Olympic Gold Medalist Dominique Moceanu is building her dream (family) team. She and her husband, Dr. Mike Canales, are expecting their second child in just a few days. Dominique spoke exclusively with Celebrity Parents Magazine about their 15-month-old daughter Carmen, gymnastics, and their full house.
Dominique, how are you feeling?
Overall, I feel great. I’m a little anxious, a little uncomfortable, but I definitely feel ready to have the baby! I’m ready for my little miracle.
Do you know the sex?
Yes, we know – but it’s a surprise for everyone else!
How is little Carmen doing?
She’s great! She’s so active and into everything. She is a lot of fun, and brightens up our world. Our lives revolve around her and her needs. I have a part-time nanny to watch Carmen while I’m in school.
What are you studying?
I’m in school full-time studying business management. My graduation is May 17th, and I can’t wait! It’s been a long journey but I didn’t give up. Obtaining my degree was very important to me. I will be the first in my family to graduate from college, and I’m proud of that.
How is your husband, Mike, doing?
Mike is doing well. He loves being a daddy and he’s a real family man. He is very excited about the new baby. He feels, “The more, the better!”
Do you think you will have more children?
Absolutely! Mike’s mother is one of eleven children, so he had aunties around all the time. It’s wonderful to have big family functions. And I love the idea of having a lot of little ones around. Having a full house is so special to us.
How has this pregnancy been?
It has been completely different from the first one. I had the flu twice when I was pregnant with Carmen; I ended up going to the ER for dehydration! Thankfully, this pregnancy has been much smoother. On the other hand, I couldn’t take a nap when I needed one! Sometimes I find myself barely able to keep my eyes open! Like all mothers, though, you find a way to manage, and I’ve found a good balance. I have a great nanny, Mike is very hands-on, and we just make it work.
Did you have any weird food cravings with this pregnancy?
Not really, because I let myself have what I wanted. I eat everything but in moderation. It’s not good to ever feel too restricted, and I am a strong believer in eating healthy during your pregnancy. We have a lot of fruit in the house, and Carmen loves to eat fruit with me.
What does she like?
She loves blackberries, grapes and clementines. She will make noises to let me know she wants more. If I don’t give it to her fast enough, she gets mad!
What are your plans for after the baby is born?
I would like to start working on my own apparel line, geared towards gymnastics. Ideas are stirring in my brain, but after the baby is born and I graduate, I will have more time to dedicate to my business. For now, I am just dreaming of this baby, and thinking how cute it will be to see my two children together. They’ll be best friends.