Rave Run...Rave Weekend

I had a fantastic weekend.

First on Saturday, I had a great ellipitcal and weights workout. I did 5 miles on the elliptical followed by weights and core work. Baby Max was wiggly during the weight training! Then on Sunday morning, I had a wonderful, fall run. At first, I was even debating going out and found myself trying to talk myself out of a run. Well, I'm glad I went.

The air was crisp and I could see my breath, but within a few minutes I was invigorated. I wore my BornFit shorts (which are working like a dream I might add), a once-loosefitting long sleeved race top and my gloves. I ended up running along the waterfront and really enjoyed telling Baby Maxity about the leaves changing colours; the snails leaving their wet trails; and the gently rolling waves along the water's edge. It was, to say the least, a "Rave Run." And I felt better during that run than I did last Sunday. Sure, I had a little pressure at some points, but keeping my pace very slow (I'm now at 7:28 min/km) and adding in the speedwalk breaks every 10 minutes, I was able to run comfortably for almost 6K. I could have actually run more, but had to dash off and get ready for a baby shower that my friend, Jess, was throwing me that afternoon.

And speaking of which...

To be honest, I don't love showers. I do enjoy attending other peoples' shower, but don't like being the centre of attention and feeling like I'm on display. I felt the same way last year, during my bridal shower. One of my best and oldest girlfriends, Jess, actually threw it and so many others, helped out by bringing food. My brothers and uncles-to-be also organized the best baby shower games ever! They had one called "Feed the Baby" where we were all divided into teams or "families" and raced to stuff these cardboard boxes with a screaming baby drawn on with light foam balls. Then...we played, "Name that Poo!" For this game, my brothers melted 15 different kinds of chocolate in newborn diapers. Guests had to guess which chocolate they were. It was a good laugh.

Apart from the good times and very generous gifts I received, the biggest thing I will remember most from Baby Max's Shower is feeling the love. As I sat back and soaked it all in, post-party, I realized how truly blessed I am. The B and I are bringing a baby into this world that will be surrounded - almost bathed - in love. I have a great support network of family and friends. I'm truly, truly grateful. And yes, there will be moments when I'm sure I'll question why we decided to become parents, but I know these times will be overshadowed by the joy that comes with parenting and bringing up a baby. I'm very excited...and scared at the same time. This next month and a half will be certainly life-changing, but I know there will always be someone at my back, ready to help out and step in if we need it.