Can we talk?

It's that time once again.

Time for coffee (or your favorite beverage of choice), time for chatter, time for catching up with (virtual) friends. What would you share if we were meeting for coffee?


Here's some things I'd share with you...

First of all, let me just say that I have been exhausted recently. I think all of the adrenaline that carried me through those final weeks of April has (finally) been depleted. It got me through a week of prom work. It pushed me through a hilly half marathon (the morning after said prom, with 90 minutes of slumber to my name). It enabled me to run my fastest mile ever (two days later). And, it sustained me through several dance rehearsals and two recital performances.

And now? I got nothing. Almost everything hurts...my lower back and my hamstrings especially. Maybe it's an extended version of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) from the races, or maybe my body just needs some R&R. But my energy has been running on empty this week. Oh well....I will survive. First world probs, right? Onward!

Oh, can we chat about the weather? Spring was pretty short-lived, and it feels like summer is here. Trust me, that is NOT a complaint. I prefer a bit of a transition to warmer weather, but I am so glad to have consistent above-freezing temps that I feel like doing a major happy dance in my running shoes.

Back in a tank and shorts never felt so good!

Speaking of running shoes....I may have inadvertently come home with a new pair of running kicks. I took the daughter on her first-ever running shoe-fitting experience, and fell victim to the environment. What can I say? A runner always needs new shoes....I challenge any runner to deny that theory.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18's...come to Momma!

Have you thought of any goals for May? I have a team relay next weekend (May 12th), and Dam to Dam (20K) on June 2nd....and then I have nothing major on my roster until the Cannonball Marathon in October. I need to maintain my endurance, and there will certainly be some other races thrown in for fun and fitness (hello, R'n'R Chicago Remix!), but my body needs some daily maintenance for now.

When I was sidelined from running last summer, I did a lot of leg lifts, so I have been doing them again (50/each leg, 1-2 times each day). I'm doing daily ab/core work (planks, more planks, and twists, oh my!). My right piriformis has been a little edgy lately (it used to always be my left one that gave me trouble), so I'm adding daily clam shells to the mix as well to strengthen the glutes and work the hips a little.

And, finally, a few days ago, it was the 10-month "anniversary" of the unexpected surgery that turned my summer upside-down. I had so many wonderful friends, family, runner friends (virtual and close by) who gave me so much love, support, and encouragement. It really was hard to stay "down" in the midst of being side-lined from the sport I love. Honestly, I think I only cried a couple of times, more out of fear than out of frustration. It was not a fun experience, but it definitely was a journey that made me stronger, faster, and better. I do not take any run for granted now...even the bad ones in horrible weather when my body (and mind) want to give up or quit early. I know there are countless others, injured or sidelined, who would gladly trade places with me.

late July 2017...even with the PICC Line still intact and the 6-inch suture heavily bandaged, I was able to smile

So, that's a sneak peek into what's been happening as of late. Anything you'd like to share? Spring weather? New shoes? Monthly goals?

Since it's the first weekend of the month, I'm linking with Deborah and Coco for the Ultimate Coffee Date. What would you share, if we were having coffee and chatting about life?

I'm also inking this with Meranda and Lacey and Rachel for the Friday Five 2.0.