Let’s be clear about the difference between “normal” and “common.” Dictionary.com defines "normal" as “conforming to the standard or the common type; usual; not abnormal; regular; natural.” When doctors say something is normal, the implication is that because it is “regular and natural” nothing can be done. Moms are resigned to accepting these discomforts- especially if their doctor is the only prenatal professional with whom they have contact. “Common” by comparison, means

This morning, my husband, Kev asked me a question that made me so happy! It wasn't "Hey, want to get away with me to Tahiti?" or even just, "Would you like your shoulders massaged?" I definitely love questions like that, but today he asked me something of a much different nature: "Can you give me three or four exercises to improve my body? Something specific so I have a goal to work towards?" This question absolutely thrilled me! I've joked that Kev is the poster child for how sitting all day will wreck your body. (In all fairness, I should note…

I'd like to introduce you to my friend Christina. We met six years ago at Sunnymont-Westside, the preschool I think you all should seriously consider for your children. It changed my life in so many positive ways. One of many is my dear group of friends, which includes Christina. We hike together, swap kids, double-date, commiserate, encourage each other, and geek out on make-up together (more on that later). We both LOVE ice cream and we both are sensitive to caffeine. Our kids are…

My students know that my philosophy of a comfortable, healthy pregnancy can be summed up in one word: movement. And I strive to embody this simple concept myself. My Fitbit confirms I walk a minimum of five miles daily and adds up my "active minutes." (Despite my aversion to the medical community over-quantifying things, I've become a little obsessed with counting each and every step. Thanks Fitbit!) However, movement is not the same as exercise and being "fit" does not necessarily mean our bodies are in optimal shape or pain-free.