My name is Leah and I am so thankful to be this month’s Mom of the Month.

My motherhood journey began in March 2022 when I gave birth to my first son, James. Unfortunately, James unexpectedly passed away. After lots of testing, we were told there was a 50% chance that any of our future babies would also pass away. My husband and I decided to move forward with IVF for genetic testing in order to grow our family and lessen those odds. After a couple rounds of egg retrievals we transferred embryo number 10 in the summer of 2023 and he stuck! In March 2024, we were blessed with our second perfect little boy, Booker.

I took my first FIT4MOM class as soon as I was cleared by my doctor after having Booker! I had been following FIT4MOM on instagram all throughout my pregnancies, waiting to have an earth side baby to go to classes with. The support and connections I have made within this group are more than anything I expected. I was so worried about my mental health during my maternity leave, but having a group of amazing moms to workout with on an almost daily basis has been amazing for my mental health. I love that Booker is able to connect and interact with other babies of all ages, all while being outside in beautiful sunny San Diego!

Although I grew up overseas, I am originally from Ohio. That is where I met my husband, JB. We were on our university swim team together. After graduation, JB joined the military. That took us to New Orleans and now San Diego. I always taught elementary school but when we moved to San Diego I got a job teaching middle school special education. My maternity leave ends this month but I have decided to stay home with my little guy. Being a stay at home mom was never in my plans; I loved going to work and seeing all my students and coworkers. I never thought I would enjoy staying at home with a baby. The friendships and connections I have found at FIT4MOM has totally changed my outlook on being a stay at home mom! Booker and I are out of the house daily going to workouts, play groups, the zoo or coffee after class, all with other FIT4MOM ladies. We love this community and are so blessed to have a tribe of amazing mamas to do motherhood with. Thank you all for being part of our journey!