It’s been almost a full year since we introduced Zoey into this world.It has also been a full year since the pandemic started. I stopped working a full time to care for Zoey. I did it by choice and while it has been fun to take care of her, it’s been a transition to learn how to be a full time stay at home mom. The typical activities a new mom might have in her life would entail mom groups, play dates, frequent outings to socialize, story time at the library, etc. The pandemic halted most of this activities creating this environment of isolation while also learning to be creative in what feels like a shut down world.
Towards the beginning of the pandemic, I focused on learning how to manage Zoey’s needs while tending to the garden, caring for myself, and cooking. With cooking, I learned how to create sauces, some elaborate dishes, cookies, and lately crockpot recipes. Apart from cooking, I also have my husband supporting me to get back into shape. I started the journey so that my pelvic floor would get stronger as well as a desire to fit into my pre-pregnancy clothing. In October, I re-started with Orange theory, but really started dedicating time to Orange Theory in January. It’s now March and I can fit into my pre-pregnancy pants. I also think my pelvic floor is stronger because I can complete tasks like jumping or rocking Zoey without leaking. Exercising indoors during the pandemic involves wearing a mask. I recently ran an 8:57 mile indoors while wearing a mask. That’s a huge accomplishment considering I ran an 8:33 mile without a mask and before I was pregnant.
In March, Deuce started showing signs that were concerning such as less appetite, difficulty walking, and sensitive to touch. I took him to the vet and confirmed he was in pain. If you have seen some of the old posts on her, he was an active dog and that’s what he loved to do. He wasn’t able to active anymore, but his mind wanted to do it. I didn’t want him to suffer anymore and he was so close to 12 years old. We said goodbye to him, one of the harder events I have experienced. I think he lived a great life and loved that he helped to welcome our daughter into this world. With his exit from this world, I needed to find something that got me out of the house with Zoey because I felt too many memories of Deuce in the house. Everyday, those feelings of grief because less painful.
To ease this transition into a new life ( New mom, grieving a dog, pandemic lifestyle, etc), I started exploring a new/old hobby I could do with my family. So, we turned to biking. Biking with a baby trailer has made my legs stronger, but it also brings so much joy to my life. When there is good weather, I look forward to riding with my husband and Zoey. It’s something we haven’t done as a family much due to her age, my own strength, and just a previous belief that walking would be easier to manage. While walking was easier to manage, biking as a family is so much more exciting.
Building on this new passion, I have decided I want to complete a sprint triathlon. It will take place in June 2021 and it’s designed for beginners. I have the materials for biking and running, just needed the materials for Swimming. At this point, I learned that swimming gear is expensive and that trying on swim suits was a process of acknowledging everything my body has accomplished during and after pregnancy. My next step is I need to purchase more contacts and glasses. I also need to make time to visit the pool at least once a week and swim in the lake.
I will be using this blog to post updates about my training process, cooking, travel, and mom life updates. Despite everything that has happened in our world, life is good! My family is healthy and I am beyond grateful I get to do life with my husband and daughter.
Ali*G*5280 