Julie B. Hughes's Blog, page 4
August 21, 2025
From Chemo to the Cliffs of Moher
West coast of IrelandThis picture brings me so much joy. The sound of waves crashing along the rocks, the salt air, and the wind through our hair.
Jeff and I were in Ireland on the west coast. We experienced the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren, and ended our tour at Galway City. The views were breathtaking. It was a full day of travel and walking.
It’s hard to believe that just three years ago, Jeff had no hair. He was enduring chemotherapy treatments and was on the couch or in bed most of the time. He barely had the energy to pick up a fork and eat. His days walking were from the couch to the bedroom in our ranch home.
The weight of silence hung heavy, and it took every ounce of strength I had to focus on God’s promises. Would we pull through? Would Jeff make it to the other side?
During that season, it was hard to believe his hair would grow back, he would enjoy a meal again, and his energy and strength would be possible to travel. What would our life look like? It was such a hard time to see the future of hope and recovery.
Once he was given the green light to begin a regular exercise program, it was exciting and discouraging. I wanted his recovery to be linear and progress to be made each day. I wanted my husband back. I knew better.
One step forward and five steps back. It required patience, trust, and faith that each year, little by little, gains were being made; even when we couldn’t see them yet.
Here we are. Three years later, traveling across the country hiking, eating meals together, and smiling.
What did I learn about hope? It doesn't follow my timeline. It's messier than I expected. It requires daily patience and trust. But God. He was present during the hardest moments, in the silence, in the setbacks, and in the waiting. He didn't abandon us.
If you're in a similar situation or experiencing a tough season right now, I can't promise it will look like our story. Yet I believe you’re never alone, and even in all the uncertainty, when progress feels invisible, your story isn't finished.
Neither is ours.
Psalm 23 (what I hung on to)
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
We're making a difference together!
Thanks to everyone who has purchased A REAL BALLBUSTER: Untangling Testicular Cancer Together. We've already donated over $100 to the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation, and we'll keep donating as more books are sold.
Want to help us reach even more people? Consider purchasing a copy to:
Gift to your oncologist or urologist's office
Place in a Little Free Library in your neighborhood
Share with someone walking through their own cancer journey
Keep on hand for when someone you know needs hope and practical guidance
Every book purchased not only supports testicular cancer awareness but also puts encouragement directly into the hands of someone who needs it. Together, we're spreading hope and funding important research: one book at a time.
To learn more about the book and read reviews, click here.
Thank you,
Jeff and Julie
August 18, 2025
Running Sneakers Love to Travel
Run buddies are the BEST! I packed my running sneakers for England—maybe I'd get in a few runs. No mileage or time goals, just exploring new places on foot. My family and I were visiting my sister and her family in Macclesfield, and I hoped we'd find time to run together.
When she suggested it, I was thrilled. We met at South Park, a five-minute walk from our Airbnb. She arrived with Maddie, her dog, a bonus run buddy with a blue rubber ball hanging out of her mouth.
We wove along the paths, catching up while Maddie trotted beside us. I was amazed at her discipline as we passed other dogs. She stayed right by my sister's side. Magpies scattered across the fields, and a coot bobbed in the pond. Two birds I'd never see back home.
The last time I saw my sister face-to-face was in 2023. Traveling between our countries takes planning and saving. Phone calls and WhatsApp had kept us connected, but nothing replaces being together, breathing the same air.
This is why I love running; it creates space for real conversation. Something about moving side by side makes vulnerability feel natural; no eye contact required, no awkward shifting in seats.
Our conversations ranged from career changes to parenting struggles to childhood memories that made us laugh. I'm grateful for those miles with my sister, for the chance to ask hard questions and dig deeper into who we've become.
As we stopped in an open field to throw Maddie her ball, I watched my sister laugh at something ridiculous I'd said. Appreciation flooded my heart. Here's someone who moved to a new country, embraced British life, learned to drive on the opposite side of the road, and is still completely my younger sister.
Distance changes us. We become different versions of ourselves, shaped by new places and people. Yet some things, the laughs, the stories, how we fall into easy conversation while our feet find rhythm—stay beautifully unchanged.
Who in your life feels like home, no matter how much time has passed or how much you've both changed?
Books and travel…writing buddies. You’re invited! Write togethers are back! See you today at 11 am (EST). I’ll invite you to use the topic above as a warm-up up then let it rip. :)
We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up. No experience is necessary.
Be part of our creative community! Use the link below to enter our Zoom room, and feel free to invite a friend to write alongside you. Together, we'll discover our creative voices and find the courage to put our stories on the page.
Let's write together. Let's grow together.
Join Our Fall Move. Write. Connect. Group!
Whether you're completely new to this or have some experience, you're welcome to join us in Liverpool, NY, this September.
What you need to know:
No prior experience required
Perfect for beginners
We need just 5 participants to launch
Ready to get started? Visit our community website for complete details and to register. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of something special this fall!
July 28, 2025
What keeps you going when
Editing is like running 50.2 milesI'm on my third round of reading Miles of Meaning: from Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher aloud, and I'm amazed by what I'm still catching. Words I didn't notice on silent reads jump out as awkward or unnecessary. Sentences that seemed complete now feel rushed or unclear. I find myself scribbling notes: need more here, this is redundant, this past-to-present tense doesn't work. (The tenses confuse me!)
This technique came from my online writing community, and it's been transformative. Reading aloud forces you to experience your writing the way readers will—you can't skip over bumpy passages or fill in gaps with your own knowledge.
While no book is perfect, I'm committed to going the extra mile (pun intended) to create the most honest, engaging account of my JFK 50 Mile journey. Just like training, editing requires patience, consistency, and snacks to keep you going, and it can feel very, very slow.
When the process gets tedious, I find myself returning to my why to stay motivated. This has become a recurring theme in everything I do. Why am I writing this book? Why am I running 50 miles? Why am I homeschooling?
I'm learning that the why matters more than anything. It keeps me from getting distracted or comparing myself to others.
Whether it's writing, running, parenting, or pursuing your goal, what keeps you motivated when progress feels slow? I'd love to hear your experiences in the comments.
Fabulous to write with you! I hope to see you today at 11 a.m. (EST)Today is our last write together of July. We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up. No experience is necessary.
Be part of our creative community! Use the link below to enter our Zoom room, and feel free to invite a friend to write alongside you. Together, we'll discover our creative voices and find the courage to put our stories on the page.
Let's write together. Let's grow together.
Summer Updates:
Monday Zoom write-togethers will return on August 18th. See you then and keep writing in the meantime.
Summer break: I will be unplugging to spend time with family. I’ll be back in your inbox on August 18. Thank you!
Project Updates: My next book, Miles of Meaning: from Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher, is now at the book cover design and gathering photo(s) phase. I'm excited to share updates and reveal the cover soon.
Move. Write. Connect. Our fall group is now forming. No experience is required. Beginners welcome. Check out our community website for details and registration.
July 24, 2025
Tell me about swimming...
Photo by Aaron Burden on UnsplashAs a child, I loved to swim, yet hated that a swimsuit was required. Can’t I just wear shorts and a T-shirt?
I sure can, and I did many, many times, just not during swim lessons at Otisco Lake. (Why I chose running over swimming)
Here’s a poem I created from the writing topic: Tell me about swimming.
Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when published Between Fear and FlowI stand before the wide open water towel wrapped over my swimsuit. Once I throw it offrevealing the suit I don't likea mad dash to the water to hide.I like to swim, yet swimsuits are not my style, too tighttoo uncomfortable. But worry dissolves into wonder as I begin the sidestroke:Pick the apple, then place it in the basket. Pick the apple, then place it in the basket.My favorite strokeit keeps my legs away from those stringy green fingers reaching up from the bottom.Each apple picked I grow braver Forget about the suit. Focus on the movement. My focus turns to the rhythm, of my arms across the water,strong legs to propel me.Courage growing in the space between fear and flow.Tell me about swimming
Feel free to share your stories or memories in the comments below.
I’ll be back on Monday to share the Zoom link to write together. The last one until August 18th.
Thank you for allowing me space in your inbox.
Keep moving and writing,
Julie
Summer Updates:
Monday Zoom write-togethers will continue throughout July: (see you this coming Monday 7/28) I won't be able to lead the group on 8/4 and 8/11. I’ll see you back on August 18.
Summer break: I will be unplugging to spend time with family. I’ll be back in your inbox on August 18.
Project Updates: My next book, Miles of Meaning: from Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher, is currently in the editing phase! I'm excited to share updates and reveal the cover soon.
Move. Write. Connect. The fall group is now forming. No experience is required. Beginners welcome. Reply to this email for the details.
July 21, 2025
Run, Deer, Run!
The past two weeks of running have been incredible for wildlife sightings—wild turkeys, rabbits, deer, fawns, even ducks! But there's one thing I've always hoped I'd never see: wildlife getting hit by a car on these country roads.
Last week, I had a heart-stopping moment. Running downhill, I saw a deer and her fawn crossing ahead of me. They stopped, frozen in the middle of the road, just as I heard a car approaching. My eyes darted between the car and the deer family.
Please don't hit them, I whispered.
The car crested the hill, heading straight for them. The driver wasn't slowing down, and I was sure I was about to witness a disaster. Just as I started to wave my arms, the driver honked and slammed on the brakes. The deer and fawn bolted to safety.
Phew. Way too close.
As I kept running, it hit me how often I freeze just like those deer, caught between where I am and where I want to go. In my writing, I freeze before hitting the publish button. I get stuck wondering what to say or if my work is good enough to share with the world. While working on edits for Miles of Meaning: from Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher, I swing between trash it all and keep going.
Here's what struck me about that deer family: the mother stayed with her fawn, and the fawn stayed with her mother. They froze together, then ran to safety together.
Maybe we need this too—someone to freeze with us in the messy middle before we find courage to move.
Here's what struck me about that deer family: the mother stayed with her fawn, and the fawn stayed with her mother. They froze together, then ran to safety together.
Maybe you're stuck on a project right now, paralyzed between creating and sharing. Maybe you're questioning whether your work matters. I believe it does. Your voice matters.
We're in this together, finding courage to keep putting our work into the world, one brave step at a time. Someone out there needs to hear exactly what only you can provide.
Keep showing up,
Julie
Write about a time you were "frozen" like the deer—caught between two choices or stuck in indecision. What or who helped you move forward? Share your story in the comments or hit reply and share— I read every response.
Notebooks and Pens Ready! :) Thank you, writing buddies. Join our online community writing session today (7/21) at 11 am EST. We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up. No experience is necessary.
Be part of our creative community! Use the link below (on Mondays) to enter our Zoom room, and feel free to invite a friend to write alongside you. Together, we'll discover our creative voices and find the courage to put our stories on the page.
Let's write together. Let's grow together.
Summer Updates:
Move. Write Connect. has one last summer session before Fall: July 23 at 9 a.m. For details and to sign up, click here.
Monday Zoom write-togethers will continue throughout July: I won't be able to lead the group on 8/4 and 8/11. I'll try to find someone to host these sessions. If not, I’ll see you back on August 18.
Summer break: I will be unplugging to spend time with family starting July 29. I’ll be back in your inbox on August 18.
Project Updates: My next book, Miles of Meaning: from Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher, is currently in the editing phase! I'm excited to share updates and reveal the cover soon.
July 17, 2025
What Carries You Through?
Photo by author. Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when publishedWorship on the TrailNo runners in sight,just me and the trail ahead—so I begin to hum:God is great, give Him all the praise, Hallelujah, Name above all NamesMy left foot throbs,ankle protests with each step,but worship moves my focusfrom pain to praise.Stone steps rise before me,hands on thighs,one at a time—grateful I've made it this far.The melody carries methrough ruts that aren't kind,a vertical climbthat steals my breath.I sip from my flask and listen to my own words: Stay strong.This is where prayer meets the dirt,hymns become fuel,and gratitude drowns outthe sting of blisters.Fire in His eyes, healing in His veins— Everywhere His glory on displayEven here,especially here,in the wilderness of mile 30,His presence runs beside me.Write about something that helps you push through difficult moments - a song, a phrase, a memory, a ritual. Describe a specific time when you needed it most.
Feel free to share with us in the comments below.
Summer Updates:
Move. Write Connect. meets July 23 at 9 a.m. For details and to sign up, click here.
Monday Zoom write-togethers will continue throughout July: I won't be able to lead the group on 8/4 and 8/11. I'll try to find someone to host these sessions. If not, I’ll see you back on August 18.
Summer break: I will be unplugging to spend time with family starting July 29. I’ll be back in your inbox on August 18.
Project Updates: My next book, Miles of Meaning: from Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher, is currently in the editing phase! I'm excited to share updates and reveal the cover in the coming month.
Thank you for being here with me,
Julie
In case you want to listen to the entire song.
July 14, 2025
The 100 mile race that took over our house
The stuffed animal race is on! A loud shout-out and huge congratulations to and for finishing the Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run! I can’t wait to read all about your experience.
After I had finished the Boston Marathon in 2021, my kids started playing stuffed animal races. They would gather their collection on one side of the house and move them toward the imaginary finish line. “It's the Boston Marathon!” they would announce as I wove around and stepped over plush competitors scattered across the hallway to my bedroom. My eyes looked for clear spots on the floor to place my feet.
Brindsley and Delaney moved the animals along while providing commentary: “Jeff Jeff is taking the lead, Floppy is now in second place. Here comes Shadow, not far behind, and oh, it looks like Simba might be hurt.” They even included water breaks for their furry athletes.
The marathon had been their longest race until we watched the live stream of the Western States 100. The next day, my children grabbed nearly all their stuffed animals and lined them up for the 100 mile race. The living room became the aid station, complete with black coasters on the carpet and marbles as pretend fuel. They stationed five stuffed animals to serve as crew and volunteers behind the black coasters.
What amazed me was how they kept all the names straight. They played this game for over an hour before I announced, “It's time for lunch. Please pick up your animals and go wash your hands.”
Brindsley looked up from the floor. “Mom, the race isn't over. They're running 100 miles. This will take all day.”
I had laughed to myself and probably rolled my eyes. Of course, the race wouldn't be finished yet. I stepped over a plush runner, Cakie, to open the pantry and tried not to step on Birdie.
They agreed to take a lunch break, but the animals remained covering the kitchen floor, hallway, and lined up single file in front of the bathroom door. When I headed outdoors for the mail, I carefully moved Floppy aside—who was currently in the lead, by the way—so I could open the door. The stuffed animals remained on the floor all day, and it wasn't until after dinner that the kids finished the race and announced the winners, and finally picked them up.
Their imagination had delighted me. I loved how they had created this elaborate game simply from watching races in person or online.
Later that evening, I looked at the now-clean floor and smiled. I would likely be stepping over Jeff Jeff, and Floppy again tomorrow, and while it made me happy, I knew this wouldn't last forever.
What's something you watched or experienced that completely captured your imagination as a child? OR What creative games did your kids invent that completely took over your house?
Come write about this today! We meet on Zoom at 11 am (EST). We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with this writing prompt to warm up. No experience is necessary.
Be part of our creative community! Use the link below (on Mondays) to join our Zoom room. Feel free to share with a friend.
So fun to write with you! Thank youSummer Updates:
Move. Write Connect. meets July 16 & July 23. For details and to sign up, click here.
Monday Zoom write-togethers will continue throughout July: I won't be able to lead the group on 8/4 and 8/11. I'll try to find someone to host these sessions. If not, I’ll see you back on August 18.
Summer break: I will be unplugging to spend time with family starting July 29. I’ll be back in your inbox on August 18.
Project Updates: My next book, Miles of Meaning: From Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher, is currently in the editing phase! I'm excited to share updates and reveal the cover in the coming month.
July 10, 2025
The Urgent Rabbit and the Patient Oak
Hiking breakText within this block will maintain its original spacing when published Right Now I See A monarch butterfly, a neon green bug, blackberries clustered wild— surprises with every step.A rabbit races toward us, urgent while we linger. Rocks shift, roots emergefrom patient earth.We rest under the great oak, mighty in its years. Shade welcomes woodpeckers,bluebirds, and the breeze that finds us here.What's one tiny detail from your day today that you almost missed?
Summer Updates:
Move. Write Connect. meets July 16 & July 23. For details and to sign up, click here.
Monday Zoom write-togethers will continue throughout July: I won't be able to lead the group on 8/4 and 8/11. I'll try to find someone to host these sessions. If not, I’ll see you back on August 18.
Summer break: I will be unplugging to spend time with family starting July 29. I’ll be back in your inbox on August 18.
Project Updates: My next book, Miles of Meaning: From Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher, is currently in the editing phase! I'm excited to share updates and reveal the cover in the coming month.
Thank you for being here with me,
Julie
Thanks for reading Run to Write. Please share with a friend.
July 7, 2025
Major mistake...
I found a major mistake in last week's story—my apologies. I did not finish in under 6 hours (I wish!). It was supposed to read that I finished before 6 p.m., which meant I made it to my daughter's dance recital in plenty of time.
Now, on to the story...
Jeff and the kids wrapped me in a sweaty hug, then rushed off to get Delaney to her dance recital on time. Mom stayed behind, watching as I hobbled to the picnic table bench and collapsed onto it.
“You look good,” she said as I rummaged through my bag for wet wipes.
I smiled. No medical tent this time.
After the JFK 50 miler, pins and needles had crawled across my lips, nose, and arms like invisible ants. Ninety minutes I'd spent in that medical area, wondering what was wrong with me. Not today.
Today, my legs were heavy, my knees and feet screamed with each step, but everything else hummed along just fine. Thank you, body!
The wet wipes turned brown as I scrubbed mud from my calves and between my toes. A quick clothes change, a clean hat pulled low, and I was already thinking about Delaney's performance.
I scribbled a quick message to my new friend on a yellow index card and placed it on her drop bag. I wanted to learn more about her 100 mile finish, and I hoped we could connect.
At the Fittnell Farms food truck, I loaded up on post-race fuel. Their gluten-free coleslaw made me close my eyes with the first bite. It was the best I'd ever tasted.
I shuffled to the car in a daze, but I was grinning. Mom slid into the driver's seat without a word. I couldn't trust my feet on the pedals.
“I'm going to make it,” I told her as we pulled away from the celebration.
While Mom drove, I spooned coleslaw into my mouth, guzzled water, and let the accomplishment wash over me. Fifty miles. Under twelve hours. My second time conquering a distance that had once seemed impossible.
Now to see my daughter dance. I'd kept my promise.
You’re invited!
Join our online community writing session today (7/7) at 11 am EST. We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up. No experience is necessary.
Be part of our creative community! Use the link below (on Mondays) to join our Zoom room. Feel free to share with a friend.
Why join Move. Write. Connect.
In our screen-filled world, it's easy to hide behind the screen and forget simple pleasures: moving our bodies, putting pen to paper, and connecting face to face. This isn't about perfect fitness or flawless writing—it's about showing up as yourself. Find clarity through movement. Capture your stories through writing. Beat the resistance through connection.
We meet this Wednesday (7/9) at 9 am, Freedom of Espresso, Liverpool, NY.
Join us.
July 3, 2025
When 'No' Really Means 'Please'
A post shared by @runtowritejulieThank you, Jeff for your gentle rebellion.
Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when publishedThe Husband Who Didn’t ListenIt wasn’t a lackof hearing aids—they were in.He had other plans.“I don’t know if you should come,”I said over the phone.He came anywaywith our children,brought my mom.Their voicescarried me upthe stone steps.I figured that was goodbyeto my cheer squad.Yet my husbandhad other plans.As I approached the finish,there they were—shouting my name,an unexpected gift.I love that he didn’t listenas I hugged himat the finish line.Writing prompt: Write about an 'unexpected gift' - something that surprised you, not because it was unplanned, but because it was unwanted until the moment you received it.
You’re invited!
Join our online community writing session next Monday (7/7) at 11 am EST. We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up. No experience is necessary.
You're welcome here if you seek accountability partners, fellow writers, or a supportive community space. After the prompt, please use this focused time to advance your project in any way you like.
Be part of our creative community! Use the link below (on Mondays) to join our Zoom room. Feel free to share with a friend.
Join our Move.Write.Connect group this Wednesday at 9 a.m. (jumping is optional but encouraged!) We have fun. Brigitte is holding her 28-pound dog, Cupcake!
Go Brigitte!
Click the button below for details and to sign up.
