So aside from tomorrow’s Turkey Trot 5K, which my podiatrist gave me the green light to run, I’ve officialy been sidelined for four weeks with bursitis of the heel, some plantar fasciitis and possible neuritis. I can take spin and barre class, but no high impact activity like running until we let some of the inflammation die down and we see where we’re at in a month.
A month. 4 weeks. 30 days.
I’m not going to lie and say I’m not totally and completed bummed out. Because I am. Why wouldn’t I be? I’ve said countless times how running keeps me sane, and really, is there a time of year when I need to maintain my sanity more than the holidays?
Plus, thanks to all the wine and holiday cookies and other goodies I regularly indulge in this time of year, the idea of not being able to blast those calories with an 8-miler is, quite honestly, a little scary.
But that’s the crazy half of my brain talking. The more rational and grounded side of me feels — and knows — differently. Because while this injury may set me back temporarily, I remain so incredibly thankful for the things running has done for me, and given to me, over the years (well, maybe not the plantar fasciitis and bursitis! lol).
Here are some of the things I’m giving thanks for this Thanksgiving….
Running buddies and training partners who push me along and make those long runs fly by.
New running friends who live in the same town, but whose paths I might not have crossed if not for a shared love of running.
Kids who are starting to realize their own love of running.
Learning persistence, discipline and self-confidence.
Being part of an incredible, supportive community.
Bad days and bad races, because they make you appreciate the good ones even more.
The surge of adrenaline just before a race begins.
Having an activity my husband and I can enjoy together.
Track sessions that kicked my butt but made me faster.
New milestones.Running to explore new cities.
Having reliable nutrition and hydration go-tos.
Shiny race medals (and medals that double as bottle openers!)
Something other than a race day t-shirt.
The ability to get out and run, which may be put on pause right now, but I know will eventually come back with a little time and patience.
Wishing all of you a very happy Thanksgiving!
Kristen says
Oh man, I am right there with you! I’ve been under strict orders from my PT to not run for the past three weeks, and who knows what he’ll tell me next week. It’s hard but spin class has been helping me get through it. Good luck with your recovery! We’ll both be back to running soon I’m sure!
Nicole@RunningWhileMommy says
Happy Thanksgiving!
I am sorry you are sidelined but yes, it is temporary and you will be back before you know it. Hang in there and enjoy the holidays.