my weight gain toolbox ;)

When it comes to weight gain, I don't need a toolbox.  I'm so good at gaining weight that a toolbox is not necessary. ;)

I'm joking, but if you're new here, you may need a recap.  For the past few years I was on my way to losing excess weight and I was closer to being within a healthy BMI.  Before I got pregnant in December, I was 1 pound away from that goal.  I had a variety of tools in My Weight Loss Toolbox.  Exercising and eating well were are indispensable tools.  Now that I am pregnant my goal is no longer to lose weight (for the time being).  My goal is to be healthy throughout this pregnancy by remaining active (appropriate for pregnancy) and gaining a sensible amount of weight.

I'll admit that it is hard not to let my guard down completely, to eat what I want, and veg out.  I am in my second trimester, my energy has returned, and I want to make all around good choices for my health and the baby's health.

As far as activity, I am still going to that Zumba class by my house twice a week for an hour at a time.  I've lowered my intensity significantly.  I also plan to walk much more in the weeks to come.   (Above is the picture of Addy pausing during today's walk to pick flowers).  Swimming this summer sounds like a must, as well.  I did a bit of yoga in the beginning of the pregnancy, but I didn't love it.  I am open to activity suggestions if you have them!

As far as eating, I am still tracking what I eat.  (You may remember I was on Weight Watchers, and soclose to goal weight and becoming a lifetime member).  I find that tracking keeps me mindful of what I eat.  I took my doctor's orders, and I've also personalized a plan on choosemyplate.gov.  I am choosing my meals and snacks by checking off my daily requirements of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, protein, and liquids.  For example, I ran to Target today to find some new workout pants (the old ones were getting kinda snug ;)  before I went to pick up the girls from school.  I wanted to grab a snack before I left.  I looked at my food journal and realized that I was lacking protein for the day.  I bypassed the small carrot cake calling my name, got a baggie of cashews and small container of pineapple (I shared with my walking companion, as well ;).

For the time being, like I said, I won't be attempting to lose weight at all, but I will update with any new activities, recipes, health tips, etc. related to pregnancy.

Want to know more about My Weight Loss Toolbox?  Start here, and continue here.