Body Image, Buying Baby Stuff - 21 Weeks

Most of you are going to want to spit when I talk about body image.  Yes, I know... "you're pregnant, you're supposed to gain weight."  I know this, I know I am supposed to gain weight and I know it is all for a great reason and the baby needs it, I get it but it doesn't make it easier.  I love my belly because I know the nuggle is in there... but looking in the mirror isn't always easy.  I have been pretty active since about week 14 or so... when I started to feel better.  I certainly don't workout like I used to, but I still do.  I am not able to run, I try every now and again but it just isn't comfortable for me.  This is hard for me because running has never, ever been easy for me and I FINALLY got really good at it after about 2 years of training myself.  Before pregnancy, I was able to run a consistent 2-3 miles a few days a week.  My knees were finally tolerating it, I learned how to pace myself and breath, and my body was loving it.  So, it is a little sad that I am unable to run at this point.  I plan to pick that up again as soon as I am able after baby.  I am still able to lift weights, do a variety of cardio, and I even swam the other night (another thing that has always been a struggle for me).

The good thing is, I do actually look pregnant in my workout clothes - not just like a fit girl with a really weird stomach - which is how I originally felt.

So, I guess, coming from a person that spent most of my life in a leotard and works very hard to be fit.. gaining weight isn't an easy thing.  I am trying to stay fit but gain what the baby needs.  Rick is wonderful, constantly reassuring me that I am beautiful and my bump is beautiful... he is a good man.

On another note, I am doing a really good job of not buying too much baby stuff - even Rick commended me on this today.  I buy a little something here and there because I JUST HAVE TOO, it is too darn cute and I cannot help myself.  Today, since Costco now sells The Honest Company 2-in-1 body wash/shampoo for little kiddos, I had to get some because usually you have to subscribe to their company to get their products.  And, I went to a store called Cutie Poops and Bottoms in Orland Park to become more educated on cloth diapering... and I just couldn't help myself.  I learned a lot and came home with a little... win, win!

Two dog noses in that picture - smelling the new stuff!  They are going to be such good brothers and sisters to our little baby.