A Look Back At The Last 6 Months

Baby E is officially 6 months old and I thought it would be interesting to see how he's changed since Oct 18th. 

This is just 4 days after E was born.

One Month later, he was growing like a weed. I loved watching him discover new things.

At 2 Months, E was starting to get the hang of this day/night stuff.  He was sleeping through the night and believe me, I was enjoying it while it lasted.

3 Months brought more interaction, smiles, and coos.  It was so much fun to watch this little guy explore.

I had a regular little man at 4 months.  I couldn't believe the changes he was going through.  

We were able to get outside a little bit in the 5th month.  It was comical to watch E learn to adjust to wind.  You would've thought someone had a blow dryer going directly on his face.

6 Months has been so much fun!  He's sitting up, trying to crawl, talking up a storm and just enjoying life.  

Ever Feel Like You're Running On Empty

This post is all about venting and discussing time management so be warned!!

One thing I've definitely learned as a mom is that life doesn't slow down.  I knew this before Baby E was born but there were periods of time during the day where life would slow down, allow me to catch my breath and regroup.  Now that time doesn't exist until my head hits the pillow.  I've lost touch with all my TV shows (Biggest Looser and everything on Bravo), I don't sew anymore and I definitely don't read books like I use to. 

It seems like lately though everything is moving at warp speed making it very difficult to keep all the balls in the air. 

Ball 1 - Work - I love my job, don't get me wrong.  I get to leave work everyday feeling a sense of accomplishment but with that comes the feeling like I could've done more knowing that there is a ton to do.   It's hard to leave that at the door when I go home every night.  I never stop thinking about what I have to do tomorrow.

Ball 2 - Family - Baby E is the center of my life and S's.  He is by far the most important thing to us and we obviously invest a lot of time in making sure he's happy and healthy.  In addition, S and I both have family related activities that we are constantly trying to keep track of.  Thankfully I've succumbed to the need for pen/paper to keep track of it all.  That's where the momAgenda comes into play. 

Ball 3- Personal Goals & Ambitions - I have the unfortunate privilege to come from a long strong line of entrepreneurs who are all successful and while I'm happy/successful in my job, I can't help but think that there's something more that I should be doing.  So I'm always thinking of ways to make an impact outside of work.  I've got LOTS of ideas and no time to see them through.  I guess if I wanted it bad enough I'd make it happen.

Ball 4 - Health/Fitness - This is an entirely different set of demands.  I will always be a fitness junkie.  That will never change.  I'm always going to prioritize a workout whenever I can.  I'm always going to feel the need to challenge myself to try new things be it marathons, triathlons, or something completely different.  I spend a lot of energy working out, thinking about working out or planning on working out because it makes me happy but again if I don't get to execute exactly as I planned, I'm disappointed. 

I guess what I'm saying is every now and then I get tired, burnt out.  I need a break, and a minute to just breathe.  I'm trying to remind myself that this is my new normal and that flexibility is the key to sanity but it's tough. 

So for a moment, can we just stop........

Take a step back....

Close our eyes...

and just breathe.......

feel the calm and remember to keep it all in perspective...

Happy Early Easter

Baby E had a big day.  He celebrated his first Easter and attended his first ballgame.  All that after he went through the worst storm STL has seen in years while hanging out with a friend.  

Baby Es Picture Commentary: This is my moms college roommate.  I'm so happy to hang out with her.  She has the most hilarious dog with some ears that make me giggle.

This is my cousin.  We might not look alike but we're buds.

Here we are talking about baseball and politics.  Ok maybe he's just showing me how to crawl.

Mom, Dad and I at my first baseball game.  I loved it!  I got to meet all the staff in the Bank of America club that knew me last year before I was even born.  Such happy memories. 

Dad and I cheering because albert pujols hit a home run (which I hear is a good thing).  

You're All Winners...

Thanks Ladies for reading...please email me your addresses at momslittlerunningbuddy@gmail.com and you'll soon receive your very own Moms Little Running Buddy Onesie!!

1. Stephanie
2. AmyLee 
3. Lil Muse Lily

Random Thoughts From The Desk Of....

I thought it would be interesting to keep this up and occasionally jump over and record some of the random thoughts that come to mind during the day.  I'm sure they are partially a result of my disorganized surroundings.  Luckily I can say that my personal life is becoming just a little more manageable thanks to my momAgenda. 

1. I need to get some calls made today.  It looks like I have 1/2 hour at 11:00.  What's my most important call to make?  Duh, the prospective babysitter.  Let's hope she's awesome. 

2. I think running the potential neighborhoods I like is a great way to do some houseshopping.  I think I'll do that again.

3. Can't wait for tomorrow night.  Baby E and I are going out.  (Ok, we're going to meet some friends at their house downtown but still).

4. Thank god I brought an extra FRS and that box of Cinnamon Toast Crunch.  I'm set for the day if I can't make it down to lunch.

5. I really need to dust this desk.  It's a mess.  If my husband saw this he'd freak.

6. Why doesn't anyone warn you that you're going to lose your hair after you have a baby?  ARGH!

7.  I wonder if my Chewbeads will come today. 

8. I hope I don't miss E's first crawling steps.  I'm betting I do but my sitter is too nice to tell me.

9.It feels like a Friday around here.  I guess that's because most people are taking tomorrow off.

10. I need to go look at a house I found online.  It looks pretty good in pictures. 

11. I think it's time for some cereal. 

12.  I really REALLY need to come up with a plan to get into a pool at least once a week.

13.  Baby E needs a haircut.  I guess I should take him to the Hair Saloon for Men. 

14. Ok, I'm going home. 

Devastating Loss

I spent most of my pregnancy looking for someone I would feel comfortable with leaving Baby E with while I was at work.  I found her.  She has been great since the first day I dropped him off.  This past weekend I found out she's resigning.  I was shocked.  She and her husband have basically been like Aunts and Uncles that we've grown to love.  I can't help but feel like we're losing much more than a babysitter.

So we're back to square 1.  It's days like this that I wish I could stay home.

What a way to start a Monday...My First Giveaway

Baby E and I have a HUGE surprise for you.  We have our first giveaway!!  I'm so excited to tell you about it.  I've been thinking about it for a while and I finally decided to see what it would look like if I put my blog logo on a onsie so Baby E can share in the fun.  When I ordered his, I ordered a couple extra so I'm giving them away. 

All I ask is that you follow my blog or twitter (@momslrb) and leave me a comment letting me know that you subscribed or leave me a suggestion for how I can make the design better or other ideas for things that would be fun to have the logo on.  I'll do the drawing at the end of the day Thursday.

I'm also working out details to get other fun things to reward my friends (readers) with. Stay Tuned!

The Show Must Go On

About 6 years ago I bought my first house.  I remember being so excited to get into a space I could call my own.  My now husband went with me because I knew we'd be together.  He helped me pick out the house that would be our home.  To say this house has become part of our family is an understatement.  We have both put blood, sweat and tears into making this house a home.  I love it and all it's quirks.  That's why I actually shed some tears as I watched the realtor put the sign in our front yard yesterday.  "Coming Soon" (Officially for sale at the end of the month).

We need more space.  Now that we have a dog, baby and the two of us, we're squeezed.  So as much as I hate to admit it, it's time to move on.  I can only hope that this house goes to owners that will appreciate all that we've done and love it as much as we have.  

Just in case you don't believe that I finished that 1/2 (not sure why you wouldn't), that's me in the white t-shirt.  Yep, pretty dorky. 

Planning for Tri'ing

The January before I got pregnant I had put together a triathlon schedule that was going to break me in so many ways (ie physically and bank account).  Don't believe me, check out my mad excel skills.  I had it color coded by what I'd already registered for, what I needed to register for, I had my races categorized just like you're supposed to and my training plan was built around it.  It was a thing of beauty, all guiding me every so pragmatically towards my first year of competing in Olympic distance Tri.

I know what you're thinking..."I need to get a hold of that excel so I can plan my races that way."  If you want it, leave me a comment and I'll email it to you...FOR FREE!

Anyway, back to real purpose for my post.  Goals...any new mother will tell you it's difficult trying to adjust to life with a new baby.  I don't think I've stopped feeling that.  Everyday is a challenge.  A challenge to get everything done, to spend time with E, to a workout in, make dinner and do everything else so planning my race season has been the last thing I've spent much mental time thinking about..until now.

The goal I had in my mind before Baby E was born was to run a half within the first 6 months of giving birth.  I reached that by 1 week and  1 day.  The second I crossed the finish line, a little bit of confidence was restored.  I remembered what I'm capable of and that anything's possible, so then I got to thinking...what's next.  

So I've pulled out the old excel and am starting to track to new goals.  If I don't do anything else this year, I'd like to state for the record that I'm planning on doing 2 triathlons this year.  Which one's?  I don't know yet but overall, I'm looking to do 2 Halfs (one at the beginning and one at the end of the season) and 2 tris in the middle.  I think it's possible if I can just get in the pool.

Now it's time to start putting the training plan together.  I don't have a coach, I use books, I love the Triathlete Training Bible.  It gives me so many ideas on how to plan for and train for a triathlete of any distance.  

How do you plan your season?  How do you plan your training?  Any advice for getting pool time in with a baby?  That seems to be the one sticking point.  My gym doesn't have a pool.  I guess I could get a second membership somewhere that has one.  

I'm excited to get back into a routine.  Success is evident.  

My Favorite Running Things

I've been asked a lot lately for my recommendation of many MOM centric running related products so I thought I'd share my "Running Favorite Things" (similar to Oprah's Favorite Things). 

1. B.O.B. Stroller - Link - Anything that lets me combine two things I love, my son and running, is a favorite hands down.  After using it for a while, it's become like an extension of my arms.  It provides a smooth ride for Baby E and me.  It's easy to maneuver and steer even in the mall. 

2. Nursing capable Sports Bra - Link - This might be the best Sports Bra ever for nursing moms.  It provides plenty of support without being too restrictive.  I find myself panicking when one of the three that I have isn't clean and it's time for a workout. 

3. Nike + for iPod  or iPhone - Link - I have an IT background so anything digital interests me.  I have been using the Nike + pod with my iPod for almost 1 year and have logged over 1000 miles.  I know there are other tools out there but this one integrates so well into my day to day activities.  I love to look at my results posted here and it keeps me motivated to add another line to the graph. 

4. Nike Filament Women's Running Capris - Link - These are great for more modest moms that don't want a lot of fabric to potentially add to the chafing factor.  I have two pairs of these and will almost always try to grab them first.  They have a pocket on the back that's perfect to put a phone in or license and money.  They also have mesh cut outs that keep sweat away but let air flow. 

5. Balega Socks - Link - These are fantastic at keeping your foot dry and comfortable.  I ran a half in the pouring rain a couple years ago in these and my feet came out feeling better than I could've expected.  They are a little pricey at $10/ pair but I only buy them every now and then and save them for only running. 

6. Bose Ear Buds - Link - These are another splurge but WELL worth the investment.  I've had the pair I have now for over 2 years and they provide great sound while staying secure without feeling like your ear is about to explode.  They have an extra long cord though so I end up tucking it into the strap of my bra. 

7. Nike + Pod Sensor Pouch - Link - If you aren't a big fan of Nike running shoes but want to use the sensor, you can keep you sensor close by using a pouch that interlaces into your laces.  It's cheap and makes any shoe compatible with the system. 

8. Runners World Magazine - Link - I'm a life long subscriber to this.  It's one of the most informative magazines I get (and I get quite a few).  I read this cover to cover and usually end up cutting out articles for future reference.  They provide ton's of training advice and plans for getting you race ready.  

9. Gatorade - Link - Call me old fashioned but I LOVE Gatorade.  I could drink it all day every day especially the lemon lime flavor.  I don't like to drink it during runs unless I'm over 60 mins, then I only drink a very small amount but afterwards, I treat myself to a bottle that I've put in the freezer for a brief period of time.  It's like a Gatorade Slushy.  It's yummy.  I guess you know you're a true jock when you love Gatorade. 

10. My Local Running Store - Big River Running - Finding a local running store is like finding a built in support group that you can shop with.  They have all kinds of group events and they support local running groups.  It makes it really hard to not get involved.  BRR is great for that reason.  I love walking in there and feeling like I'm among friends and not just another random customer.  There are very few things that I feel are worth being loyal to and BRR is one of them. 

Gymboree!!!

Baby E got his first experience with Gymboree this past weekend because a friend of ours had a birthday party.  He might not be able to crawl yet but he sure did have a good time.  The "big kids" (i.e. 2-4) got to play on all the equipment and with the parachute while the babies got to hang out and play with more stationary toys.

It was a lot of fun.  I wish I had more time during the day to take him to things like this.  I'm hoping that this summer I can take some days off here and there to take him to the pool and to play dates.  I really want to see him start to interact with other kids.

13.1...Done and Done

My little running buddy didn't get to run with me, it was just too hot but I did finish 13.1 miles.  I was very proud given all the challenges a new mother faces.  I also hit my goal of finishing a half before Baby E turned 6 months.  It feels great to reach a goal.  Am I soar?  Absolutely.  I'm actually going to go to bed soon but I wanted to get this written.

As I started the run, I started thinking how crazy it was that I was doing this.  The temps had already climbed into the high 70s by 7:00 A.M. which makes it very dangerous to be running.  I finished but the race organizers decided to call it off about 2 hours in.  I'm lucky to have finished but many who trained for months weren't able to.  I would be devastated but it was for their own safety.  Hopefully they'll try it again.   When I finished, I could have filled a salt truck. I saw a lot of motivational running signs on the route and thought it would be fun to share some of my favorites.

1. Because 13.2 would be crazy.
2. Running is all mental and you all are crazy
3. Run like your Kenyan
4. Chafe now brag later
5. Don't worry, toenails are overrated
6. You should've taken a dump when you had the change
7. Your perspiration is my inspiration

Do you have any favorites?

I thought about trying to remember everything that went through my mind during the run so I could provide a step by step recount but I could sum it up in one word...."Ouch!"

I didn't take any pictures before and definitely not after but if I find one that the race organizers took I'll post it.  Otherwise, just know if I can do it you can too!!  Let's plan the next race.

Breastfeeding

When Baby E turned 6 months I was hoping I'd be able to write this big blog patting myself on the back for solely breastfeeding E for that entire time.  Unfortunately, that won't be happening.  Before my business trip last week we had to start supplementing because I started to fall behind E's demands.  I felt terrible at first but I've decided it's not worth worrying about.  I'm learning the art of balancing.  I can't do it all.  No matter how hard I try.  

Baby E doesn't care much for the formula but he only gets 2 ounces to 4 ounces of breastmilk.  I'm going to keep pumping and nursing him at night.  I know I should probably ween him off completely but I'm not ready to give it up.  I love the special moments we have at night.  It's a lot of work but it's all worth it.  I guess I'll save that decision for another day.  

Beautiful Baby

Back in early February we had a photographer friend come by and try to capture Baby E in some great poses.  I think she did a great job.  I'm still trying to figure out what to order but here are a few samples from our session.

Thanks Becki!  http://www.ieimages.com/

Bedtime Challenges, Runs and More

Life at Baby E's house has been so busy.  I've just gotten back from another business trip, we had a family member to leave us, a first birthday party for my niece and somewhere in there S and I have been trying to fit in some workouts.  VERY challenging.

I've been trying to finish a blog posting about adjusting to the new "normal" but I need time to really sit and finish it.  So until then, enjoy these musings about life in our house.

A few weeks ago my parents rented a place in downtown STL.  It's been great to have them around.  Today, I was able to take Baby E down there to hang out while I went running.  It was so great to be able to run outside.  Running downtown was great too for a change of scenery.  It really is a pretty town.  I just wish we could improve our image.  We're not really a booming metropolitan area.  Here are a couple pictures from their apartment.

I need to seriously decide if I'm going to try to run the Go! Half Marathon.  I haven't run anything longer than 7 miles and right now that doesn't feel like enough to make me think I can get through 13.  I just didn't get enough training in.

S and I have also been trying to ween Baby E off his current habit of nursing as he goes to sleep.  It makes it very hard for S to put him to sleep when I'm away.  So we're on day 3 of the "Modified" Ferber method.  We are trying to get him into a routine at bed of either a bath, or book, music and eating in his room with the lights down.  Then he gets put to bed groggy but not asleep.  Last night it took almost 2 hours for him to fall asleep.  We'd go in every 5 minutes to help calm him down but it was terrible.  I know this is the best thing for him and us but it's so tough.  I'm praying tonight is better.

Any advice?

On a lighter note, Baby E got to celebrate his cousins first birthday with her last night.  They both had so much fun.  Baby M got to try cake for the first time.  I'm pretty sure she loved it and she wanted to make sure everyone else got to try it too.