Pregnancy Archives - a Happy Healthy Home

Body After Baby [ #1]

Tiara — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 22:46:00 +0000

After much debate, I’ve decided to share my ‘body after baby.’ This post isn’t meant to gain praise. It’s meant to inspire. I’m a just a regular gal, with real struggles. If this post inspires one person then it’s served its purpose.

It’s been eight months since Emerson was born! Since then I’ve posted a few ‘body after baby’ photos on instagram, but it’s time to share my journey and the dirty truth.

This is a very sensitive subject for many and I’m not any different. The struggle is real. First, I must say, it’s truly amazing what our bodies can do. No pregnancy, delivery or recovery is alike. With that said, please keep in mind what works for one may not work for another. This is my story, my journey.

If you followed my pregnancy then you know I stayed very active up until the day I delivered. I’m not kidding, I went to a spin class the day before I delivered. You can read more about my pregnancy workouts here and here.

After, delivery I was a hot mess. Not only did I look, but I felt like I was hit by a truck — twice. My face was swollen, I had burst blood vessels under both eyes, and red dots all over my face from pushing for nearly three hours! Not to mention stitches. Oh, vey!

Unfortunately, I didn’t have the luxury of going home. Instead I had to drive two hours to be with Emerson who had been transported to the NICU at UC Davis Medical Center. There were a lot of things going on during my first week postpartum. The first few days I felt bloated, sore and tired. Here’s what I looked like two days postpartum.

During that first week, instead of being home with my feet up I took a long hot shower [in a hotel] and walked over to the hospital to be with Emerson. I didn’t have time to relax between talking to numerous doctors, figuring out how to pump, and staying positive for my girl. However, I did get really good at pumping. I couldn’t even tell you what or when I ate.

Once settled in at home I started using the belly bandit [a few hours everyday for 3 weeks], eating healthy and walking daily. There was just a slight problem, I couldn’t keep up in the milk department. My clothes fit, but I felt soft and squishy. Wanting to bounce back I really focused on my diet, but I was having a hard time producing milk. Ugh.

I tried everything to increase my milk supply. At around four weeks postpartum I started eating anything and everything I could. Once I started eating more my milk supply increased. More calories = more milk. I really started to take advantage of the extra breastfeeding calories. However, my body changed. At this point I still wasn’t cleared for full activity so I was only walking. Although I was shrinking in size, I slowly started to see my muscles fade. I became frustrated.

Well, it was all in my mind! At five weeks I hit the gym and boy did it feel great. It was definitely slow going, but it was nice to break a real sweat. Once cleared for full activity I started logging 5-6 workouts a week. These workouts included spin, HIIT, PIYO, walking and abs. Around 12 weeks postpartum I started adding Crossfit WOD’s a few days a week. Today I crossfit 5 days, spin two days, walk the dog and mix in PiYo a few days a week. Every day I’m getting stronger and stronger.

Final Pregnancy Stats

Height: 5’4″

Weight: 150lbs (Only up 18 lbs)

Postpartum Stats

Height: 5’4″ (nope didn’t grow)

Weight: 130 lbs (3 weeks PP); 131 lbs (5 weeks PP); 130 lbs (7 weeks PP); 131 lbs (8 months)

Because I love a good before and after shot here’s me at 39 weeks and 2 weeks postpartum.

Every week I saw small changes in my body.

The Dirty Truth
Yes, I dropped all the weight and then some in the first three weeks. Heck, I was lower than my pre-pregnancy weight, but soft and squishy. I might have “bounced” back, but my body isn’t what it was. It takes time and hard work. Today I’m strong, but there’s still things I need to work on, like core. Slow and steady wins the race and prevents injury.

How did I bounce back so quickly?
Honestly, good old fashion diet and exercise. I worked my butt off while I was pregnant and it paid off big time. I also was in great shape prior to getting pregnant. Don’t get me wrong I’m not prefect I did indulge here and there.

Why is this important to me?
While some may not agree with me that’s ok. Being fit is important to me. I want to be the best version of me I can be and that includes how I look. My workouts are my “me” time. I’m also creating good habits for my family and I’m pretty sure my husband isn’t complaining about it. Although, I know he would love me at any size.

Where am I today?
Every week I’m making fitness gains. Emerson is healthy and I was able to breastfeed her until she was 6 months old. My diet is decent, but could always be better. My goal, over the next few months, is to maintain workouts while eating clean 90% of the time.

Want more fit pregnancy? You might like:
The Best Workout Gear
How I’m Staying Fit While Pregnant
The First 20 Weeks
The Last 20 Weeks
Fit, Pregnant & Tough — Running Tough Mudder Four Months Pregnant
Staying Hydrated

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Fit Pregnancy, Postpartum and Beyond

Tiara — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 10:07:00 +0000

[The below post originally appeared on Fit Mama 4 life. Just incase you didn’t catch it… FYI – many of these tips can be applied even if you’re not pregnant or don’t have kids.]

I’m a endorphin junkie and a new mom. Staying fit while pregnant wasn’t only important to me, but it prepared me for labor and made for a quick postpartum recovery. Each pregnancy is different, but after consulting with my doctor I was cleared to workout throughout my entire pregnancy and workout I did. I’m going to throw it out there I’m 5’4″ and only gained 18 pounds. You could say I worked my little butt off. 39 weeks vs. 2 weeks postpartum.

So how did I do it? Simple — with good old fashion exercise and clean eating (90% of the time).

Five tips to staying fit throughout pregnancy, postpartum and beyond.

ONE
Don’t let pregnancy be an excuse. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to stop XYZ (always consult a doctor first).

At 16 weeks pregnant I competed in my third Tough Mudder mountain course! I even made it across the funky monkey. That shit was hard! The course was 75% uphill, but I still managed to finish it in under 3 hours.

TWO

This is a great time to maintain and focus on form. I don’t recommend starting a new fitness regimen, but stick to your schedule. I was able to keep up at crossfit until about 32 weeks then it was time to cut back as my belly was getting in the way and I had to modify way too much. Although I wasn’t at crossfit I still worked out at my local gym. Workouts included spin, HIIT, circuit training and weights. I even worked out the day before I went into labor! It’s my claim to fame at the gym.

THREE
Mix it up. While I was on vacation I didn’t skip a workout, I just changed it up taking daily walks while exploring the area.

FOUR
Diet — you can’t out exercise a bad diet. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you should or can eat whatever you want. Did you know you only need an extra 300 calories a day!? I’m not perfect and I had my fair share of treats, but I still didn’t over indulge. Keep healthy snacks in the house.

Here’s what I eat in a typical day: Steel cut oats with almond milk, walnuts, honey and fruit, Lara Bar, Salad with grilled chicken and turkey lasagna with kale salad. Throughout the week I’ll throw a green smoothie into the mix 3-4 times or have eggs and sweet potatoes in the morning. Oh and lots and lots of water.

FIVE
Postpartum. Labor isn’t pretty and you’re probably extremely sore. I know I was, but you need to get out of the house. Move… stretch your legs… go for a walk. Even if it’s just for 10 minutes at first. Trust me you will thank yourself later. I know you’re thinking I’m crazy, but it will do you and your family good. Don’t go crazy the first few days.

When you’re ready start wearing your baby on walks, it will help you burn a some extra calories

I was only cleared to walk until I hit five weeks postpartum due to stitches. In the begining, I walked a mile or so 5-6 days and over time worked my way up to four miles! Slow and steady wins the race and prevents postpartum injuries.

About to head out on a walk one week postpartum.

Today I might not be as defined as I was pre pregnancy, but I’ve lost all the pregnancy weight and a little extra! I’m currently eight months postpartum and am getting stronger everyday. I’m creating life long habits for me and my family. Today is a new day with new goals.

Need a little help reaching your fitness goals? I have a challenge group starting Oct 5. Email me at tiarawasner [at] gmail [dot] com!

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Postpartum // My Essentials

Tiara — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 00:20:00 +0000

Happy Monday!

We survived our first weekend at home with Emerson! If you follow me on instagram then you know her first week was spent in the NICU at UC Davis Children’s Hospital. It was a stressful week. I have so much to blog about this week from her birth story to our NICU experience to her nursery reveal. Just warning you now this week will be all baby. Don’t worry next week I’ll be back with food, fitness, adventure and a dash of Emerson!

While I was pregnant I found posts about “the essentials” very handy. Since this was my first pregnancy I didn’t know what to expect over the nine months or postpartum. Everyone’s recovery time is different, but these are a few things that helped me make the transition from pregnant to postpartum just a bit easier.

Cute Sweatpants: You just pushed out a 7+ pound baby and all you want is to be comfortable, but also feel good. For the last few weeks I’ve lived in leggings or cute sweatpants. Just because you’re a mom doesn’t mean you still can’t look good!

Ugg Slippers: Yup lounging around the house calls for a good pair of slippers! You can’t go wrong with Uggs.

Lansinoh Lanolin: I’m lucky Emerson is up for breastfeeding and is good at it! I know other mamas swear by this stuff and well so far it’s helped make the transition to breast feeding 90% of the time easier. Yup I pump and the dad bottle feeds too. Don’t forget to pick up some nursing pads as well.

No-Show Hiphugger: After a day or two of wearing the lovely hospital mesh panties I upgraded to these VS hiphuggers. They are amazing! So comfy and super breathable. They’re perfect for leggings — Hello no panty lines! I purchased my normal size and they fit just fine.

Gilligan O’Malley Nursing Cami: If you’re breast feeding then a number of nursing tops are essential. I personally like this cami. My advice is try on a few different styles around 37 weeks and pick what is most comfortable to you. I also have been sporting this sleep nursing bra.

Zico Coconut Water: Hydratation is the name of the game. Aside from water I’ve been enjoying coconut water daily. Babies really drain you, but they are worth it.

Yogi Tea: I’ve also been staying hydrated with some yummy tea that is said to help boost milk production. win-win

Always Maxi Pads: Let’s be real you are going to have longest period ever… just stock up. I found the Always infinity with flex foam to be my favorite. Not wearing pads since a teen I had no clue which ones to buy luckily these worked out nicely! Word to the wise they’ve come a long way over the last 15 years.

Belly Bandit: Keep it tight. I went back and forth about whether or not I needed it. Honestly my stomach is pretty flat after a week (more on that later), but now I feel I need a little something extra to help pull everything together. The belly bandit does just that. It really holds everything in place nicely while your body is healing. I have the bamboo version in xs.

What items couldn’t you live without postpartum?

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My Maternity Style // The Essentials

Tiara — Tue, 27 Jan 2015 23:29:00 +0000

Since I’m 40 weeks this week (eek!) I think it’s high time and safe for me to share what I’ve been wearing these last few months. I was very fortunate to fit into a majority of my non-maternity clothes throughout my entire pregnancy. Around 30 weeks I found myself rocking nothing but maternity bottoms and a mix of tops.

With a job that is “business casual” I focused mainly on pieces I could wear for work and play. Living in Tahoe I was forced to purchase a majority of my maternity clothes online. With that being said I stuck to stores with free shipping and returns. Free returns is key and my husband can confirm that I took full advantage of it. I didn’t intentionally set out to, but after nine months I realized all my “maternity” items were either from the Gap or Old Navy.

Here’s how I tackled shopping for maternity clothes.

I didn’t shy away from over ordering so I could try on everything. You never know what you’re going to like and dislike. I think I ordered seven pairs of jeans before finding a pair I liked.
Not looking to spend a lot I shopped the sale items. Remember you’re only going to wear these items for a few months
I bought a few items early, but kept shopping. Since I was growing I didn’t want to buy everything too ealry. I had a lot of success by purchasing my pre pregnancy size, but it might not be the case for you.
By re-imagining my closet I was able to create various combinations with items I already owned because I didn’t just focus on “maternity” wear. See oversized sweaters below.
I choose to stick to neutrals and play it up with a scarf, necklace, etc.

Here’s what worked for me.

Pants/Leggings
I only purchased two pairs of maternity pants (jeans // black twill pants) and two pairs of leggings (full length // cropped). In the beginning of my pregnancy I used a belly be band to help continue wearing non-maternity pants. I tried on a number of jeans before finally deciding on these demi panel skinny jeans from the Gap. I wasn’t completely sold until I was further along in my pregnancy. I’m talking about 32/33ish weeks. I purchased my “pre pregnancy” size and felt as though they were a bit on the big size at first, but as my bump grew they fit better.

After trying on a number of pants I preferred the demi panel and didn’t purchase any full panel pants. However, I’ve heard they are very comfortable and probably would purchase if I were bigger. The key is to try on all styles and find what fits your bump and body.

Regarding leggings these are a must for every pregnant woman. They are great for wearing with dresses, tunics and sweaters.

Tops
Simple Basics: I can’t live without these. Basics can be in the form of tanks or t-shirts and are great for layering. I personally purchased four maternity short sleeve shirts, one long sleeve shirt and one tank. If you’re pregnant in the middle of summer you might want to invest in more tanks. As I mentioned last week my favorite tee was Gap’s pure body v-neck. Overall I loved the tees and tanks from Gap and Old Navy — plus you can’t beat the price.

Cute Tops: I was able to rock a number of non- maternity tops and tunics I already owned. However I did purchase a few “boyfriend” style tops (like this one) that are perfect for the bump and postpartum.

Oversized Sweaters
I already had a number of oversized cardigans before becoming pregnant and they we prefect in the fall and winter months. I loved layering these for work and play. I did pick up a non-maternity boyfriend sweater from the Gap and it will be perfect relaxing postpartum as well.

Dresses
I’ve loved wearing cotton dresses throughout my pregnancy. I only purchased three maternity dresses (including this one), but again I was able to wear a number of non-maternity options like the dress I wore to my So Cal baby shower. I love that maxi dress and purchased it after becoming pregnant at TJ Maxx. The Old Navy cotton dresses are amazing — not only are they budget friendly, but very flattering whether you’re 20 or 40 weeks. I was able to wear them with a blazer to work meetings or running errands with flip flops. I suggest buying a few. Oh, I wore a lot of maxi skirts early on too.

All in all I loved everything I purchased and feel I could wear them a second time around. Although I mainly shopped at Gap and Old Navy other maternity websites to consider include Target, Destination Maternity, Loft, H&M and ASOS. I know I’m just scratching the surface, but I feel the additional stores are more my style.

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Bump Update // 39 weeks

Tiara — Fri, 23 Jan 2015 23:11:00 +0000

How far along:

39 weeks today — final countdown! I’m saying February 3 as it’s a full moon.

Baby’s size:
She’s the size of a watermelon (it feels like it), weighing in at 6-9lbs. and measuring at 18-20 inches!

Weight gain:
As of this morning I’m only up 17-18 ish lbs. OMG — However, my belly grew so much over the last week! Maybe it’s all the Lara Bars/Aussie Bites I’ve been snacking on. I might make it without any love marks (aka stretch marks), but honestly I don’t know and it’s hard to tell. My mom has them so I feel like I’ll end up with them too. Either way I keep slathering on the Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter (at least twice a day).

Food cravings:
Last week was Mexican, but over all nothing really.

Sleep:
Sleeping the entire night is now over. I now wake up at least 3 times a night to use the bathroom, but luckily I can fall right back asleep. At least we know I’m well hydrated.

Gender:

Team Pink {reveal}

Movement:

TONS! She just doesn’t stop. I’m not kidding — even when I’m working out she’s moving and grooving.

Best moment this week:

Knowing that it’s only days until we meet her.

Miss anything?

Just feeling normal aka no belly!

Symptoms:

No contractions, but I do have what they call “lighting crotch.” Yup that’s a thing. All those sharp pains are from the baby sitting low in my pelvis and hitting nerve endings. Lovely.

Workouts:

Still
maintaining 5 slow workouts a week. After getting sick at 37 weeks and developing a slight cough I now have early signs of diastasis recti. Per my doctor’s advice and to help prevent any further damage, I’m now rocking a Bao Bei Maternity Belly Sports Bra. I wont really know how bad the separation is until after the baby is born, but I was told it didn’t look bad and should reattach with exercise. Did you know it happens to 1/3 of pregnant women?!

Maternity Clothes?

Yes, daily. Lots of leggings, sweaters and dresses. I pretty much wear the same thing every week.

Mood:

Happy and anxious. Looks like we’re going to have a house full once the baby is born loving on her, but not sure it’s the best thing for us or my sanity. I’m very type A. When were you willing to have company post baby?

Looking forward to:
Meeting our little girl, new adventures as a party of three, and getting my body back in shape after baby (yup I went there).

Linking up with September Farm and A. Liz Adventures

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Third Trimester Favorites

Tiara — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 23:13:00 +0000

Wow where has the time gone?! The baby girl is due in nine days!!! I’ve been so fortunate to have had a very smooth pregnancy. Fingers crossed the delivery is as smooth as it can be. What better time than now to wrap up my pregnancy than with my “Third Trimester” favorites.

1. Gap Pure Body V-neck
I’ve lived in this tee during my third trimester and wish I would have bought a few more. It’s the perfect length, super soft and forgiving — three things every pregnant woman wants.

2. Waxlene
Throughout my pregnancy I’ve had the worse dry/chapped lips. Some lip balms work better than others, but the last month waxlene has been the best for me. I actually received a tube via Whole Baby (Swaggable + Whole Foods) to test out and OMG am I thankful. The best part about waxlene is it has over 100 uses.

3. Lara Bar
Perfect on-the-go snack! I have them stashed everywhere from from desk, purse and car. You never know when you’ll need a little snack. Preggos/mamas you know what I’m talking about.

4. Brain Rules for Baby
This is the only “pregnancy” book I bought. Medina offers an interesting perspective to raising a child. I’m intrigued how life will go once she’s actually here. I like that he paints a real picture and doesn’t beat around the bush from pregnancy, martial relationships postpartum and raising a happy baby. I guess only time will tell.

5. Olay Facial Brush
I’ve had this facial brush well before becoming pregnant, but it’s helped me look fresh and clean. I didn’t have a single breakout and I think the brush helped play a part.

6. Lotion
I can’t stress enough how important it is to moisturize daily. I use a combo of Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion and Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter. It’s helped tremendously with itchy skin and love marks (aka stretch marks).

7. Hydroflask
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. I can’t drink enough water throughout the day. A good water bottle is key. I love hydroflask because it can keep beverages cold or hot for up to 24 hours!

8. TOMS
I’ve always been a big fan of TOMS, but in the last month it’s all I wear. They are so easy to just slip on — no need to bend over. I own a few pairs and I’m in the market for another

There you have it a few things that made my third trimester that much easier. I should note I never bought a pregnancy pillow and am happy with that decision.

Not pregnant? Maybe pin for later

First Trimester Favorites
Second Trimester Favorites

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Fit Pregnancy // The Last 20 Weeks

Tiara — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 20:30:00 +0000

Psst: There’s still five days left to enter to win a signed copy of The Skinny Confidential: A Babe’s Sexy, Sassy Health and Lifestyle Guide

Before I was pregnant I worked my butt off to get into and stay in shape. Once learning I was pregnant I didn’t stop working out, but I did slowly start to tailor back as weeks and months passed by. Basically I listened to my body and researched how to modify certain moves (specifically for crossfit). Let’s just say the first 20 weeks were much easier than the last.

Technically I’m 38 weeks tomorrow, but it’s safe to say I’ll be at the GYM slowly spinning, walking or even lifting a few weights until I deliver. Oh and this preggo will definitely still bust out a few burpees (sans the push up part). So lets break it down.

20-30 Weeks:
I was still hitting the gym hard. I probably logged 7-8 workouts a week between crossfit, spin, treadmill circuits and HIIT classes. Not to mention walking the dog a few days a week.

At 27 weeks preggo I increased my score by three over six weeks!

gap top (similar, similar)

Around 30 weeks we headed to San Diego for baby m’s first shower and Thanksgiving. Instead of dropping in at a gym/box I took my workouts outside and opted to walk or hike for an hour plus everyday. Yes, there are trails in San Diego. The weather was gorgeous. I’m talking 75/80 degrees everyday.

gap top (similar, similar) // leggings

31-36 Weeks:
After Thanksgiving I really cutback. I noticed I had to modify too much at crossfit on top of not pushing myself too hard. It was mentally hard. I found it best if I just stuck to going to the local gym. Seven workouts were quickly cut back to five a week. However, now I was spending 1-2 hours a morning working out which included spin, treadmill circuits, circuit training and HIIT classes. Around 36 weeks I noticed I was moving a bit slower so I started focusing even more on form than I had before.

Over just 10 weeks my little bump grew a ton. 24 vs 34 weeks! I hope to take a similar photo at 40 weeks.

gap top (similar, similar)

Christmas and New Years workouts were spent outside. Since there was snow on the ground and our walks were flat I opted for Sorel boots (similar) for extra warmth. Me at 35 weeks.

Leggings // fleece // beanie // top // gloves

37-40 Weeks:
Ah, the home stretch. technically I’m 38 weeks tomorrow, but I’m 100% sure I’ll be working out until I deliver. Per my OB’s recommendation, I ordered a support band for the last few weeks and my Bao Bei Maternity belly sports bra should arrive today! At
this point I’m consist with five workouts a week. I’m slow moving, but
I’m moving. I’ve noticed soreness in my hips, but hey I’m carrying
around extra weight!

The bump is bumpin. This was Wednesday after finishing a HIIT class. 37/38ish weeks and only up 17 pounds. Neither the top or pants are maternity.


top (I’m wearing a small) // leggings

Thanks for following along on my fit pregnancy journey. I am feel very thankful and fortunate to have been able to maintain a workout routine. Don’t worry It’s not going to stop here. I’ll be back postpartum talking about body after baby.

In the meantime, head over to Two For Fitness and enter their awesome $1,000 Fit Mama giveaway which includes a BOB stroller! Hello. Yes, please.

Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor, health care provider, certifies trainer, dietitian or nutritionist. I’m just a fitness junkie who was able to workout her entire pregnancy with the sign off of a doctor. Please note, if you’re pregnant you should always discuss your fitness routine with your OB.

Want more fit pregnancy — check out:
The Best Workout Gear
How I’m Staying Fit While Pregnant
The First 20 Weeks
Fit, Pregnant & Tough — Running Tough Mudder Four Months Pregnant
Staying Hydrated

The post Fit Pregnancy // The Last 20 Weeks appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

Bump Update // 37 Weeks

Tiara — Fri, 09 Jan 2015 20:30:00 +0000

How far along:

37 weeks today — three weeks to go!

Baby’s size:
She’s the size of a winter melon and weighing in at 6lbs as of our Tuesday appointment!

Weight gain:
As of this morning I’m only up 15-16 lbs (67 kg) depending on the day. All belly and a little butt!

Food cravings:
Nothing really. I actually caught a bug so smoothies and soup are the only things that sound remotely good.

Sleep:
Last week was great. This week not so much. Monday night I think I woke up every hour on the hour. ugh. Being sick sucks. Typically I beat the annual office bug, but this year I wasn’t so lucky — even with a flu shot.

Gender:

Team Pink {reveal}

Movement:

TONS! She just doesn’t stop.

Best moment this week:

Knowing that it‘s only days or weeks until we meet her. Getting our maternity photos we ordered!

Miss anything?

Just feeling normal.

Symptoms:

Sicky face. Although it’s not pretty — I was able to mustard up the energy to shower and snap a photo this morning. It’s more frustrating than anything. I’ve had the best pregnancy until getting sick this week. With a cough I’m really worried about the extra strain on my abdomen wall. Other than that nothing else to report.

Workouts:

Still
maintaining 5 workouts a week on top of walking the dog. Had to miss a few this week. Trying to just get healthy.

Maternity Clothes?

Yes, for the most part. Lots of leggings and sweaters.

Mood:

Mostly happy — only cry this week was because I’m sick and couldn’t sleep.

Looking forward to:
Wrapping up the nursery and meeting our little girl.

The post Bump Update // 37 Weeks appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

Our Maternity Photos

Tiara — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 20:30:00 +0000

In less than a month, or so, we’ll welcome the arrival of our baby girl! It’s just crazy. We’ve been busy working on her nursery and figuring out what we still need. Although we’re both excited to start this next chapter we’re also nervous. We’ll be responsible for a mini us!

Back in November, when I was 29 weeks along, the hubby and I hired Darcy of Artyard Photography to capture this special time in our life. Although I wasn’t very far along we were looking to use the photos for our holiday cards and gifts as well. We picked a cozy meadow in Lake Tahoe on the most perfect Fall day. The photos turned out amazing — in my humble opinion!

Without further ado…

Although you can’t see the baby bump I absolutely LOVE this photo of the two of us.

A family portrait wouldn’t be complete without the Roxy dog! I loved so many of the photos it was really hard narrowing it down between which to print vs purchase the digital file (especially whether to buy low, med or hi).

The black dress has been one of my favorite maternity pieces and the navy dress is the same one I wore to my Tahoe shower.

We’re hoping it snows a fair amount before the baby is born so we can have a friend take a few snowy bump photos too!

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Fit Pregnancy // The Best Workout Gear

Tiara — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 20:30:00 +0000

With only five or so weeks to go, I thought it was time to round-up my favorite pregnancy workout gear. If you’ve been following along you know I’ve been maintaining a regular workout routine and at nearly 35 weeks I’m still working out 5-6 times a week! Yes, I’m crazy. Please note, I was cleared by my OB to continue working out. Over the course of my pregnancy I was lucky enough to wear a number of pieces I already owned, but also invested in a few items.

Tops:
The Gapfit Breathe tank (similar) was by far my favorite top. I purchased it on a whim around 18 weeks during the GAP friends and family sale and absolutely loved it. I loved it so much that during the next sale I purchased another. It’s perfect for everything from spin to crossfit. It also layers nicely under my colder weather gear.

I’m a big fan of The North Face and one of the best non-maternity tanks I’ve loved the entire time is my TNF Flow Tank. It is perfect for spin or yoga. For budget friendly options check out similar versions from Old Navy and Target.

I’m not a big fan of tees or long sleeve tops, but I did purchase a long sleeve top from TJ Maxx (similar) for layering during early morning workouts or afternoon dog walks.

Regarding jackets: I actaully didn’t purchase any. Due to the fact, I’ve stayed relatively small I haven’t found it necessary to buy anything. Currently, I rotate between this TNF fleece and jacket. If you are in need of a light-weight maternity workout jacket I would recommend the GapFit training jacket. (One I love the gap and two there’s always a discount.)

Bottoms:
The key is finding pants with a wide waistband. As crazy as it sounds I only have one pair of maternity workout pants (GapFit fast leggings) and didn’t purchase them until I was 30 weeks along. Although, I like them and they work I definitely prefer to wear them lounging around the house vs. working out.

My favorites have been these and these capris and these shorts from The North Face. I also picked up a few non-maternity running tights with wide waistbands from Marshalls and TJ Maxx which have worked out nicely. Although I didn’t purchase them I’ve heard nothing, but great things about these leggings — if you’re willing to splurge.

A few notes:

Ditch the compression pants. It’s all about comfort and when things are being squeezed it doesn’t look pretty or feel good.
You can still buy non-maternity tops. Just keep them loose and keep the material and length in mind.
I’ve purchased all maternity items in my “normal” size and have been happy with the decision.
I’m 5’4″ and at 34 weeks weigh 147 pounds
Top sizes range from small to medium
Pant sizes are always a medium

Phew. Are you still with me? I had a relatively easy time finding workout gear, but I know what I like and my body didn’t change too drastically — other than the obvious. When picking colors I always stick to grey or black bottoms. That way I can wear a bright top and there are no dilemmas about what bottoms to wear. Do your research and if you’re ordering online always check the return policy — just in case.

Maternity specific workout gear: For Two Fitness, GAP, Target, Old Navy, Athleta, A Pea in the Pod

Happy Sweating!

Fit Pregnancy // How I’m Staying Fit While Pregnant
Fit Pregnancy // The First 20 Weeks
Fit, Pregnant & Tough — Running Tough Mudder Four Months Pregnant
Fit Pregnancy // Staying Hydrated

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