Changes

Normally I get behind on posting to the blog because I've been running too much... This time that is not the case. I'm actually not running right now.

Where to begin...?

So I did a 20 miler a few weeks ago on a Saturday, followed by a 10 miler on Sunday. I was feeling great during both runs. I took a day off on Monday, ran 4 miles on Tuesday, took a day off on Wednesday because my parents came into town,  and then headed out for a 6-7 mile run on Thursday afternoon. Got about 4 miles into the run when I experienced a terrible pain in my lower abdomen- a pain so sharp that I couldn't stand up straight. I had been experienced a milder abdominal pain on and off during runs in previous weeks, but nothing as painful as that.  I had to make my way back to the house, walking and jogging when I could. By the time I got back to the house I could barely think.  The pain stayed for the next week or so- not as bad as it was initially- but dull and persistent every day. I went to my doctor, who then sent me to a specialist. They believe I have Ischemia, a result of lowered blood supply to my "gut" while running. It appears to occur with long distance runners, and usually repairs itself. Mine seems to be taking longer to heal. Yeah, not pleasant.  We won't know for sure until we do more tests, but they have pretty much ruled out anything serious.

So plans change, and I haven't been able to run at all. Though the pain is mostly gone, running brings it back.

Instead,   I have been spending time with my family- wonderful time that I miss when I am running half of the day on a Saturday and Sunday. Though I am disappointed that I had put so much time already training for Sunmart, the alternative is great. I have a lot more time to dedicate to reading with Marcel, making time for myself, and baking(!) lots of yummy holiday treats.

I'm looking forward to getting back on the trails, but for now my exercise will be at the gym or around the block with the dogs.  I doubt I will be keeping up this blog, at least not for now. Instead I have been posting a "Photo of the Day" on the other blog. 

Take care y'all!