My Diet/ Nutrition while Pregnant

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So this post is a little ironic because I totally banged about 4 pieces of pizza last night for dinner haha. But anyway, I have about a week left in this pregnancy and I wanted to share what I eat on a daily basis during pregnancy! In some ways its been the same, but in some ways so different!

Also, incase you missed it above, I linked my sweatshirt here!

So, when I’m not pregnant and not breastfeeding I count my macros (strictly in the beginning, and once I get to where i want to be, loosely.) I’m sure you’re wondering what the heck macros are. The term stands for macronutrients, and it refers to the three macronutrients that should be part of any healthy eating program: protein, carbohydrates, and fat. If you’re following the macros diet, you’re keeping track of these three macros, aiming to eat a set amount of each based on your goals.

My macros generally during non pregnancy are around 130 p, 50-70 fat, 100 carb. I sometimes carb cycle (higher carbs, like 150-200 one day, and then only 50 the next day) but thats generally what my range looks like. Please remember I‘m by NO MEANS an expert or a nutritionist and I have done this based off of research as well as trial and error during my last two postpartum periods trying to lose weight/lean after completely weaning my sons.

I’ll be sharing TONS more of this and my actual meal plans etc after my baby comes but as you know losing weight will probs be the last thing on my mind the first 4 weeks haha.

I haven’t tried to do much strict eating while nursing in the past just because it is so important to me and I would never want to risk my milk supply. Also NURSING HUNGER?!! lol it seems almost impossible to limit food intake sometimes.

So, onto pregnancy. During pregnancy, some days I have a loose idea of what I’m eating macro wise but its not really a priority. I think I have habits that are already engrained in my routine that its eas(ier) to eat healthy on a regular basis.

First trimester

This is probably the hardest one for me. I am so tired and and HUNGRY all. the. time. I think everyone is different, I never get sick so I feel like I end up eating more and gaining!! I totally crave carbs and feel like I wake in the middle of the night needing snacks. Like an all encompassing hunger!! So, I TRY to keep my carbs healthy (ie. rice, sweet potatoes, etc) but I do admit I add cereal back into my nightly routine because I honestly can’t make it through the night without eating something before I go to bed. I also add bread back into my meals. Not on a daily basis and I try to stick to eziekiel bread or whole grain but I do eat it. Cereal, granola, and bread are three things I don’t really eat on a regular basis when leaning out or just maintaining. Veggies are sometimes scarce for days at a time during this phase but I always know its temporary and get back to that in second and third trimester.

Second & Third Trimester

These are much easier for me, my hormone levels have leveled out and I have more energy. I don’t need to eat as much and I’m able to try and stick to my diet more, and also have less aversions. I do find that I’m able to eat LESS and I get way more heart burn which turns me off eating the portion sizes that I normally do, especially for breakfast in the morning.

*Daily Eats*

Breakfast:

My go-to breakfast every. single. day. is oatmeal with peanut butter. I have a water jug and it legit takes 5 minutes for the water to warm. I throw a 1/2 cup into a bowl, a tablespoon (okay…maybe more haha) of PB and the hot water and call it a day. Most days this is all I eat because I am running around with my two toddlers getting ready for the day. WHY IS THE MORNING SO CRAZY!! LOL!!

Pre pregnancy I would make a point to hit 20-30 g protein for every meal but some days in pregnancy I just can’t stomach that!! So, that would be like 2 or 3 eggs with the oatmeal, or turkey bacon, or chicken sausage. With my second pregnancy I actually didn’t have the PB oatmeal…I had some weird aversion to it! But I had oatmeal with brown sugar and blueberries.

Snacks:

My go-to’s are apples (completely obsessed right now with green apples), berries, and any sort of bar—meaning KIND protein bars or Quest protein bars. I also have greek yogurt and like chobani. Generally I have flavored (something else I don’t really have when leaning out) like vanilla or strawberry but I do rotate plain in there.

I was having protein shakes up until about 31 weeks when I was working out at my gym but since I’ve stopped going I haven’t had any. I’m still lifting on my own but there’s no real intensity, I know I’m not building muscle, and I just don’t want it! So I don’t! Normally I have them on a daily basis when breastfeeding and obviously post breastfeeding to hit my protein quota. I’m just not that hungry right now and don’t see the need. If I’m hungry after a workout I try to pick something like a bar, or yogurt as mentioned above to quench my hunger.

Lunch:

I try to stick to lean proteins for lunch. Chicken is a big go-to for me. I buy pre- grilled chicken sometimes at Wegmans, or when we grill (yes, we still grill in winter lol) I make extra. Normally I shoot for 3-4 oz of chicken for lunch when counting my macros and when you measure your meat on a daily basis you honestly can tell how much meat you have and don’t have to measure. So I try to bring that to work with me with some baby carrots. Some days I’ve had eggs and a piece of toast if I have had a smaller breakfast (only oats). Maybe once a week I have a soup but those are honestly my two go-to meals. I know its boring but it works and kind of keeps me on track even during pregnancy.

Dinner:

Dinner obviously varies. I do get Sun basket deliveries 2-3 times a week and I feel like that helps with portion control and variety. I definitely get at least one stir fry a week and we eat A LOT of turkey chili in the winter.

We do grill once a week, and during the beginning of my pregnancy we were probably grilling 2-3 times a week because it was summer. Fish, and chicken.

I have a few go to meals—fajitas, chicken cordon bleu, cheesy chicken that I make for the whole family when we can eat together and my husband isn’t working late. I’m going to try and get more healthy recipes linked after we have the baby so you can see what I’m eating to lose the weight.

Night time

My nighttime snacks are probs my biggest weakness. During pregnancy as I said earlier I have to eat before I to bed, so I have always veered towards cereals and especially granola. I’ve made it my goal to try and eat LESS granola (just so much sugar!) and I think it has helped. Most nights I have cereal with almond milk or flavored chobani yogurt and thats served me pretty well. I haven’t had granola in ages #win for me!!

Sweets/Splurge meals during pregnancy

Okay. I DEFINITELY eat way more treats during pregnancy. Part of my son’s doughnut here, some chocolate covered nuts there…haha. But I try to do it in moderation and if I do it one night, I just wait a few days/nights for the next one. The biggest tip I can give is not having it in the house because once its there, the temptation is so REAL lol.

And I try to be smart about what I pick, like if I pick candy I try to get dark chocolate covered almonds so at least its somewhat better! I also find I don’t feel great after so that always helps. We generally eat a healthy diet for meals, but if we are having pizza we try to get it from a place called Pizza plant where we can get whole wheat crust, and veggies on it so its somewhat healthy.

If I know I’m having a heavier carb meal ( like last night haha) I try to plan my day around that and maybe not have as much carbs. Also the next night for meal planning I tend plan a meal with more lean proteins. Also, my last tip is honestly don’t step near the scale after having a cheat meal or heavy carb meal. Your weight will naturally go up due to water retention from the carbs and takes a few days to level out! Don’t torture yourself and just enjoy your splurge snack or meal and get back to business the next meal :)

Weight Gain during pregnancy

I might do a complete post on this because I have so many thoughts on this topic!! But this pregnancy I’ve gained about 32 or 33 pounds. I definitely gained more with both other kids, around 35 with Max, 38 or 39 with Seb. I’m not really sure why. But I do think cutting out granola, LIFTING for as long as I have has helped maintain some muscle mass and being so active the first 28-30 weeks. So I’m in the “healthy” range of weight gain but I’m by no means some chick sitting here saying I’ve only gained 20-25 lbs. And I’m totally freaking okay with that. Whatever gets me a healthy baby and healthy supply of breast milk. :)

So..that in a snapshot is what I eat! Hope this helps some of you pregnant mama’s out there!!

xo

Alex

Running while Pregnant: My journey & tips for the Pregnant Runner

six hundred and sixty one miles.

1,057,600 meters. 3,490,080 feet.

three pregnancies.

and just like that, its over.

My pregnancy running journey is complete.

It’s been 10 days since I last ran and at the end of it, I think I knew inside that I was done. But I sat on it a few days before I made up my mind because there have been times (many times) during pregnancy where I’ve not felt great and then the next day woke and felt a 1000 times better and it was like the previous day never happened.

So, I waited out those days…and nahhh. I’m pretty sure my body is done and dusted with lugging this guy around!!!

I feel gratitude, for my body allowing me to continue something that is so important to me (fitness). I feel relief in a way, that its all over. I feel a little bit of disappointment in myself for not being able to make it all the way until 39 weeks when I deliver ((I guess thats the type A in me ).

But, most of all I feel PROUD, because its not easy to be consistent during pregnancy with workouts or running and I was able to accomplish that.

My first two pregnancies:

With my first pregnancy, I ran up until my due date. My son came 6 days late. With my second, I ran until 2 days before my planned C-Section (39 + 2). My last run with my current and final pregnancy was at 35 +4 weeks.

I’m sure some of you who don’t know me probably think this is crazy. Especially if I told you my first two babies were 8 lb 10 oz or bigger…LOL!! ( we will see how big this guy gets!!).

As y’all know, in pregnancy, everything is based around the baby. and how I’m feeling. which is such a catch 22 because we as women literally have no control over how we feel…!!!

Pregnancy was HARD AF for me with all babies, especially baby 1. I was so USED to just pushing through everything! I coulden’t get past how my body just woulden’t do/I coulden’t do what I wanted to! After all, I had pushed my body to the limit for so many years playing professional soccer. So many hormonal, mental and physical changes, wrapping my head around bringing a baby into the world…it was overwhelming!!

Third pregnancy running

As my pregnancy progressed along this time around, I was completely aware at how much bigger I got so much earlier. I was completely aware that it would be the middle of winter my last month…which might affect my ability to get outside. Cold, snow, darkness, ice were all things on my mind.

I know this is silly, but I set an internal goal of reaching December (knowing all these factors) and once I reached that date, I would take it day for day. ((Obviously, if I ever didn’t feel good or there was an issue with the baby I would never put anything at risk and would stop)).

I say its silly because…if any of you have been pregnant, you know there are so many factors out of your control when it comes to pregnancy! Setting this goal wasn’t just mind over matter and “how bad do you want it? or “no excuses, get it done” like I spoke about above!

And then one day, (after my goal, LOL!!) It just stopped feeling natural. Stopped feeling good. And when that happened, I always vowed to call it a day. So I did.

My WHY

Why run you ask?

1. I like being active and healthy, pregnant or not. Enough said. You can google any study anywhere and read about pregnancy and working out. Good for mom, good for baby. Good, good, good.

2. It made me feel like myself…even if I was slower and bigger. This was probably my number one reason for continuing. This was especially important to me during pregnancy 1 when I struggled big time with my growing body and embracing the new use for my body. So many changes physically & emotionally…

   Before, everything I did with my body was results oriented. How can I get faster? Stronger? Better on the ball? How many times can I train in one day? What can I eat to make me a better athlete?

   This all quickly shifted to becoming a home for a little baby for 9 months. So….. that 30-40 minutes when my feet hit the pavement, I grinded out a sweat, and sometimes (especially early on) forgot I was pregnant. It was just me, and the roads doing our thing. It made me HAPPY and kept me grounded for those 9 months.

3. Running is something i’ve done my whole life and it felt natural. It’s not like I woke up one day and had a huge bump. The progression was so slow that it was very gradual and gentle as I got bigger. It probably would have been weirder for my body to just stop!!!

4. It kept my swelling at bay. Sure, I definitely got swollen but nowhere near what i have seen other pregnant mama’s and I know its due to my consistent activity level!

5. Weight Control: I’ve gained a healthy 33-35 lbs, with my first, 40 with my second and I’m on track for around 35-37 with my current pregnancy. Being active and running has definitely helped keep my weight in a healthy target area and made recovery A LOT easier.

   It’s no walk in the park though…
   

   I’d be lying if I said I enjoyed every run. I’d be lying if I said I wanted to be out there every single time. I’d be lying if I said it was easy, or didn’t take any discipline. It sure as hell did. But I look back on my journey with great pride, and so fondly as memories with my babies before they came into this world.

   Advice for Pregnant Runners/ Beginner Runners:

   If I could pass along any advice to fellow runners who have just become pregnant and want to continue their regiment, I would offer the following as advice. Some of this advice can be applied to people who aren’t pregnant who are looking to take up running!

   1. SPEAK TO YOUR DOCTOR FIRST. Everyone’s pregnancy is different, and what i did may not be right for you!!!

   2. Change your mindset: Whether you are a recreational runner or a competitive runner, changing your mindset is CRUCIAL. Knowing that you’re out there for the movement, the sweat, the endorphins, etc. rather than actually hitting mileage, splits, times….if you don’t change this mindset, you won’t last long and it certainly won’t be enjoyable!

   3. Invest in good workout gear: Without comfortable running clothes/proper gear running while pregnant can become virtually impossible. I’ve shared my favorites over the course of my 600+ miles (see below)

   4. Find your time: For me, I always felt better early in the morning. My bladder and stomach were fairly empty which led to less bathroom breaks, pressure and any digestion issues. Try out different times of day to see when you feel best.

   5. One day at a time: Don’t get too high off a great run, or too low on a bad run. 9 months is a long time and there will be days where you’re running pre-pregnancy times and feeling like a 100 bucks…and other days where you can’t finish your run, never go, or just feel tired and lethargic. Don’t jump to any conclusions and just roll with it! The part that counts is YOU SHOWED UP.

   6. Intervals: So many of my runs were intervals, whether it was “sprint” for 100 yards, then jog…and repeat for time or a number of sets… or repeat 400s with 3 minutes of rest in between! I always felt like this made the runs more enjoyable knowing I was able to keep a faster pace than a longer run, and knowing I was torching some fat as well!

   7. Take breaks: there’s no shame in stopping to walk, or stretch for a minute or two!

   8. Know when to call it a day: I felt great with my first two pregnancies and tried to not put too much pressure on myself to make it to “running full term with all three babies”. I’m super goal oriented and tbh I would have loved to do that ((sighhhh)). In saying that, Know when to call it a day…when it doesn’t feel good, or feel natural. Any running while pregnant is something to be proud of whether its 3 weeks, 3 months or 9 months!!

Now…on to share my pregnancy running/workout must haves!

1. Gabrialla waist support: I ran with this with all three babies and was a life saver!! This is a must!

2. Body Glide-With my first two pregnancies I had a litrle bit of chafe going on because it was so hot. This was a life saver where my sports bra was, and on my thighs! Things start rubbin when you get bigger! You can get this on amazon!

3. Good running shoes- your feet will naturally swell so having a good pair is important. The brooks ghost is my favorite!

4. A good sports Bra- my fave is the Brooks Juno. The girls don’t move AT ALL and the straps allow for nursing when the baby comes (cause once that milk comes in…sister watch out! LOL) I do have to say its not super easy to get on but its worth it to keep them strapped in! Perf for running or any high impact!!!

5. My zella leggings- great to run in especially in cooler months. I wear these also 24-7. These are the ULTIMATE leggings for pregnancy. You can work out in them, dress them up, wear them casually. They are just bomb. If they come back in stock, SNAG them ASAP!!! Great quality.

6. These Gap tank tops are my favorite.

7. these Old Navy fleeces are super comfy, great for layering and working out in.

8. I love this long sleeve mock neck top from Gap to run in

9. Basic Gap tees- long sleeve (for winter), tanks (for summer), and tees (layerin and for summer) were super easy to throw on also and run in!

   Unfortunately the patterned Isabel Maternity for Target leggings are all sold out…but those were big on my workout rotation! Check out target for some of their maternity leggings to work out in!

I hope this post helps any of you mamas to be with questions about running while pregnant!

xo

Alex

Pregnancy workouts & The Ten Minute Rule

Hi everyone! Hope you all had a great week!

We’ve officially been back a week from Hawaii and we are all finally adjusted back to the Eastern time zone…that took awhile esp. for my youngest. I def learned a lot traveling with the kids for such a long way and will share that in a separate post! The good thing is they have both been sleeping in between 7-8 am every day since we got back (even later the first few days) and I have been loving that as it gives me some extra time in the mornings to myself to run, and get ready for the day, or check my emails and have some quiet time.

Its been a minute since I shared my workouts with y’all so I thought I’d hop on this week (( before I did a hawaii recap)) and share my workouts over the last 5-6 weeks as well as some tips I have for motivating and keeping yourself moving throughout the second trimester!

I’m officially 21 1/2 weeks so I’m definitely starting to feel ((and look)) a lot bigger. Its definitely hard looking in the mirror sometimes after being so lean and fit, but trying to enjoy the process & embrace the extra curves!! I still have felt pretty good when working out most of the time which is a lifesaver for me mentally.

Tips for 2nd trimester workouts

1. Change your mentality: This is a big one for me- I still struggle with it. My main goal is not to challenge myself and “get better everyday”, but to move, sweat, feel good and stay active. I have to remind myself of this when I’m running and I’m moving slower, and when I’m lifting and I get out of breath quickly, or I’m not able to lift as heavy of weight. This allows me to keep things in perspective and not get down on myself!

2. Find workout clothes that are comfortable: This might sound silly, but look good, feel good, play good..haha. But seriously, I always have an extra pep in my step when I have a killer new workout outfit to wear in the gym and finding clothes that FIT and make you feel comfortable (and looking good is a bonus) with your extra weight is really important. Its actually mind boggling to me that the top brands (ie nike, adidias, etc.) don’t have a maternity workout line!! With my first pregnancy I was able to wear a lot of my pre- pregnancy leggings and then when I got bigger just wear them lower. I find now that my bump is A LOT bigger with my 3rd and I don’t want to ruin or stretch out my nice leggings so I’ve stored them away. I’ve either sized up when I’ve seen my faves on sale, or bought maternity activewear. My fave maternity workout gear so far are Gap and Isabel Maternity by Ingrid and Isabel. They have some super cute leggings and they are comfortable, and wick sweat! I’m definitely still searching around for more brands so I’ll be doing a post on my favorite 2nd trimester Preggo clothes along with activewear!

3. Any movement counts: There are some days where I might have the day off, but I’m really active with the kids and walk a lot. Walking counts! So even if you’re not a runner, a 30 min walk everyday is going to help you in the long run down the line!!

4. Find your motivator: My #1 motivation is feeling good and time for myself, and knowing that staying active keeps my baby healthy. Thats what keeps me going day in and day out. Also on the back of my mind is keeping a few extra pounds off, and remembering how LONG the road back to fitness/pre-baby body is and how much easier it is to be active throughout and only take off 6-8 weeks vs 6-8 months!

5. Give yourself grace: Remember some days your body isn’t feeling it…go for a slow walk or just rest! Give yourself grace…you’re growing a human!

6. Every day will be different: As you can see below, sometimes I can run 8:30 miles and feel like a million dollars…and some days I feel sluggish and slow. It. doesn’t. matter!! You’re out there! Every day will be different. It’s like a rollercoaster dealing with your body during pregnancy. I’m just grateful to still be moving and take it as it comes! Don’t get too down on the crappy days, or too high on the days you feel great!

   Last but not least…the 10 minute rule. My fave tip. This one is GREAT if you’re just starting to workout (pregnant or not!!), or are super tired!!

7. The ten minute rule: I use this sometimes. I tell myself to walk/run for 10 minutes, and if I’m still not feeling it, to go home. 99% of the time I keep going! Once you start moving the positive energy and endorphins will keep you going! Trust me.

Workouts:

15 weeks: +8 pounds, (sick all week…ugh)

Sunday: 3 miles, 25:35, Splits: 8:49, 8:17, 8:25
Monday: 2.5 miles, 9:04, 9:02
Tuesday: home lift
Wednesday: Lower workout
Thursday: HIIT bike, upper lift
Friday: home workout
Saturday: off

16 weeks: +9 pounds

Sunday: 3.30 miles, 8;45, 8:47, 8:52
Monday: Lower lift
Tuesday: home workout
Wednesday: Upper, HIIT sled work
Thursday: 3 miles: 8:54, 8:23, 8:20
Friday: Lower Lift
Saturday: off

17 weeks: +11 pounds

Sunday: 3 mile run, 8:22, 8:13, 8:13. 24:50
Monday: Lower Lift
Tuesday: 3 miles, 9:07, 9:27, 9:15. 27:51
Wednesday: Upper lift, 10 mins of running: 80 yard pickup, 80 yard jog.
Thursday: Lower Lift
Friday: 3 mile run. 8:37, 8:16, 8:03
Saturday: off

18 weeks: +14 pounds

Sunday: 3 miles, 8:54, 8:56, 9:06. 29:10
Monday: Lower Lift
Tuesday: home lift, HIIT stair work
Wednesday: Upper lift, 45 min walk
Thursday: 3 mile run, 9:09, 9:12, 9:24. 27:49
Friday: Lower lift, 1 mile walk
Saturday: off

19 weeks: +15 lbs

Sunday: soccer workout
Monday: lower lift
Tuesday: travel-off (trip to Hawaii)
Wednesday: 3 mile run, 25.58. 8:59, 8:31, 8:25
Thursday: lower workout with bands
Friday: 3 miles: 9:44, 9:38, 9:43. 29:11
Saturday: Band workout

20 weeks (no weight taken, vacation)

Sunday: off
Monday: 3.14 miles 9:12 ave.
Tuesday: 3 miles: 8:41m 8:42, 8:16. 25:42
Wednesday/Thursday: travel/off
Friday: Lower lift
Saturday: 3 miles. 9:06, 8:55, 9:02. 27:07

Have a great weekend!!

xo

Alex

4 Tips to Survive the 1st Trimester and Stay Active!

Hey hey everyone..

Happy August! I feel like stores every year push the "back to school" thing earlier and earlier and this year is no exception!! I'm super excited for August, another month of outdoor time with the family, and we have a vacation planned at the end of the month in Hawaii with all of my in-laws. We are SO so excited to really "getaway" and meet up with everyone. Anyone who has family that lives overseas knows the struggle and we are so looking forward to spending some time together in such a beautiful place! And yes, the boys are coming with us so I will be sure to keep you posted on how that travel goes Ha #RIPtous on that long flight. 

As I mentioned in my last post, the first trimester is finally over with and I've had a great first couple weeks of the second trimester! I've managed to stay active, and have more energy for sure! Unfortunately I have come down with a cold the last week so that's been a bit of a buzz kill. I swear that I can't have a pregnancy without getting sick at least once lol. The. WORST. 

Other than the breaking news that we are having another BOY (LOL!!), all my scans have come back great so far (which is amazing considering last pregnancy..what an emotional rollercoaster!) which is more important than anything else. 

Bumpdate

I won't bore you guys with the weekly "bumpdate" questions that sometimes you see, but I will give you the basics. I'm definitely closing in on maternity clothes (I'll be sharing my faves with all of you). Right now I can still fit into some of my "looser" clothes and shorts/pants that I bought during my "nursing and still losing weight phase" lol. Weight wise I've gained the same as the last two- I'm right around 10 or 11 lbs. I know to some people that might seem like a lot for 15 weeks but thats just how my body rolls! Cravings wise I always crave bad foods regardless of pregnancy haha. But some things I have been randomly loving more than usual are chicken sausage for breakfast, omelettes with tomatoes and cheese, parmesan cheese on pasta (I've definitely had more pasta than I normally do!), and I want cereal in the WORST way guys. I've only allowed myself to buy it once or twice because honestly I finish the whole dang box in about 2 days so...yeah those carbs are going straight to my thighs, not my baby!! 

Pregnant and working out

When I first got pregnant with my first I was so curious as to how other people felt working out: did they feel good? uncomfortable? Did their times/weights drop? Were they out out breath? I was coming off being a pro athlete and everything in my life was based around my workouts up until that point. Clearly...that all changed getting pregnant ha but I still wanted to stay active because it was such a big part of my life.

Basically, I wanted to know: Did they feel as bad as I did? Because I felt like total shit sometimes. Granted, that wasn't every day, but the bad days were tough. 

All of this was unchartered waters for me, so It was so reassuring to me to read articles where Olympians were being interviewed that they struggled at times with their mileage, times, and some didn't even run through their whole pregnancy. They had good days, and bad days...but staying active was so worth it was the overlying message!

I'll be sharing my workouts throughout my pregnancy (and hopefully some video as I continue on throughout the pregnancy) for those that are interested/curious and hopefully this helps someone who could be struggling with their workouts while pregnant! Remember, one day at a time and listen to your body! 

A lot of people are amazed at times how active I'm able to stay during pregnancy, and the first trimester is no exception! So many hormones and the fatigue is so fricking real.

I wanted to share some tips that helped me through my 3 pregnancies first trimesters in staying active!

4 tips to staying active and surviving!

1. Go to bed early: I would have to say this is my number 1 tip. Honestly, DVR the TV shows and catch them another time. Your body will thank you for it. I am always so tired by the end of the day and going to bed early always helped me be super productive a majority of the following day! I also have 2 boys that are early risers (like, 6 am wake up) so I *have* to bed in bed early!

2. Drink tons of water: I know this might seem super obvious, but a lot of times when I felt slightly nauseous or sick, water , fresh air and a little movement always helped me. Being on the go makes it hard to hydrate sometimes so remind yourself! Make sure you are drinking tons of water to help hydrate yourself! Lack of water can cause so many things including headaches and fatigue..

3. Stay the course: Try to stay as disciplined as you can with working out. I know its tough, especially when you don't feel good, but honestly getting moving is the BEST medicine. Sometimes it was like pulling teeth getting myself downstairs in my gym, or on a run, or having the discipline to workout at the fitness gym I go to, but I ALWAYS felt better after. You better bet I was taking longer rest breaks, lifting a lot less/running a lot slower, but I WAS THERE. Moving. Sweating. Endorphins. All the good stuff. And if you can't get yourself to do the "hard things", just walk. I walked soooo much this first trimester. 

4. Listen to your body: Nobody knows your body like you. I know myself and when I really need a "rest day" and when I'm just being lazy! If you need the rest, take it! But listen to you heart- it will tell you what you really "need." Take that nap or rest day if your body is asking for it! Being honest with yourself is so important to living a healthy and active lifestyle whether you are pregnant or not. 

I was actually about 9 weeks pregnant in these photos!

First trimester Workouts:

Week 8: No weight gain, horribly tired. 

Sun: 3 miles: 7:58, 7:36, 7:20- felt awesome! Monday: Lower Lift. Tuesday: Off. Wednesday: Upper and HIIT with sled. Thursday: Home workout. Friday: Lower Lift. Saturday: off

Week 9: 1 pound weight gain, feeling more bloated. Tired AFFFFF!!!!!

Sunday: Run @ soccer tournmaent I coached- 7:55, 8:26, 8:10 (was literally 90 degrees...so hot!). Monday: LOwer Lift. Tuesday 2.75 miles 8:18, 8:28. Wednesday: Sled HIIT and upper lift. Thursday: Lower Lift. Friday: off. Saturday 3 miles with stroller: 8:40, 8:03, 8:00. 

Week 10: +2 pound weight gain. Starting to show a little especially at night! 

Sunday: home workout. Monday: lower Lift. Tuesday: off. Wednesday: 3 mile run, very very slow. Thursday: Upper lift and sleds. Friday: lower lift. Saturday 5 400's with strength in between: squats, pushups, lunges)

Week 11: +3 pounds 

Sunday: home lift, Monday: off (glute was bothering me). Tuesday 2 mile run. Wednesday: Home lift. Thursday: 3 miles- 8:08, 7:53, 7:50, Saturday: Off. 

Week 12: +3 lbs

Sunday: 3.25 miles, 8:19, 8:04, 8:29. Monday: Lower Lift. Tuesday: 1 800, 2 400s, 4 200s, 6 100s @ track. Wednesday: soccer workout. Thursday: Upper lift and HIIT sleds. Friday: Lower Lift and soccer workout. Saturday off. 

Week 13: +5 lbs 

Sunday: home workout. Monday: lower lift. Tuesday: 3 miles: 8:17, 8:13, 8:37 (died at end!). Wednesday off. Thursday Upper Lift and HIIT sleds. Friday: lower Lift. Saturday 3 miles 8:20, 7:48, 7:49

Week 14: +7 lbs

Sunday: off. Monday: 4 800s, 400 m job inbetween. Tuesday Home lift. Wednesday Lower Lift. Thursday Soccer workout. Friday: upper and HIIT workout. Saturday: off. 

Have a great weekend loves!

xo

Alex

I guess 3 was meant to be....{{Pregnancy thoughts}}

Wow. What a crazy couple of months. I feel like I was getting into a great rhythm in LIFE..work, working out, family time, independence...also with my blog posts, and managing everything...and then BAM. Surprise! Baby #3 on the way, and RIP to me getting anything. done. ever. Ha. 

I guess thats the way life is sometimes, once you get the hang of something, it changes. 

I've always been really upfront and transparent as a person, and thats carried over onto this blog. We are super excited to add to our family, but it was definitely unexpected. I had so many mixed emotions finding out, the first being a little bit of shock. A little  bit of...I'm not sure if I can do this again. A little bit of I just started to get a little more independence...and SLEEP.

But you can be sure there was a lot of excitement in my heart wondering if it was a girl or boy, and knowing this baby would fully complete our family. 

I think deep down I knew I wanted to have one more child, I was just wrapping my head around actually doing it ALL over again. After all, I just stopped breastfeeding Seb in March.

Let's just put it this way: Since September of 2013, I've been breastfeeding or pregnant for all but 6 of those months. You guys...that is FIVE freaking years. I really wanted to enjoy the summer and just be me. Not breastfeeding. Not pregnant. Just me.

Thinking about a pregnancy, weight gain, and the stress/anxiety of expecting a baby and hoping everything goes smoothly...., and then when the baby actually arrives the sleepless nights, breastfeeding/pumping, and just adjusting to a completely different family dynamic. I just coulden't wrap my head around it. 

Family of 4 was just so easy in my mind- we were pretty much through the tough part. Seb is 2 in October, starting preschool. Max is super independent. Traveling gets easier every time, and when my husband is home we are man for man. I feel like we can give them enough attention. I enjoy the one on one time I have with each of them. And most importantly, we have two HEALTHY, beautiful, happy boys that I almost feel greedy wanting more.

But there was always a longing feeling inside of me feeling so heartbroken to not snuggle another baby, breastfeed again, and completely watch another human being change our lives and hearts.  You never hear people regret having their last child. You always hear people say "I wish I would have had more kids."

So, here we are. 14 weeks pregnant this week!

Real Talk: Let's talk 1st trimester, because it is OVER. Thank you Lord! I found out around 6 weeks, and within a week I felt like I had contracted the boubonic plague. Having 2 littles and one on the way in the first trimester was ROUGH, y'all. I can't even explain the fatigue. My nutrition was absolute shit. I had no energy, and tbh you're supposed to limit caffeine? Well caffeine did not do a thing for me those first 6-8 weeks. I needed some sort of AED to give me life!!

I had the worst food aversions. Basically everything that I would normally eat (read: clean) was not going to happen. I've eaten far too many pieces of grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, and pizza the last month or so than I would care to share. I tried to eat the best I could (I'm prob not giving myself enough credit..but guys..the struggle was so so real) and I guess I've done a decent job? because I'm only up 5 or 6 lbs at almost 14 weeks. This is a little less than pregnancy #1 and #2 {{probs bc I never. ever. sit. down. with 2 toddlers lol}}. 

Other than the lack of energy and nausea here and there, I've felt good and have been really active. The great weather has certainly helped keep me active, and even when I was struggling for energy, I knew a workout would never make me feel worse ((it usually gives me more energy)) so I think being consistent with my daily activity (steps, walking) and workouts has really helped me. 

I'm feeling SO much better now, and excited to share my last pregnancy journey with you all!(yes, this will be our last :P) 

Thank you ALL for your sweet messages and love over the last week or so! We are so blessed to have baby 3 on the way and all of you in our lives!

xo

Alex

Friday Free For All

Hey everyone! Wow..its friday and its SEPTEMBER. Bring on the cardigans, booties, chunky sweaters, and thick socks. I swear that every month I'm like "omg, I can't believe it's already ___" And this month is no exception. How is it almost FALL already? It's somehow shocking to me (still lol) how fast time can go.
 

                                                            Hellooooo September!!!

Last year at this time I was just flat out scared. totally. absolutely. scared. I had no idea what was coming my way with adding little Seb into our family. I'm really looking forward to this fall. The hardest days are in the past (well at least in terms of sheer exhaustion and lack of sleep), and I'm looking forward to embracing the routine of school starting the week of the 11th for Max. He'll start going 3 mornings a week and while I love my time with him, I know how important it is for him to feel comfortable away from his "safe place" at home. He's definitely a shy boy and is super attached so getting out in a school and socialization environment is great for him. Also, I'm going to embrace having mornings on my own to spend some time with my almost one year old ...(tear). 

Easy Breakfast

With the 1st day of school quickly approaching next week after labor day for kids in our area, I thought I would share one of my go-to quick but healthy breakfasts. This is an awesome one for hectic mornings especially the first few weeks of school when everyone is still adjusting to a routine. All you need is any kind of bread that you (or your child likes), a cup, and an egg! To make the "gas-house egg," grab your bread and a small cup (Your kids cups are perfect- you don't want the hole too large). Press down into the bread making a circular indent enough to take the indent out of the bread. Next, place the bread on the pan. Crack the egg in the open, circular area and cook to desired liking and flip. I also place the small circular piece in the pan so it gets a little toasted. My boys like it when I add jam to the toast when its finished cooking, but you can add whatever you want (peanut butter, butter) or nothing at all if you like a nice runny egg to dip your toasted egg in! There's something about the way this tastes cooked inside the bread that is just super tasty! Protein & carbs to keep you and your little ones going all morning, all in one shot! 

                                                                  The final product!!!

Bobs Double Stroller

If you follow me on instagram, you probably have seen my post on the Bobs double stroller. I have had the Bob single running stroller ever since Max was 9 or 10 months old and have loved it. Ever since Seb was "of age" to take a run, I've been eyeing the double stroller but the price always stopped me in my tracks. I thought that someone, SOMEWHERE would be wanting to offload theirs and I could get a used one? Please? Someone? .....Anyway weeks turned into months and I honestly could not find a used one for under $300 or $350 which I thought was completely outrageous. Fast forward to last week. I'm just done. Done having to rely on other people to get my cardio in and at this point in time, a lot of the time I'm still up once a night, so waking up at 5 am to run just isn't going to happen. The Double runner was my answer. 
 

SO.  I went to buy buy baby over the weekend to "test" the double out. I was honestly worried that maybe it would be too tough to push with the two boys in it? Anyway, I went to the store with the mindset that I would just have a look at it and keep waiting for A. a huge sale or B. a used one, if I liked how it moved.
 

                                Testing the BOB Double stroller out in store. They look thrilled! Ha!

I LOVED HOW IT MOVED, guys. So I'm sure you can finish the story for me. I BOUGHT IT. But- the catch is I got it for 15% off PLUS another 20% off.. #WINNING. Best thing I ever did. I am such a big proponent of online shopping but sometimes it sure does pay to go to actual stores. 

I would definitely recommend the stroller to anyone who runs consistently during the week and has two little ones. It glides and is super easy to run with. I was pleasantly suprised that my splits weren't much different than with the single! And yeah, when anyone asks me about my stroller I'll definitely be bragging not only about my mileage, but how cheap I got it for :) 

Hope you all have an amazing labor day weekend :) 

xo

Alex

Weeks 17 & 18 Pregnancy Update: Nutrition & Workouts

Well, the last 2 weeks have been pretty uneventful {thank god} considering the the month of March we had. Because they wanted to monitor the baby regarding the gastroschisis concerns I ended up getting my scan at 16 weeks, a little bit early. They still wanted to see me at 18 weeks because they could not fully see everything then that they needed to so I went yesterday morning for full check up and everything looked great {so blessed}. Baby boy is clocking in just under 9 oz and growing. 

So, other than my increasing size...not much else has been happening! I mean let's talk about the flashback/comparison photo {see above}. Baby 1 vs Baby 2. My weight gain was EXACTLY the same with my first as this pregnancy and look at the size difference! Crazy how your body "remembers" and just goes with it the second time. 

Baby gear wise we are looking good. Max has tons of clothes and we saved everything. For anyone that knows me I love clothes whether kids are boys or girls...so this little guy is going to be styling with some hand me downs {and some new stuff...he he}. We picked up a crib at pottery barn on sale ..and by on sale I mean we are talking 1/2 price! I went with a white one and am thinking I'll probably go with a blue for the nursery. M has a green room with jungle theme so we will see what theme we pick for this little guy. 

Exercise wise I actually have had a great two weeks. Now that I feel reassured that the baby is growing and doing well, I feel so much more comfortable. When I was pregnant with M I really struggled with tight calves and would have to stop and stretch only a 1/2 mile into my runs. Feeling pretty good up until this point and even rocked out some 7:45 splits on my runs the past two weeks. For anyone thats a pregnant runner, you take those days and cherish them. I'm still training on the ball a couple of times a week, although I definitely taper back the intensity-sit out some reps--otherwise I would sound like I needed an oxygen tank. ha! Lifting wise I've been consistent with the 2-3 times a week and I'm pretty happy with that. I've stopped doing any plyos or jumping. I did jump until about 30 weeks with M but I was A LOT smaller the first time around so it was easier. I also wanted to be prepared to jump back into training as fast as possible (if I wanted to) and that is obviously not the case this time around!

Nutrition wise I would say I'm holding steady. I definitely am throwing back more carbs than normal but I've been keeping the sweets to a minimum ...as best as I can anyway! Typical day is usually for breakfast PB28 bread w/ PB of course or oatmeal with  scrambled eggs. Lunch is salad with marinated chicken and dinner always varies. Trying to be disciplined and holding out a little longer for a splurge meal of pizza. I think this week might be the week! Snacks I always have siggis or chobani yogurt. I rotate between plain and flavored. Normally flavored is off limits but..well...pregnancy. Anyway I have a ton of nuts, bars, and am eating a lot of berries and green apples as other snack examples.

Swimming will start to become a savior for me over the latter part of the second trimester and as temperatures increase and I get bigger. I know I'm able to keep some extra water retention to a minimum by getting in the water 2-3 times a week. I'll be doing a post on the benefits of water exercise- pregnant or not--so stay tuned! 

Here's the last two weeks of my workouts and weeklys :

17 weeks: 

How have you been feeling? Great. Very tired by the end of the day though. 9 pm is like ...11 pm. 
Do you have morning sickness? No
Do you have any cravings? None other than what I would NORMALLY have haha. Pizza anyone?
Do you have any food aversions? No new ones
Weight gain so far? Up 12 pounds
Any mood swings? Other than being grumpy when tired..no
Sleep: Has been good this week
Stretch marks: no
Clothing: Is so limiting. Just ordered a bunch of basics from gap maternity and grabbed a pair of Target workout maternity capris that I wear for coaching. They are decent and were only $30. the challenge I'm finding is the timing difference between when I was pregnant with M--total opposite seasons. :( 
Rings: ON
Movement: none yet
Starting to show? Totally
Boy or girl:Its a boy!
 

Sunday: Off
Monday:3 miles. No time listed. I think it was around 8:30 splits
Tuesday: Morning run: 7:44, 7:56, 8:10. FELT AWESOME...last mile was tough due to the hill and I can't push myself up that but will hold that run dear to my heart. haha. It may be the last one for awhile. In the afternoon I hit up the gym for a lower lift. 
Wednesday: Off
Thursday: Soccer workout 50 mins, and one mile at 7:45
Friday: 45 min aqua jog in water
Saturday: 6 400's at the track in some great weather! 94, 93, 95, 95, 97, 96 with 2:30 min recovery

18 weeks: 

How have you been feeling? Pretty tiring week but its been a good one. Happy to be home last night before 7 pm! 
Do you have morning sickness? No
Do you have any cravings? Nope
Do you have any food aversions? Not any more than the ones listed
Weight gain so far? +15 pounds {I think half of that is in my chest the last 3 weeks}
Any mood swings? No
Sleep: 2 nights of horrible sleep the last week. I need to wash the cover of my pregnancy pillow this weekend. I've had a couple nights on the couch this week. 
Stretch marks: no
Clothing: We had a random day of 80 degrees and I realized I have no shorts. I will clearly try to avoid wearing them at all costs but I do need to look into one pair of maternity shorts in emergency situations when dresses/leggings/jeans are not an option. Ha. 
Rings: ON
Movement: none yet-they said I have an anterior placenta so might be awhile til I feel this guy using me a punching bag..or soccer ball! 
Starting to show? Yes..this belly button is so visible in clothing as well. Sigh. 
Boy or girl: Its a boy!
Random thought of the week: thinking about the things I miss...like runny poached eggs, spark on a consistent basis {hello, caffeine}, maybe a glass of wine, sleeping on my stomach, clothes that fit, and oh not having cellulite! 

Sunday: off
Monday: 40 min swim
Tuesday: 3 miles 8:10, 8:06, 8:14
Wednesday: Lower Lift
Thursday: Soccer workout: 45 mins, upper lift
Friday: Soccer workout, 50 mins
Saturday: lower lift

Until next time..

XO

Alex 

Pregnancy Workouts/Update: Weeks 8-12

Hi everyone! Hope you are all enjoying your weekend! Here is a little Pregnancy update of weeks 8, 9, 10 & 11. The struggle. was. so. real. So tired. But now so HAPPY to be out of that first trimester. Trying to catch up a little bit blogging as I didn't share with everyone until week 12 that we were expecting. Coming next week will be week 12, 13, 14, 15. I'll be 16 weeks on Sunday. Below you will see a photo collage. I promised myself that I would do a weekly photo. I saw a pregnant {{fit}} woman do hers in her bathing suit and it really was incredible watching how the female body transforms. Not just the stomach area-she was so lean to start and her legs, arms, stomach all gained to support the life growing inside of her.

And as amazing {{and hard}} as the whole process is, I wanted to do this to show that these changes happen to everyone, even fit mommies like me who eat pretty well and work out during pregnancy! So I'm embracing it this time around because I'm creating something special :) Please keep any comments positive especially as this mama gets bigger! 

Also coming next week is an awesome healthier option to CHICKEN WINGS..yes. Wings. Pretty sure I bleed Frank's Red hot sauce and am obsessed with it --even more so than normal during this pregnancy. So keep an eye out for next weeks posts! So yummy!! 

Enjoy and thanks for joining me on this journey...

xo

Alex

                 From top left to bottom right starting with week 5 and ending with week 12. Can definitely see a difference everywhere! 

Week 8:

How have you been feeling? So. stinking. Tired. I mean you guys. I feel like I can’t even move in the morning.

Do you have morning sickness? No

Do you have any cravings? I’m really enjoying cheese and bread at the moment. Those are two thijngs I didn’t really eat a lot of when I was leaning out …so just living a little :)

Do you have any food aversions? YES. I cannot believe that my go- to breakfast item of oatmeal mixed with peanut butter is totally turning me off! It is crazy! The smell of it makes me want to vom.

Weight gain so far? +3 pound

Any mood swings? Ask my husband. Ha ha!

 Sleep: has been amazing! Can’t get enough.

Stretch marks: no

Clothing: Still wearing my normal gear

Rings: ON

Movement: none yet

Strarting to show? No..just looks like I have a beer gut after dinner.

Boy or girl: I’m thinking team blue right now!

Random thought of the week: Everyone at my OB coulden’t stop talking about how surprised they were to see me back again - ha ha! I was a tough nugget that first 6 months when I was pregnant with M... Ha

Weekly Workout schedule:

Sunday: Had a great run. 7:57, 7:38, 7:23 and 7:18 were my mile splits.

Monday: Lower Lift

Tuesday: Soccer workout –about 45 minutes. Mostly stop and go, agility but everything at about 75-80% maximum effort. I just cruise J

Wednesday: Upper Lift

Thursday: 4.5 miles in central park.. I’m in love with that place. 8:10, 7:54, 8:04, 8:09 and 8:26 splits.

Friday: Off—tons of walking …like over 20k steps in the city

Saturday: off

 9 weeks

How have you been feeling?And the fatigue continues. Starting to get really tempted to have a nap.  And work has been super stressful so that has made it tough.

 Do you have morning sickness? No

Do you have any cravings? CARBS.  

Do you have any food aversions? Totally made a crockpot meal for the two of us this week and the smell of it…I just could not eat it. I had to make something else for myself.

Weight gain so far? +3 pounds  (same as last week)

Any mood swings? I think I’ve been pretty cool.  

Sleep: Has been great other than the fact that I wake at 4 or 5 am STARVING and need to go down stairs and eat. For those of you who have been pregnant, you know the type of hunger I’m talking about. This isn’t the kind you can brush off. This is like a never -going -back -to -sleep till I eat again.  

Stretch marks: no

Clothing: Still wearing my normal gear

Rings: ON

Movement: none yet

Starting to show? Starting to get thicker but only changes I would notice

Boy or girl: I’m thinking team blue right now!

Random thoughts this week: The pasta that I had when I went out to eat was divine. :P See above in cravings

Workouts:

Sunday: FELT AWESOME. 3 mile run and just felt so good. Like I was just cruising. 7:15, 7;20 and the last mile I totally tanked. Was breathing too hard, going uphill for almost a whole ½ mile and had to slow myself down. But I was still stoked about how I felt for a majority of the run.

Monday: Lower Lift

Tuesday: 3.34 miles with Max in the stroller. Let me just tell you how much harder of a workout this is with the running stroller!! 8:39, 8:20, 8:34, 8:26 splits. I felt tired, fatigued. Usually the day after a lower lift is pretty tough. But I got it in.

Wednesday: off

Thursday: 30 min elliptical

Friday: Lower Lift

Saturday: 3.4 mile run again with Max in the stroller. 8:36, 8:28, 8:28, 8:20 splits

10 weeks

How have you been feeling? I final caved for a minimum of 2 naps this week. When M went to sleep, so did I. Unfortunately I am only home 2-3 times a week when he naps- if I was home every day, I would probably have napped every day. Motivation this week to exercise was tough but I ALWAYS felt better after the fact {{read:more energy}} and never regret getting out there.

Do you have morning sickness?No

Do you have any cravings? Fruits and can I tell you how much I love siggis yogurt right now?

Do you have any food aversions? This week it was the crockpot rotisserie chicken that literally I had to force feed myself. Even salads I’ve had to get really creative with just to get them in my system

Weight gain so far? +2 (5 total)

Any mood swings? Feeling ok emotionally

Sleep:  Naps, night time sleep..give me more! 

Stretch marks: no

Clothing: Still wearing my normal gear

Rings: ON

Movement: none yet

Starting to show? Starting to pop out a little bit more now but definitely not “showing” 

Boy or girl: I’m thinking team blue right now!

Random thoughts: Another dr apt…does anyone else hate how they bring up “birth plans” and child labor at like week 10? C’mon Doc. Give me a little time. Legit have PTSD thinking about that ish.

Weekly Workouts:

Sunday: 6 x400m , 90 seconds each. 2 minute rest in between. (Normally I would do these at about 80-84 and at my best 72-76.)

Monday- lower lift

Tuesday- off

Wednesday-Upper lift. 15 minute interval bike ride 30 seconds “fast”, 1 min recovery/slow

Thursday:  soccer workout – 45 mins

Friday: lower lift

Saturday: 8:16, 8:20, 8:41, 8:45. Felt tired.

Week 11:

How have you been feeling? Starting to feel less tired! Hallelujah! 

Do you have morning sickness?No

Do you have any cravings?  Judging by the disgusting amount of candy I eat on Easter Sunday, I would have to say sweets? LOL.

Do you have any food aversions? None other than the usuals I’ve mentioned

Weight gain so far? +1 (6 total)

Any mood swings? Other than my eaters remorse..I think I was a happy camper

Sleep: sleeping good

Stretch marks: no

Clothing: Still wearing my normal gear

Rings: ON

Movement: none yet

Starting to show? Getting there..

Boy or girl: I’m thinking team blue right now!

Weekly workout:

Sunday: off

Monday: 4 X800s : 3:25, 3:27, 3:30, 3:30. Normally I would do these in 3-3;3:10 and at top fitness level 2:50-3 minutes. 3 min rest in between each

Tuesday:Soccer workout

Wednesday: Soccer Workout

Thursday: Upper lift

Friday: lower lift

Saturday: 4 mile run *;34, 8:35, 8:05, 8:00 and 7:58 splits. Got a second wind halfway through somehow!

Sunday: 5 mile run –should have been a day off but easter Sunday was so gorgeous. 68 and sunny…in March! So I went for it. 8:07, 8:02, 7:55, 8:05, 8:23 splits.

Until next time...