I think I’ve started this blog post three times already. You see, I really had (have) no idea how to just blurt it out. I guess there’s no right way either, eh?
The past few months have been HARD! Hard to watch I’d say. The hubs has been back and forth with knee problems, not like last year, but still lingering. We’ve seen several doctors, tried multiple solutions, and finally found out that there is one thing left to do…. REST. Not give up, not throw in the towel, but REST and REGENERATE the cartilage in his knee.
Rest, in the middle of the season? Ouch, that’s more painful than truly resting.
But..
We’ve had our pity party.
We’re over it.
We’re gonna give it time.
If the video isn’t working, just go here.
And me? Well… all I can do is pray, be cheerful (or at least attempt to be, haha), and be there for support. It’s THE LEAST I can do for this strong man.
And maybe some steak therapy. Yes, you heard be right. Steak therapy. A woman’s food therapy might be a glass of wine, some chocolate, etc. But a man’s therapy is meat.. and TEXAS size one.
A Texas sized T-bone with a little spice and sass.
It “cured” all! Haha, kinda. 
The Marinade: Caraway Seed, lime juice, Franks hot sauce, and ginger sesame dressing
The toppings: grilled corn, figs, and a little onion.
The final result: Deliciousness
Let’s not forget the wine, which I bought purely for the name.
Un4seen, yes.. that’s us right about now.
Thanks Alysia for hosting the WINE of the WEEK!
I usually end with a question, but today is different. I’ll end with a
THANK YOU!
Thank you for letting us share, for support, for just venting.
AMEN!
Cheers,
LC
Hi, I’m Lindsay! Gluten Free Nutrition Specialist, food photographer and author of 
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hope he heals up nicely! thanks for the video share 🙂
thanks Nicole! Hope your feeling well with that cute belly!
that is one of hubby’s favorite Bible verses. It’s a great reminder!
mine too! and such a great reminder, ya know?
So sorry about this year! Thanks for the update. E-mailing you asap girl! I miss chatting with you!!!
oh can’t wait! let’s chat!!
james is amazing! it takes a lot of strength for an athlete to REST! please give him a big hug for me!
any update on Asheville trip??? squeal
thanks Linz. I admire him. You know how injuries are. ugh!! and um… HE SAID YES!!!
Hope he heals up well!
Your steak looks fabulous and the toppings, oh my! 🙂
thanks Kierston. the steak topping was my favorite part. hehe
wow…that must have been tough to say out loud. but what a smart decision!
we all are rooting for the both of you. and james…hmmmmm maybe sport specific gym workouts on your blog???? all the best in what ever the two of you do.
go kiwi man go!!!!! and of course rah rah for you to lindsay!!!!
i should james this comment. It made him smile, so thank you Audrey!
Rest is hard, especially in the middle of training season, but if he rests he will come back better and stronger! That steak looks great!
thank you sylvia. Such good advice!
Thanks for the update. I really hope that things look up for James. I hope the rest helps him refocus and heal.
yes yes, refocus. Lots of it!!
I’m sorry James is having a hard time this season (and last). Has James ever thought about going into a coaching role? As a professional I am sure there are lots of people in and around Austin you would love training and coaching from him. Especially in Austin…the triathalon movement is HUGE here.
Hoping he gets better soon. Waiting is frustrating but sometimes rest is the best cure in the longer term
Best
thank you friend. Looking for the long term healing, so true!
Oh, I’m so sorry to hear he’s had to make this decision…but it’s for the best and at least you guys are both smart enough to understand why. I’m glad he’s ready to strengthen up and come back strong! I’m praying for you both for a smooth (off) season and that everything starts working in James’ favor.
BTW…you have such a calming voice. So laid back!
thank you Melissa! Prayers are amazing, and i love all YOUR SUPPORT! <3
Oh wow I hope he heals well. It can be do hard to just rest & wait on the Lord as scripture says :-). But it’s necessary for us to attain GRACE & PEACE I think especially when dealing with a setback. I’ll be praying for y’all!! 😀
Grace and peace, i love how you always remind me of that! xxoo
I hope he heals soon! I will be praying for you both 🙂
your prayers mean the world Brittany! thank you!
i just emailed the kiwi after watching the video. i am so sad for him (and you) but the decision is a smart one. he needs to heal and recover, and i have no doubt he will come back stronger than ever before.
btw, as a woman, i crave and need steak 😉 and wine. and chocolate 😉
man, it’s hard to see him like this, but I know good things will come. Watch out, he’ll be on you now with coaching. haha.
And sometimes you have to sit silently and be patient. I can’t imagine how hard it is for J, but everything happens for a reason and you’re verse is perfect.
I’ll be praying for y’all. And don’t thank us for listening, more than happy to come here and listen to you talk about anything! Hugs and support 110%.
Nichole Mrasek
silent is the hard part. haha. no really, thanks Nichole! <3
Hopefully some serious rest will have him back in no time! I once had foot pains for 6 months before finally going to a doc and finding out it was a stress fracture. After complete rest for only 6 weeks it was 100% healed! I’ll pray for a speedy recovery for James as well.
I’m loving the Surrendered Life plan!
oh how amazing! praying for that! thank you. Needed to hear. xxoo
figs on steak, i need this now. I had an awesome bbqed steak last night and a malbec along with it also.
sounds perfect. Are you sure we’re not related? 😉
It’s hard to rest, but it’s the best thing to do!!
My hubby would agree that Steak is the best healer 😉
maybe we should stock up on steak?
🙂
Praying for you and the hubs! I know it’s really tough to have a set back like this but he will get through this! <3 Sending so much love your way. xoxo
man, prayers are amazing heather! thank you!
Oh, yes my husband definitely enjoys his steak therapy. Sometimes I do too! I have never had fresh figs! Just the dried ones.
Steak therapy? That’s perfect. I hope that he has a fast recovery!
And love the wine. Cheers! Happy Friday!
I also just fixed my button so the background isn’t transparent.. hehe I’m a button first-timer
Way to take care of your man. 🙂
Cheers.
he’s one good man. Love taking care of him.
Awww hugs to you both. Although I am nowhere near James’ caliber I feel for you both. After having to take a “racing” hiatus for the past few yrs I’m just now getting back into it. Was hoping for a stellar/fun race season but with my ankle issue and now our move (not complaining!) things have once again been put on hold. Here’s to an awesome 2013 for all of us! =)
yes, i totally knew you’d understand. You work so hard for something that has to be put “on hold.” But good things come to those who wait, right? xxoo
Yes, what do they say? Something on the lines of “God laughs at those who make plans.” Hence why I’m trying to go on adventure with no set “plans”.
ahhh, so true!! Must remember that! And i love your adventure, you know i am all about it!
LOVE the verse. I’m so sorry for your hubs and for you. I can only imagine how difficult it is to be injured when you are a pro athlete. I throw myself a huge pity party when I’m injured and I am barely a mediocre recreational runner! Feel free to vent to me anytime.
will do! sometimes we just need a good vent. You can vent to me anytime too Beth!
Oh man, I’m so sorry guys. Keep that positive attitude and reliance on God. I have no idea why He is allowing you to go through this tough time, but I know He is in control. Praying for you. And I’ll see you next week!!
Figs, steak and wine. Nice.
Just remember in the face of adversity lies a positive opportunity. Although you may not see that opportunity, just lead with a strong heart and a positive attitude. You Cotter’s are strong people.
One day at a time. You guys are strong and you will get through this. Trust in your faith and try to remember that you cannot control what is outside of your control. Love you sweet friend.
how cute is he that he doesn’t even recall the url of his website 😉
you guys, I am so sorry this is still happening – keep that positive attitude and know that there is a reason, prepping you for something bigger right around the bend!
sending you continued strength, positivity and love!
i sure hope so too Kris! So no more portland. Wanna come visit here?! <3
🙁 I figured as much. seriously, there has to be a bigger thing. everything happens for a reason, right? right?? 🙂
we are SO overdue for a trip to Austin it’s not even funny… perhaps later in the fall when things cool down there 😉
oh please do! come!! I need to see your pretty face!
SHUT UP. Steak with corn, figs, and red onion?!?! That might be the coolest, most intriguing combination of flavors ever!
James…so sorry, but you both have great ‘tudes! Chillax this summer. (I can’t believe I just wrote that word.)
totally thought of you when making this. Dang, just come chillax with us here. K?
I hope your hubby heals up asap!! I am so sorry this is still occurring, but you always keep so positive and upbeat that I know it will turn around and all work out for the best!! Maybe this will mean great things in the future if you let the healing happen! That marinade sounds awesome! I’m glad this one has no mustard, people seem to like their mustard marinades and I’m allergic
hope he heals up completely in a rapid manner.
Aw, man.
He needs a sherpa now more than ever though, dare I say. Different terrain…but you’ve had your experiences to guide/support him.
I give James SO much credit for resting during the middle of a season! I hope he heals up nice and quick :). And I’m sure having you around as an awesome, supportive wife will be nice too!
Oh that is tough to decide and to say to people. Hopefully this will do the trick and he’ll be able to come back strong in 2013! I have faith.
And that marinade sounds really nice!
Always know that this your space to share what’s going on – we don’t come with expectations, judgements or medals. 🙂
If life calls for steak + wine therapy, then steak + wine it is! xo
ahh yes, wise words by a wise friend. thank you. <3
Oh, poor James 🙁
GOOD decision though, however tough, his body will thank him for this rest time (man he’s almost totally lost his Kiwi accent now! Ha)
I LOVE how you put figs with the steak – beautiful!
THinking of you guys – sending all my love, support and healing/resting vibes x
the only time his knee didn’t hurt was in new zealand. I think that’s a sign!
Totally! A bit of the laid-back, relaxing Kiwi lifestyle can do wonders, no? Aussie even better – same attitude, but WARMER!
i have a feeling you will look back on this year and realize it was for the best. i have a feeling that james will come back healthier, stronger and with more desire than ever to kick some serious ass. there is a reason for this….believe it 🙂
i believe in that same path kalli! thank you for always believing in us kalli! <3
Sending good thoughts to you guys! The tough times ALWAYS make us stronger. They are a blessing we can’t see until much later. In the meantime, there is always steak and wine.
xo
yes, unforeseen blessings! thank you for that reminder. <3
argh my heart goes out to you two linds! HUGS to james please. i am hoping that having made this decision puts his mind at ease a bit as he won’t have the stress of impending races hanging over his head–just sort of accepting what the situation is for now and making the best of what he’s got to work with, swimming and gym-ing. All will build a good base for 2013. now let’s sell the heck outta some healthy bites!
My heart goes out to you two as well. I can’t even imagine how hard it must be to just rest. But hopefully, this will give him the rest he needs and he’ll come back stronger. On another note, you two are kind of adorable.
oh thanks Christine. I appreciate all the words of encouragement and I believe in it 100%!
The answer to the knee will come in time, and when it does it will make racing again even more special. All I know is that being injured has taught me more about racing in the most subtle way. Just keep believing there is a reason for the injury to be hanging around longer- whatever the reason is, and however frustrating it is….there is a reason. And when he comes back, he will come back stronger and wiser for it.
Lots of love being sent to big ole Texas for ya
you know us way too well and thank GOD for that! You can relate. Ugh. But can’t wait to see you race more this season. Now… just get to austin!
I can relate to injuries all too well. Austin- I’m on it. I found one full time phys ed position…but it’s in Tucson. I’m moving from full time to looking for supply teaching positions within the boards…might have a better chance of getting hired.
tucson is only a flight away!! and then can send you healthy bites!
True story about the healthy bites…I’m not sold on the concept of “desert” yet…Austin is #1 choice, but I need a job so I guess one goes wherever they offer you one! haha and yes…it’s a much shorter and cheaper flight away than where I am now!
I adore that verse – I’d forgotten all about it, but I think it needs to be my mantra! I’m still planning to come to Austin this year – but racing or not, it’ll be great to meet you!
Thoughts and prayers are with you – I know how hard resting is for me, so I am sure it is harder for y’all!
definitely hard, but definitely worth it, right? Yes, please come to Austin! WOULD LOVE IT!!
you two are lucky to have each other – such strong support systems. and james should know that he’s got a whole blog world rooting for him! 🙂 it’s so interesting how i can truly hope for the success of two people i’ve never “met,” but i do hold you both in my thoughts!
i just sent this comment to james. I think it just might make his YEAR. I cannot thank you enough! I really do hope we MEET soon!
I’ve been able to see that y’all have been having a hard time but I am 110% behind you and know that you’ll get through it! You are both soo strong that I have no doubt that this is just a bump in a long, long successful road
thanks Chuck. It means more than you know to have your support!
Major bummer and for every athlete out there we know how tough it is too be injured, but the BRIGHT side is that after an injury we always come back stronger. Which means you guys should enjoy this summer because in 2013 he will be the BOMB.COM and will have an amazing year. I can just feel it in my bones :))
i can feel it too! now.. let’s just get there! haha. cheers!
YOU are a freaking wonderful wife, you know that? You and that man are both blessed to have each other <3
thank you sable! i am blessed to have him. I know you can relate. xxoo
I like how you choose wines 😉 And sometimes “rest” is part of training too. It will be for the best and he will come back stronger.
it totally is! and sometimes, it’s the most important part, yes?
Hope the hubs is better soon!
I’m stealing this marinade idea for tempeh. And the figs topping! Brilliant!
um, yes! brilliant with tempeh.. and maybe use balsamic vinegar lime juice. YUM!
oh no sorry to her the hubs is having knee problems. sending healing vibes your way!
your healing vibes are amazing! thank you! <3
Oh gosh I needed this. Rest really is what I need too, even though I’ve already taken a lot of it. I know I’m not alone though, and that patience is key! I’m hoping the rest helps out James.. I know the steak will!!
never alone friend! and you will be stronger from this trial. Yes!
Okay friend, both you and your hubby have such amazing strength. I can’t imagine how hard it is to rest in the middle of racing season. I’m so sorry you’re dealing with all of this. That Bible verse is awesome. Hard to do sometimes, but awesome. Totally wish I could give you a giant hug right now. Will pray for both of you. Stay strong friend (and eat steak). 🙂
oh thank you friend. Your prayers and support and like GOLD! love you!
Ah tough as it may be, sounds like your hubby has made the best decision to allow him to come back and dominate in 2013! Sometimes God makes choices that do not make sense at the time, but will in time…enjoy the ride!
ahh, amen amen! Must remember that! thanks Jan!
oh goodness I of course hope the hubs feels better soon, sending healing vibes! You both have admirable strength to say the least lady and thank you for sharing that verse!
thank you friend. Your healing vibes will work, i can feel it! <3
I”m sending lots of prayers and positive thoughts for quick healing your way girl! I know how hard it can be to stand by and watch your husband suffering. It’s worse than being in pain yourself! You just have to trust in God’s plan and know it’s all going to be ok in the end! 🙂
thank you lauren. What a blessing to have those prayers. Amazing!
I’m so sorry to hear the verdict but it sounds like its best. I’m glad you made peace with it and are looking forward! Love ya girl!
now if only we could have jetted of to wine country with you, then everything would have healed. haha!
Hi Lindsay, I hope your husband gets better soon.
Regarding the stake therapy, I think it as one of the best! And I do find the toppings quite interesting, I will have to try those.
Heal quickly and keep that positive heads up!
will do! thank you for encouragement!
I know this was a hard choice and I wish you both peace and thorough healing. Good thing you live in a very steak-happy state!
haha, true! plenty of meat to keep a man happy! p.s. we might be coming to SA next wednesday!
Man, i know the feeling. After coming back from a femoral neck stress fracture and two and a half months of building base mileage. I felt some sensations in the area and have taken three days completely off ( a world record). As much as it kills me, I know it’s for the best and can’t let myself too down, but some time stomping your feet and throwing a pity party helps. I think it helps to know… we all go through this damn injury thing and we can pull through.
for sure! i am rooting for you and praying for complete healing! Overcome we will!
You are SUCH a good wife, Lindsay 😀 You guys have such great attitudes, and hopefully he heals up ASAP!
Also, I think my hubby could use some steak therapy, too. Thanks for the idea.
its the best kind of therapy out there, yes? thanks for your encouragement Paige!
xxoo
Sending love and positive thoughts your way! Resting is never easy when you’re forced to do it (although when it’s willing it seems much easier.)
true dat! And when it’s important to heal, you make resting important. Just gotta let the mind go. argh.
Wow. You’re one of the only blogs I just had to open up and peruse as I get back to ‘connectedness.’ Constantly impressed with BOTH of you. Such strength. Such committment. Such support. Such devotion. Such FAITH. Beautiful. You two can and will overcome ANYTHING. xoxo
i could write a whole blog post about how much i appreciate you. Your words never cease to amaze me. It’s strength from others that get us through. No doubt! welcome home friend. ready to start a vineyard with me now?
I know it can be so hard to do, but sometimes rest really is the best/only solution! Hopefully that will do the trick for your husband!
thank you liz! I hope it does the trick too. Praying for that healing, full healing. Happy belated 4th! P.S. Have you tried out any healthy bite recipes yet? I keep meaning to get your ebook. I am so sidetracked. Argh! remind me!!
My brother is a triathlete and has been roughing out knee issues for awhile, so I can semi-relate! Everything happens for a reason…
I haven’t tried out the healthy bites yet because I’m out of protein powder… but I’m going to get some today and then make them this weekend! I’m thinking of trying either the apple fritter or chocolate coconut. Or both 🙂