body after baby

I find it rather funny how nieve I was about my body after having a baby.  There's a million lies that we as a culture flood our minds with.  "It takes 9 months to put it on, so it will take 9 months to take it off" is just one of them.  Then we have the mindset that as a mom we have completely lost our bodies so there's no use in trying.  When I was pregnant I worked so hard to maintain my fitness level.  I continued to exercise 4-5 times a week, ran up until 32 weeks, and modified exercises.  Honestly, I think this made my delivery go so smoothly.  And I would constantly think how quickly I'd gain my body back after having a baby because I'd have all this time to exercise.  Boy was I wrong.

Now that it's been 10 months since having Nathan, I think I'm a bit ready to share what "body after baby" has looked like for me. 

I went from being home to working part-time to being home again to working full-time.  Within all of that I've tried sticking with workout schedules/routines, online fitness programs, tracking calories...and then I would get so tired.  There has always been this constant pull between fitting in time to exercise while also loving on Nathan and Daniel when I'm not at work.  Exercise makes me feel so good but it also has been something that stresses me out.  I also realized I was comparing myself to these fitness bloggers where it was their job to work out, to show off their postpartum body.  So I came back to reality and had a little heart to heart with myself to frame what was realistic for me in my schedule.  That means working out 2-3 times a week, and eating healthy.  

And before we start thinking that I'm the healthiest eater ever, let me just say that chocolate has been my new best friend (oh how I love thee) especially in the stress of it all.  I know, that the best habit to make one bit, but a girl needs a bit of grace. 

Our bodies are miraculous.  Even though I wasn't able to work out as often or as long as I used to, and my eating habits weren't always on point, the weight still came off.  It seemed that as soon as I put my focus and attention on just loving on this sweet little baby and having fun with him, the stress of body issues seemed to melt away.  Throughout my pregnancy I didn't weigh myself but I knew roughly where I started at.  What boggles my mind is that I may weigh a bit less now than before I got pregnant, but by no means am I as strong or toned.  And that's okay for me right now.  There will come a day when I'll be able to put more focus on working out more.  But for right now it is about finding balance. 

When we stop scrutinizing our bodies for a while, inspecting it in the mirror in the morning, and listing all the things we wish were different about it, we all of the sudden have more time to love on others in our lives and find true joy.  My biggest take away in this journey to love myself so that I can love others has been to daily find the successes on how I treated my body and keep a balanced mindset.  

The last thing you'll see here are before/after pictures, because come on...when I see those I just want to cry.  But I do want to actively share healthy tips in this busy life we live.  So love on your body today instead of tearing it down! 

working out with a newborn

Working out is something that brings me great joy and peace in my life, it's probably all of those endorphins working their magic!  Not being able to work out can sometimes make me feel stifled, stiff, and stuck. After having Nathan I was worried that I'd feel that way knowing that I'd need to take a break.  Fortunately, I enjoyed the break that my body needed (because your body definitely needs a break after childbirth) but I was also very eager to slowly get started.  

Now please know that I'm not a doctor, and I strongly advise you to wait until you get the all clear from your doctor before getting back into the workout rhythm.   

I've learned some big and little things along the way in terms of how to workout now, and what to remember about my body when working out and I thought that I'd pass it along to you!  (Also, I didn't start running again until 8 weeks postpartum, and started light strength training at 6 weeks.)

**Listen to your body.  Even if your doctor says that you can start adding in exercise, you ultimately know what your body can and cannot handle. 

**Listen to your doctor.  Don't push yourself and think you are super woman.  Remember, you just had a baby.  And you carried that beautiful being inside of you for 40 weeks.  Your body has done a lot in the last 10 months, and even if you did workout during your pregnancy, it still isn't going to move the same way it did before.  I tried to run when my doctor told me to stick with the elliptical, and it was not a pleasant experience.  I didn't injure myself, but I did lose a ton of motivation because it felt so off and it was a big struggle the entire time.  

**Start by taking nice long walks.  This was my favorite part during the first month with Nathan.  I was so excited he liked his stroller, so the Mr. and I got into a good routine of going for long walks in the mornings.  Sometimes we'd take a basketball with us to the park and shoot hoops while Nathan slept in the stroller.  Other times, we would walk to the bank to get errands done or to Panera to grab breakfast. Having something fun to do on your walk makes it much more enjoyable.  Plus, you have great company with you as well! 

**Exercise with your baby!  Once I got the clear to run and felt comfortable doing it, I started taking Nathan on jogs with me.  He either falls asleep or just stares up at me as I smile bigger than ever at him.  (Cars that drive by must think I'm a bit loopy.)  

**Get in some HIIT while they nap.  High Intensity Interval Training is every mother's dream for working out because they are short yet super effective.  They leave you breathless at the end if you stick with the workout, and give your muscles that jolt they needed.  My favorite place to find a good quick workout is over at the Blonde Ponytail, she's a new mom herself and has great exercises!  Nathan is a cat napper and it never fails that even if I do a 15 minute workout at home, he wakes up within the last 5 minutes.  Instead of getting frustrated, I just talk to him while I do a push up or a squat to keep him entertained. 

**Treat yourself by taking a class.  Have your husband watch your baby or utilize the daycare if your gym has one, and go take a class!  I've noticed that when Daniel watches Nathan so that I can go to our small gym in our complex I'm much more focused on my workout which helps a ton.  This week I'm taking a yoga class, and I can't tell you how excited I am!  This is not only exercise but also a form of self-care, which every new mama needs. 

**Thank your body for everything it is doing!  Sure, you can get discouraged that you're not working out as much, doing as many reps, or lifting as much weight as you did before.  Running, mentally, has been challenging for me.  But after each run, whether I had to walk or not, I have to thank my body that it got me through that workout.  Our bodies are amazing!  They created life, and they are providing for your baby if you're breastfeeding.  Give yourself grace and except this new body that you're in.  

Having a little mantra is always helpful when you have those days that you wanted to workout but you didn't or it wasn't as long as you had hoped it would be.  Mine is "I workout to be strong not skinny".  This always helps me reframe my mind, because being strong and healthy is what makes me the best mama I can be! 

the evolution of this run

This thumbs up means that I accomplished a postpartum goal, which made me want to cry…for a couple reasons. 

1. I ran 3 miles without stopping. 

2. I didn't pee my pants. 

3. I felt great the entire time. 

4. This run and the route actually meant something. 

So why don't we back up a tad bit so that this all makes sense. 

I've never shared how we found out we were pregnant, and it is actually a slightly humorous story that ties into this whole run.  I had come home from work.  It was a Monday.  On this Monday the hubs had gone into work at 4am, so when I got home he was exhausted and already slightly passed out on the couch.  For some reason I just knew that I was pregnant, so I took a test and the line that appeared was so faint that he didn't believe me one bit.  We had gotten our hopes up before, had taken dozen of tests before, so we were prepared for a "negative".  But this was the first time I had ever even had the slight resemblance of a line so I got a bit excited.  Well the hubs did not, he was tired and cranky and thought that I was crazy. So I went on a run.  

Our neighborhood is pretty beautiful, and there is a nice three mile loop around that had become my regular route.  On the run all my mind could think about was that I might actually be pregnant.  Numbers were swirling around in my head.   I was trying to calculate what the due date might be,  I was picturing myself with a baby bump, and started imagining running this same route with a little babe in the near future. 

It turns out that I was right, as we confirmed I was pregnant the next day after we bought a digital test (it's worth the money, folks). 

Throughout my pregnant I was able to still run this route, it was the perfect distance and the hill towards the end could be my excuse to walk for a bit.  As I ran I thought about the life growing inside of me, and I loved that running was making sure he was nice and healthy.  There would be neighborhood kids playing at the park and all I thought about was how I couldn't wait to go to that same park and play with our son. 

Fast forward to yesterday when I ran the loop for the first time and all of those things I had dreamed of and sought after had come true.  I ran it wishing I was pregnant, when I was pregnant, and now with my little man.  He was my favorite running partner in womb and he's still pretty good at it now!  Life just catches you by surprise sometimes when I stop to actually think about where you've been, where you are now, and where you're going.  Now when I run, I think about how excited I'll be when he is older running alongside me or learning how to ride his bike.  

ditching the scale

As women, we all face the that nasty topic.  You know what I'm talking about.  Body image.

We weigh ourselves, compare ourselves, tell ourselves that we aren't good enough with the way that we are, and sometimes go to extremes to meet these "goals" that are completely acceptable to us.

This is something I've always dealt with.  I don't think I ever really felt comfortable in my skin.  In middle school I was bigger, more developed, and already began telling myself the lie that my body wasn't good enough.  This lie built and built as I went into high school and throughout college.  It probably wasn't until I was married that I finally felt comfortable with who I was and the shape that I was.  Fortunately I loved food way too much to go to extremes to change my body.  Plus, I learned how to exercise and finally (not over night) accepted that being fit didn't mean skinny but healthy.

I always had a fear of the weight gain during pregnancy.  My mom would admonish me whenever I would tell her my nightmares of blowing up like an elephant.  And I wasn't even pregnant yet.  So when I got pregnant I realized I needed to do something so that I kept a healthy mindset throughout it.  I didn't want to be stressed with a number that I needed to lose after having the baby and I also didn't want to beat myself up when my body was doing the most beautiful thing-making life.

With that I decided to not know how much I weighed during my pregnancy.  It is doable!  I would turn around and face away from the numbers on the scale and politely let my nurse know I didn't want to know my weight.  When they printed up my paperwork, I soon figured out that my weight was printed on it!  So then I started asking my nurse to use sharpie over it so I couldn't see it.  I know that I must've sounded silly and crazy, but my nurses quickly caught on and began to remember, and most importantly- I wasn't kicking myself or hating on my body.  I watched as my body stretched and grew in places it had never before.  There were days that I wasn't happy with my body, but I would quickly remind myself that it was doing something amazing and deserved to be praised not hated.

After Nathan arrived I was going for a walk around the neighborhood and was thinking about this weight issue that we as woman go through.  I've come a very long way mentally to accept my body, even my pregnant body, and I suddenly decided that I still loved my body.  This postpartum body of mine shows the marks that provided life for another and created a beautifully healthy baby.  And that should be praised!

For me, I'd rather base how I feel about my weight on how my clothes feel and how I feel.  The scale has this gloomy association, creating a sense of fear.  So why not free ourselves from this fear and not weigh ourselves?  This doesn't mean "let our bodies go" and live an unhealthy lifestyle.  This means find what healthy looks like for you, find pieces of your body you love and focus on them, and listen to how your body feels in your clothes instead of living for a number.

Now, just to show you how human I am I have to share with you how I didn't live this out this week.  At my follow up appointment this week I thought I'd actually look at the scale.  You know, just to see where I was at since having the baby.  I wasn't actually pretty happy with the number, but I didn't know what to compare it to since I hadn't been weighing myself throughout my pregnancy and even leading up to it.  So when I got home, I jumped onto the computer and looked up my past visit reports and found my weight pre-baby and for my first appointment.  Yes I did.  And instantly my mind was flooded with disappointment and anxiety because now I knew how much weight I needed to lose to be back to my "pre-baby" body.  How terrible this was!  This is exactly what I didn't want to happen, and here I was undoing everything I had done.

We are all human and we will have moments when the number takes over our minds and brings us down.  And there are moments when we live for more than the number and accept and love our bodies for what they create and do.  So, if you are struggling with your body image by any means I urge you to ditch the scale and remember that the number does not define you!

high five for friday

Can I just gush for a moment on how adorable our little Nathan is getting?  I mean, he smiles!!! And I was able to capture it before it faded away.  I'm pretty sure his smiles are still either gas induced or sleep reflexes, but I'll take what I can get.  Plus, it puts THE biggest smile on my face which is all that matters.  

We have had another beautiful week, and the days just seem to be flying by!  Nathan is now three weeks old and I'd really like a time machine to make him stop growing so fast.  Our days are packed, and there have been so many times that I've been dying to sit down and blog, and then someone (who will go unnamed) wakes up from a nap, needs a diaper change, or is screaming for some food.  Anyways, lets dive into some things this week that were pretty awesome. 

1) Target just got a whole lot better.  How might you ask?  Well, add a baby…a baby sleeping…a baby sound asleep on you.  That's how!  Nathan LOVES the Ergo, and I love it just as much.  I'm pretty sure this will be our main mode of getting around once Daniel goes back to work.  

2) I cooked!  In my defense, the Crock Pot had to be used, but it was amazingly and delicious and wonderful all at the same time.  We have been just beyond blessed by our family, friends, coworkers, and church family and the past three weeks we have had so many meals brought to us.  It's the most wonderful gift.  Well, we still get our CSA box and I decided it was about time to finally start cooking with those veggies in the fridge.  I made a beef stew recipe from Cooking Light and it was phenomenal! 

3) Nathan's first photo book arrived!  I decided to be on top of the game plan and put together a birth story photo book for him.  We love looking back through all of the pictures of his arrival and first week, so this was a fun project to do.  It arrived yesterday, and I almost ran into the house to open it up and check it out.  PS: It wasn't until recently that I realized how amazing photo books are.  They are perfect for showcasing all of the pictures you take without having to print pictures and put them in a photo book.  

4) The hair got chopped yesterday and I LOVE it!  I'm planning on sharing some details about why/doubts/embracing the stereotypical "mom" chop, etc. on the blog soon!  I feel a million pounds lighter and love the cut. 

5) I'm all signed up for Bobbi's shred next month and couldn't be more excited!  I'm a huge fan of Bobbi and everything she does.  I love her philosophy on eating and working out, and have been waiting to reach the point postpartum when I could actually participate in her shred.  Even though I know I will need to still take it a bit easy with the workouts, I'm excited for an eating plan and accountability! 

exercising past 34 weeks

I knew it was my last run.  The entire time I was in pain, and when I knew I couldn't take it any more I walked the rest of the way home.  And then I cried.  I was probably quite a sight to see.  I've been so blessed to be able to stay active throughout this pregnancy, but running is my go-to and not being able to has definitely been a challenge for me.  

Exercising after 34 weeks comes with its challenges.  My body doesn't move quite as nicely as it used to, my round ligaments are killing me, jumping is not an option due to bladder control, and I have to constantly remind myself that just doing a little bit is enough.  Fortunately, I've found some good workouts at the Blonde Ponytail that are perfect for your third trimester.   

At the gym I remember to watch my breathing, use lighter weights, and thank myself for each and every workout! 

 Walking is essential and I love that we have been able to go on some gorgeous hikes around our area.  Unfortunately, my right hip and glute are killing me and just walking now causes excruciation pain.  So I found a new exercise to get me through the end of the this pregnancy….swimming!  There is nothing better than being 38 weeks pregnant in a pool where you feel as light as a feather.  I started swimming this week, and am in love.  Here's my workout:

Warm-up: 4 laps across the pool at a light pace, walking the distance of the pool. 

4 laps of breaststroke 

8 laps of freestyle 

Repeat this 3-4 times with 30 seconds in-between each 4 laps.  

I always make sure to have my water bottle with me so that I can hydrate while swimming.  This is a great cardio workout and it works your whole body.  

Here are my essentials for exercising during the third trimester:

Speedo Women's Goggles 

Moving Comfort Juno Sports Bra

This is amazing for high impact workouts, and I've heard that it is great to nurse in as well.  This will definitely be used a lot after the baby comes! 

Old Navy Compression Top

I absolutely love this workout top!  It's not maternity but the loose bottom fits perfectly over the belly and I will be able to wear it postpartum.  The best part is how affordable it is!  I've gotten both of mine for $15 a pice on sale.  

This water bottle goes with me every where I go! Staying hydrated is absolutely essential. 

your body is beautiful

Whew!  What a week.  Actually, I think we can just call it as we see it...what a season!  Fall is definitely turning up to be a busy season for us, whether it be at work or at home.  Each day feels like I'm trying to catch my breath, but I hold onto the hope of some down time once our little bundle of joy arrives in two months.  I'm sure you might be laughing that I call it "down time", but can I just say that I'm excited for late night feedings and cozy clothes versus going to work each day?  

Today I'm here to be pretty raw and truthful with you.  And I'm sure that I am not the first girl to come along saying this as well.  Being pregnant definitely makes you deal with some issues, mainly body issues.  It seems to come in waves.  Some days I love the way my body has been changing and transforming to provide life to a baby.  Then there are other days where I'm near tears wining to the Mr. that I'm just fat.  He, of course, laughs at me and tells me "you're growing a baby inside of you" and because he is so good to me, always knows the perfect thing to say to put a smile on my face.  

Yesterday I was reminded that your body is doing exactly what it is supposed to be doing, it is providing nutrients that your baby needs, and that you need to appreciate your pregnant body.  Appreciate this body-this changing body-this body that is nurturing and caring for a little boy-this body that is still able to do so much and provides me with strength and energy to get through the day. 

This body is not a punching bag.  It is absolutely beautiful!  

So whenever I see those stretch marks, those hips that are packing it on a little bit more, I'm going to try my hardest to banish those thoughts.  Leave them at the door and appreciate this beautiful body of mine that is doing so much good. 

Just for fun I wanted to share with you my amazing teacher friends dressed up yesterday...

running the Temecula 5k

Sunday morning the alarm went off at 4:40am, and I was already awake!  I know that this seems crazy but I was eager to get up and throw on some running clothes to run the Temecula 5k.  It reminded me of getting ready for the half-marathons that I have run in the past, and the rush of memories made me truly miss those runs.  As much as I miss training and long-runs, I'm pretty pleased with how much my body has been able to keep up with running in general throughout this pregnancy.  And the benefits I've reaped because of it have made this pregnancy truly amazing.  

My friend Colleen ran the half-marathon, and Molly ran the 5k with me because she's recovering from being sick.  We got up to Temecula at 6:30am and froze our buns off for a bit, but the most beautiful sight emerged.  Hot air balloons were taking off in the field right next to our race!  The race was held at   Wilson Creek Winery, and this was definitely an amazing place to hold a race.  

The course was super hilly, and there were times that I wanted to walk but I kept pushing through.  Who knew that running 3 miles could really wipe you out!  I ran the 5k in exactly 30:00.  My initial reaction was to be a little disappointed with my pace, but then I had a reality check.  Hey, I'm 7 1/2 months pregnant, I ran the entire time, passed a lot of people along the way, and conquered those hills!  Thank you, reality check! 

Molly and I were able to make it back to the finish line to watch the half-marathoners come in, and who did I see?  Bobbi!  Pretty much the one blogger that I'm completely enamored with, and I got up the guts to talk to her!  She is the sweetest, and it was such a pleasure meeting her! 

Can I just say that my friend, Colleen, is an animal!  She ran a full marathon in Utah two weeks ago, and pushed through this challenging course.  Such an inspiration! 

This was baby's first 5k, and it most definitely won't be the last!  I'm already trying to plan which half-marathon to run first to get me back in shape after having the baby! 

a fit and fabulous pregnancy

Staying active and fit during my pregnancy was something I thought about long before I was actually pregnant.  Being fit, notice not skinny, but fit and strong was a priority of mine before I was pregnant and a key way to my lifestyle-so why shouldn't it be while I am pregnant?  Today I wanted to share with you ways that I stay fit and give you some practical ways to workout and modify exercises. 

When I first became pregnant I was scared straight to exercise.  No joke!  I thought that if I ran I would jiggle this tiny person growing inside of me so much that it wouldn't last.  I also was just filled with a lot of fear in general at first.  But my body was used to working out 4-5 times a week, and these workouts were usually high impact, heart-pumping sessions.  I knew that I wouldn't be able to keep up the intensity of my workouts while pregnant, but that my body needed something.  Working out, for me, boosts my mood big time.  Hello endorphins!  It took me a bit to figure out a good balance between working out and giving myself the ability to rest because I was dog-tired for the first 10 weeks.   Trust me, I rested all right.  But there were days that I would feel so guilty for not working out.  And my amazing husband would gently remind me that I'm growing a baby.  Staying fit doesn't mean just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well.  So I needed to not feel guilty all of the time, give myself a break, and celebrate the times that I was exercising. 

For the first trimester, my goal was to exercise at least 3 times a week.  If got in 3 days I week I felt proud of myself, not ashamed.  I quickly learned that I couldn't keep comparing my fitness level to the pre-pregnancy Jamie.  Now that I'm just at 22 weeks pregnant, I'm still able to run and do so many exercises I did before hand.  

Staying fit and active has SO many benefits.  First off, you use (so I've heard) a great amount of your cardiovascular system when labor comes.  Staying fit will keep your heart healthy and help you when it's time to push.  I've also heard that exercise helps with the aches and pains associated with pregnancy as well.  I'm currently dealing with some sciatica pain, but exercising makes the rest of my body feel great.  Plus, exercising increases your endorphin levels and helps you feel happy-not large and in charge! 

Here are some of my top exercising tips to stay fit during your pregnancy:

1. Do what you did before you were pregnant!  This isn't the time to take up a new activity.  Running, strength training, and yoga were all things I did before hand and can still keep up with.  

2. Know when your body needs a beak!  Being tired all of the time was very new and hard for me to accept.  I'm an on-the-go-gal and I'm used to my body keeping up with me.  Looking back on my first trimester, I'm glad that I backed off the workouts a bit because I feel amazing now and can exercise way more. 

3. 70% is the new 100%.  You can't get out of breath when you're exercising because it cuts off the oxygen supply to your precious baby.  So, scale back the intensity a bit.  This included jumping!  So, instead of doing box jumps I do step-ups on a bench, really focusing on form.  I can still do burpees but  when I'm getting tired I don't jump my feet back in, and rather walk them in one at a time.  I'm still working the major muscle groups and am able to continue the exercise. 

4. Have a buddy!  Daniel has become my new running buddy.  However, he hates to run, so it has forced me to accept less running.  But having a buddy helps because he forces me to walk when he hears me getting breathless, he checks on me to see how I'm feeling, and most importantly- he is watching to make sure I don't over do it.  

5. Drink a ton of water!  Before, during, and after.  And know where the bathrooms are at all times.  When I'm at the gym, it never fails that I have to go right after I warm up.  There's a park by our house with a restroom, and we have become best friends :) 

On a side note: I'm currently IN LOVE with GPP Fitness and their workouts!  They post a daily workout each day, and they are practical, functional, and give you a good sweat session.  I modify the ab moves so that I'm not on my back and either go into side plank or regular plank.  

Next week I'll be sharing the other part of staying fit: what you eat! 

july favorites

Can we take a moment to acknowledge how fast this summer just seems to be zipping by?  It's almost the end of July?!?!  And usually this would send me into a dizzy thinking about everything on my "summer to-do list" and what must be prepared for this upcoming school year, but I'm learning how to relax.  How to soak up life.  How to enjoy the little moments and not get caught up in the to-do's and the things I tell myself I should be doing.  

Today I wanted to share with you some of my lovely favorites for this month! 

You guys, this book....there are no words for the love I have for it.  I mean, where else can you listen to an incredible woman's intimate and touching stories, be filled with wisdom, AND learn some amazing recipes???  I have cried and laughed my way through Shauna's other two books, Bittersweet and Cold Tangerines.  This book taps into my heart for cooking, the love for creating, and sharing that with others.  I've always been intimidated with having people over for meals, and I second guess everything I do.  She has urged my heart to think otherwise and push myself so that I become more comfortable hosting. 

I will forever by grateful for She Reads Truth.  These ladies know what they're doing! I can't tell you how many times I want to read my bible, a plan, something...but have no idea where to start.  Not only are their words powerful and leave me in awe every time, but all I have to do is click on a plan and I have it with me wherever I go.  I've found myself reading my bible in my car, waiting for appointments, and love that God's word is with me wherever I go.  This current study is truly inspiring me! 

Source

I stumbled upon the Holistic Science Co. at the Little Italy's farmers market lat month and fell it love.  This company is local, made in San Diego, and everything is plant-based and handmade.  At the market I was talking with one of the women who actually makes them and she was so helpful and informative. Lately I've been trying to switch over my skincare to plant-based, free of parabens and other harsh chemicals.  What I love about this is that it hydrates my skin without leaving me oily (and it smells amazing)!  I use this is a moisturizer in the morning and throughout the day, and a spritz before bed instantly calms me.  It soothes the skin and replenishes it, which is perfect after I've been out in the sun or exercising! 

Source

 I've been on the hunt for a good, supportive sports bra for a while...and let's just say that the "ladies" keep growing and need a little help.  I'm not the type to spend a ton of money on workout clothes, but a sports bra was something I knew I would be willing to because I would get my moneys worth and I would get a ton of use out of it.  Enter Lululemon.  Again, I don't buy much there, just basics.  I went in thinking I was going to get the Ta Ta Tamer because I'd read so many great reviews, however after trying it on, it just didn't feel that great.  I like my sports bras to be racer back, and it wasn't (although you could make it that way).  So the lovely associate had me try on their Energy Bra, and it was love at first fit.  I love this bra!  Talk about comfort and support, I want to wear it all of the time !

Source

Now that the sports bra issue is covered, I've been dying for a good workout.  For some reason, I've been slightly more unmotivated than usual to workout.  Maybe it's the pregnancy.  And running is great, but I need strength training and hard workouts in order to feel my best.  A new yoga studio called Yoga Six opened up right by our place, and they give you 6 free classes to try within two weeks.  I LOVED this option versus other studios that give you a week free.  The moment I walked inside I was greeted by the nicest receptionist, and the manager happened to be standing right next to her.  She caught wind that it was my first time visiting them, so she gave me a tour of the studio and a brief background on them.  I just fell in love with them.  The first class I went to was a Sculpt class, and the instructor was so accommodating to give me modifications since I shouldn't be exercising on my back any more.  Yoga is a passion of mine.  I love that my body, mind, and soul all get a workout and I feel so refreshed and strong after every class! 

we're handy and other weekend updates

Well, we did it folks!  We finally installed a light fixture!  Right now we are in a 2 bedroom condo and I'm always trying to spruce it up a bit.  The latest was to install a light fixture in the dining room to replace the can light that was there in hopes of making the room feel more complete! Well, we finally went to Lowes and find a light that wouldn't break the bank that we liked.  Obstacles immediately came in when the light was more narrow than the actual hole it was going into.  Luckily we found a conversion kit, and this week at 8pm we decided to just get it over with.  One and a half hours later (and some precious learning moments in marriage) we had a light that worked!  I love that it gives the room a ton more space and makes it feel more complete.  

I have been lucky that my pregnancy has been so smooth, and that I've also been able to keep up with running.  Right now I'm running 3 times a week, 3-4 miles each time.  So if my calculations are correct, my little peanut and I have covered around 140 miles!   The heat has definitely increased and I learned my lesson the other morning when I decided to sleep in and then go running.  Wrong!  Let's just say there was a lot more walking and I chugged as much water as I could the rest of the day. 

I've definitely kept a secret from you on the blog and I'm finally okay with opening up about it.  My head is much too big for hats!  And that is the truth!  I like to think that my brain just takes up too much space...but finding a hat that fits and doesn't give me a headache is next to impossible.  Every time I walk into Target or World Market I try them on, quietly by myself in a corner so no one can see, and always walk out empty handed.  Enter the Clothe Hat from Target (similar one here).  It fits!!!  And it protects my freckled face from the sun! 

We had a very splendid weekend over in the LaFuze household.  On Saturday, the Mr. was off for the day so we embarked on our first Baby's R Us trip.  Two words: OH DEAR!  We wanted to just walk around and get a feel for what we should probably register for, and what walked out were two very overwhelmed soon-to-be parents.  I'm so thankful we still have a while to go before hitting that next step. 

After our blurry-eyed trip, we headed to our favorite spot in San Diego: Encinitas and Solana Beach where we indulged in Pizza Port and found the perfect beach spot!  Right behind Pizza Port was the entrance, and we still don't know how we haven't seen it before.  The crowd is minimal, the kids were adorable, and the husband swam like crazy.  Afterwards we came home to freshen up and pick up the house a bit before some friends came over for dinner. 

My weekend came to a perfect end when I accompanied Conni to the Long Beach Flea Market.  It was my first flea market experience and I had been wanting to go to get some plates to decorate with.  There were so many vendors that I was slightly overwhelmed, but I was able to find seven different plates perfect for decorating our dining room with.  Along the way I found the prettiest dresser that I just drooled all over.  It would look perfect in a nursery!  

I hope you all had the best weekend ever, and if you haven't already I would love to have you follow me on Bloglovin'!  

currently...

Currently I am...

-talking in a cross between a british and souther accent y'all.  We all have Downton Abbey and Duck Dynasty to thank for that.  If you have already started asking yourself how on earth those two go together, there is not rhyme or reason.  Watching Downton Abbey just puts my soul at ease, my heart twitters a bit with the romance, and I love the storyline.  Oh, the drama!  Duck Dynasty...well, my husband tried forever to get me to watch it.  I'm not the fan of reality TV so I was extremely hesitant, and all I thought it would be about is a bunch of rednecks hanging around.  Well, those rednecks are hilarious!  And watching my husband watch it is hilarious!  And those wives that love on those men, with their scruffy beards and all, well..they are my heroes.  So supportive and loving.

- in LOVE with this workout.  I was a sweaty mess at the gym doing this workout, and my legs felt like noodles afterwards, and I loved every single second of it.  I've been in a workout rut lately, and when I stumbled upon Tina's blog I was instantly inspired.

-munching on this homemade irish soda bread like it is nobody's business!  This recipe was so easy to follow, and my picky belly hasn't had too many issues with this gluten-filled bread.  Toasted with some butter and jam (said in an accent like the Geico gecko) is where it's at.

-deciding on which outfits to pack for my upcoming trip to Seattle!!!  I'm traveling with a dear friend of mine to go sight seeing and have a fun, girls' trip.  I've never been to Seattle and have been dying to recently.  All I can say is that I am beyond excited to visit the first Starbucks, see Pike's Place Market, and eat some amazing food.  Me?  Love food?  NO!

-having withdrawals after finishing Bittersweet.  I downloaded it as an audiobook to listen to on my way to and from work.  It was my first audiobook, and I was slightly hesitant about it.  I soon found myself instantly turning it on over music.  My heart has felt emotions it hasn't felt before, my mind is thinking like crazy, and all I can see are the bittersweet moments in my life.  This book made me look at the tiny moments and realize they are part of my story, I have grown from each experience, and I couldn't stop telling people everything I was just in awe of.

-loving some peaceful time with my husband.  March did a doozy on us.  Between both of our busy work schedules, my comp exams and report cards, and various events, we finished March feeling like we had just run a marathon and hadn't seen one another in ages.  It feels good to finally have some downtime (thank you, spring break) with nothing to get in the way.  Having a break from work always puts some much needed rest time into my life, and as hard as a I fight it, relaxing has treated me well.  When I'm more relaxed I feel like I can give more of my time to Daniel, be more intentional with our conversations, actually listen to him, and be a couple.

my running story

Source: everymantri.com via Jamie on Pinterest

I'm a sucker for the Olympics.  I always have.  I remember as a little girl having my family crowd around the TV, cheering on our country, and how much I wanted to be a gymnast.  It's a funny thing because I was never an athletic person.  Ever.  My mom tried to get me into swimming, which I did for a couple years.  Then the way too early practices did me in.  We also tried out soccer...but I kept breaking my arm (not related to soccer) and had to sit it out.  My mom still tries to make me feel a little bit better about myself by telling me that I was the best goalie and put up a mean fight.

As I was sitting watching the women's marathon today I was completely consumed by Kara Goucher.  I think if I were to ever admit that I had a girl crush on an athlete, it would be her.  As she was running one of the commentators was sharing that she vowed she would never do a marathon, and then there she was.  Running her heart out.  It reminded me of my non-athletic days and what all I had to go through in order to be able to run today.  I know I'm not a completive runner and I've only done two half-marathons, but it is better than nothing.  Running is hard and it has been a journey to get where I am today.

As I type this I'm laughing inside my head when I recall what I called "running" back in high school.  Again...I wasn't athletic.  I did dance, but PE was my absolute least favorite class.  Running a mile would take me easily 15 minutes, and I'd be plagued with side aches.  At home I would tell myself to go run.  So I'd put on some shoes, a sports bra, my shorts and Tee and head down our dirt road.  What seemed like a mile that I poured my heart and soul into was really probably a quarter or a mile-maybe half.  I'd come home thinking I just won a medal.

Once I went away to college I finally started gaining some self-esteem.  My roommates would go for runs to workout, just nice jogs.  I decided that I should do the same.  I remember my first run.  I think I ran a mile and it was the hardest mile ever.  My legs felt like the logs, my body stayed low to the ground, and it took a ton of effort.  I decided to make a plan.  I mapped out a two-mile loop and created mini goal points that I would run to.  I'd run a half-mile, then walk a bit, then repeat.  To help me not give up on myself I would kiss the back of my hand whenever I made it to a goal point and tell myself a positive phrase.  It was much easier to tell myself "just give up" or "you look ridiculous".  But I pushed through.

I can still remember the first 3 mile run that I completed running the entire time.  My roommate and I would encourage each other along the way, and when we got back to our house I was on cloud nine.  I wasn't fast, I wasn't a runner, but I could run and get the job done.  It helped me feel good about myself.  Instead of looking at my body for what it wasn't, how big I thought it was, or how much it failed me I was able to see how it took me places, it gave me strength and endurance to run, and I eventually made peace with my body.

Three miles became five, then seven, and then my co-worker talked me up enough to do a half-marathon.  Now I run because it helps me let off steam, it clears my head, it reduces my stress, it helps me appreciate my body and what it does for me.

I write this not to pat myself on the back but to encourage anyone out there that has thought or currently thinks they can't do something.  The Jamie in middle school and high school and the Jamie now are two very different girls.  I would've never thought that I could run a half marathon, much less 5 miles, but I've run two and look forward to the day when I run another one.

Here are some of my biggest running tips:
1. Find a partner.  
It is SO much easier to run when you have someone with you, ideally at your pace.  You don't have to talk to one another to encourage one another.  These keeps you accountable and it is much harder to quit on a run or decide not to run when you have someone counting on you.

2. Get fitted for a shoe. 
If you have a RoadRunner Sports or a different running store nearby, invest the money, and get fitted for a proper running shoe.  It makes the world of difference.  Once I got my running shoes, my whole body felt better.  I learned that I pronate my feet and needed a stability shoe.  Running was much easier after that because I wasn't working against my body but with it because it was moving the way it should.

3. Set mini goals. 
Decide how far you want to run.  Maybe your first run out will be a mile and you decide you'll run half of that.  Once you complete these mini goals you will feel successful and will be more likely to create harder goals and see them through.

4. Have a positive mantra.
My friend Colleen is an amazing runner, and her motto is "No regrets".  This has helped her run not only countless half-marathongs but a few full marathons.  A lot of times when I'm running I tell myself "You can do this" or sing a worship song in my head.  Remember to stay positive!

5. Plan a fun run with friends or family.
My first ever "race" was a 5k Turkey Trot.  I had a blast and caught the bug to go on and run an 8k then a half-marathon.

{fit friday} the beauty of yoga

Source: meditationtemptation.tumblr.com via Jamie on Pinterest

Source: yoga-beautiful.tumblr.com via Jamie on Pinterest

I used to be a doubter.  I would see people that did yoga and think they were crazy.  For an hour you meditate?  Then I became a lover of yoga.  Yes, for an hour you push every muscle within you, pulling and stretching inch by inch, breathing with each movement, listening and watching only yourself and your movements, and then that moment happens when all of a sudden you notice your arms are the only thing that are temporarily holding you up (and in my case that is when you face plant onto your mat).

I used to double but now I live the moment I can take a yoga class that will center me and make me forget about all of the worries of the day.  And those classes are priceless.  Those last 5 minutes where you breathe in sweet and relaxing fragrances, rest, and tell your body "you did good today" are beyond words.

Finding a good yoga class can be so frustrating.  I attempted one at my gym and I think it should've been called stretching for beginners.  A parent from my class offered to give a class to some of the other teachers at the park this past week.  I completely forgot until the email popped up that morning.  This week has been beyond hectic at work and in life, so I was half tempted to bail out.  But I saw that yoga mat of mine begging to have a good sweat.  I went and it was just what I needed.  I was telling the Mr. how good the class was and how relaxed and strong I felt, and he reminded me that God makes things happen for a reason.  I needed that class.  I needed that deep breathing where all I could think about was balance and strength within my body.  I needed to not think about report cards, kindergarten reflection books, parent teacher conferences, portfolios, etc.  I needed that last 5 minutes where all I did was rest.  Even if it was for 5 minutes, I could tell myself I rested.  And it was amazing!

{fit friday} the most delicious snack and a workout

Happy Friday

First, can we hit the brakes for a sec?!?

Are we really already in June?????  I still can't believe where this year has gone.  As a teacher, this is my busiest time and I have definitely felt the stress take over this past week.  I do have to say that when I am stressed out, working out always puts me in a better mood.  Whether I'm running and thinking of the positive things throughout the day or going over my to-do list or running sprint intervals on the treadmill, any frustration is taken out on my body.

I've been going to the gym more since my half-marathon is over, and it has been a new experience for me.  I always go back and forth between the gym and running/working out at my house.  Right now I'm on the gym side.  However, I feel like we need to go over some basics at the gym as well as etiquette (such as please refrain from texting while sitting on a machine)-but that can be a different post.  I love the equipment the gym has but the classes are not that great, so motivating myself to think of what to work out and how can sometimes be a challenge.  Cue ZWOW...

I came across the ZWOW workouts on You Tube, and tried the ZWOW #15 last week.  Holy.  Smokes.  I was kind of embarrassed by how much I was sweating but I felt so strong afterwards.

I have a new love....

A fellow teacher showed me these 100 calorie packs of guacamole.  100 calories???  Guacamole???  Sign me UP!  I love guacamole, and I might sound like a 5 year old by saying I wish I could marry it.  As soon as I found out it was at Target I made a pit stop on my way home.  For snack I pack a big bag of fresh veggies and dip them in my guac.  It is SO good!  I love guacamole, and it is definitely easy to over eat with it, so these are my new loves!

If you're like me you can find any easy excuse to go to Target, so find one and get some of this amazingness! 

la jolla half marathon recap

I did it!!  After so much training, mental preparation, and pushing my legs to the max I completed the La Jolla Half Marathon this past Sunday.  I finished in 2:00:55, which was right at the end of my goal time, so I was pretty excited.  More importantly, I finished feeling strong.  

 A couple weeks leading up to the race I did not feel this way.  My right hip had been hurting and then my left knee started acting up too.  After just a short run, I would feel like the above run.  Before the race I had the biggest stomach ache because of nerves.  I didn't want my knee to hurt to the point that I had to walk and feel like all of my training went down the drain.  

This half marathon is one of the most challenging runs in San Diego.  There are multiple hills, and that hill at mile 6 is up Torrey Pines, one of the hardest hills I've ever run in my life.  The first hill hurt my knee a bit, but I put mind over matter and the pain subsided.  The first five miles flew by so fast, I think I was so focused on the Torrey Pines Hill.  Once I got to the top of that crazy hill at mile 6 I felt amazing, crazy tired, but so elated that I did it and didn't walk.  Then I was met with more gradual incline.  It started to kill my motivation and miles 7-9 were hard for me to wrap my head around.  Once I got to mile 10 I knew that I had this in the bag and I great.  I kept checking my pace throughout on my watch and I was doing okay on time but knew I had to pick up my pace in order to finish by 2 hours.  The last mile was probably where I wanted to cry because the hill was challenging, but I got super motivated and ended up sprinting up the last part of the hill through the finish line.  

Here's some pictures documents the day:

Pre-race smiles :)

 The Mr. got a great shot at the end.

The best part of the race of finishing and feeling amazing afterwards.  The Mr. kept watching for me to make sure I wasn't limping when I finished, which I wasn't, so I was on cloud 9!  The next best thing was mimosas afterwards!  

This experience truly taught me that if you set a goal and pursue it with your whole heart, you will meet it.  Also, anything you put your mind to can be achieved!  

Love,

Jamie