 last week, frankly because I felt like butt. I was in full-on self-pity mode about not feeling well, wanting to eat and really just wanting to feel human again. Right around Friday though, my wish came true! My nausea has been gone since then (knock on wood), and I've been able to function and actually shower and look like a normal person again...a normal, very bloated person. ;)

How far along: 10 weeks

Gender: We're not finding out!

Weight gain: I don't know, really. If I go by what the scale says this morning, 1.5 lbs, but I've also hit that very uncomfortable erm...constipated stage. Too much information, I know, but pregnancy isn't always all that pretty. 

Maternity clothes: None. I just feel bloated these days, so I just live in yoga pants for the most part. 

Stretch marks: No

Belly button in or out: In

Sleep: Sleep has been great! I'm still getting up 3-4 times per night to use the bathroom, but when I'm asleep, I'm dead to the world. 

Best moment this week: I'm heading to the OB for our 10-week checkup today. This will be the first my first time meeting him, so I'm equal parts nervous and excited. ALSO - my super sonic sense of smell is gone! I can finally love on Ryan again! 

Miss anything: Does pooing count? I know you don't want to know that though, so I think  I really just miss losing weight because I was on such a roll. I'll feel better when my body starts settling into actually growing a human mode in the second trimester...I think. 

Movement: Nope.

Cravings: Actually, nothing really. I had cravings for pizza and tuna last week. The last 4 days or so though, I've just felt normal - bloated, but normal. I guess maybe milk sometimes?

Food aversions: Eggs are really the only  thing I still can't do. It's something about the consistency and the smell. 

Looking forward to: I'm looking forward to not being constipated. No, really. But seriously, I'm looking forward to that, and I'm looking forward to having a bump, rather than just gas :)

back in the game

As I'm sure you've all noticed, I've been crazy mopey and feeling sorry for myself the past few weeks.

However, I seem to have hit a little turnaround yesterday and today. 

I have a bit more energy, my headaches are fewer and farther apart, and the heartburn is gone.

I'm still exhausted by 2 PM every day, 

but I'm just taking the time to listen to my body, eat what I need to eat and keep moving.

Yesterday I got in 2.5 miles on the treadmill, 

and even though my super-sonic smelling abilities make the gym difficult, it felt so good.

I've also started to get some more nutrients in me.

I ate an epic bowl of fruit, plus a strawberry smoothie with some extra greens in it, too.

Hey, progress is progress right now, folks.

Sleeping is still pretty horrible, really. 

When I'm actually asleep, I sleep like the dead,

but I'm usually up 4-5 times a night now to pee…even though half the time I don't even really have to go.

I just feel like it for some reason.

I've also got these weird phantom pains that Ryan says make me whimper in my sleep.

I wake up with horrible cramps sometimes, and then I panic, of course, until I manage to fall back asleep.

Right now, I'm just working to find a little more balance in my life and to just embrace this crazy life.

It's not what we'd planned, but it's happening, and we're so excited for this nugget.

I will say, the scale is still terrifying me though.

I was up about a half pound today, and I almost had a mental breakdown.

I know I'm crazy bloated, too, so that has an effect on it, as well.

Mostly, I just need to keep reminding myself that it is okay to gain weight for the sake of this child.

I just need to do it the right way, listen to my body and let God do the rest.