Pregnancy is getting harder. I’m sure this will not be my last time I say that either. I really found myself struggling this week to stay positive, knowing that I still have 12 weeks to go. That just seems like a long time, especially now that summer is here and all I want to do is play. I’m trying so hard to keep my head up and push through this.
I had to drink the glucose syrup this morning for my gestational diabetes test. I’m pretty sure everything went A-ok since I haven’t heard anything from the doctor’s office. We’ll see!
Baby is now the size of: A 2.5lb eggplant.
Total weight gain: 20 pounds
Maternity clothes / preferred attire: Dresses and cozies, but primarily cozies. I am making quite the fashion statement during my pregnancy.
Sleep: Sleep was not good this week. Justin was out of town for a couple nights and I never sleep well when he is gone. I also had some weird pain in my back that was only magnified when I would lie down. There was maybe one night of sleep that was good, if that.
Cravings and favorite foods: Chicken, hamburger patties w/avocado, salmon/halibut and cereal. Give me all the protein.
Food aversions: Pepper and spices.
Exercise: The week started out great when I was able to do a 6-mile run on Friday. What started as a 3-mile out and back turned into a 6-mile loop when I was feeling really good. I haven’t run more than 6 miles at once since my marathon 8 weeks ago, so I was really pleased with this (even though it completely wore me out once I was finished).
On Saturday I did a little SUPing while my friend Rainie did her first open water swim. It was fun paddling next to her and cheering her on, especially because it was only her 6th swim EVER!
On Sunday I met up with my friend Nicole and rode my mountain bike next to her during her 17-mile training run (she is doing IM Canada). Once again, it was fun getting outside and being the “support vehicle”. I haven’t done much (aside from walking) since Sunday. It’s been a pretty rough week.
Mood: I felt pretty good over the weekend, but then it all went downhill on Monday. This pregnancy thing is hard and gets the best of me at times.
Symptoms: General body achiness, back pain, feet cramps, and fatigue.
Missing: My body.
Best moments this week: Going out to the lake with my friend Rainie on Saturday and biking next to my friend Nicole on Sunday. I figure if I can’t train for triathlon, supporting others and living vicariously through them is the next best thing. Thank goodness Ironman has a legit tracker – there are so many people I can’t wait to track this summer!
Interesting Pregnancy Moments: I walked into Costco really quickly to pick up some photos on Tuesday, and as I was walking out the woman who checked my receipt said “you look really pretty.” Instead of acting like a normal human being and thanking her, my eyes filled up with water and I burst into tears. Imagine her reaction, haha! I told her that I hadn’t been feeling very attractive lately and that her compliment really meant a lot. It was also another sign that I should not be going out in public with these sensitive hormones.
Best Quote: “It’s hard to change a diaper with one hand.” – Justin, after hurting his wrist at his softball game.
“You better be wearing bubble wrap until this baby arrives… and for the next 18 years.” – My response. Hand or no hand, he WILL be changing diapers. 🙂
Worst moments this week: This one’s a little too personal for the blog (who knows who reads this), so I’ll just leave it at that.
Buying: A new pair of running shoes… my old pair finally has a small hole in the toe area. These beauties will be arriving in no time!
Dreaming About: The 4th of July weekend. Justin and I (along with my mom and stepdad) are heading up to his mom’s house on Camano Island (North of Seattle, along Puget Sound) for a long weekend of 4th of July festivities. They are also throwing me a little baby shower. I can’t wait to see the family and relax on the beach.
I love my Brooks Glycerins – great choice!!!
I’m sorry you are having a tough time this week 🙁 It seems like your pregnancy has been a bit of a roller coaster, but I think that is totally normal. Maybe your body is just having trouble adjusting and you will start feeling better soon… Plus you have a fun trip to look forward to! If it helps at all you look great and it is really inspiring that you are staying so active even when you aren’t feeling your best. I’ve always been afraid of pregnancy because I feel like it totally sidelines you, so it’s great to see you getting out there and being a beast 🙂
Maddie @ Dixie Runs recently posted…Dixie Update and her PAWPACK!
The Glycerins are the best! My pregnancy has definitely been a rollercoaster, with a lot more downs than ups. I’m trying to stay positive and do things that make me happy (which I try to highlight on the blog), but a majority of the time it’s a struggle. I am not very good at being pregnant. While everyone experiences pregnancy differently, I have noticed it taking the biggest toll on my hormones and emotions. Not being able to train and race has been difficult for me too. September can’t get here soon enough.
Sounds like a mixed of highs and lows. Your highs were amazing! Six mile run? Seventeen mile bike ride? That is hard to do for a huge chunk of the general population, especially considering the fact a huge chunk of the population who is not pregnant. I know it’s hard to believe, but you look fantastic, your weight gain is awesome, and because you’ve never had to physically workout with a changing body, you are doing what you can and what you think is best. That in itself is a victory. I admire your strength and wish my second pregnancy would have been as active as yours. There are still four days left until the week is over and I’m hoping it makes up for the days that you did not feel so good.
Luisa recently posted…Ragnar Relay Wasatch Back Race Recap 2015
Highs and lows are the story of my pregnancy. Thank you so much for the encouragement, Luisa. I know you have been down this road a couple times, so it’s comforting here from other moms out there. I don’t know how people do this more than once!
Sounds like you’re still managing to stay really active, and a six mile run? Awesome! I know it’s nowhere near what you used to do, but it’s still pretty amazing considering what your body is going through.
My number one advice to any pregnant woman (that I repeated to myself regularly) is be kind to your body and self.
It’s so nice you can support your friends who are training. I’m sure they love the company!
Have a great fourth of July…sounds like a wonderful weekend away to recharge!
Abby recently posted…Weeks fly by
Thank you for the advice and encouragement, Abby. I have to admit that I have been really hard on myself this past week and am really starting to struggle with the body changes and size. How did you get through those last 10 weeks – I’m starting to wonder if I will make it…
It is awesome that you get to support your friends in their training! 🙂 You are doing awesome, Kristen. I am loving these updates and your honesty. 🙂
Megan @ Meg Go Run recently posted…San Diego
Thanks, Megan. Supporting my friends has been one of the highlights of my pregnancy. I may not be doing much, but at least it gets me out there socializing!
I’m sorry that pregnancy has been so rough. It’s really hard to give up your body for 9 months, even if it is to grow this amazing little person. Just remember that it’s temporary, especially when it seems to be lasting for forever! Hugs and positive vibes 🙂
Tiina recently posted…Wordless Wednesday
It has been SO ROUGH Tiina. And yes, I keep reminding myself that I have an amazing little boy growing inside me. He is the ultimate reward. Only three more months and then I will probably never have to go through this again (at least, I don’t plan to).
Sounds like a bit of a tough week. But you know, those rough weeks pass and this week could be great. Pregnancy feels sometimes like a crazy roller coaster of emotions, but it seems like you have mostly had more good days than bad.
You really are looking beautiful, and your body will be back to being yours in no time.
Kristen L recently posted…A Spring Hawaiian Vacation
I’m really starting to struggle, Kristen. 🙁 The first trimester was rough, the second was great because I was so distracted with moving, vacation, activities, but now that I am getting A LOT bigger and am in the third trimester, it’s becoming more difficult for me again. Three months just seems like a REALLY long time at this point. I hope your pregnancy is going better than mine. Thanks for the encouragement.
I really want to try SUP! You’re such a good friend cheering your friends on in their endeavors! I totally remember the crazy hormones/not feeling pretty. Pregnancy is ROUGH on us emotionally and mentally in ADDITION to physically.
Morgan @ Morgan Manages Mommyhood recently posted…#BreakYouMake
SUP is a lot of fun! You should definitely rent a board, find a body of water near you and give it a go. I’m sure you would catch on instantly. I’m glad I’m not the only one that has experienced the crazy hormones and emotions. How did you make it through the third trimester… I need all the advice I can get!
Keep being awesome lady! I wish I had better words for you because I know what you’re going through is one of a kind. It is nice for me to read because lately brandon and I have been talking about when we want to start a family and it scares the daylights out of me. You are such an amazing inspiration! Keep your head up you’ll get to meet your baby soon!!
Kayla Lloyd recently posted…Lots of Walking and A Little Bit of Golf ~ The U.S. Open
Kayla, you would be a rockstar mama! I know what you mean about pregnancy/kids being a scary thing. I was horrified (and still am) about pregnancy, kids, and the changes it will bring to our lives. It hasn’t been easy or fun, but I know it will be worth it. There are definitely things I would do differently, but this is all a learning process.
I was walking around Publix with Travis (getting ice cream and marshmallows lol) and one of the cashiers stopped me to say, “You look so pretty pregnant!” I thanked her and turned the corner and almost started bawling. I just remember thinking she was the nicest person in the entire world.
Ice cream and marshmallows are a great combination. Rocky Road? 🙂 I will never forget the woman at Costco and will hopefully see her again. It’s a good reminder that you never know how a compliment or nice words will affect a person and have a lasting impact, so use them more than less.
I love SUP and wish I had my own as I would use it all the time!! It is so much fun that you are able to support others who are training. I hope these last 12 weeks fly by for you, so you can find your new normal 🙂
Kecia recently posted…6 weeks ’til Ironman Boulder
I can’t wait to find my new normal, Kecia! Seriously. Can. Not. Wait.
Those shoes are a thing of beauty! Sorry to hear you’re having a rough week. I think it’s pretty cool that you get to train with friends and support them, but still get in some exercise! xoxo, ganeeban
ganeeban recently posted…currently // 4 // ganeeban
Sorry to hear you’re struggling ! It’s such an adjustment and definitely not easy. I feel like pregnancy is glamorized but there is a looooong list of things that it does to your body that everyone seems to ignore or respond to by saying things like “it’ll all be worth it for the baby.” I know it will be but its ok to admit it sucks sometimes too!!
Nicole recently posted…Things I Learned About Pregnancy and Childbirth From TV That Are Totally NOT True
You do look AMAZING! Being emotional due to pregnancy hormones is a VERY real thing–you just have to give yourself extra grace (and carry tissues!) I couldn’t even watch TV without sobbing! You are an amazing, strong woman, and your little guy is going to be so lucky and proud!
Sometimes I think all the crazy emotions during pregnancy are to prepare yourself for motherhood. Your emotions, and your heart are partly running around in the new little soul…
cheryl recently posted…Here’s the Plan!
I know you are having ups and downs (which would seem to be quite normal..), but you are still rockin’ it with your level of activity! Way to go Kristen!
Lee@tri*inspired*life recently posted…Raleigh 70.3 Race Report
I’m sure I’ve said this before but you’re THE cutest pregnant lady. And your Costco story made me smile- I can’t even imagine how different you must be feeling from your normal self, but you really do look amazing!
Liv @ Healthy Liv recently posted…2-Ingredient Banana Chocolate Smoothie
I am sure the next 12 weeks will go fast…the first 7 months went fast right??!! I am glad that you are living vicariously through others and supporting them too!! 🙂 I am jealous you have been SUPing!! So fun! I can’t wait to get the new Glycerins. I like to get the old colors because they are on sale…so I will get these when the 14s come out! 😉
Haha, this has actually been one of the slowest years of my life. Now I feel like I have reached tortoise speed (physically and mentally). That’s pretty smart to by last seasons shoes when the new season comes out. I was going to do that but I really liked the feel of the new Glycerin and just could not resist!
Ugh I’m sorry you’ve been having a tough week. But I will say – kind comments by strangers make me want to cry so I can only imagine with pregnancy hormones, I definitely would’ve burst into tears and 100% hugged this unsuspecting stranger! Haha. Love how active you are remaining – a big inspiration to the rest of us : ) And YAY for long weekends away. I can’t wait for the Fourth – I love dressing super festive, and nothing beats a good holiday BBQ! Hope you have a fabulous weekend!!
Jamie recently posted…Friday Faves – Nakd
i want to SUP with you out there!! gahhhh so pretty. you look amazing!!
Shawna recently posted…Grand Banks: the classy NYC boat bar
I’m sure there is a direct flight from NYC to Oregon. Come play!!!
You are handling your pregnancy with total grace! Every week your updates include awesome outings, delicious and healthy foods and fun times with friends and family. The aches and fatigue may be there, but they aren’t holding you back from living your life to the fullest. I would probably be living under the covers and only get out of bed to use the bathroom 20X a day! 😉
Kristina recently posted…So Well Composed
Those shoes are beautiful looking! One of the reasons I enjoy your blog is the great scenery in your pictures! It makes me want to move out there just to be able to run, walk, bike, and hike in nature like that! Sorry it was a tough week for you! I hope this next one feels better for you 🙂
Caroline @ The Little Things Blog recently posted…NOTW + Friday Facts
I love when I come here to read your blog Kristen. Hope we get to meet someday soon. Random (kinda) but do you know how far it is from the lodge side of Elk Lake to the Sunset Beach side? This was my 2nd official open water swim with the wetsuit/goggles/cap and intention (there and back)…I’m curious how far it was because I’m clueless there…I just know it felt like a freaking LONG way for this runner girl!
Amanda@Runninghood recently posted…Hardest Swim and Bike Yet. On Facing Fears and Trying the New: We CAN Do Hard and Scary Things.
If all else fails, we will hopefully meet at the Deschutes Dash! I am planning on coming down to spectate and will keep an eye out for you. I’ll be easy to spot because I’m the pregnant lady with the big belly! 🙂 From the Elk Lake Marina to Sunset beach round trip is about 1.4 miles if you swim in a straight line. I’m guessing that you are like every other swimmer and probably did not swim in a straight line, so you probably ended up doing around 1.5 miles… which is AWESOME!!!