Charleston Recap!

In October we took a long weekend trip down to Charleston, South Carolina for our Anniversary (in September).  We were looking forward to some great food, lots of walking and beautiful scenery.  Unfortunately our trip was cut short due to me getting a really bad flu-like virus and coming home early but the time we did get there was wonderful. 

Roof top views of Charleston from the Pavilion Bar

Walking around the battery

We unfortunately didn't get to do any historic plantation tours (well, maybe my hubs didn't mind skipping that!) because of cutting our trip short, but we did make it over to Folly Beach to relax on the sand.  I hope to make it back here again soon! 

Last trimester!!

We're on our way to the third trimester already! How crazy is that? 

There's no better way to finish off my 2nd trimester and welcome in my third trimester than subbing two classes at the gym this weekend. We had a great Abs & Glutes class followed by Strength Circuit. It was great to get some strength training in on the weekend. I definitely started to fatigue sooner than pre pregnancy, but had a great time! 

This morning I hit the trail with my friend and her sweet five month old son. We had a great time talking about all things new mom. Her little guy was perfect for the whole 4 miles. :)

This evening I took Georgia out for a quick 3 mile run before it got too dark. Now that I've slowed down I can run with her again which I've really missed the past couple of years. 

I've been so blessed to be able to keep running and working out through my pregnancy. I've definitely made modifications and listen to my body even more than I did before since its way more important now and I'm grateful for this healthy prenatal experience! 

Half Marathoning for Two!

Virginia Beach Rock N Roll Half Marathon is in the books! This was my fourth half, but my first one pregnant and it went really great! The weather was cloudy with an occasional drizzle so it was pretty perfect. There had been 15-25mph winds all weekend but luckily they died down for most of the race. 

I made it a priority to fuel really, really well since the other times that I haven't have led to miserable races. Being 15 weeks pregnant made it even more crucial that I ate well. 

Getting drizzled on at the start! 

Mile 12! 

One medal for me and one for baby! 

I stopped my GPS timer while in long lines to pee (twice!! #pregnancybladder....) so this is more accurate than my chip time. Well off my previous half marathon times (more than 30 min!!) for good reason. I took it nice and slow and felt great the whole way. My knees have been cranky the last two days but not as bad as previously. My back is a bit sore which I haven't had happen before but nothing some foam rolling can't help. 

So What's next? 

I have a 5k this coming Saturday to support my college roommate who lost her daughter in July to Dravet's Syndrome. I'm taking it easy this week just teaching Kettlebells today and then probably a pool run on Thursday.  

Next up on the race schedule is the Marine Corps 10k in late October in DC. Other than that my plan is to just keep moving as much as possible and staying healthy and safe. :) 

My sister in law gave me a prenatal Pilates DVD that I am eager to start doing and I'd love to be more deliberate about incorporating yoga. 

I'm so thankful that I was able to do this race and have been able to continue running this far. 

12 Miler

12 mile long run this past Sunday and I finally got my fueling better!! I had breakfast (cereal with almond milk, Im obsessed) about 2 hours before my run then a PB&J about 1/2 hour before my run. I ran the first 4.5 on my own with negative splits (accidentally), had some water and an energy gel packet while meeting up with my running buddy, and then ran 4.5 more with her.  I then did 3 on my own after that and some more water! I took my water with me on the last three miles and ran more slowly since it was a lot more humid by then.

My new shoes from Ragged Mountain Running Shop were great.  Im so happy with them!!

3 weeks til the Half Marathon!! Woohoo!!

Monday Monday...

Monday came quickly and I taught my Beginner Kettlebell class. I took it fairly easy since it was the day after my long run, which is important for recovery. 

Stretching it out with legs up the wall feels so good! I also did a lot of hamstring and glute stretches during Stretch class. 

One of my favorite summer snacks- peaches!!

Happy Trails

The new trails around the Ragged Mountain Dam are great. A bit overgrown from summer but really pretty. I saw a few deer and lots of small critters. 

One of my other favorite places to go for walks and runs is Ivy Creek natural area. Beautiful, serene and uncrowded trails! 

Why I run outside

Beautiful long run views:

Quality time with my best little running buddy 

Fauna big and small

Which do you prefer? Running inside or out?