Mr. Sandman...are you there?

Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream
Make him the cutest that I've ever seen
Give him two lips like roses and clover
Then tell him that his lonesome nights are over…

Okay, I’m not in need of a fellow or one with two lips like roses and clover. (How creepy is that?) I’m actually hoping Mr. Sandman can bring me some sleep.

As any runner, or athlete, for that matter knows, sleep and rest is just as important as training. And unfortunately, these days, it seems as though I’ve been burning the midnight oil and not getting enough zzz’s.

And trust me I do go to bed early.

It’s just that sleeping with a growing baby in your belly is not particularly comfortable. I now sleep on my side (usually my left), with a pillow between my legs and a soft blanket under my belly to better distribute the weight. Most other preggos swear by my set up, but still, I’m no poster child for Posturepedic beds.

I toss and turn, flipping like a burger. And when I do, sometimes the bed squeaks. This prompts a light slumbering B to say things like, “The shhhhiiiippppp is coming about…the shipppp is tuurrrning!”

I laugh. Then I slap him. I hope I woke him up.

Oh that darn B.

Mr. Sandman, I'm so alone
Don't have nobody to call my own
Please turn on your magic beam
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream.
Bum bum bum bum bum bum bum....

I'm baaaacccck!

Being the impatient person that I am, (I swear I'm working on this for the sake of Baby Max!) I joined a fitness club yesterday because I was frustrated that I couldn't run all week! However, it turns out that I couldn't have called at a better time. You see the gym that I joined called Womens Fitness Clubs of Canada is not only offering a sweet promotion ($19.95 per month) but also it's five minutes away from my house! So yesterday I squeaked out a 5K on the elliptical and did a short upper body work out.

I did skip the race that I signed up for that morning, but at least the race fee went to a good charity. I just didn't want to chance it and decided to give my glute a rest. That was a great decision because this morning I ventured out for my first run since last Saturday night. I was a bit scared at first, but after five minutes or so, I felt good. Slow, but good. I ended up running about 5K.

After the run, while stretching, Baby Maxity kicked. I think he's happy that his mama is back and is still a Runner Mama!

Since last Saturday's race, I've decided to tone down the running and add less weight bearing exercises for the remainder of my pregnancy. I'm still planning to run about three or four days per week, but now I'll substitute runs for swimming, cycling and the elliptical. I'll also do prenatal yoga.

And speaking of changes...Baby Maxity's room is slowing coming along. The B is working on it as I type away. We've decided on the paint colours and are going with an ultra white wall with an accent wall in apple green. On one of the accent walls we'd like to put a wall "tattoo" from a Canadian retailer called Wall Juice. We're thinking of going with a very modern white silhouette of a tree on the apple green wall. I think it will look quite cool when it's done.

My stomach is calling. Pancakes this morning!

Ahhhhh! It feels so good to come back from a run and eat pancakes.

It's good to be back.

Still, no Running

It’s been six days since I last ran. And unless my left butt suddenly (and miraculously) contracts with no pain, then I’m going to bow out of tomorrow’s 5K race. I’m a bit disappointed because I would have liked to run tomorrow…actually, I would have liked to run anytime this week. Instead, I took a rest – it was running-free vacation of sorts.

My body said it wasn’t ready to run yet, so I’ve listened, as hard as it was.

In my week of non-running, I’ve walked some, but I’ve spent more time doing other things I enjoy, like sewing. (In fact, I finished one of those sleep sacks I planned to make. And it’s not too shabby! I hope Baby Maxity likes it.)

This week, Baby Max has grown. I can’t see this growth, but I’ve certainly felt it. Along with my stretched glute, a slight “stretching” feeling in my abdomen has also kept my feet from pounding the pavement. And at times walking has even been uncomfortable.

In one of my pregnancy books, the author writes (almost gleefully) that by seven months, even some of the people who’ve had joyous second trimesters, now start to feel some of the load and discomfort.

How true. For the first time during my pregnancy, I’ve felt the most discomfort this week and even had my first experience with “Braxton Hicks.”

Trust me, it’s not like I met some investment banker with a cool hair cut and fashion-forward slacks. (The B is far better anyway.) No, these are brief “contractions” that apparently help my body prepare for labour. They felt like my abdomen was tightening or contracting for a brief moment. It didn’t really hurt, just felt a bit uncomfortable, kind of like a medium-strength period cramp.

At least the weather forecast calls for rain tonight and tomorrow morning. So I guess, I’m not really missing that much.

Week 29 Musings

At 29 weeks, Baby Max now weighs around 2.5 pounds and measures about 15 inches from head to toe. I find it hard to imagine all this baby in little ol’ me. But then again, a few nights ago, I was kicked in the ribs for the first time by this two-pound wonder! And it hurt a bit. Oh Baby Max.

My left groin and glute continue to recover. And overall, I’m still not fully recovered from last Saturday’s race. So, I’m not going to push it. But that’s okay, I don’t mind these last few days off from running – though I do miss it. I just want to be fresh and ready when I resume, hopefully in a few days. Again, I have to be patient.

This morning, as I rode the commuter train to work I couldn’t help but overhear three ladies chatting beside me. From their conversation, I figured that all of them are mothers and have children under 10. One of the things they were chatting about was the upcoming back to school season and which activities they were going to sign their kids up for.

With Baby Max still in utero, we’re not even close to this stage, but I couldn’t help but listen as I pretended to sleep:

“What is Emily going to do this fall?” said Brunette Mother.

“Well, she doesn’t want to do anything, so we’re not signing her up for anything,” said Blond Mother.

“Really?" asked Brunette Mother. "What about swimming?”

“She’s doing that," answered Blond Mother. "In our household, swimming is non-negotiable!”

“Ainsley is also going to swimming lessons,” said Blond Mother #2. “But this year, she’s not going to do gymnastics because she wants a day when she’s not doing something.”

With Labour Day approaching, The B and I have started to chat about stuff like this…stuff like parenting and manners…and being an overprotective, scared-of-everything new parent. (I hope I’m not one of these types. Yikes!) And when we go out to eat, I always ask The B whether we’ll introduce Baby Maxity to things like sushi, gulab jamon and pho.

“Sure, Baby Max will eat what we eat and do what we do,” said The B.

When it comes to sports, well, that includes things like downhill skiing, tennis and golf. While we’d like to introduce Baby to these activities, I think there's a balance between not doing anything and over-scheduling too many activities.

While we do hope that Baby Maxity loves the snow and going down hills, we also do feel that some physical skills are “necessities.” Here's my list: (Some parents may object!)

1. Swimming
2. Biking
3. Skating

Like Blond Mother, I think swimming is non-negotiable. We live in a country full of lakes and many kids that I know go to pool parties. Second, biking. I think learning how to ride a bike gives a child freedom and a certain degree of independence. Growing up, I remember some of my best summer experiences involved biking adventures in the woods with my friends. (Gasp! Sans adult supervision!) Finally, I think every kid should know how to skate. We do live in Canada after all.

I don’t believe in forcing children to do things, but I do strongly advocate exposure to activities and experiences and gentle encouragement - especially with the above physical activities.

And I do think it’s okay if Baby Max tries something and doesn’t like it. (The B once thought he'd be a judo master, only to realize that he was often "naked" because he was thrown around by a grown man and, at the time, lacked the manual dexterity to keep tying up his outfit!) Of course, that’s part of the process.

As an avid fitness enthusiast, I’m keeping my fingers crossed that Baby Max will like to run, go down snowy hills or hit balls – the golf or tennis kind.

But then again, if he doesn't, well I'm fine with that too, as long as he's happy.

R & R

Well, I’ve been sidelined for a few days. My (oh so slightly) pulled left groin and glute muscles are still a bit tender from last Saturday’s 15K race. It hurts a little to walk and so for the next few days, I’ve hung up my runners and am going to the pool. I do have a 5K race scheduled for this Saturday, but may pull out unless my “G & G” situation improves.

Boo.

This really sucks. This is my first running injury since I’ve been a preggo runner. At seven months, that’s really not that bad. I know it could be much worst. Last year at this time I was battling inflamed IT bands---this year, it’s my butt. And what a pain!

Like any injured athlete, I hate sitting on the sidelines; I hate cross training instead of my usual workout; and I hate being sore. But I guess it’s the price I pay for participating in a high impact sport like running.

A slight pull requires a good deal of rest and recovery. I know if I rush the process, then I'll get injured again – especially since there are preggo hormones in my body that are causing my ligaments to relax more than normal.

Patience, I tell myself, patience.

To take my mind off my (minor) injury, I’ve started to work on projects for Baby Max. While, I’m no Martha Stewart, I do admit I'm a bit crafty. (I did make my wedding cake!)

Since doing research on stuff we'll need for Baby Maxity, I’ve noticed things called “Sleep Sacks.” They retail for upwards of $30 in Canada. That’s insane! Granted, some of them are pretty cute and feature decals of bunnies or puppies or come in cute “baby” shades. But they're essentially just three pieces of fabric and a zipper.

Before I became pregnant, I had no idea what “Sleep Sacks” were. They're essentially tiny sleeping bags for babies that marketers say promote better sleeping and prevent SIDS. Okay, I’ll do what it takes to make Baby Max safe and happy. When one of my best girlfriends first told me about these "Sleep Sacks" almost a year-and-a-half ago, I laughed.

“Sleep what?” I asked.

“They’re called Sleep Sacks or GroBags,” said my girlfriend. “And they really come in handy, especially in the first few months. My doctor says that blankets can cause suffocation.”

“Oh really?” I said, sounding very skeptical. (When I was a baby, I had a very special yellow blanket that I used not only for comfort, but also to keep warm at night.)

So now, blankets for young babies can cause suffocation. Okay, then I’ll get these things called “Sleep Sacks.” However, when registering, I couldn’t believe the price of them. Seriously, $65 for one with a cute little bunny on it! So I found a pattern and bought some fabric to make two of them. In total, I spent about $40. Of course, let’s see how they turn out. (In the meantime, I'll keep the cute bunny one on the registry.)

I love projects!

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Well, it wasn't a dream run, but last night's Midsummer Night's 15K race went pretty well. Mother Nature played her part and helped. The temperature was about 24 degrees at race time and there was a slight breeze. It was nice.

Today, I'm in recovery and rest mode. At about 12K, I slightly pulled a muscle in my left groin and am definitely feeling it today. But overall, I feel great. My feet did hurt after the run, but after a nice foot massage from The B and a night's rest, they are almost back to normal.

During the first 3K, my Garmin was playing games and I had to reset it. I know I was running way too fast at the beginning when I glanced down and saw 5:35 min/km! I eventually slowed to an average of about 6:19 min/km. I crossed the finish line in 1:33:46.2. (In the field of women, I actually finished 204/563- not too bad...for a preggo! On an aside, I finished almost 10 minutes slower than the Bread and Honey 15K I did almost three months ago, in June.)

I was lucky to run with a guy named Gavin. My friend Val ended up having to walk the 15K because of a hip injury. So instead, he ran and paced me. It was very comforting to know he was there. And it was interesting to run with him. I really only know him after a few exchanges at the Running Room, but here was a guy that actually stopped to enjoy the flowers! Literally.

The course featured a long stretch along a forested, park. Along one of the trails there were some beautiful wild, orange and red flowers. Unfortunately, I don't have one green bone in my body -let alone a thumb - and so the name of this wild flower escapes me! However, Gavin slowed down and grabbed a nice big one. He then tucked it into his shirt! So for most of the race, I stared at that little flower that flapped as he ran. He was also the first to cheer on the elites who passed us as we entered the forested section of the race. What an inspiration and kindred spirit.

The most impressive thing about Gavin, besides his playful and wonderful nature, was the fact that that morning, he had already done a 20K trail run. So this 15K run was essentially a fun, relaxing, recovery run! (He is training for an ultra 50K race this October.) I was instantly impressed. He was the kind of person who obviously runs a lot for the pure joy of running.

He's a guy that we all can learn from. I certainly did. During this race, he helped me to realize the pure joy of this sport. And as the sun set to our left, I basked in the wonderful company and was totally running in the moment. It was absolutely the way my last, long race should go. (Okay, minus the slight groin pull!)

Baby Maxity rested during this run and thankfully, did not sit on my bladder! However, pre-race I did visit the port-o-potty twice! (Just in case.) As with all long runs, I do get worried whether Baby Max is still okay in his aqueous abode. But as I rested that night, he had his own little race to run! He was running and running inside there!

I know this sounds a bit doom and gloom, but sometimes I do wonder if my running will cause premature labour. I've read a lot about running and pregnancy and know that if I exercise moderately and not go overboard, then such an event is highly unlikely. But as a new mom-to-be, I do worry. Still, during the race, I made sure that I could still talk and chatted often with Gavin and other runners along the course. I also chatted with Baby Max and told him about the progress of the race.

One image I will come away with from this race was seeing other preggos...on the sideline cheering me on. That was a bit strange. I know I'm done with races longer than 10K for now. Without question, last night's run was challenging. It was a flat course, but I felt pressure on several occasions.

Again, as I crossed the finish line, I realized how blessed I am to still be able to do a sport that I love.

People are Just so Nice

Yesterday, I picked up my race kit for A Midsummer’s Night Run. As I wrote last week, this will be my last long race for a while. It’s a 15K. And I’m very excited and pumped to run it. Despite the crazy storms we had on Thursday night in Southern Ontario (a few tornadoes touched down and ripped some houses to shreds) and the humid weather we’ve had of late, apparently there is a dry front coming and Saturday should be perfect for a race. The best thing about A Midsummer’s Night Run is the start time: 6:30 p.m.

I had originally signed up for the 30K, but obviously in my state, I’m not running 30 kilometers! I’ll stick to the 15K. So I needed to switch. Because of numbers, race organizers typically don’t like to switch people on race day, but for me they made an exception.

"Well, you've got a nice pillow in there," said Steve (the really nice organizer, joking). "Normally, we don't allow people to switch race distances, but for you, well...we'll make an exception."

"Thanks," I said.

"I'll only do it if you name your first born after me," joked Steve.

"Well, this is a boy," I said, pointing to my belly. "And we've decided to call him Maximilian."

"Really? Well, then your wish is granted," said Steve. "Maximilian is my and my son's middle name!"

"No way! That's so cool," I said.

Then as I was leaving, one of the female organizers said, "Wow, how far along are you?"

"I'm seven months now," I answered.

"You really look great!" she said.

Awww shucks. Like, I said, people are just so nice to pregnant women. I really do feel the love.

At lunch that same day, one of my male colleagues said to me, "You know, you really look great," he said. "Many pregnant women tend to not look great, but you do!"

I blushed. Then, I thanked him profusely. If he only knew a preggo woman's insecurities.

Making Room for the Living

That's what The B called what we did today. In other words, we threw out a lot of old stuff and made room for our new, future life with a baby.

We finally cleared out our guest bedroom. This room is so empty that it now echoes! And as a I threw away- more like purged- years of old stuff like photos, receipts, papers etc. (goodbye 30th birthday cards...) I realized that my thirties have been a whirlwind: I've switched careers, I got married and now am having a Baby Maxity - all before I turn 34.

Oh, and somewhere in that craziness, I started to run. At first, it was to get my heart fit again. Then, after I started racing, I ran longer and longer distances to see if I could really do it.

I remember it was only a few years ago when I could barely run for five minutes straight. At that time, I vowed that I would run a marathon by the time I turned 40. I just thought it would take me that long to get there. But, as I worked at it and logged in the mileage, I realized that this goal could be reached a lot earlier than that. I ran my first marathon last year. I was 32.

Ah...happy memories indeed.

Well, speaking of running, this morning was absolutely made for this sport. I set my alarm for 5:35 a.m. (yes, on a vacation day) because I knew the humidity could possibly be high and wanted to get in a run. But soon, I realized I could press snooze because unlike last week, it was actually comfortable outside, around 21 degrees, overcast, slightly breezy and there was almost no humidity! So, I went back to bed for a few hours and ran along the waterfront at around 8:30 a.m. It was great.

I had a spring - and speed- in my step that I haven't had in a few days. I eventually ran about 7K and averaged around 6:20 min/km. Not too bad. I was even able to do my version of "pregnancy" speedwork: run about 30 seconds/km faster from one tree to the next over a 10-minute interval. Haha! It wasn't much, but it felt good to move my legs quickly again.

Baby Maxity also seems to have more spring in his step too! A few nights ago, The B started to drift to sleep with his hand on my belly. But, he was soon awakened by a tiny human just pummeling my insides.

"Holy smokes, he's a prize fighter!" said The B. "He's going nuts in there!"

I smiled and went back to sleep. I'm getting used to Baby Max's late night workouts.

I Bailed...Again.

With the humidex making it feel like 40 degrees yesterday, I decided to bail on my running plans. Instead, I focused on swimming some laps at the pool. I always find swimming so relaxing. And I truly enjoy going back and forth. It’s kind of therapeutic.

However, that didn’t happen.

Since I started to show, I’ve almost subconsciously avoided the pool. I always rationalized that if I can run, then I’d rather be outside, breathing the non-chlorinated air. However, I know as Baby Max grows and I put on more weight, I'll have to rely on less weight bearing exercises, like swimming, as they are far better for my joints – and don’t put pressure on my bladder.

A few weeks ago, I went to a beach up north. I did bring my one piece bathing suit that accommodates my burgeoning belly, but I was far too self-conscious to put it on. It’s one thing to believe that a pregnant body is beautiful. It’s another to actually show it off! And these two sides are in continual conflict in my head.

“Oh, just go put your bathing suit on,” said The B as I slathered him with sunscreen.

“No, it’s okay, I’d rather stay in the shade and take pictures of the boys,” I said. (My nephews were frolicking in the lake.)

And so you have it. I’m sure I looked like some kind of pervie taking pictures of two young boys with my long lens. (At the least the pictures were fantastic!) In retrospect, I should have just put that stupid bathing suit on and gone for a dip. But of course, if I could turn back time, I would do a lot of things differently.

This hot weather has now almost forced me to don my suit and actually go for a swim. Still, I chickened out again last night and stayed home making meatless butter “chicken” and rice for our dinner. Well, I did put my bathing suit on in the privacy of my bathroom. (Ellie, my cat, looked on somewhat amused.)

“Not bad,” I thought as I looked in the mirror. (From the front, the graphic on the Speedo makes it look like I'm not pregnant. You see the splendour of my belly when I turn sideways!)

First step: put on bathing suit.
Second step: go to pool.
Third step: start swimming laps.

Okay, at least I’m done step number one.

Cheating?

During the course of my pregnancy, I have primarily used The Running Room’s 10 and 1 technique. Here’s how it works: I run consecutively for 10 minutes than walk briskly for a one minute. I repeat this interval over the course of the entire run distance.

During the first trimester, I tended to run straight through on tempo runs, but incorporated this 10 and 1 approach during longer runs, like half marathon distances. Now, heading into the third trimester - and my seventh month - I incorporate the walking breaks during every run or race over 5K.

Another Runner Mama, used this approach during a recent run and discovered that she was able to run longer than she had in a month. She said she felt very guilty that she hadn’t “run” the entire distance.

I beg to differ.

You see, not only do I use this technique during my pregnancy, but also I used it to train and complete my first marathon. And though I didn’t come in under four hours (I pretty much died at 37K!), I came pretty close at 4:03. Not lightning fast, but not too shabby for my first marathon.

Even with the walking breaks, I still completed the 42.129K or 26 miles 285 yards of the demanding marathon distance. I don’t ever think I cheated. Not ever. Some (unlucky) people I’ve heard of have crawled over the finish line, but they still completed the distance.

In a nutshell, according to The Running Room’s training manual, while walking breaks are optional during weekday runs, they should be incorporated in all long runs. “The walk break provides a great platform for the runner to expand the distance of the long run” and ensures that the training program is “progressive and gentle.”

In other words, incorporating the 10 and 1 technique helps to prevent injuries, stay in the fat-burning mode longer and helps runners – especially newer ones - adapt to the rigors of long distance running. Face it, many of us are not as young and spry as that 14-year old who can bang out a 5K in under 15. (I wish!)

That said, though I find this technique useful, I don’t always use it. For example, last year when I wanted a PB in the half marathon, I ran straight through and finished in 1:45. I also ran straight through to finish first in my age group and a PB at 46:55 during a 10K race last November.

Runners come in all shapes and sizes. And there are many programs out there too.

When we're injured, recovering, running during pregnancy or easing back into it postpartum, I think we need to adapt our training method to a way that best suits how we feel - And not feel guilty. If 10 and 1s work and allow you to complete the distance without much pain and injury, I say...go for it.

Giving yourself an unfair advantage by deception is cheating. (Like Rosie Ruiz who dropped out of the 1979 New York City Marathon after 10 miles, hopped on the subway and walked to the finish line, clocking her "run" in 2:56.) Running for 10 minutes and then taking a one minute walking break is not.

A True Runner Mama-to-be?

I looked at this picture of me finishing the Chilly Half Marathon this past March. (Incidentally, I found out I was preggers the day after this race!) I recall how cold it was that morning - about 10 below zero without the windchill.) These days, I now lust after those cooler - okay, not frigid - cold mornings.

This morning, I met my running group at 8:30 a.m. It was already steamy and the humidity made it feel like 30 degrees. It was a nice, easy, no pace run where I socialized more than anything. Running with other folks really makes hot, hazy, humid runs - like this morning's run - bearable.

We had a couple of guest runners who were just visiting relatives in the area and decided to come out for an easy morning run. One of the guest runners was pushing his two little ones in a jogging stroller. I asked him how he liked it.

"Well, at first it was heavy," he said. "And you do have to get used to running without your arms...but after a few months, it starts to feel natural."

"Oh, I think that's great," I said. "I find moving myself hard enough, let along pushing about 30 pounds or so. Good for you."

We laughed. And he wished me well with my pregnancy.

But lately, I've been giving this whole jogging-with-a-jogging-stroller-thing a second thought. We did buy the Bugaboo Cameleon but I wonder if I'm a true Runner Mama without a jogging stroller. All the other Runner Mamas and Runner Mamas-to-be have or will use jogging strollers when their babies come.

However, I'm so torn.

I see running as a wonderful sport I can do postpartum sans enfant. As much as I already love Baby Maxity, I know there will be times when I just want to get lost in my thoughts and in my own breathing - without a child in close proximity. Am I being selfish? I'm told that a happy mama typically translates to a happy baby. And running, by myself, seemingly without a care in the world makes me happy. (I am very lucky to have a supportive husband!)

I have chatted with other parents and know that if I did get another jogging stroller, I would get a Bob or a Chariot. Still, I've tried pushing them and I can't fathom doing it at this point. For me, they are quite big, bulky devices. Sure, I'm betting things may change. Knowing myself, I've come to realize that leaving things I love is hard for me to do. (I get antsy leaving Ellie, our furry feline friend, for two days!)

To quote the most horrible cliche in the world, time will tell. And I guess I'll have to wait to see whether I change my mind about the jogging stroller thing when Baby Max arrives. I don't want to obsess about it, but lately, this has been on my mind.

I Beat the Heat!

Last night I made a plan to run as early as possible this morning - well, for me, that's just before the sun rose. I checked the sun rise time: 6:22 a.m. Okay. That's a bit early on a Saturday morning. Fine. So I set my alarm for 5:45 a.m. (Sorry The B) and though I did hit snooze once, I managed to roll out of bed, (actually peel myself out) at 5:45 a.m. By 6:15 a.m., my Garmin found a signal and I was on the road running and enjoying the relatively cool morning air.

Despite this early hour, a few others were also on the road. I waved and exchanged nods. Already, the morning sky's fog patches foreshadowed a smoggy, hot, hazy, humid day. I was so glad to be out this early and getting my mileage in. At 6:15 a.m., the temperature was already 22 degrees with a relative humidity of 67%. (It felt like about 26 degrees)

I started off very slow, averaging around 7:00 min/km. I wanted to try out different ways of easing the pressure on my bladder. I found that if I leaned over, even just a little, I felt pressure. I eventually found a balance between running quite upright and a slight forward tilt. I've noticed that this bladder-pressure-thingy just comes and goes. And though I didn't have to go to the bathroom, at times, I felt like I really needed to go. But again, I readjusted my body position and relaxed my shoulders which seemed to help a bit.

In the end, I logged 9.20K - not bad seeing as it wasn't yet 7:30 a.m. when I finished! (The B was still happily in bed drooling on his pillow when I returned.) This run also helped me to know that I'll be okay for next weekend's 15K race.

I did get to bed early last night in preparation for this morning's run. However, lately, sleeping hasn't been very comfortable. I'm now sleeping on my side and am quite padded with pillows between my legs and behind me. Still, I wouldn't call my sleep particularly restful.

And last night, as I tried to find the sweetspot, I noticed something very cool. It was a first. I realized that Baby Maxity was hiccuping! It was really weird. The beats were steady and quite rhythmic - almost like a slow drum. (The B would like this, his kid already has rhythm!)

Baby Max's movements have also changed a little. Instead of spastic kicks and pokes, his movements are now more...rolling and graceful. I can now feel him change positions - though I was told by my midwife that he's already lying headfirst with his feet up towards my right boobie.

Though almost seven months in...I'm still in awe of the changes that we're both undergoing.

Truly miraculous and I'm savouring every moment.

A Midsummer Night's Run

Well, I just got in.

That is, to A Midsummer Night's Run on August 22. I emailed the organizer and had to act fast because last night there were only eight spots left. At 15K, this will be my last big race (well, longish) race for a while. I’ll still doing some 5K races and if all goes as planned and I still feel good, then I’ll do the Scotiabank Waterfront Marathon’s 5K race in September with friends. By then, I may really resemble a blubbery, marine animal.

Next weekend, I plan to run the race nice and slow, averaging around 6:45 to 6:50 min/km. And thankfully, the course is as flat as my pre-pregnancy chest and has a few port-a-potties that I will make use of along the route. I did the 30K distance last year, but I’ll be sticking to the more conservative 15K route this year.

Why do I still bother racing when I no longer strive for a PB or a fast time? I race because I love being part of a big event. And in the case of A Midsummer’s Night Run, it will be a sold out event. Yay! I say, the more people the merrier.

At this point in time, I’m getting nervous about my bathroom strategy, for I think I’ll now need one. Yesterday, I came across another preggo runner who's running a half marathon – a BLOODY HALF MARATHON – at 34 flippin’ weeks! I simply can’t comprehend this! She must be a super Runner Mama! Seriously. My sister-in-law gave birth to my nephew at 34 weeks!

I wonder how she feels logging those semi-long runs at 27-28 weeks. It’s incredible. I've done many half marathons and while they don’t require the same preparatory time as a full marathon, she would still be running 16-18K runs at 31-32 weeks preggo! Honestly, if she’s that comfortable to run that distance so late in her pregnancy, good for her. Of course, I’m assuming that she’s going to go super slow at that point.

I’ve heard stories about Super Runner Mamas who've even run marathons that late in their pregnancy. Personally, I wouldn’t do it, but hey, I’m not her doctor or midwife, so who am I to make such a call?

Summer Scrooge

Summer has finally arrived in Southern Ontario. Temperatures are now hovering at 28 and 29 degrees during the day and even into the evening. And the humidity is also higher than it has been in recent weeks. This does not make for great running weather – especially for a preggo runner.

Last night I had to modify my running plan. I had hoped to meet my running group at 7 p.m., but outside, even at that late hour, it felt like an oven. It was just too bloody hot. So instead, I waited until 8 p.m. and went down to the lake for my run. It was a great decision. With the sun setting, it was much, much cooler and there was less pedestrian and bike traffic on the path. Though there was some slight discomfort – for Baby Max was again sleeping on my bladder – it wasn’t too bad.

I did an easy 5K, averaging around 6:34 min/km. I’ll have to plan for an early morning run for tomorrow morning because the forecast is again calling for hot and humid.

Blah. Bah Humbug.

Listening to My Body

Running with Baby Max on board has taught me a number of things:

First, it’s made me realize that if you’re fit heading into pregnancy, staying fit during can be somewhat easy – especially if you''re not bogged down by morning sickness and extreme fatigue.

Second, a sudden weight gain for anyone, preggo or not, does not do a body good – especially when it comes to preventing pain in the joints department. I can’t say that my knees or hips are aching yet, but the sudden weight gain…oh, about 14 pounds in a matter of a few months does not bode well on the welbeing of my feet. Last Saturday, I did an 11.5K run. I wasn’t huffing or puffing, but my left foot ached.

Third, I’ve learned to listen to my body. No. Really listen. As any other runner will tell you, experience pounding the pavement often compels you to listen to your body. As a thirty-something runner, I've come to (sadly) realize that I’m not as young and spry as I once was (alas). I can no longer bang out mile repeats on one day and then do a tough tempo run the next. These days, rest and recovery are my friends.

Now that I’m pregnant, especially heading into my third trimester, listening to my body has become even more important. On Tuesday, the weather was quite humid. So instead of staying at the front of the pack, I hung back, more toward the middle. For those who know me, this is a big step for ambitious, challenge-loving me.

I would say that I’m a borderline Type A personality. And since I’ve started running, I’ve met a lot of other A-types out there. In fact, I ran into one last night. Literally.

The plan was to run 4.5K. It was another hot and muggy evening. This new group I was running with has a lot of people with varying degrees of fitness levels. However, they all have very similar goals. One major goal for most is to complete a 5K race. As every runner knows, a goal is not carved in stone and is sometimes changed if problems, like injury, arise.

This particular Type A runner had a sharp pain in her right foot at around the 2.5K mark. In fact, the pain was so acute that she had to stop and get a drive back to our meeting location. She was heartbroken to learn that she would probably have to take some time off from running.

I saw a bit of me in her. I do know what it's like to be forced onto the sidelines. But I reassured her that rest is the best thing.

Sometimes we runners must remember that there will always be roads out there for us to run on; paths to blaze and new trails to explore. In my case, I sometimes look at the marathoners and wish I too could be training for a fall race. But at this stage of the game, I’ve learned to listen to my body and I've come to realize that there will always be many marathons for me to run.

I Never Thought I'd do it...

My parents did it.

I never thought I would though. That is, line up to buy stuff...especially baby and kid stuff.

Way back, when Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls were all the rage, my parents waited outside, in sub-freezing temperatures to get three - one for each of us. I still remember my gal's name and have stored her somewhere in my closet at my parent's house. Sally Ann. And if I close my eyes, I can still remember how she smelled faintly of baby powder.

Flash forward to 2009. Now I'm going to do it.

However, when there's a good sale on baby stuff, you'll wait as long as you have to to save some cash. And that's what I'll be doing on Saturday morning. Instead of my usual morning run or yoga session, I'll be in some kind of line up waiting to get a deal on a car seat. In our case, we're looking for a specific one: The Britax Marathon. And if all goes as planned, I'll be saving almost $45. Not huge, but still a saving.

Yesterday, as we finished our registry, I noticed a sign above the Bugaboo Cameleon strollers. I didn't bother paying much attention to the stroller section because we already bought ours. But the promotion the store was offering was too good to resist: If you bought a Bugaboo Chameleon, the store would throw in the Graco Snugride car seat for free! Ding Ding Ding! So, we called the store that our stroller was on order from and promptly returned it. I felt bad because this meant we couldn't get the Paul Frank fabric. But we thought, who the heck cares? You can't turn down a good deal like a free car seat. So now, our new, updated stroller will be red canvas on a red base. It's still a sweet ride and we also have a car seat. Yay!

Well, it seems almost the whole day was devoted to Baby. After doing our baby registry, we went to another shop and picked up a dresser that we had been looking at. It was on sale. And it matches the other pieces we've already gathered for Baby Maxity's future room. The best part, the top will function as a change table. So don't worry Sandy, we won't break our backs changing the baby on the floor or a low table!

Turtle Shell

In the few months I've been pregnant, I don't think I've ever felt self-conscious- until this past weekend.

First, on Saturday, I went for a run. I ended up running 11.5K and felt great - except for my aching left foot. I ended up doing a run by the lake which I typically lead my running groups through. Only this time, I went by myself. I love running with a group for the social aspect, but these days I also love the group scene because I tend to blend in. Outsiders are less likely to notice a girl with a bulging baby bump. And usually I don't mind when people notice. I feel proud. But for some reason on Saturday, I felt very self-conscious. I tried to make it through stop lights because I knew that stopped drivers would certainly look.

I guess the reason, again, is the guilt. I know I shouldn't care what others think. And for the most part, if my actions are not hurting anyone, anything or the environment, then usually I don't. But perhaps it's the notion that many people still believe I shouldn't be running at this stage of my pregnancy. I know it's such an old-school view, but many people are still not aware that it's truly okay to be doing what I'm doing this far along in my pregnancy. (Provided of course, one was already running prior to getting knocked up.)

I'm not alone. Another Runner Mama who I met online also shares the same sentiment. Alison puts it best when she wrote, "I wish I had the ability to make myself invisible while working out." Okay, sometimes invisible. On weekends it's nice for people to notice that, as a preggo, I'm still able to sweat more before 9:30 a.m. than most people do in a week!

On Sunday, The B and I went to visit his parental unit. It was supposed to be a fun-filled weekend of outdoor activities and sports because my nephews, Noah and Levi, were also there. But Mother Nature intervened and we had to cut the visit short as a result of a thunderstorms and a power outage. Oh well. Still, we managed to salvage one day out of the weekend.

That Sunday afternoon we went to a local beach. I did bring along my new, whale-sized, bathing suit. But I was too self-conscious to put it on. So I stayed in the shade, taking pictures of The B and my nephews playing in the water. In retrospect, I should have put it on and splashed about, but I just didn't want to. I didn't want to draw attention to myself.

I know in a few months I'll have to get over this self-consciousness. For I'll have more than a few people looking at my vagayjay. But I guess for now, it's okay to sometimes hide in my turtle shell.

Shout out to Lena

When the home pregnancy test kit showed the plus sign, my life changed forever and a whole new world opened up. I was about to voyage to Babyland. And it was exciting.

Then I decided to blog about my pregnancy. Another whole world opened up. And it too was exciting.

I’ve met a lot of other Runner Mamas-to-be and Runner Mamas. I’ve also met a few other mothers who are just darn enterprising and witty, like Lena. She's a self-confessed shopaholic who only buys on sale. In other words, she is one heck of a savvy and smart Mama. Last year, she had her first baby, Ryder. He's now toddling around and is as cute as can be.

Lena's blog is pretty cool. For, if you're ever wondering where stuff on sale is, just check Lena's site. She's the go-to lady. And the other great thing---she's got great contests. In fact, I just won this very cool hat for Baby Max. It's made by a Canadian artisan called Cite Fuzz. In fact, her contests mostly feature Canadian artisans and businesses. No offense to those from other lands, but I'm a big supporter of buying Canadian!

Finally, I'm a Fashion Victim

Gisele Bunchen. Heidi Klum. Adriana Lima.

Now...Karolina Kurkova.

And...me.

We all have something in common. No, not the long legs, high cheek bones and fame. Apparently, this will be the first and perhaps last time in my life that I'll have something in common with these four super models.

We’re all expecting.

And according to Kurkova the baby bump is the new “in” thing. Recently she was quoted by the Associated Press saying, “You know, it’s probably the new thing to be pregnant. It’s not to have the Chanel Python bag. It's to be pregnant.”

Well, it’s a good thing that the Chanel Python bag is not the “in” thing these days. I say conserve the snakes and procreate! But I digress.

As many people know, I’ve never been one to follow the runways. But there must be something in their water. Perhaps even in the water we, plainer, uglier, common folk drink. The other day, one of my running friends pointed out that this summer she’s noticed a lot of pregnant women. In fact, she says that many of the gals at her work are pregnant.

Maybe she’s right, maybe there is something in our water.

Actually, I wish there was something like Benefibre in my water right now. I can certainly use that magic powder.

Then again, I digress.

Ah...to be pregnant. I'm loving it.

Two Nights in a Row!

Well, I have renewed hope that I can still run a 10K or 15K race before I get too uncomfortable. On Wednesday, I was able to do a 4.5K (that included hills). And tonight, I was able to do a 5K (again that included hills) with no major discomfort on my bladder. It seems like Baby Maxity knew that I felt like running and decided to rest somewhere else!

Oh I love you Baby Max!

At one point during the run, Jamie, one of the guys I was running with looked at his watch and suggested we slow down! When I got back to the Running Room, I saw my friend Val.

Val is now a lean, mean, running machine. She has totally embraced the sport and will be running her first half marathon this fall. I’m totally energized by her enthusiasm and spirit. She’s doing a number of races at the end of August. We did a few races a while ago, when I wasn’t so pregnant, but now, we’ll just have to arrange to meet each other at the finish. That’s okay too.

I also met a new gal, Mindy, who just got engaged. I’m so excited for her. Last year at this time, I remember being heavily involved in my wedding planning. Last year, it was all bridal. (In fact, our wedding portrait appeared in the Fall/Winter 2009 edition of the Canadian version of Today's Bride. Our awesome photographer, Doug Foulds blogged about it too.) This year, it’s all baby.

Mindy has that beautiful glow of a bride-to-be. She’s also running a half marathon this fall. She was very impressed that I am still able to run. In fact, she said that she too would like to do the same when she gets pregnant in a few years. I blushed.

I’ve said it so many times before but I, and other Runner Mamas like Alison who just hooked up with me on Blogger, realize how blessed we are to still be able to do what I do. Last night, another runner, Laura, asked how long I planned to continue running.

“Until I can’t,” I answered, breezing along at about a 5:43 min/km pace.

I’m blessed indeed.

Time Well Spent

Last night, I planned to run with friends. However, I decided to stay home. It was my second run in the course of this pregnancy that I have decided to forgo – and for very good reasons.

First, the weather. Earlier thunder showers gave way to sunshine and high humidity. I felt immediately sticky when I stepped off of my commuter train. That was not a good sign.

Second, I was as bloated as an air-filled tire and stuffed like Santa’s sack on Christmas Eve. My digestive system just wasn’t working that efficiently yesterday. I felt like one of those inflatable characters at the annual Macy’s Christmas Parade.

Third, Baby Max was sitting right on top of my bladder. It was so uncomfortable. And this wasn’t the first time.

On Monday evening, I ran 4.5K with a new 5K-training group. At first it was okay, but then by the second kilometer…oh boy! Pressure! I had felt something similar in my first trimester, but this…THIS was pressure. I thought I was going to pee my shorts! I had felt Baby Maxity shift and during the beginning part of the run, my child was all nestled, snug in his bed - a top my bladder. Now at 26 weeks, Baby Max weighs roughly 1.6 pounds. That’s like a bag of sugar! Now, imagine that on your bladder. Then bounce it around!

What fun.

I then decided to shift gears and do some weights and balance exercises on my Bosu trainer. However, that didn’t materialize. Instead, The B and I spent the better part of the evening cooking together. We made a delicious risotto.

Oh well, time spent alone with my husband. I know when Baby Maxity arrives, these types of moments will be but a distant memory.

The Last 100 Days

On my blog countdown there are apparently 100 days left until we get to meet Baby Max. In U.S. presidential terms, politicos always opine about a President's First 100 Days in office. Well, I'll opine about my last 100 days with child.

First, the last few months have been wonderful. As I embark on the last trimester and exit the "Honeymoon" phase of pregnancy, I wonder what adventure awaits. I've read all my pregnancy books and the ailments I could get, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed for smooth sailing. Now, I also have the prospect of labour looming before me on the horizon. As one friend last week said, "I can't believe how fast it goes, you're really not that far off anymore."

I'm getting wistful as another friend, Janice, is wont to say. Time is passing and it's passing very, very quickly. I've been blessed with so many glad tidings; been given so many wonderful tidbits of advice and tokens from wellwishers.

This past Sunday, a gal I trained with during last year's triathlon season, Ingrid, surprised me with a beautiful crocheted blanket for Baby Maxity. She made it. And she made it especially for Baby Max. I was so touched. It's been moments like this that have made these last few months extremely memorable: Like the smile I received from a woman on the commuter train last week, when she glanced down at my belly; or the extremely thoughtful onesie from my friend Mombo a few weeks ago; or the wonderful bag of toys and books that my colleague, Steve, gave me; or the party bag made especially for Baby Max from my girlfriend, Beth, at her daughter's first birthday. I'm so lucky to be bringing a child into this world that's already loved by so many.

I'm not getting scared yet, but I know as the days tick down, there will be a growing anxiety in me. Hopefully I can keep it under control. At least many vet moms have been most reassuring. One mother of one dear friend said that "labour wasn't really that bad" and another said, "there's a light at the end of the tunnel and you get a baby after all that effort."

Reassuring indeed.

I also wonder how long I can keep my exercise regime up. I've now added prenatal yoga to the mix. I'm still doing regular yoga, but am also doing a pregnancy-specific class. And I continue to run, albeit, slower. I'm also hoping to get a few more races with Baby Max in utero. I haven't signed up yet, but am hopeful I can still do the Midsummer's Nights Run 15K in a few weeks. (Or one more 10K!) And then I have a couple of 5Ks I'd like to do with friends in September.

The B and I will start our prenatal course in mid-September. That session will last six weeks and will take us until the end of October. By then, Baby Maxity will be pretty much full term and I've been told to have my hospital bags ready from that point on.

Last night, the power went out at around 2:30 a.m. For some reason I woke up. Perhaps it was the quiet alarms from some electronic gadget. I tried to get back to sleep, but tossed and turned for about two hours. I was thinking. Thinking about what the future holds. Then I smiled as Baby Maxity kicked me for what seemed like the hundredth time that night.

Making Room for Baby Max

Baby Max continues to push, kick and grow in his aqueous bedroom that is my womb. However, when he emerges, he'll have a room to call his own. And this weekend, the B and I will start clearing out and organizing our guest bedroom which will soon become our new media room. Our current media room will be Baby Maxity’s room.

While nothing has moved from either room yet, The B and I have already bought most of the pieces for the nursery. The recent purchases have been in the lighting and flooring departments. We’ve also bought a small table that matches the kiddie Panton chairs and the Eames rocker we purchased in the spring.

Right now, there is dark cherry wood on the floor. To make it more baby-friendly and softer, we will put in an area carpet. Actually, it’s modular carpeting by a company called Flor. And if there are any spills or one part gets dirty, then we can simply order a new "tile." One part of the wall will be a green colour, most likely apple green. The rest of the walls will be pure white and so the rug will provide a nice contrast.

For lighting, we have decided on a pendant lamp. It's a classically modern pendant lamp designed in Denmark called the Le Klint light. We really like it because it is airy and cloudlike. And since the outlet is already on a dimmer, we think it will be just perfect for a baby's room.

Though Baby Maxity won't need it for a while, we've decided to get a small, child-sized table that will double as our change table for now. (We're going to put one of those portable change table pads on it.) It's called a Giza table and it will be in birch. This tiny table should work well with the white Panton chairs. And finally, we have a shelving unit that will sit right on the floor, that Baby Maxity can reach. It's got nice curbed edges that won't poke him.

While I do have a keen eye for good design, Baby Maxity's room is really The B's vision. And since I'm the one carrying him, I've given The B full range when it comes to designing the baby's room - provided he doesn't go overboard. There were some earlier suggestions that were outlandish in terms of price and practicality, but they were quickly dismissed when we looked at our baby budget.

The only items we have yet to purchase are the mattress (yes we are going cribless) and the wall art. However, we've already decided on both. On one of the walls we found a very large wallpaper mural at a downtown boutique that's reasonably priced. It's a large wallpaper tree that goes from floor to ceiling. The other wall will be adorned with white canvases. I know it sounds strange, but this artistic endeavour will be The B's creation, so I don't have any pictures at this time. However, once it's finished, I'll post a photo update. And the remaining wall, where the mattress will be, will be painted apple green.

I tell you, I think my husband should have been an interior designer or an architect. He's got such a great eye. And if Baby Maxity grows up with an appreciation of design and art, we certainly won't be surprised.