Things are tough around here. Before I get into it, here’s how my workouts went:
Monday: Walk 4 miles, Trail run 4 miles
Tuesday: Walk 4 miles, Strength
Wednesday: Walk 4 miles + Treadmill Run 5k
Thursday: Walk 4 miles, + Strength
Friday: Walk 4 miles, Trail Run 3 miles, 1 hour Volleyball
Saturday: Walk 4 miles, otherwise a rest day
Sunday: Walk 4 miles, Trail Run 4 miles
My dad has been in the hospital for 3 weeks now with complications from congestive heart failure, diabetes and end-stage kidney disease. This week he decided he wanted to discontinue treatment and “go home to die”. I totally get it, but still. My week was consumed with dealing with doctors, hospital social workers, and hospice. It is stressful and exhausting and sad, all at the same time.
Workouts were on autopilot. We walked, I ran a little, did some gym stuff, slept horribly, end of story.
Thing 1 and I, circa 2007 in one of my first Running Skirts. Maybe I need that skirt to run a 10k time starting with a 4 again. Ha!
The bright spot this week was the announcement of ZOOMA’s acquisition of Skirt Sports. I’ve been part of Sarah’s small but mighty team for over two years now and it’s been a crazy, fun ride. I wish her all the best with this exciting new chapter. My first ever running skirts back in 2005 were from Skirt Sports, and now I’m wishing I hadn’t donated them, as I’d love to dredge them up for old time’s sake.
The Week Ahead
Volleyball Tryouts. Thing 2 is trying out for a volleyball team. As much as I’d like to see her focus more energy on her music, it’s not about me. Plus a team dynamic would be so good for her now, in these times of isolation. When she can’t arrange to meet a friend at the volleyball court, I’ve been helping her practice. I hope this puts me in the running for the Cool Mom of the Year award.
New on YouTube
People often tell me “I don’t know how to add strength training to my running plan.” They either aren’t sure what they should be doing or they don’t have time. This video is a good place to start. It hits upper-body, lower-body and core in little more than 15 minutes.
How was your week? Do you wear Running Skirts? Has it cooled down where you are?
I’m linking up with Kim and Deborah for the Weekly Run Down. Join us!
Deborah Brooks says
I am so sorry to hear about your dad’s health declining. I hope he is more comfortable and at peace at home. Hugs to you all in this difficult time. It’s never easy to deal with a loved one declining. My first skirt was also a skirts sports ironically purchased at my first Zooma race which was my first half marathon maybe 10 years ago. I still have it although it’s a little snug 🙂
Beckett @ Birchwood Pie says
Sending you and your family a big ol’ internet hug and prayers.
Wendy says
I’m so sorry about your dad. <3 Here if you need me.
Kimberly Hatting says
Oh Marcia. I am so sorry for the news of your father. I can’t imagine what you’re going through. Hugs and prayers for strength to you and your family. I am jealous of all your walking, but our realities don’t always give us what we want. Volleyball is such a great sport! I played it in HS, and our youngest was a strong player…until the middle school drama divas ruined it for her and she walked away. Take care <3
Kim G says
Sending you so much love, prayers and virtual hugs. I can’t imagine how stressful and sad this must be for you. Gosh, this year has been so hard for so many.
That’s great news about Zooma and Skirt Sports. Also, I love that photo of you and your daughter <3
Chocolaterunsjudy says
Marcia, I’m so sorry about your Dad. It was exhausting for my family, but my Dad had lived a very full life and was more than ready. Hugs to you in this very difficult time. Always here to listen if you ever need to vent.
Today was perfection for running. Most of next week looks pretty good, too, but there will be a trip to my mom & maybe another daytrip — at the request of Mr. Judy. Could’ve bowled me over with a feather on that one! Maybe he realizes that Winter is indeed coming, LOL!
Liz Dexter says
So sorry to hear about your dad, lots of love from here, too.
And epic work taking on volleyball – that’s above and beyond! Let her be grateful she doesn’t have me for a mum!
It’s gone freezing here!! I was in a long-sleeve top today to run in and I don’t have many good ones that aren’t fuzzy inside so it had better decide to go warmer again or properly cold!
Coco says
Oh, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. Such a tough situation. I would be no help to anyone trying to practice volleyball. Pretty sure I haven’t played since high school gym class.
Michelle D. says
Marcia I’m just so sorry to hear about your Dad. Lots of hugs to you.
The Zooma acquisition of SkirtSports seems like such a good fit – it’s nice that the skirt will continue. Such a sweet picture of you and your daughter!
Melissa says
Ugh, so sorry to hear about your Dad. Sending good thoughts and healthy vibes your way.
I do wear running skirts – my favorite is the Skirt Sports jette! Though lately I’ve just been preferring my shorts for runs.
Lisa @ Mile by Mile says
I am so sorry about your dad. That is so hard all around.
It’s still been really hot here! I’m not expecting it to cool down for at least another month.
Lisa @ TechChick Adventures says
Sending positive vibes your way for your Dad. It’s a very tough situation. Been there 🙁
That’s good news about Zooma and Skirt Sports. Sounds like a good pairing!
Cari says
So hard, I don’t even know what to say. Love you.
As always, love your videos. I think the only reason I properly integrated strength this time is a) your videos and b) working the running around the prehab and PT I was doing instead of vice versa,
Yay on Skirt continuing. I’m so glad you or Erika turned me on to Zooma too, as I think this is a fun pairing.
Darlene says
So so sorry about your Dad. I think it’s harder on the family and the person dying.
Yes. I love my skirts. Especially SkirtSports.
I also love Zooma. Perfect match.
Do Cape Cod next year!!
Erica @ erica finds says
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. I hope he’ll get some peace and relief at home. Sending virtual hugs to you and your family.
Debbie says
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. It is so hard to deal with a parent’s declining health and still have to go about business as usual.
I come from the Skirt Sports side of the new Zooma collaboration and I’m so excited as well! My first skirt was similar to the one you’re wearing here. I actually still have it but it feels way too short now.
Jenn says
Lots of love to you. I am so sorry to hear about your father. I mean, of course, it’s understandable, but it’s your dad and it’s just so hard. <3
I hope volleyball tryouts go well. Small joys are the key to getting through everything right now.
Zenaida Arroyo says
I am so sorry about your dad. I also get it but still it is hard. Sending hugs to you and your family.
I used to wear skirts but not anymore. I still have mine and don’t want to part with them but I know I won’t wear them again. Or maybe I will just because. 🙂
Let us know if you need anything.
N says
Thinking of you as you transition into this new phase of life and death with your Father. I cared for both of my dying parents (2008 and 2010) and while it was overwhelming and exhausting to balance with work and family, I will never regret one moment of that time spent with them.