You Asked, I've Answered ~ My 10 Tips on Running {healhty and happy} During Pregnancy

There's nothing better than a country run!!

Yesterday the temps outside reached an incredible 56 degrees!! That's Kansas for ya! Last week, we barely peeked our noses outdoors with the temps in the teens, and this week, thanks to the crazy warm-up, the kids are whizzing through their school work just so they can get out and play.

Let's go!

I am incredibly grateful for these gorgeous days, because they allow me the opportunity to get out and run.  When I'm not pregnant, below freezing temps and snow cannot keep me indoors! However, I'm extra cautious with running when expecting, so days like today are perfect for me and my little running buddy to take on the miles.

14 weeks along with #6 and happily running for two!

A little "bump" in the road {hee, hee}.

I've had a few people ask me recently, via e-mail, since the announcement of our newest little wonder, how I'm able to keep up with the miles during pregnancy. So, I've decided to collect my thoughts and write a post answering their question.

Although there's been a great deal of scrutiny over the years on whether women should run or not while pregnant (because sitting on the couch is a wise alternative??), I am happy to report that medical experts all over the world are more supportive of that type of activity now than ever. You can read more about that here and here if you like.

Whether you run, walk, hike, swim, do Pilate's or any other work-out during your pregnancy, you will most certainly reap the benefits of your efforts throughout your 9 month journey, during labor, delivery and post pregnancy as well.  Here are a few of the top reasons to work-out while pregnant:

1. Energy Boost

Exercising during pregnancy is a great way to strengthen your cardiovascular system as well as your muscles, making your body more efficient to handle life's daily demands. Remember, fitness fights fatigue!

2.  Reduced Discomforts

Exercising while pregnant will naturally strengthen and tone your muscles, aids in circulation, and with proper stretching, can reduce muscle aches and pains that often accompany the strain of carrying an extra 15 pounds out in front.

3.  Better Sleep

Studies show that women who exercise regularly while pregnant experience deeper, more restful sleep.  For me, this is one of the greatest benefits!

4.  Mood Booster

Bring on the endorphins! Exercise is a natural mood booster, and, if you're like me, and often feel frustrated by fluctuating hormones during pregnancy, a natural remedy for the ups and downs is exercise.  Working out also keeps me feeling flirty rather than frumpy, which my husband loves (wink!).

5.  Preparation for Childbirth

Giving birth is the toughest work-out you'll ever experience.  The better shape you're in prior to heading to the hospital, the better equipped you'll be when it comes time to push!

6.  Faster Post-Birth Recovery

Bouncing back to your pre-baby shape after giving birth can be a long and difficult challenge.  However, if you were able to stick to your fitness goals during pregnancy, getting back into your favorite pair of jeans will happen sooner than later. More importantly, if you have other little ones at home keeping up with them, and the normal daily demands of life will also be less taxing!

Although I'm not a medical expert, in my 13 years (and 6 pregnancies!) of reading, research, and experience with maternal fitness, I can say with confidence that there are really only two reasons why you shouldn't run while pregnant: 1.  If you have any type of health concern that has held you back from any type of physical activity prior to pregnancy (and your doctor has given you strict instructions not to exercise).  2.  You have not been exercising prior to becoming pregnant.  If it's been a while since you've stepped foot in a gym or dug out the dreaded exercise DVD's, now is not the time to resolve to begin running. Walking, swimming or other forms of light activity are more appropriate options to begin with.

Just to recap, if  you had a regular exercise routine prior to getting pregnant and if your doctor has not cautioned you against running while pregnant, then please read on!  Here's a list of my top tips to consider throughout your months of running ahead:

Proof that PR's don't matter when pregnant. I ran this 5 mile race nauseous and 8 weeks pregnant well over my typical race pace. I found joy in just being out there, knowing races in the upcoming year would be few and far between.

/1./  
Now is not the time to set PR's.  Speed and distance records should not even be on your mind at this point, even if you're a seasoned, competitive runner.  Right now, your goals should be focused on a running schedule that will help you achieve the benefits listed above.

/2./
Out with the old, in with the new. In the past, the standard recommendation from the ACOG for woman who exercised during pregnancy was that she should not let her heart rate exceed 140 beats/minute during activity.  Recent reports from the academy now place stronger emphasis on a woman's rate of perceived exertion over heart rate when it comes to exercising safely. (Here's a brief summary.)

/3./
Talk to me. Given the information in #2, using the "talk test," which is the ability to carry on a conversation while working out, and the comfort test (no physical pain or discomfort) while exercising are two very important guides that will help you to know if you're working out at the proper level during exercise.

/4./
Stay Hydrated.  This isn't just important during the warmer months, but at any time of the year you are pregnant.  Drinking plenty of water before and after during working out will ensure that your body stays cool and will help ward of muscle cramps. If you are able to carry a hand held water bottle during longer runs/walks, I highly recommend it. (This is my favorite brand!) Don't underestimate the importance of this one!

/5./
Watch your step. If you are a fan of the treadmill or trail running, please reconsider these options during pregnancy. A woman's balance, particularly during the latter months, is naturally off-center, which makes climbing over uneven surfaces or maintaining balance on a treadmill while running or walking even more difficult.  Please be cautious! Remember, you won't be pregnant forever, and this time of modification will be over before you know it.

/6./  
Dress for success. Invest in proper shoes and proper attire.  Shoes are definitely the most important accessory you can invest in as a runner.  Make sure you choose the shoe that fits properly and provides the much needed cushion and support your joints need during this time.  You can read more about finding the right shoe in this article.  Don't forget to dress for the weather.  Layers are perfect for colder climates, and moisture wicking, breathable fabrics are essential for warm days.  If you're in search of athletic wear designed for pregnancy here's a no budget and a low budget option.

/7./
Say "yes" to support. No matter what your fitness goals or fitness level, consider wearing a support belt.  This belt has been my go-to throughout 5 pregnancies, and I'm wearing it now!  It's adjustable, and will give your tummy the much needed lift your muscles need not only during exercise, but also throughout the day while working around the house.  During the last two months of my pregnancy, I rarely take it off!

/8./ 
Slow down, sister! Don't feel defeated if you have to walk.  It's true, runners tend to have pretty big egos when it comes to distance, time and frequency of activity.  I speak from experience, when I say that I have yet to run for a full 9 months of pregnancy, and it's difficult to put the brakes on every time.  Around month 7, I slow to a jog/walk combo.  The eighth and ninth month I surrender to a walk, and rely on my favorite pregnancy videos (Pilate's and aerobics) to help me finish the baby race. My heart wants to run, but my abdominal and pelvic muscles are clearly telling me to walk.  Running simply becomes uncomfortable, and I know it's important to listen to my body at this point.

/9./  
Pick a partner. Consider finding a running/walking buddy.  Hitting the road as a pair is not only safer than going out alone, it also offers an added opportunity to de-stress and to gain that much needed support and motivation that only another pregnant friend (or at least one who has been through it too) can give!

/10./
Cave to the crave. I know you might be thinking "really??" about this last one, but it is important to keep your body properly, healthfully fueled before and after working out.  If you're like me, keeping your caloric intake up during pregnancy is NOT a problem! Even though you may feel like you've earned a pint of Ben and Jerry's, choosing the right post-workout snack is very important for muscle recovery and energy restoration. Look for a healthy protein/carb combo such as your favorite nut butter spread on whole grain toast with a banana, plain yogurt sprinkled with berries, nuts and a drizzle of agave, or a fruit smoothie with an added protein (just be sure that if you're adding a protein powder, that it doesn't contain any herbal supplements that aren't pregnancy approved).

Are you a reader/research buff like me?? Fit and healthy pregnancy by Christina Pinto is one of my favorites.  It's chocked full of exercise guidelines, dietary suggestions, and proper research to give you peace of mind and plenty of encouragement throughout your maternal fitness journey.

* P.S. I didn't mention in any of the tips above the vital importance of stretching.  Stretching for 10 - 15 minutes after any form of exercise will help you stay limber and ease muscle soreness. It's easy to skip this step, but the extra time you take to follow through with stretching will pay off down the road! *

Self Pity. The Deep Wallowing Kind. And, How I Found My Way Out Last Night at a Pizza Joint.

Last night, after Ben's basketball game, I decided to surprise the boys and take them out for pizza. Okay, the truth is, my lazy bones had gotten the best of me. After a very loooooong day, cooking for 7 seemed like the equivalent of climbing a mountain barefoot and pregnant with an elephant on my back.  As we cruised down the stretch of highway, the bleak early evening darkness defeated by the hopeful sparkle of Christmas lights set proudly in place from house to house, could not distract my anxious heart from the longing I had to hear my phone chirp, telling me I had a message from Steve.

My husband had been in meetings all afternoon, and though his schedule is often busy and unpredictable, I always hold out hope that he will be with us at supper time.  I don't mind keeping my preparations warm, and pacifying the kids for a while if it means we can all be together around the table.  

As the kids climbed over seats and out of the suburban into the cozy warmth of the pizza parlor, I turned to look down the street, hoping that maybe I would see the lights of Steve's pick-up truck heading our way. 

Nothing.

The smell of fresh Italian baking rising from the kitchen made our tummies rumble and our mouths water, a welcome feeling for me after almost three months of first trimester nausea.  Filing through the maze of tables and chairs we made our way to the center of the restaurant and found the perfect spot to park by the fireplace.  The very moment we all sat down, I couldn't help but notice an elderly lady, sitting in a booth nearby, dining alone.  

Over the years, Steve and I have made a habit of inviting the elderly to join our family at our table if they are eating alone, but as our family has grown in size, that habit has waned, as we wonder if eating alone is preferable to eating with a mob.  I looked at her warmly and smiled, then turned my attention back to the kiddos.

While I visited with the boys about the day, the basketball victory, who is most likely to match up in the Super Bowl, and what to get dad for Christmas, I could see our "friend" admiring the boys, especially Charlie.  The moment she finished her meal, she turned toward me with a smile, and we began conversing.  We talked about the first thing that every mother and grandmother always talk about - kids! After she expressed sincere empathy about how busy I must be, I shared with her that I have an amazing team-mate to share the joys with, and that I was waiting on him to arrive to join us for supper.  I went on to explain that I after a crazy day, I needed a night off from the kitchen, and it was then that I immediately saw her eyes well up with tears.  

Between the tears, she shared that ever since she had lost her husband a couple of years ago, she has found it so difficult to cook for just one person. Looking at her with compassion, I remarked that I couldn't possibly imagine how she must feel, but that I share in understanding of the generous gift of love she gave to her husband every day, for all of their years together. "My husband is the only reason I cook every single day. I do it for him, and him alone."  She nodded in agreement, in our common bond, wiping the tears from her eyes with a wrinkled tissue.  

As I reached out for her hand, I complimented her on her devotion to her husband.  "That kind of love and attentiveness seems kind of rare these days with everyone leading such busy lives and being consumed by busy schedules.  Cooking for your family, every day, sitting around a table full of love and and stories and laughter and sometimes tears is as nourishing to our souls as the food is. It seems like such an ordinary thing, the quiet sacrifice of serving your family a home cooked meal night after night. But, over the years, that ordinary gift, that ordinary experience can add up to something pretty extraordinary."  She squeezed my hand in unity.  

In our brief time together, I felt a deep consolation inside, one that I didn't realize I desperately needed.  I confess to feeling weary lately of stay-at-home motherhood, of cleaning up after the flu that has nestled itself, unwelcome, into our home, of lacking the energy to keep our nest tidy and organized, piles of this and that anywhere and everywhere, of noticing every single dang time I go out for groceries - because that seems like the only time I go out - that every other mom in the world besides me seems to be able to find something besides sweats that fit, to have polished nails and freshly combed hair. And, the career moms, oh, do I sometimes day-dream of being in your shoes....if only for something part time.....just so I can reassure myself that I really am capable of doing more than change diapers and fold laundry, that I can socialize on a level beyond toddlers and teens, that I can make a difference in the world outside of my own little one at the end of the cul-de-sac.

The consolation came, when I looked into the eyes of this woman, who couldn't hold back tears nor hide her mind's stroll down memory lane, as she spoke endearingly of her husband with great fondness, great longing, and great loneliness.  What she wouldn't do to have him back for one more meal, for one more mess to clean up, for one more load of his laundry to fold, for one more opportunity to be "home" to him - as hidden, and as simple, and as unappreciated by the world as that ministry may be.

While I think that my bouts of disenchantment with motherhood and service to the family, yes - at times - even to my spouse, are normal, shame on me for succumbing to it.  How easy it is to forget - until you are reminded by a complete stranger - of how precious what you, in your moments of self-pity can no longer appreciate.  To be reminded that everything, in the end, really boils down to love.  EVERYTHING we do, unnoticed and unappreciated, mundane and maddening, when done for love of the Lord, and for the love of our family (primarily our husbands) has merit, has meaning, and has a message. Such quiet love, over time, speaks volumes to the power of sacrificial love, love that, like a glue, is strengthening and bonding, strong enough to hold people together, to hold families together, to hold our life in this crazy mixed up world together and keep us pointed toward heaven. 

My only regret after saying good-bye to this precious lady, was that we didn't exchange names or phone numbers.  I'm deeply hoping that we'll meet again. It would give me great joy to invite her to our home for supper.  I have a feeling she wouldn't let me stand alone in the kitchen, and I would be just fine with that. Goodness knows, she could probably teach me a thing or two over the stove - not just about cooking.

Keeping Spirits Bright ~ French Toast Shooters

Whether you're ringing in the New Year or raising your mug on St. Patty's day, the holidays are a fun time to mix up something special from the bar.  Celebrating the holidays with family, making memories, and enjoying traditions are such a  treat for our family, and I have to admit, I really do love searching for the perfect cocktail recipe to serve to family and friends.

On Thanksgiving day, I set out cool, frosty shot glasses filled to the top with my recipe for french toast shooters. While I'm not a big fan of sweet drinks myself, the splash of cinnamon in this one gives it a nice little kick, and the smooth, creamy flavor of the Bailey's and butterscotch makes it appealing to ladies and gents alike.  If you're looking for something special to serve at your next holiday gathering (or you personally need a hostess de-stresser before the crowd arrives - yes, I do admit to pre-party partaking), I highly recommend you shake up this specialty at the bar, or wherever the mixing magic happens!

The Recipe:

1 Part Bailey's Irish Cream

1 Part Butterscotch Schnapps

1 Part Goldschlager Cinnamon Liqueur

Pour the alcohol into a shaker over ice.  

Shake vigorously for 1-2 minutes, then strain into chilled shot glasses. 

{ P.S.  Look What I found!: }

When this Christmas Printable from Little Web Writing Hood came across my Facebook page,
I knew I had to share it with ya'll.  Isn't is fun??

What's your favorite holiday cocktail recipe?? 
I'd love for you to share it....so I can try it. I promise I will! (In approximately 6 months, that is, or whenever our little munchkin decides to make their grand entrance into the world!)

Girls (and boys) Get Your Guns!! - The Sporting Clay Tradition Continues

A couple of years ago, Steve asked me what I thought about buying a clay throwing machine to kick our family adventures up a notch, to which I mumbled something about a double oven, commercial sized dishwasher and a nanny.  If I remember right, that conversation ended in mom, resigning herself, once again, to the task of rearranging the garage to make room for more of the guys' crap "necessities."  I'll admit it, I do have a habit of stomping my heels every in a while in protest to all of the sports equipment, hunting toys and camping gear that have infiltrated my home, but only because there isn't a pink tutu or little play kitchen to strike a balance in my home decor.

BUT.....then there are those rare occasions when we dig those "necessities" out of the garage and low and behold, everyone, even the girls, gather 'round for a good time.  Of course I still dream of that double oven and Hobart dishwasher, but for now, the trap shooting machine will have to do.  If only it could bake and throw cookies.

This year, being the good Thanksgiving hostess that I am....that I was....after serving up a table full of hearty fare, I kicked everyone outside for some fun - Husband style.  The weather was gorgeous here over the holiday, which made spending the afternoon of shooting up clays even more fun.

Since we are temporarily surviving living on a city lot, a kind family from our parish was generous enough to lend us their acreage for the afternoon.  Here's the master, getting everything set just right.

My older brother, Steve (better known as Uncle Donut), my Dad, and my younger brother Scott, kept things lively with their usual crazy humor.  They shoot the guns, I shoot the fuzzy family photos.

The boys weren't the only ones who came out to play! My nieces, Camryn and Lauryn, sitting pretty on the back of the pick up truck, were happy to help entertain Charlie while I roamed around taking pics.

I have known these girls since they were tiny babes! How quickly time has passed....I can't believe how grown up they are, now!

A senior pic moment with Lauryn.  Except she's a junior.  Junior pic moment.

As long as I'm highlighting the ladies here, I have to take a minute to say that the absolute BEST moment of the entire afternoon was when my mom stepped up to the firing line and fearlessly shot a few rounds herself!  She really is the classiest lady I've ever known, but let me tell you, she can kill and feather and fry a chicken, and she sure as heck can shoot a gun!

Dad, in his gentle way, gave mom a few instructions before she took aim.  We all looked on in admiration at how sweet they were together! 

Afterward, Dad leaned over to me and said, "Now, that's my lady!" {What a dear!}

Somehow I clicked the action at just the right time and caught the yellow shell being ejected from mom's gun flying through the air! These are the memories I love to tuck away in the scrap books for future generations to admire!

Gettin' ready!

Takin' aim!

Firin' away!! 

Our boys live for the chance to spend some time with their cousin, Garrett.  He brought some serious competition to the game, not to mention a healthy dose of Splichal spunk!!

They also smile that big when memorizing Latin phrases and taking out the trash.  Oh, I wish!

Our little Mr. Charlie, sporting his newest accessory.  Those are actually mine.  I wear them during tantrums and wrestling matches.

My dad has a wonderful sense of humor.  He's always teasing the boys, and let me tell you, they never back down! They tease him right back, and before long everyone is in stitches - that's memory making at its best!

I'll admit that sometimes it's easier to just sit inside and watch television and enjoy a lazy day. But, after having read this book, Steve and I are now more convinced than ever that being outdoors in the grandeur of nature, and experiencing all of the wonder and beauty in the company of others, will always be more satisfying to the soul than a techno-centered life.

This guy is our sharp shooter.  

He's been known to send his father back to his seat in the game of "knock out" more than a time or two!  

 

Watching the sun set over the pond was the perfect end to a beautiful day!

Feast Days, Birthdays, Baby Days and Other Such Matters of Importance{7 QT}

Before my children drag me into another day of domestic delights, here's our 

7 Quick Takes for the week! 

1. Happy Feast Day!

{St. Nicholas Center}

Every year our children look forward to celebrating the feast of St. Nicholas with great anticipation. The remembrance begins the night before, when the boys set out their shoes, hoping to find a small treat of some sort tucked inside their stinky kicks when they wake up in the morning.

Yesterday, Henry marched diligently around the house, capturing all 10 of the boys' shoes to line up by the door.  He even set out a dry-erase board with a message for St. Nick, and colored him a picture. Later today, after the goodies are enjoyed, we will read a favorite story of the life of St. Nicholas, get a little crafty in the classroom, and if we're really feeling adventurous, we might even bake something amazing for dessert. The little ones might also watch this sweet video about our beloved Saint (while mommy naps folds laundry).  Many of our celebratory ideas have come from the St. Nicholas Center website.  Their craft ideas are simple, yet adorable, and I love their free printable coloring pages!

2. Baby Love

An unexpected phone call yesterday, from an acquaintance my husband met years ago, has manifested into a spontaneous decision to bundle the kiddos up today and head into the city to pray with a group of high school students at a pro-life rally. We are passionate about babies and believe that life is a precious gift at every stage and in every circumstance. We will be praying today for all expectant mothers, that they will choose life for their babies, that they will have a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery, and that their child will be loved, cherished and cared for. As well, we remember those who have been wounded by the tragic experience of abortion, and ask the Lord to bring His healing touch upon them.

3.  The Advent of a Mother

She watches and waits, a secret that is hers alone rests within.  Someone is coming, that someone has already arrived.  Her focus goes inward: to growth, to new life, to pain, yes, and to sadness, and above all to indescribable joy.  The beauty lies in the blending of the good and the bad: loneliness and connection, sorrow and comfort, moments of impenetrable darkness followed by bright blinding light.

These are the words written by my friend, Micaela, who blogs at California to Korea and Back Again, in an article that she composed for Catholic Exchange.  I was really touched by her beautiful expressions of Advent being a time of longing, of preparation, of the wonder of what is to come and how those emotions are deeply connected to motherhood, specifically Mary's journey toward's Christ's birth.  What a JOY it is for me to be carrying our 6th child during this season of Advent!  Words cannot express how happy it makes me, but I do think it's well worth blogging about sometime soon.

4.  Lights  

Well, as of today, we are the darkest dwelling on the block.  BUT, that's just fine by us! Because, when everyone else is peeling the lights off of the gutters the day after Christmas, we'll still be enjoying our little sparkle until the Christmas season officially ends on Epiphany.

To pacify the kiddos' longing for lights, we took them to our local Botanical gardens this week for the Illuminations Exhibit.  The weather was perfect, the most lovely evening to be savored just before the freezing cold came thundering in yesterday.  We had a marvelous time, and the lights were enchantingly beautiful.

5.  An Update on My Mom

Wednesday my mom officially experienced the first of 30 days of radiation treatments.  So many of you have reached out with kind, encouraging thoughts and prayers for her, and I can't tell you how much or family appreciates your love and support!  She is staying very positive, taking good care of herself and feeling strengthened by all of the prayers being sent her way! Keep 'em coming!

6.  Steve's (almost 40th) Birthday

(Because he loves to be reminded that he's older than moi.)

My love's birthday was on Monday, and I wish I could say I through a real hum-dinger of a party for him, but given the fact that we said adieu to some of my family who stayed through the Thanksgiving weekend that day, had to face Monday as a work day, and shuttled kids to basketball and wrestling practices that night, there was little time left to party.  But, he did receive a mountain of smothering hugs, kisses, treats and a few gifts as well. I also made the executive decision that if I'm going to throw him a BIG 40th birthday bash next year, it's best if I lay low this year, you know, just to be sure we have plenty of time to build up some anticipation {winkie-wink}.

7.  The Thanksgiving Toast

No matter what the occasion, I can always count on my dad to bring a bottle....or 10 to the table. This year for Thanksgiving, he shared a wonderful variety of vino with our family...so I heard. Okay, I will admit to stealing a couple of teensie-weensie sips from my hubby's glass, since I won't be holding my own until sometime in June, so I can affirm dad's good taste.  One of the favorites this year was a smooth Cabernet from Grayson Cellars, a 2011 edition.  From one wine lover to ya'll - you do love wine, don't you?? - this one is worth a trip to the store.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!!