If only there was a 90 day satisfaction guarantee for the choices we make in life. It’s been ninety days since the Rails to Trails Marathon, and I want my money legs back. But like all other marathons, there was no 90 day satisfaction guarantee.
The trial and error method in recovery has been probably the hardest thing I’ve gone through in life. I don’t remember a time when I’ve been this emotional. And I’m sorry to be beating a dead horse with a stick on this topic, but these feelings are real. I’m a human, I feel things. I think it’s more normal to feel sadness than to slap on a fake happy face and pretend that nothing is wrong.
Just when I finally convinced myself that this is the year of the triathlon for me, and to just get over a fall marathon I get a text from a good friend.
“I registered for Chicago Marathon!”
Ugh. Stab in the heart. I go walk the dog to clear my mind. During the walk I convince myself again that it’s the year of the triathlon. Triathletes are sexy. I get home to find another text:
“We’re reserving a room with two beds just in case you can come”
Ugggghh. Tears. Went to bed at 7:30 PM.
The next day I had to get it together mentally and go to work. One would think that by now I would be smart enough to turn my phone off. Another text arrives from my friend:
“There are 274 more days to race day!”
It appears as though I can not go on pretending that marathons don’t exist. Damn. To defend my clueless friend, he has no idea how badly I’m handling this. It’s not his fault. If the texting continues to bring me down, I will man up and put an end to it.
I’m thankful for those who do know just how crazy I’ve been driven by this. The ones that check in to see how my brain is. The ones who keep rooting me on even though it appears that I’ve completely lost it at times. Thank you.
And I really need to thank my husband. Can you imagine what he’s putting up with? He’s lucky he’s not home very much! This weekend I plan to wine & dine the hell out of him. He’s dealt with my craziest of times, and I think he needs a beer.
I’m hoping this is my final vent. I saw another doctor today, I’m not going to go too much into it in this post. I’ve got a new post brewing up in my brain right now, but I thought this was a necessary post in the journey of recovery too.
Stick with me boys and girls, I can only get stronger from here.
Finding my happy pace 
I can totally relate to this. I felt the same way after I got injured. All my friends were suggesting races I do with them, coworkers asked me how running was going, bloggers were posting their plans and race recaps…everywhere I turned it was a reminder that I could NOT run. It sucks. It’s depressing. Most days I can handle it and move on, sometimes now I still get sad. Mostly I just want to be able to move to the next step…even if it’s not running. I want to be able to hike and bike without pain and just get my quality of life back!
Have you ever considered a tri? I know you’re a helluva swimmer..
I know what it’s like to not be able to do what you truly deep down inside want to do. I so wanted to do a 1/2 marathon this Spring. But nope, that ain’t gonna happen. Injuries and the weather kept me from training and the race is next month. But there is always another race.
Triathlons are a blast. They are physically exhausting, but incredibly fun. The camaraderie that goes with it is unimaginable. You will enjoy it.
hehe, thanks for the tri pep talk! Yea, I plan on going into mine and having nothing but fun!
Sigh…. I think we should hang out. I have been having the bad back/hip/sacrem for about 2 weeks and might loose my marbles if things go downhill. Sadly, I think you live in Utah so becoming real friends is a no go.
I REALLY feel for you. REALLY.
BUT, everything will be ok. You will still be a rock star but it might take a little extra time. I hate that we are not robots that can just do what we friggin want- out stupid bodies seem to have other ideas. (which are stupid.)
Anyway… I’m really feeling for you and LOVE your blog and know that everything will be ok for you soon!
Seriously, I read this comment while I was in the gym locker room and LAUGHED OUT LOUD at Utah! Bhahahahahaa, Utah 🙂 I may laugh everytime I hear that state, thank you! I live in Wisconsin.
I agree, stupid bodies and their stupid ideas! Hope your back gets better soon!
(((hugs)))
All of what you have been going through is 100% valid. And, sadly, seems to be part and parcel of being an athlete. I have new sympathy for the pros on injured reserve!
I continue to be impressed by your perseverance and drive. Yes, you’ve shed tears, but you’ve also tried new things.
Gosh, I want to hear what the new Dr. said!
My scenario is different. But, I know exactly how you feel.