Olympian Kerri Walsh: How I Juggle Babies and Beach Volleyball
Beach volleyball player Kerri Walsh has never been one to shy away from flexing her prowess in the sports arena. With teammate Misty May Treanor, she took home gold at the 2004 Athens Olympics and at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Off the sand, she's mom to son Joseph, 1, with husband, Casey Jennings, and gave birth to baby boy #2, Sundance, born May 19th. We caught up with Walsh two days before she gave birth to dish on raising an infancy while pregnant with another, her super-easy pregnancy, and growing up an Irish twin.
How have you survived being pregnant while taking care of a baby?
It's been surprisingly easy being pregnant while raising such a young child. Joey is, plain and simply, an easy kid. Plus, Daddy is amazing and I've been blessed with good genes as far as how pregnancy affects me. I've literally had three or four "bad" days out of nine months and I'm so grateful. I can't imagine if that weren't the case! This pregnancy has flown by because I've been so busy and having so much fun with Joey! I've stayed busy, stayed fit, and have really enjoyed the whole process.
What's your parenting philosophy?
I don't think I have developed it yet. So far it's been all about showing love and being consistent with what we ask of our child. Joey's a great kid, so we must be doing something right - actually, no, I can't take any credit. He's good all on his own!
How do you deal with a public tantrum?
Joey hasn't had his first public tantrum yet - lucky me! When he does have a little fit, it's all about distraction and misdirection. He's almost one, so I think we'll milk this tactic as long as we can!
What's been your biggest parenting challenge?
I think it's right around the corner! I'm 38 weeks pregnant with baby boy number two, and in no time I'll be trying to figure out how to manage everything that comes with being a mother to two children. Every schedule and routine we have right now with Joey will likely get thrown off kilter, which scares me a bit, but also excites me. Growing up as an "Irish twin" (Two kids born within 12 months of each other), I always wanted that for my kids - now we'll see how it goes!
What's your favorite meal to make for your children?
We're still on baby food. That's all about to change, though. Joey is definitely ready to eat what the big kids eat.
How does Kerri plan to do for "me" time with two young children? Read the rest of our interview with the new mom.
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