the story of the calves

Amusing little story, well at least to me.  Dr. J suggested I purchase full length compression stock versus sleeves and it was really time to retire my four year old running shoes.  I was at the office and decided to go to Running Free in Markham which has a better selection and more knowledgeable staff than the one in Ajax.  To be honest I have only been to Ajax once so I should not base my opinion on one experience.  This knowledgeable salesman asked if he could help and I explained my requirements.  We headed over to look at the stock and he explained how I should be looking at medical grade compression versus the lower level compression offerings.  Once we figured out what I needed the discussion around size was next.  He asked what size is your foot and I said well I have big calves.  He politely told me several women state they have big calves but in reality they don’t so he decided to bring the small size sock.  Well he gasped as I rolled up the dress pants and he saw my calves.  I caught him almost saying you do have big calves but then he stopped middle sentence.  It was all very amusing.  I did purchase a new pair of full length compression sportsocks by CEP.  

I decided on the white version of the sock not the hot pink and test drove them on Sunday.  They felt wonderful and the calves were fine however it brought out another issue and after 60 minutes of walk / run my husband picked me up.  Although training for Around the Bay has been challenging there is a silver lining.  It has allowed me to better understand what my body requires for hydration, nutrition and what limitations I currently have muscularly.  This is all good as we have until September to get fine tuned for the big race and without this race I would not have known all this.  I say we as this is very much a team effort which includes Coach Paul, Coach Christine and Dr. J providing me valuable guidance and direction along the way.  Until Friday I’m resting from running and applying lots of ice. The race is on the 25^th so I have a bit of time to heal and we will decide if I run the distance closer to the date.  I did meet my objective of knowing I can run 21K but I really would like to say I ran Around the Bay.  Its one of those races that needs to be checked off the list of must do events.

I began the week in North Carolina and was greeted by tulips, pansies and colour we are so lacking right now however if the weather man is correct and we get temperatures in the teens this week we just might have some colour popping up in our yards.  Here is the garden at the hotel. 

And I will leave you this week with one last photo of my four year old running shoes. I’m sure this will result in some comments from my triathlon buddies.  I had these while I was training for the YMCA Peterborough half marathon. As I wear arch supports I don’t like shopping for shoes but finally broke down and purchased a pair for general requirements.  Actually I don’t like shopping all that much except if it is for a new bike.  Don’t worry I replaced these with others when I started to put distance on and used for general purpose only.  Dr. J was happy to see grey this morning versus orange.  

Have a wonderful week.  Enjoy the warm weather if you are in Ontario and try to get out for a walk, run or bike this week.