Surgery. That’s the theme for this month’s Ultimate Coffee Date. After reading here, head on over to visit Coco and Deborah, our awesome link-up hosts.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
…that coffee is in short supply over here. I’m not able to get out on my own, and I don’t want to bother Mr PugRunner with extra outings. He is truly amazing, taking over everything and taking care of me, as well. I loved that he thought enough to bring me a surprise after 9Round this week.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
That I miss the puggies. They don’t hang out on our second floor for a few reasons, including poor vision for getting back downstairs. My bed is the most comfortable place for me right now, so I’ve been upstairs. When I do venture downstairs, they are both completely freaked out by my splint, so won’t hang out by me. The other night, Mr PugRunner brought Delilah up so I could snuggle her. She’s terrified of heights and hates being on the bed, but she must have known I needed her, so tolerated some really sweet cuddle time.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
That I am going crazy being cooped up. My most intense exercises are literally booty scooting up and down, and balancing in the shower. It is awful to go from being super active to doing almost nothing. Worse, I’m exhausted by that that almost nothing, which is so demoralizing. A friend donated some dumbbells to me so I can start doing actual workouts next week and I cannot wait to do something to rebuild my muscles.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
That my surgery is today and I’m really nervous. I am such a control freak and this is a situation where I have zero control. Obviously, I didn’t sleep much last night. This morning, I’m choking down a black coffee (because I need a little caffeine), and trying to keep my mind off the wait (and the fact that I am hangry). I go in at 11:15 to get started.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
That I’m having a hard time getting in the holiday spirit. I mean, I can’t go anywhere. I can’t bake or cook. I’m missing parties and all the great events around town. The boys did some of the outside lights yesterday and my parents are coming to decorate the tree tomorrow, but it’s not the same. I just want little man to have such a great holiday so I need to snap out of it and figure out ways I can make that happen.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
That I am so grateful for everyone. I hate to be sappy, but it’s amazing how many people we have pulling for us. From our neighbors, to my regular readers, to friends and friends of friends who have reached out. We have been wrapped with so much love and support, and it’s just staggering. Sometimes, this world is almost too awful to bear, but then I look around and see so much love and it clears away all the bad. So thank you. You’re the best.
This is a Sponsored Post. I was compensated for my promotion of Basic Invite and their holiday product line. All opinions are my own.
Welcome to December, the time of year when we find ourselves looking for the cutest holiday cards to send our warmest wishes.
Even though we may get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season, sending holiday cards remains an honored tradition worth remembering. ‘Tis the season for spreading good wishes and cheer, and our family is all in.
We Adore Our Holiday Traditions
We string lights on the tree and hang the wreath on our door. With careful measurements, we bake cookies from recipes passed down through the generations (yes, we lick the spoon). There’s shopping and wrapping, and the annual screening of our favorite holiday movies, with hot cocoa of course. Extra marshmallows.
We take part in a White Elephant exchange with good family friends, with laughs and fun. On Christmas Eve, we indulge in a Chinese food buffet, before leaving cookies for Santa and spreading the lawn with carrots and oats for the reindeer.
These are the traditions we treasure and share.
The holidays can be frantic, but there’s a certain deliberateness to the time we spend on our family’s customs. It’s all part of what makes our holidays special and we don’t ever want to lose that.
Sending holiday cards is one of those traditions. Distance between loved ones is never a problem when you send those holiday greetings. Whether offering an annual update or sending an invitation to a festive event, we love gorgeous, quality cards.
Keeping It Simple, Beautiful + Totally You
There’s a certain comfort to sorting through family photos, arranging them into collage templates and mailing your favorite memories to loved ones, near and far. It’s a daunting task sometimes. After all, how do we choose our favorite moments from so many perfect moments? And how to pick the card that best expresses our hearts?
Basic Invite solves that problem! Not only do they boast a huge selection of some of the cutest holiday cards on the market, but their designs are totally customizable. We could choose our favorite look and easily upload our own photos and add or change the text. There’s the option to change each and every color in the design, taking customization to a whole new level. For a small upcharge, we could add flat or raised foil for a little extra pizzaz. It’s a game changer.
Details make everything more special, and I love the ability to select different patterns for the backs of the cards, as well as different color envelopes (40, to be exact). Cards from Basic Invite truly showcase our family’s personality and vibe, and they do it all quite reasonably and with a super quick shipping turnaround.
To make things even easier at this hectic time of year, Basic Invite offers an address capturing service that allows customers to share a link on most social media platforms to request their friends and family’s addresses. The addresses are stored in your account and can be selected during the design process. Recipient address printing is available on all card orders at no additional cost! That makes things infinitely easier this time of year.
Not Just For Kids!
Cards are a perfect way to share photos of the kiddos and family, but there may be other family members and moments that need attention, too.
That’s right, pet lovers, you better not pout! Not only does Basic Invite offer the cutest holiday cards, they’ve got you covered with these precious dog Christmas cards, too (great options for kitties, as well!). Your favorite four-legged fur-babies deserve to to send their “howliday” love, too!
And before I forget, Basic Invite is offering an incredible discount. Save 15% on your order of custom cards by using code 15FF51 at checkout!
What are your favorite holiday traditions?
What style do you love to share with your holiday cards: formal and posed or more candid and casual?
As the holiday shopping continues, I’d love to share with you my 2019 Runner’s Gift Guide! As a runner, I find runners fairly easy to shop for, but if you’re having a hard time finding just the right gift, stay tuned.
Stocking Stuffers
Everyone loves stocking stuffers: those sweet little goodies can be as simple as a piece of candy, or as extravagant as a race entry. Stockings can be just as fun for the giver as the recipient – I know I love finding great treasures to hide in that plush velvet sock.
Stockings are a great place to hide fuel, socks, ornaments, and other little running needs. The athlete in your life will appreciate necessities, and creative accessories alike.
Gifts For Her…
For the female runner in your life, check out this range of gifts. Impress her with some technical gear like this ugly sweater long-sleeve shirt, or thrill her with a fun trucker hat to keep her cool on long runs. If she loves bling, there are plenty of options for motivational jewelry. Is she all about the cute running costumes? We’ve got that, too with sparkly skirts and creative tanks.
Gifts For Him…
Next up in our Runner’s Gift Guide are gifts for the guy in your life. Mr PugRunner is notoriously difficult to buy for, but that hasn’t stopped me from finding fabulous presents. Every runner loves and needs great socks, and Stance is famous for having a variety of basic and fun styles. Pint glasses and warm beanies are also fun ways to say “I love you, have a great run!” Holiday giving is a great time to stock up on things like compression socks, and there are plenty of fun options for those as well.
Gift For Anyone…
And finally, we come to gifts for any runner. There are so many great goodies on the market – from super thoughtful to super practical. Tell your runner you’re thinking of their safety with a little something from Road ID or a visibility system. Is your runner friend working on a new training plan or struggling to find motivation? A training journal might be just the thing. And who doesn’t love the commemoration of a great running accomplishment? The Marathoner Map is always a winner.
Happy Shopping!
We hope this Runner’s Gift Guide helps you find the perfect something for some-runner you love. Have fun shopping and let us know what treasure you find!
Please visit these lovely bloggers, plus check out some of the other blogs on the link-up, and don’t forget to share your own post, as well!
I’m also linking up with Wendy and her Gift Guide. There are some truly great suggestions here, so check them out, as well!
As a runner, what’s your favorite gift to give?
What’s your favorite running gift to receive?
*There are no affiliatelinks in this post. Selected items are based on personal preference and experience and I have not been compensated in any way for this post. All opinions are my own.
An injured athlete needs time to recover – what else is there to say?
My progress for 2019 has come to a screeching halt, and that’s all there is to that. This past week was dedicated to relearning everything I thought I knew about mobility and friends, it is exhausting.
Sunday – rest
I spent a lot of Sunday in bed. This will become bit of a recurring theme, but apparently, rest is the number one thing I should be doing right now. We used the day to get accustomed to the crutches, getting around and getting comfortable with my leg elevated.
Monday – rest
The weirdest thing about this whole experience is not setting an alarm. Since I’m not having the easiest time sleeping at night, I don’t have to get up in the morning. Not that I would be much help to anyone if I was awake. Little man and Mr PugRunner handled the morning routine like champs.
I was really uncomfortable all day and had to make an adult decision to cancel the VIP Media Tour of the Nights of Lights. I was really determined to make it happen, but I got very nervous about what to wear (the splint is huge, so I am limited to dresses and PJ pants), getting in and out of the trolley, and going to the bathroom. In the end, I couldn’t work up the courage to get out the door, and sent my regrets.
Tuesday – rest
Mr PugRunner was finally able to get my appointment at the orthopedic surgeon. It wasn’t the same one we originally thought, but Mr PugRunner was perfectly satisfied with the new one’s credentials.
Our meeting was fairly quick – we just had to confirm what we already knew and get scheduled for surgery. With the holidays, the surgeons are all slammed, but they set to work and we should get a date soon.
We also got a form for a temporary parking placard and Mr PugRunner asked if I was up to a trip to the DMV. Since we were already out, I said sure, and we handled that.
By this point, I was exhausted, so we picked up lunch and I took a nap. After all, it was time for my next disappointment: we had tickets to see Wicked that night. Once again, I was all hyped up to make it happen. We arranged for seats in an accessible area and I was ready, but the closer we got to the time, the less confident I felt. The theater is modern but crowded. What if someone hit into my extended leg? Again, how was I going to manage the restroom with the wheelchair? What if I couldn’t get comfortable?
In the end, I asked Mr PugRunner to take little man. I was more upset that I missed little man’s first live theater experience than missing the show (I’ve seen Wicked before), but they ended up having a good time.
Wednesday – rest
Little man had the day off, so he helped Mr PugRunner around the house and got some playtime with his buddies. The weather has been gorgeous, so it’s nice he was able to get some fresh air.
Thursday – rest
Happy Thanksgiving.
It was really, really hard not waking up and toeing the start line of the Turkey Trot for which we were registered. I thought maybe I would be able to go and cheer on the runners, but when the time came, it wasn’t in me. I will get there.
Our original plan was to host brunch with my parents and then have dinner with our friends down the road. Brunch was unceremoniously canceled, but we did keep our plans for Friendsgiving. I got the best view: watching the sweet baby.
I was able to hang in for about two and a half hours. After that point, my heel and ankle started feeling super swollen and constricted and I just wanted my bed. Mr PugRunner took me home, but we were able to leave little man to continue playing with his buddies. I am so grateful for such awesome friends.
Friday – rest
So. For months we have been looking forward to a family trip to Universal. The departure day arrived, and the honest truth was that I couldn’t go. The ortho said I could, if I sat in the back of the car with my leg elevated for the drive, and we planned to bring the crutches and the wheelchair for options. I was ok with hanging in the hotel room or waiting with a book while the guys checked out rides, but the reality was, I just didn’t have the strength.
That being said, I wanted them to go. They have been working so hard to take care of me and it was so important to me that they get a break. We compromised that they would spend one night away, and my parents would come here to watch me.
The truth is, it was super difficult sending them off. Deep down, I was crazy jealous of the fun they were going to have. It’s shameful, but these are the deep dark confessions of an injured athlete. I loved the pictures they sent back, though.
My positive vibes also took a bit of a detour. I gave up sappy Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel, delved into some true crime documentaries and started coloring in my new book.
I can’t be sunshine all the time.
Saturday – rest
My mom left early to go back to work and my stepdad hung out until the boys returned. There was awful traffic, so it was a long day for everyone.
In the evening, Mr PugRunner got me out of the house. We have neighbor who decorates his entire property with incredible lights set to music. Saturday night was the kickoff for Christmas, and he invited the neighbors out for the grand light-up, complete with Santa. It was good to be outside for a bit, and I got to chat with some friends I hadn’t seen.
We also welcomed back Sparkle, our holiday elf. Wouldn’t you know it? She has a broken leg, too! She traveled to us with a cast and in a measuring cup so little man can move her without touching. She won’t be engaging in her regular shenanigans this year, but she’s watching all the same.
Goal-getting
The injured athlete’s goals are just a bit different. For this December, I plan on putting everything into my recovery. No matter how much it hurts, no matter how hard, once the surgeon says I’m ready to start that PT, I’m going in 110%.
I also plan to get myself out of the house a little bit more. I’ve been afraid of things like falling, or hitting my leg, or embarrassing myself in some way. Staying home is just safer, and that’s no way to live.
Nutrition is the most on point it’s ever been. Since I can’t really get in the kitchen by myself, I’m not snacking or randomly eating too much. Of course, we are getting some delicious meals from friends, and I am enjoying those so much.
I have no excuse not to read, now. So I am working through The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. It’s terrifying and fascinating all at once.
Will you be joining me at any of the Best Damn Race Ambassador Crew! Don’t forget to register with my BDR discount code RUNSWITHPUGS to save on any distance at any BDR location!
That I am still very much in shock that I broke my leg. We are seven days in, and it’s still such a blur. I’ve had a few outings, but I’m spending the majority of my days in bed or on the couch. Even simple trips to the bathroom, 20 feet away, are exhausting. This is not how I roll.
I runfess…
That I am scared. I am scared of surgery (it’s a control freak thing), and the new pain on the horizon. I am used to the current pain so it’s manageable, but I know it’s going to hurt more and differently. Knowing myself, I think I’ll be able to handle it better if it’s a means to a productive end, but I’m not excited about it.
That I am a little bitter and jealous, which is NOT a good look. I am so happy for all my friends who are crushing their goals and running their hearts out at races, but I really wish I was there with them. Part of the “adjusting fitness goals” plan is getting out to upcoming events to volunteer and support, even if I can’t walk or run. I was hoping to do it yesterday at the Turkey Trot I was supposed to run, but I wasn’t mentally there yet.
That I am a little worried about lapsing back into disordered eating. I have been “recovered” for over a decade, but now that I can’t do the kind of physical activity to which I’m accustomed, I’m terrified of packing on pounds. My appetite has been nonexistent since the accident (I’m sure because of the medication), but I have been trying to eat the meals that are served, and not worry about numbers on the scale. I hate even admitting this is on my mind, but I also strive to be honest with my readers. It’s just another layer to a nasty situation. The goal is to get healthy and strong again, and adjusting fitness goals means I have to keep that in mind.
That I am about to get very friendly with Pinterest and YouTube for upper body workouts. Currently, my daily exercise consists of getting myself up and down the stairs (triceps and glutes are on point, friends). We have a “Buy Nothing Project” in my area, so I plan to see if anyone is gifting heavier dumbbells to help me out. I can lift as long as I’m not putting any pressure on my injured leg, so might as well put my spare time to use.
I runfess…
That I’m not much of a Black Friday shopper. I don’t like shopping in general, so being out and about with all the crowds just isn’t my jam. However, I guess since I’m sidelined, I might as well check out some of the cyberdeals and order presents, since I’m obviously not going to be able to go out and get them myself.
We have had a rough few days. Even though the events of our lives haven’t gone according to plan, I have to remember to be thankful and grateful, and that we are truly blessed.
I am grateful for my family. Mr PugRunner and little man are the lights of my life and while they can drive me crazy sometimes (right now, they are arguing about Hot Pockets???), I adore them. When the going gets tough, they are always right there.
My parents are incredible. No matter what we need, they are there. I can’t believe how fortunate we are to have them in our lives.
Our friends are beyond. While I always knew we acquaint ourselves with fabulous people, this last week has shown me how incredibly blessed we are.
No matter what, we have each other, and at the end of the day, that’s what counts.
We hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday weekend! Thank you for being readers of this little corner of the internet.
By now, you’ve probably heard that I’ve fallen into the category of “injured runner.” Literally. I took a tumble on Saturday that led to two broken bones and a complete upheaval of my life.
We are on Day 5 of this condition, with many more days to come. Being an injured runner, especially a severely injured one, was 100% NOT the plan, but these are the cards I’ve been dealt. Now, I have to find a way to deal with it.
So… What happened?
On Saturday morning, I woke up with my alarm at 5:25AM and dressed for my morning run. I brushed my teeth, tightened my ponytail and headed for the stairs, as I normally do. The next thing I knew, my heel slipped on the carpeted step and I went down on my right foot in an explosion of splintering pain.
I remember screaming for Mr PugRunner. In those first minutes, I hung on the railing of the steps, looking at my rapidly swelling ankle and the surreal bulges out of each side. I couldn’t catch my breath, couldn’t stop crying and couldn’t stop thinking “maybe it’s ok”.
It was not ok.
Obviously, we had to go to the hospital. I scooted on my rear down to the bottom of the first flight of stairs, and at this point, S showed up. Mr PugRunner was rushing around trying to get everything for the drive, but we quickly realized that I was hyperventilating too badly to get out to our car. My blood pressure crashed and I thought I was going to vomit from the pain. S kept talking to me and we decided that we needed to call 911.
It was so embarrassing to have the emergency vehicles pull up to the house. Thankfully, they didn’t use their sirens, so we didn’t end up as a curiosity on our neighborhood Facebook page. The paramedics assessed my situation and transferred me to the stretcher, stabilized my leg, and loaded me into the ambulance. S said she would follow the ambulance while Mr PugRunner took care of the dogs so I wouldn’t be alone, and I was grateful for that.
The ambulance ride was mostly uneventful. The EMTs hooked me up to a heart rate monitor, kept the ice pack on my leg and led me through my medical history. When we arrived at the ER, it was blessedly quiet and I was wheeled right into a room. My first nurse checked me in, ordered an X-ray and and IV, and turned me over to the next shift.
The X-ray showed that I had broken two bones, which set my heart rate off again. I was still in so much shock with all the adrenaline rushing through me, and the hospital staff was way more concerned with getting me calmed down than anything else.
I will spare you the photos of my leg, but by this point my foot and ankle were swollen beyond belief. The ER doctor introduced himself and explained to me what was going on. He said that I would need surgery but was too swollen for them to proceed, so they were going to do a twilight sedation, manipulate my bones while I was under and then get me set up in a splint until I could meet with an orthopedic surgeon.
I remember a second doctor coming in whose focus would be on my pain management and heart rate, followed by a team of about 10 people (nurses, med students and assorted staff). My anxiety kicked in and I remember crying because it made me so nervous to see everyone coming just for me. They were absolute pros, though, and got me under, set properly, and back out of sedation in just one shot. I don’t remember a thing.
Hurry up and wait.
Saturday and Sunday passed in a bit of a haze. I spent a lot of time in bed and some on the couch because I just couldn’t get comfortable. My neighbor set up a meal train for us so we wouldn’t have to worry about food in the weeks ahead. Another friend found a wheelchair we could borrow to help make getting around easier (I hate the crutches).
The orthopedic surgeon weighs in.
After some miscommunication and runaround, Mr PugRunner brought me to the orthopedic surgeon’s office on Tuesday morning. Yes, I’m wearing pajama pants. That’s all I can fit over the splint.
We met with Dr. S, and found him very informative and straightforward. I appreciate kindness and compassion from medical staff, but most of all, I want someone who is knowledgeable and honest, even if that means hard truths this injured runner doesn’t want to hear.
Dr. S checked out my X-rays, and opened the splint. He confirmed the breaks in my tibia and fibula, and was very pleased with the look of what the ER staff did with setting and stabilizing those bones.
The next steps.
The plan is that I will be scheduled for surgery late next week, schedule-permitting. Dr. S will open incisions in both sides of my ankle. He will place two screws in one side, and a plate with screws in the other. This hardware is intended to last for my lifetime and he assured me that he places it in such a way I will never know it’s there.
Instead of a hard cast, I will be put back in a splint, similar to what I’m wearing now. When he removes the stitches, about a week after the surgery, if he likes what he sees, he will put me in a walking cast and I can start PT. While he can’t guarantee my leg will be the same as it was, Dr S. said I should be back to running in four to six months. It’s not the news I wanted, but I’ll be back.
Adjusting to the new normal.
I honestly thought the doctors would splint me up, hand me the crutches, and send me on my way. How hard could it possibly be to go ahead and resume my life?
Spoiler alert: that is NOT how it’s going. Guys, this is hard. Everything is hard. It’s an effort to sit down, to get up, to go up and down the stairs. The smallest things are exhausting. I can manage the crutches (although I am terrified of slipping). I need help getting dressed because I can’t bend manipulate my leg the right way. I’ve figured out how to bathe and how to wash my hair, although I need supervision for both. Driving is a big fat no, but we did get a temporary disabled parking placard, to make things more accessible for me.
I’m humbled. Family, friends and acquaintances have rushed to our rescue. From S coming over at 5:40 in the morning to help keep me calm while Mr PugRunner called 911 and keeping little man occupied, to my parents coming to the ER to take over childcare while we got settled, to offers to wash my hair and decorate our Christmas tree, it has been a constant wave of kindness and generosity. I don’t know how we’re going to thank and repay everyone for how they have helped us.
I’m also angry and sad. It’s normal, I guess. I haven’t quite come to terms with the fact that my running is over for the year (short of my goal, no less) and that I will be missing all of my favorite holiday races. It could have been worse, is what I keep reminding myself, but the disappointment is pretty consuming. My two biggest stress relievers (running and kickboxing) are gone, along with my independence. It’s a bit of an emotional roller coaster, and not one I’m ready to face head on.
Onward and upward.
I will tell you I’m not going down like this. I’m hopeful the PT will help me feel better about not being able to run (or walk or do anything productive) and I’m determined to work hard to get back to what I love.
In the meantime, it’s rest and recovery. I’m going to need to find a new hobby, or finally write that novel I always said I would. The possibilities are endless.
Are you following my Instagram? I’ve got a video up in my Stories, with all the gruesome details if you want to check it out.
Have you ever broken anything? How was your recovery?
Any suggestions on what fun activities I can do while I’m recuperating?
Today, we join KookyRunner and Zenaida for Tuesday Topics! Join the linkup and play along!
There’s no easy way to say this: I have a broken leg. I’m still very much in shock and I’m processing very slowly. This not the news any runner wants, and needless to see, my journey to 1,019 miles in 2019 is over.
Snap.
Just like that.
Clearly, this is not the way I saw the end of our year. I had huge plans, races, fabulous goals. I’m incredibly frustrated and angry, on top of scared and anxious for what the orthopedic surgeon will say this week.
Sunday – 7 miles, running
Sunday morning was beautiful and S and I had a glorious run. Like the kind that can go forever. I loved every second of it. I would have gone longer if we didn’t have much to
We devoted the rest of the day to decorating the trees in our neighborhood amenity center and then straight on to holiday movies. It was the perfect way to cozy up on a chilly evening.
Monday – 9Round #119
S was having some soreness from our Sunday run, so we agreed to switch to Monday instead. I hopped right in at 9Round, and smashed it out. I’ve been able to start cutting back on modifications and increasing weights, and I’ve been really proud to that.
Tuesday – 5.6 miles, running + 9Round #120
Our run was fabulous, again. It’s been chilly in the mornings, but it makes such a difference for running.
9Round was awesome, too! There have been some great workouts over the last few weeks. Some have been brutal, but all have been challenging.
We also had another great SOUPer Bowl Meeting. Ticket sales are underway and everything is progressing smoothly.
I made a huge pot of pasta e fagioli for dinner. It’s finally soup season!
Wednesday – 5.6 miles, running +9Round #121
This was basically a repeat of Tuesday. We ran.
I went to 9Round.
Mr PugRunner had a neighborhood meeting in the evening, so little man and I did his karate routine on our own and went about our business. With the holiday break coming up, he’s had light homework.
Thursday – rest
Thursday was just one of those do-little days. I wasn’t feeling up to 9Round, so I got started on cleaning up the house for Saturday’s festivities. I did get a lovely girls’ lunch with my friend at one of my favorite local BBQ joints.
Little man came home with no scheduled homework, so I decided to get the cookie baking started. He and his daddy both love butter spritz cookies, and so I finally ordered a new cookie press so we could make that happen. Little man loves being in the kitchen and he was such a big helper.
Friday – 1.7 miles, Turkey Trot + 9Round #122
9Round was a little more quiet in the morning, but I was glad – some of the moves were really tough and I was able to focus on them without distraction.
Then it was back to the house for some cleaning and tidying. I did some prep for our planned Thanksgiving on Saturday and then called it a night. It was another long week.
Little man’s school hosted a Turkey Trot during PE periods. Parents were welcome to join, so S and I went on over to join in the fun. We ran one lap of the course in little man’s period and the second lap during her son’s period. Afternoon running is hard.
Mr PugRunner brined the turkey to get it ready for the Big Green Egg, and we got all set up for the morning.
Saturday – The Incident
The plan? I was going to meet S at 6:00AM and we were going to get in about six miles.
What actually happened? As I was heading down the stairs, I slipped, landed very terribly wrong and broke my tibia and fibula near the ankle. I now know the volume I need to use to get the boys moving first thing in the morning. The pain was excrutiating and I think I went into shock almost immediately (especially since I could see the bones bulging).
I was able to scoot down to the bottom of the first flight of stairs, but when I tried to stand to get down the next few steps, my blood pressure crashed and I started hyperventilating. We ended up having to call 911 and I had to take the ambulance to the hospital.
From there, everything was a sort of a blur. They did x-rays, got me an IV and started managing the pain. The ER doctor brought in a team and they sedated me so they could manipulate the bones into places and put me in a splint. They are thinking surgery but I was too swollen for them to just go ahead with it, and so I will have to meet with the ortho Wednesday. I really tried to keep smiling.
S came to the hospital to help with little man. My parents met us there and took over. When I got discharged, they all came back to the house so we could continue with our dinner plans.
Goal-getting
So … goals are shifting it would seem. Right now, my biggest goal is figuring out how to get comfortable and how to effectively manage getting around with a broken leg. I kind of thought the doctors would set and splint the bones and I would be off to the races, but that is not the case. I am so uncomfortable and I’m terrified of getting up and down the stairs. Nothing is easy right now.
I’m trying to stay positive, and we are so lucky. Our friends have mobilized forces and put together a meal train through the end of the year. They have offered help with everything from decorating our Christmas tree to transporting little man to activities to helping wash my hair. Through their networks, they have found a wheelchair I can use, as well as a lap desk so I can work a little more comfortably from the bed and the couch.
Obviously, I’m upset. I can’t drive. I can’t run or work out. I don’t know how I’m going to manage all the events we have over the next few weeks. Little man is very sensitive and very upset about what’s happened, which breaks my heart. I’m terrible about asking for and accepting help. These upcoming weeks are not going to be easy. I’m trying to keep my eye on the prize and focus on healing. It could have been a lot worse, so I’m trying to find some good.
Will you be joining me at any of the Best Damn Race Ambassador Crew! Don’t forget to register with my BDR discount code RUNSWITHPUGS to save on any distance at any BDR location!
How was your week in training?
Have you ever broken a bone? Any tips or tricks to get me through the long weeks ahead?
Prioritizing a a healthy holiday season doesn’t sound exciting, but if you’re trying to stick to a wellness regimen it’s not hard to make it a priority.
Just a few simple do’s and don’ts can keep you on track through the holidays and into the new year. There are so many commitments, distractions and important events in the last weeks of the year, so now is the time to take a deep breath and set your game plan.
Don’t… OVERinduge
Overdoing it is so easy this time of year. It seems like there are savories, sweets and cocktails everywhere you turn. That being said, it’s absolutely ok to treat yourself in moderation. A piece of pie or spiked eggnog shouldn’t derail your wellness plans in the longterm, so consider the holidays the exception, rand indulge within reason.
We can’t deny the holidays can be full of commitments and tough to navigate, but don’t make that your excuse. Where there’s a will, there’s a way, and with a little planning, you can still manage a very healthy holiday. Don’t automatically write off all your efforts because things get a little tricky. Something is always better than nothing. Conversely, don’t miss out on great moments because of exercise plans. Balance is key, and it’s more than ok to miss the morning miles for a fabulous date night every time.
Don’t… fall prey to internal negativity
Whatever you do, please don’t let that negative chatter get in your head. The holidays can be so full of fun and celebration, but anxiety and stress are notorious for ruining a good time. Be proactive so you can stay on top of your own mental health and wellbeing: visit your therapist, get a massage or manicure, hit the mat for a yoga session, or read a good book in a hot bath. Make time for your own self care.
In a similar vein, punishment is not the answer. So you overdid at the neighbor’s New Year’s party. The solution is absolutely not to drag your hungover self out to a two hour gym session as atonement. Shake it off and move on. Tomorrow is another day.
Or Gingerbread Man Dash or New Year’s Resolution Run. Having something on the calendar keeps your mind focused on a healthy holiday. Bonus: holiday runs are usually pretty fun, so you shouldn’t have any problem getting family and friends to join you.
Do… pack your fitness gear if you leave town
Failure to plan is planning to fail. Grabbing your gym clothes when you head out of town is the first step in succeeding. Make use of the hotel gym, your in-law’s neighborhood, or explore a new city on your own two feet.
Do… hold yourself accountable
Things are always easier when you have accountability. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy or insurmountable (in fact, it shouldn’t be).
At the very least, I’ll be tackling the #HolidaySweat Challenge, committing to at least 10 minutes of activity every day. I think, between scheduled workouts, and things like walking around theme parks, shopping centers and other fun things, I’ve got it covered.
Do… be flexible and creative
Let’s face it: the holidays are packed with plans. We’ve got parties and vacation days, dinners and events. Quite frankly, this time of year is a scheduling nightmare. It’s almost impossible to keep on track, so your regular fitness or meal prep schedule might go a little haywire. Instead of getting down on yourself for a missed class or less-than-nutrient-dense meal, roll with it. Make up your run as soon as you can, and do your best with food options. It’s all you can ask of yourself.
Most importantly…
Do… enjoy
Guys, the holidays should be the time for enjoyment. We should give ourselves permission to let go and take advantage of all the holidays have to offer. Eat, drink, be merry, and soak up all the love around you. That’s what it should be all about.
So there you have it: my do’s and don’ts for a happy and healthy holiday season.
Tell me how you keep your wellness on track over the next month and a half 🙂
We are the midway point of November, which means we’re in the thick of the November blur. It’s that time when the days fly by and we are caught up trying to fit in everything for the upcoming holiday season. I am so excited for the fun ahead, but have to remember to enjoy every moment.
Sunday – rest
Sundays have been fairly lazy, and it’s not a bad thing at all.
This particular Sunday, my parents came over and we grilled and chatted the day away. We hadn’t seen them in a while due to conflicting schedules, so it was a nice change. Little man was especially glad to spend time with them.
Monday – 5.6 miles running + cooldown yoga
School was closed for Veteran’s Day, so S and I were able to run just a little later. Another hour of sleep made all the difference.
I am truly taking my yoga commitment to heart, and tried out a runner’s cool down video. The stretches were great, but it was another reminder of how tight I am. Verdict? More yoga is the answer.
We surprised little man with a day out with a buddy he doesn’t get to see to often. First, we got lunch, and then let them explore our area’s new Lego store. They went hog wild!
Then we headed over to Top Golf for some driving fun. It’s always such a great time there.
Hooray for a day well spent.
Tuesday – 9Round #115
I confess it was hard to get back into the weekday groove. The weather started to make its downward spiral into “winter” and it’s left me really tired and unmotivated.
No excuses, though.
Most of the day was spent at my SOUPer Bowl meeting, and then we had our afternoon of clarinet lessons, homework and Scouts. Little man is progressing beautifully: his teacher has upgraded him to the Jurassic Park theme and the Spongebob Squarepants theme. I love hearing him play.
Wednesday –9Round #116
Wednesdays are short days, so I scrambled to get everything done before little man got home from school.
First up was 9Round with Mr PugRunner and his buddy, and then we had our monthly PTSO Executive Board Meeting.
Mr. PugRunner was working from home, but was gone when I got back to the house. Turns out, he couldn’t handle the “chicken sandwich wars” controversy anymore and wanted to try the Popeye’s version to see how it stacked up. It was kind of funny, but we had fun taste testing.
Thursday – 9Round #117
I love Thursdays. They are really our only day off, and it’s a nice segue to the upcoming weekend.
We skipped our run again. It was freezing, and S had to be out too early to make it work. I was just fine rolling over and going back to sleep. Of course, the same rules didn’t apply to 9Round. It’s been a bit of a grueling week, but I feel better about not running if I get in these 30 minutes.
My mom and I had a super fun day planned. There is this really cool, old bookstore in Jacksonville that she wanted to check out, so I joined her for the adventure. It’s literally floor to ceiling books: old books, new books, hardcover, paperback, collector’s items, you name it. The smell alone was incredible. You could literally get lost in the shelves (and we did).
We grabbed lunch before I dropped her off at home and caught up a little bit more. It’s always fun to spend time with her.
In the evening we went over to the school: little man wanted to watch his friend perform and we were happy to show our support. He went out to dinner with his friend’s family after and had a blast.
Friday – 9Round #118
This session was brutal! Wide-base pushups, box jumps, frog pulls and burpees all came out to play. Being the only woman in a gym of five men gave me a little extra motivation, too, so I feel like I pushed more than usual. I am loving these new red kettlebells.
The rest of the day was incredibly cold and blustery. Mr PugRunner and I had a quick lunch date before a small seminar. Not my favorite way to spend an afternoon, but it was now out of the way and we were able to enjoy the rest of our day: pajamas, holiday movies and Chinese take out.
Saturday – 2 miles, walking (Walk to End Alzheimer’s)
Mr PugRunner and I have both lost family members to Alzheimer’s, so this walk is incredibly important to us. It was a cold and dreary day, but we bundled up and joined in with the sea of purple to remember those we have loved and lost.
Afterwards, little man went to a friend’s house for an afternoon of gaming, and then all the families met for dinner to get the kids back to their respective homes.
Goal-getting
We missed a lot of miles this week, again. I feel fine about it, to be honest. I’ve stayed active and that’s what’s important. We have just been so busy and it’s incredible tough leaving the warm bed for the cold weather. If we had a bit of a transitional season (I’m looking at you, fall), that would make a difference, but one day is 80 degrees, and the next is 40.
9Round and yoga are both doing well. It’s tough to do the yoga at home, but even once a week is something.
On the cooking front, I made delicious sausage, peppers and onions on a sheet pan. This is a favorite meal here and doing it on the sheet pan was so easy! I can’t believe I never tried it this way before! Meals like this are vital to combating that November blur – less time in the kitchen and more time with friends and family.
Donut consumption is still greatly limited, and I’m proud of that. It wasn’t quite as hard as I thought it would be.
Will you be joining me at any of the Best Damn Race Ambassador Crew! Don’t forget to register with my BDR discount code RUNSWITHPUGS to save on any distance at any BDR location!
How was your week in training?
What are your tips and tricks for beating the November blur?
Welcome to Runs With Pugs. My name is Jenn and this is the story of how a husband and wife started running together
with Couch 2 5K. I will share the ups and downs of our training for a half and a full marathon, as well as other
little peeks into our lives. Oh. We have pugs, too. Thank you for joining us! We're glad to have you along for the
ride!
