Stealing a page from Susie’s book to give you an update on the “current status” of my life. Some high, some low, some final Olympic thoughts.
Current status of #glutened life
As I explained in Friday’s post, I got glutened last week. I was probably 75% better when I wrote the post on Thursday and now, after a weekend of even more rest and food (since I barely ate for two days), I’m officially back…and it feels SO good. I looked and felt like a ghost last week so I’m thankful my coloring and energy levels are restored.
This smoothie was the first non-bone broth or baked chicken substance I ate and it was heaven. I went ham on actual food later and haven’t stopped since.
Current status of running
Maybe you saw this coming from my lack of running related talk but I’ve deferred my entry into the Marine Corps Marathon. For a variety of reasons, this was the right decision for my health. I won’t go into too much detail but it was a combination of random/lingering foot pain and a stomach flare-up at the end of July. (I had an MRI and nothing was alarming but I’m still in pain). After 3+ weeks of recovery I decided it wouldn’t be smart to continue with training, especially having lost so much fitness. My coach fully supported my decision and was extremely helpful as a sounding board.
I’m obviously very disappointed as this is my second “failed” marathon in a row. More than that, I’ve been away from the sport and activity I genuinely love so much. I don’t think running was the cause of anything, because technically I had been running more before official training started, but it probably wasn’t helping things overall. Not sure if that makes any sense.
I’ve gone through my version of a grieving process so I’m much more at peace with my current state now. Other things have taken precedence over running this past year. Truthfully, fitness in general has taken a back seat lately. There are seasons for everything, right?
Ok, no more sadness, onto the food….
Current status of my affinity for nut butter
Not going anywhere anytime soon. Case in point: I had been searching EVERYWHERE for a specific type of sunflower seed butter. “MaraNatha Sunflower Seed Butter with a Hint of Sea Salt.” It’s my favorite brand and I was oddly craving it. I finally went to order it online and then find out it’s been RECALLED for Listeria. I dodged a bullet right there.
So, I did the next best thing and made my own….and I’m kind of obsessed with it. It’s a mix pumpkin and sunflower seeds with toasted coconut and cinnamon. Plus it was so cheap! $3 for about 8 oz. I will definitely be doing this again!
Current status of my Olympic obsession
I must say, I have been an excellent American when it comes to watching and supporting our athletes. I know everyone gets into the Olympics (and then “ignores” these sports for 4 years), but I’d like to think I’d watch them if they were televised more throughout the year. This past weekend I followed Gwen Jorgensen in the triathlon (loved learning about her journey into the sport!), men’s and women’s volleyball, basketball, track and seriously even watched the canoe sprint finals. Saturday was too hot to do anything other than stay inside, if you couldn’t tell.
I genuinely like sports (and America) so my level enthusiasm isn’t anything strange for me. However, now that the Olympics are over I’m moving my focus to football season. Also, I have to admit, I’m looking forward to not hearing NBC’s Olympic jingle every 5 minutes.
Current status of wanderlust
My desire to travel has been at an all time high, especially because of the stifling heat here. I love where I live but there are so many places I want to see and explore. Don’t we all? One “benefit” to not running the marathon (and paying for that trip) is that my mom and I are now going on a little vacation over Labor Day Weekend. Cooler weather, taller trees and less humidity…can’t wait!
Current status of everything
Celebrating small wins, thinking good thoughts and taking it one day at a time.
Source
I ran out of time to comment Friday (and then forgot, oops!) but I am so glad you are feeling better. Honestly it’s a shame some people say they can’t handle gluten but they have an intolerance and then it ruins it for when you do get glutened and are down and out! We had a friend hospitalized for weeks because of gluten. It’s so serious. Anywayyy hate to see about your foot and deferring but you are absolutely doing the right thing. Why make it worse and have a miserable marathon training and marathon when you could let it heal and do better! I know you’ll get back there and get all healthy. And yes, seasons for everything. You know my thoughts on that. Have a great day!
heather @Lunging Through Life recently posted…Summerfest 2016
That is awful about your friend! I got really lucky in the sense that it was only 3 days of the effects.
Thank you so much for your support. Your seasons post was awesome and such a comforting reminder <3
Sending you love, and I think that this was the right way to go about breaking the running news (your terms, but part of something else). Because that is just the thing: running is great and awesome and fabulous… but it is just PART of our lives! It isn’t the headliner! Your health, your happiness, your family–those are the headliners. I think that, if nothing else, this injury helped reinforce just where your priorities lie. Love you, and I am so proud of you!
Susie @ Suzlyfe recently posted…A Somewhat Normal (and Delicious) Weekend
That’s exactly what I was going for. Running is just PART of my life! A fun part, and one I deeply love, but there is so much more :)
I’m sorry to hear about the marathon, but at least you can differ your entry until next year when you can be 100% healthy! I’ve never made my own nut butter but yours sounds amaaaazing. Recipe coming soon?!
Thanks, Sam :) I know you understand how it feels. I did it twice so I know this lat year was just a bump in the road.
I’m glad you’re feeling better!!!
There will always be more marathons to run…maybe more for years to come ;)
….o.m.g! Thank god I didn’t stock up on the sunflower butter! My other favorite from Once Again was on sale so I bought that one :O AHHH!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Gluten-Free Cookies & Cream Frappuccino
I was both mad and relieved that the sunflower seed butter was recalled! Got lucky with that one ;)
Sorry to hear you’re not doing the marathon, but I think that’s the best solution for you. Anything to keep you healthy and safe is a good choice. And that’s great that you’re able to defer! Can’t wait to hear about the trip you have planned :)
There are lots of sports available to view on Watch ESPN! It’s a good way to keep up with volleyball, tennis, boxing, rugby, etc!
Gretchen recently posted…Weekly Recap : Money Diary
Thanks, Gretchen :) I was lucky to actually get a spot for next year’s race. Deferrals were only open to the first thousand people.
Right there with you on not having to hear the Olympics jingle all the time anymore haha. I loved it the first day, but after that and having it on all.the.time. I am definitely ready to not hear it and not see the same Olympic commercials all the time anymore (although there were a few I never got sick of). So bummed to hear about the marathon, but that is great you can defer it until your body is ready for it. You’ll have your comeback soon enough! :)
Brie @ Lean, Clean, & Brie recently posted…Old Mission Peninsula Wineries
I turned on Grey’s Anatomy re-runs the other day and my mom didn’t complain because she was just happy it wasn’t the Olympics! Haha.
my desire to travel has been at an all time high alll summer!! I can’t wait to do more traveling when I have the time. Glad the nut butter love hasn’t faded either :) xoxo
Alyssa recently posted…MHM 8/22/16: I don’t always “love” my body…
So many places I want to visit! If only flights weren’t so expensive.
I would love to see a recipe for your nut butter! That sounds amazing!
Lauren recently posted…What’s in My Beach Bag
Posted it yesterday :) It’s so good!
New reader:) Sorry to hear you had to drop out of your marathon. I had to drop out of a half once and you are right, there is definitely a grieving process.
Also, I totally agree with you that I would watch more of those sports if they were televised more outside of the olympics. Maybe someday..
have a good Monday!
Hi Megan! Thanks for stopping by. Dropping out of a race is never fun (this is my second in a row) but it was ultimately the best thing to do.
Have a great day!
<3 I'm so glad that you have such an amazing coach that gives wise advice and doesn't pressure you into doing what isn't right for your body. I think your body will thank you later for the way that you are taking care of it! :) And that sunflower butter looks so good; have you heard of 'Bliss Nut Butters?' They have Sunflower Seed Butter that's somewhat crunchy. :) I love their butters.
Emily recently posted…MHM: Why Grace Beats Body Shaming
Thanks for your support, Emily. I’m giving my body lost of R&R! I haven’t tried that brand but I’m sure I’d love it.
Soooooo come to Boston? Fall is the perfect time of year!! I’m sorry about the marathon. It’s tough when you take recovery seriously and follow all of the necessary steps and it still doesn’t work out. I definitely go through phases where running just isn’t my #1 priority. I miss it during those times, but it allows more energy to focus on other things, like your stomach issues. Sending good vibes <3
Sarah @pickyrunner recently posted…Workouts 8/15-8/21
Yep, this is one of those times that I did “everything right” and it didn’t play out perfectly. Next time maybe I’ll just throw all caution to the wind and that’ll be better. Kidding ;)
Oooh, I want that recipe for pumpkin/sunflower seed butter! It looks so good! I am glad that you’re doing what’s best for your health in terms of running. It’s good for fitness to take the back seat sometimes while we focus on regaining our health–I know how you feel because I quit running a couple of years ago and still haven’t been able to go back for various reasons. Health comes first! <3
Claire @ My Pink & Green Life recently posted…10 Easy & Practical Things to Do With Old Clothes
You’re exactly right! I know running helps me in so many ways (mentally and physically) but I learned during my three-month break last year how to survive and thrive without it.
Currently savoring every last bit of this amazing summer, because it is going by way way way too fast! I used to make my own nut butter, but honestly I enjoy buying it! And when you work for NuttZo, there is no need to make your own. ;) Have a beautiful day friend! XOXO
ACKTIVE LIFE recently posted…Simple Protein Pancakes
All your pictures (and Boomerang videos) make it seem like one hell of a summer! So happy for you!
I’m so sorry you had to defer MCM, but maybe things will work out for you to run it another year. I know I’m looking forward to trying for NYC in 2017 after having to defer. It sucks but sometimes our bodies just aren’t cooperative or life gets in the way. Thinking of you!
Thinking positive: when the day comes that we finally get to meet up, we’ll both be back in action and can run in Central Park together. And then get smoothies :)
Health should always be your #1 priority! It’s so cliche but things really do happen for a reason so take this time to rest and recover! Your marathon time will come and I promise when it does you’ll kick butt!
Diana @ Live Lean Eat Green recently posted…The Vitamins & Supplements I Take Every Day!
It is one of those cliches I 100% believe! I’ve run two marathons before so I know I can do it. My return is just prolonged a bit longer :)
I totally get what you mean by “grieving” a missed race – it is so hard, but it sounds like you’re making the right choice for your health and the last thing you’d want to do is hurt yourself even more, or worse, get hurt during the race itself! Props to you for making a smart decision ahead of time :)
Sarah @ Sweet Miles recently posted…EWAHM + Cubii Under-Desk Elliptical Review
Thank you so much, Sarah! As weird as it sounds, I’m very proud of myself too. I pushed it too much last year and needed a three month recovery, so hopefully being extra smart and cautious will pay off this time.
Ooh I’ve put cinnamon and coco oil in nut butter before but never seeds-good idea!
Lauren recently posted…On Traveling Solo
LOVE it. Seeds need some type of flavor added. Next time I want to try maple syrup!
Yummmmm. toasted coconut in a nut butter?! YES please.
Seriously addicting!
Sorry you had to defer your entry to MCM, but I’m glad you’re doing what’s best for you ❤️ And I won’t be there for a few weeks, but I’ll still totally plug Chicago this time of year – it’s lovely!
Ellen @ My Uncommon Everyday recently posted…Five Friday Favorites 08/19/16
You know, I’ve only been to Chicago in the summer! I thought it was windy then (hence the nickname) but I bet it gets so pretty in fall with the scenery too.
I’ve never tried making my own nut butter at home but yours looks awesome! Love that you used a mix of the two seeds for something a little different. I used to love “making” my own nut butter at Whole Foods with their machine, though!
Liv @ Healthy Liv recently posted…Simple Vegetarian Fajita Bowls
Next time, I’ll probably do more sunflower seeds than pumpkin seeds. Only because they are SO much cheaper!
Oh, I’m so sorry about your marathon! I’m sure it was the right call. As is that sunflower/pumpkin seed butter! Holy crap that looks good, and I love the coconut & cinnamon idea! What do you do with that fantastic concoction?? Would love to see the full recipe and how you use it!
Leslie @ Flora Foodie recently posted…Weekly Workouts + Menu
Thank you so much, Leslie. I think it was the right call too.
I posted the recipe yesterday! I might need to make myself a third batch soon haha
Ahh Emily I’m sorry about the marathon:( Maybe now instead of focusing on training for it you can take a fun trip instead?! I am totally with you on looking forward to football season. We’re going to 2 college football games this year and I’m already so excited for it:)
Amanda @ ExploringLifeAndThings recently posted…What do you regularly spend money on?
I didn’t realize that college football starts so soon! Like this weekend right?!
My current status is exhausted with a side of stress and a mild case of caffeine addiction. But I’m fine. It’s fine. Two days until semester break woo!
Megan recently posted…Thoughts I have while running
YAY for break!!!
I know how it feels to plan something like a workout, marathon, etc only to not be able to complete it. You’re such a role model for listening and respecting your body. Plus that nut butter looks HEAVENLY! Bet it was even better than the store version :)
Cayanne Marcus @healthyezsweet recently posted…I Have A Dream(ish)
I love that you made your own nut butter when you couldn’t find it… talk about resourceful! Where are you going on your mini vacation? My wanderlust is pretty extreme as well, and unfortunately I don’t have any travel plans in the works. I’m thinking about trying to hit up Salem, MA around Halloween-time though!
Danielle @ afloat on a full sea
I just got back from Colorado :) OH that sounds like a great seasonal trip!