week 2(20): one month post-op

The start of the week marked one month post-op for me, and I admit that a bit of doubt has started creeping in. Mr. PugRunner keeps saying I am in “the first quarter” of all this, but at this stage of the game, I really hoped to feel more like myself. Instead, I still struggle with exhaustion, discomfort, insomnia and lack of focus.

Sunday – pt exercises + recumbent bike

I needed a day to recover a bit after my big day out with my friend. I was able to rally enough for the gym, but that was about it. Little man was about to start back to school for his second semester of 6th grade so we had much to organize.

Monday – physical therapy, 60 minutes

I was really excited to get Monday and PT started. Truth be told, my last session ended on such a positive note and I thought I was rocking it. On Monday, I met with another different therapist and he got me very edgy and anxious.

He was surprised I wasn’t yet trying to wear a shoe, but also didn’t like me walking on my bare foot with one crutch as previously instructed. Additionally, he didn’t think I had made sufficient progress with my upward flex, and really put me to work with that.

I was nauseous the rest of the day: partly from the workout and partly with nerves about my one month post-op status. Sure, I tried to be positive, but I wasn’t feeling it deep down.

Tuesday – pt exercises + upper body + core + recumbent bike

Mr PugRunner is now up and back to work, which definitely changes the landscape of my days a bit. He offered to take me to the gym after lunch, and I was able to get in a nice round of activity.

Wednesday – pt exercises

Mr PugRunner was crazy busy on Wednesday, so I skipped the gym. I did do all my exercises at home, which generally works well (although I miss the cycling). However, after feeling not so great after Monday, I was also glad not to have to go out.

I did get a nice bit of uplifting news: I have been accepted as a Nuun Ambassador for the second time. I took a year off because I wanted to streamline some things with my blog, and I am so happy to be back on the team.

Thursday – physical therapy, 60 minutes

I was back with my original PT and I shared with him about Monday’s experience. He was very kind and supportive, which made me feel so much better. Obviously, different therapists have different methods, and I guess I am going to click better with some than others. I left feeling so much more positive about everything, but once again, he had worked me hard.

Friday – pt exercises + core

I felt awful on Friday. I was tired, shaky, emotional and my calf was really sore. I didn’t want to go anywhere or do anything and even though I did my PT stretches and some Russian twists, my heart wasn’t in it. Boo. But look at me on my stairs! Sideways is still making it happen!

Little man had been begging to have a friend over after school, which turned into a sleepover. I was glad he was able to hang with his buddy, and fortunately, they were pretty chill and quiet.

Saturday – pt exercises

Saturday was probably my worst day this week. For some reason, my calf really started hurting, making it harder than usual to walk. As if that wasn’t enough, the bottom of my foot and my toes were just absolutely on fire from new skin and nerves. Yay. On a more emotional note, the rest of my steristrips came off the second surgical site. I will spare you the photos. It’s not BAD exactly, but it was hard to see.

Once again, I got a nice surprise to cheer me up: a box of goodies from FitApproach for participating in the #HolidaySweat Challenge.

I’m excited to try some new healthy snacks!

Goal-getting

So it was a solid week. I didn’t get in as much gym-time, but I still did my workouts, as instructed, even when I wasn’t feeling it.

This week, I had to really lock in my eating. My appetite has been AWOL since I broke my leg, which is starting to become a problem. I am burning almost as many daily calories now as I was back in my running and 9Round days, but I don’t think I’m eating enough to support it. It’s not helping my overall well being and I’m trying to do better.

Due to my lack of focus this week, I didn’t start “The Hate U Give.” Instead, I watched a bunch of movies, blasted Broadway soundtracks and started trying to watch “The Crown” again. I really enjoy the show, but I keep getting distracted and losing track. This time, I’m committed.

Next Monday, I’ll be at the ortho for x-rays and a status report! It’s getting really real now!

I am linking up with the Weekly Rundown, with Confessions of A Mother Runner and Running on the Fly! Check them out!

Will you be joining me at any of the Best Damn Races? Don’t forget to register with my BDR discount code RUNSWITHPUGS to save on any distance at any BDR location! Remember, the code for Safety Harbor will expire on 1/17 so don’t miss out!

How was your week in training?

Any suggestions for easy, yummy foods to tempt a nonexistent appetite?