quickie

quick update:
I managed to get in a few good pool runs last week. I was pleased with the effort and the timing it took to get into the pool without a lot of hub-bub. I was disappointed in my level of fitness and how quickly I got tired.

My test run over the weekend went well. I only had small twinges of pain... but no real pain. My left knee flared up with what I belive is "runner's knee." I've had it before and can only hope it's short lived.

Encouraged by my weeekend success, I ran again yesterday. Mistake. While not experiencing full shin splint pain, I had more twinges. Today, I have some stiffness and a few knots have returned. My left knee is screaming at me. I'm icing both as heavily as I can. I made the decision, even before the run, to continue with my PT for a while. If I'm having twinges, I'm running a risk of re-injuring myself. As seen with yesterday's run. The stupid part of myself wants to say that the part where I felt no pain.... just the pure deliciousness of a good solid run.... was worth it. I'm just not sure that it was now that I'm off running for another few days.

Those two runs made me remember.... and I miss running even more now. I felt like myself again.

It's back to the pool for me.

testing...

The cough subsides more each day and the mucus truck is bailing. I'm still battling full force... it seems the infection is finally on the run,though! Mucinex, antibiotics, vitamins, and copious amounts of fluids seem to be working. And sleep.... I succumbed to extra sleep halfway through the week when I felt so terrible I could do nothing else.

Today, I have hope. I did my PT exercises as instructed (still feel like I'm forgetting one... but, I did all the rest). I'm going to force myself to endure an entire yoga routine. Typically, I flop about halfway through despite all my good intentions. We'll see how it goes. We'll do the short practice in hopes of giving my body a higher chance for success. Tomorrow, I'm hoping to do some pool running (weather permitting).

This week, my goal is to feel things out. I want to see how recovered I am before I dive head first back into training. Of course, there is no way I can remove from the back of my brain all of the miles I've missed and the miles I should be running this week. Let's just hope that I can get back there fairly quickly. (I really need to before I hit a full fledged panic about finishing this race--- that's given I can get my fundraising together. Ack!)

obstacles

I keep running into obstacles. In life and in running. After my first round of PT last week, I felt good and confident that I would be able to overcome my shin splints... and soon be on my way to training the way I need to be. Then came Saturday. First, allergies. Then, nausea. When the nausea passed, there was general fatigue and a feeling of unwell. And a sinus headache. By Saturday night, I had a fever and was doing everything in my power to a) get some sleep and b) break the fever. The fever broke and I survived Sunday with little more complications. Only exhaustion and a greater feeling of unwell remained as evidence of the previous night's battle.

By Monday, I did not hesitate to call the doctor. Now, it's a full blown sinus infection with ear infections right behind it. With antibiotics, vitamins, and Mucinex, and enough water to fill an ocean I'm battling it with all I've got. I've been transformed into a lethargic, sniffling mouth breather.

I got through yesterday's PT just fine. I was encouraged to find they agreed with my decision to lay off until I felt better. Meanwhile, I'm battling my inner overachiever. I desperately want to hop in the pool and do some pool running. For now, though, I'm doing good to simply exist behind my corporate world desk.

Here's hoping this weekend will bring a celebration of Independence of more than one variety. Sparklers, anyone?

bite the bullet

I bit it. I scheduled my first 2 PT sessions. I can't keep limping around telling myself it'll get better. It just isn't working. Here's hoping that with my own stubborn diligence at home combined with the PT, it'll be a fast recovery.

On another note, I'm about to have words with my apartment management. Our community pool closes at 10 pm. I understand they've had problems with after hours debauchery and noise. Last night I fully intended to do some pool running after it got dark, when the pool is less populated. About 9:30 I roll up to the pool, giving myself 30 minutes to get in a "run" only to discover big yellow signs and a padlock on the gate.

POOL CLOSED.

What?!

Way to notify residents of your last minute change to policy. I understand the problem, but what about your good tenants that understand the rules and schedule that into their life? At least notify us so we can plan accordingly. I'm cranky. I admit it. We'll find out their unofficial hours today and attempt another go tonight. Maybe.

I did yoga instead. Iced my shins. Soaked in some epsom salts. Went to bed.

***UPDATE: They closed the pool due to an issue with the pool chemicals. I got upset over nothing. It would have been nice to inclue that in the big yellow sign, but hey, it's cool.