Progress and PT

Let’s start with last night aka Transformation Tuesday.

I posted this picture on my Instagram account. (jenchoosesjoy)  These are the finish lines from my first marathon in 2010 and this year’s Chicago Marathon.  After my first one, I didn’t think I’d ever run one again vs. how much I absolutely LOVED running Chicago this year.

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I almost didn’t post the pictures and then I wondered why?  Mostly, I just don’t like the idea of before and afters.  I never actually feel like an ‘after’…more like a work in progress.  So, let’s just think of it as a progress pic and I’m proud of my progress:)

Bum Knee update: It’s still a little swollen and sore but making progress.   I ran 9 slow miles on Tuesday and 8 slow miles on Wednesday.

I went to my first PT appointment and I was really nervous.

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It ended up being great!  Leah asked some great questions about my running history, stretched, poked, and prodded my legs, scraped all up and down my right quad and knee (which strangely hurt and felt great at the same time), videoed me running on the treadmill and concluded that…

I turn my knee caps inward when I run.  Who knew?  Especially my right knee.  The rest of my form was pretty good, so I have some exercises to strengthen the support muscles.  I will also be going back for more scraping.  I’m sure there’s a better term…I’ll research and get back to you:)

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Random life stuff…

I got a haircut

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While I was getting ready, this little nugget decided to lay in the sunny spot in front of my sink. Of course I didn’t want to disturb her sunbathing and just worked around her.

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I had my favorite lunch of mâché rosettes and strawberries. It never gets old and I’m making efforts to eat a little cleaner since I’m not running as much.

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I got busy making some Halloween goodies…recipe coming soon!

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And don’t judge, but I was browsing through some gift shops and came across these JOY Christmas tree ornaments. I know it’s way too early, but I just has to buy them!

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Don’t forget, I’m running the St. Jude Memphis Marathon to as a Hero to raise money for the St. Jude Children’s Hospital.  I, along with all of the children and families, would greatly appreciate any donation.  No family pays for their medical care, housing, travels, etc…thanks to private donations…incredible!!!  Click HERE to make a donation.

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Have you ever had to got to PT?  What for and for how long?

What’s your favorite charity to support?

When do you start decorating for Christmas? I try to wait until after Thanksgiving.

#choosejoy

 

Weekend Wrap-Up

85 miles this week and I’m feeling pretty good!  Only one more week of high miles before I start to taper for Chicago.

Saturday long run…

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2.5 solo miles

15 miles pacing the Fleet Feet Chicago Group

2.5 solo miles (7:50 pace)

After my ice bath, my Oiselle sweats felt like heaven!

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I didn’t get to stay in them for long because we left to see my family and celebrate my Gran’s birthday.

Post long run…legs up!

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Car ride entertainment: The new Runners World. I intentionally didn’t read it when it arrived so it could be my long run reward.

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My sweet Gran turned 83!!!!  (I don’t think Caroline was thrilled to be in the picture.)

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We were all wiped out from a big day at Gran’s house…even the puppies.

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Sunday: up early for 8.5 miles.

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I got to wear my new Fleet Feet Fall Marathon Training tank.

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Post run Breakfast of Champions!

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And gym time with the hubs (who thankfully tolerates my dorky pics).

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Our patio remodel kicks off tomorrow…woo hoo, so today the vegetarians ordered a grill!

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I found these cute little acorns at Pottery Barn,

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and was inspired to start unpacking some fall decorations.

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Our weather was perfect, so we had prosecco on the Bricktops patio…

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with my favorite grilled artichokes,

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margarita pizza,

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and a stop at Sweet Cece’s for some cookie dough and froyo!!

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I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!!

What are yor favorite froyo toppings?

Have you stated decorating for fall?

#choosejoy