Julie B. Hughes's Blog, page 9
February 6, 2025
Thank You!
Little free library in Liverpool, NY Thank you, Becky, Julie, Janet, Gary, Mary B., Jenn, Amie, Wayne, Athena, Leigh, Tracy, and Karen for helping me spread the message. I was thrilled with the response and enthusiasm. I’ll be heading to the post office today to send you the books.
If you missed Monday’s post, I shared how I’m placing more copies of my books in little free libraries throughout the community and surrounding areas.
Do you have a little free library near you? Would you be willing to help me by placing one of my books inside?
Please reply to this email—little free library and I’ll share the details with you.
Thank you so much for your help,
Julie
Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when published Title Idea? It is a serious thingon this winter morningto hear the downy woodpecker tap, taptap, tap a gentle beatto quiet my mind as my feet sink into the snowbrilliant redsoarsframed by hardwood treesmy heart no longer thundersAnd I remember what is true…peace I leave with you;my peace I give to you.Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
Title idea? Leave in the comments below. Thank you!
The Winter Writer’s Camp using the prompt comfort is…Spring into Action with The Run to Write Club!
Registration is now open.
Click the button before for details and to register.
9 spots available.
February 3, 2025
A story, a little free library, & a phone call...
Happy 4th Birthday! (belated) Last November, I spotted a little free library 100 feet away from where I was parked. If you’re not familiar with them, a little free library is a small box filled with books. This one was wooden, with a clear hinged door on a wooden post. You could take a book or leave a book for free.
Maybe I should put one of my books in there…
I opened the cargo area to find two books— what luck! I grabbed both of them.
I listened to the nudge and placed my self-published memoir—My Road: A Runner's Journey Through Persistent Pain to Healing inside.
Last week, I received an unexpected call from a woman I'd briefly met while volunteering at a preschool last year. She had found and read my book—the one I placed in the little free library. She called to share how my story resonated with her.
As she shared her journey, I listened with tears in my eyes. I was touched by her courage to reach out and tell me how my words had helped her.
She's now writing more, moving more, and becoming aware of her negative self-talk patterns. She’s finding support.
I smiled.
When I published this book in 2021, I desired to help someone else who struggled with body image, disordered eating, self-sabotaging thoughts, and persistent pain. I’m grateful to know this book is creating a change in her life and she dared to reach out to tell me. God is so good.
One of my writing friends mentioned, “We seldom get to see the impact we have on others.”
I’m grateful I see.
I believe writing first helps us heal ourselves and then creates a pathway for others to do the same. When we share our journeys, including the messy parts, we create space for connection and healing.
Though traditional book sales have been quiet these past two years, sharing my book through little free libraries has opened a new path to reach people who need these words. I'm inspired to expand this approach in the coming months, placing more copies in little free libraries throughout the community and surrounding areas. I’m using this map to help me.
I’m curious, do you have a little free library near you? Would you be willing to help me by placing one of my books inside?
Please reply to this email—little free library and I’ll share the details with you.
Thank you so much for your help,
Julie
Last Monday’s write together. Pens ready! You’re invited!
Join us for our community writing session today at 11 am EST! We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up.
You're welcome here if you seek accountability partners, fellow writers, or a supportive community space. After the prompt, use this focused time to advance your project in any way you like.
Be part of our creative community! Click the button below to join our Zoom room.
Spring into Action with The Run to Write Club!
Registration opens today!
Click the button before for details and to register.
10 spots available.
January 30, 2025
Winter's hard love...
Winter running on the Erie Canal TrailThe winter weather helped me in creating this poem.
Thank you for being here with me.
Keep moving and writing,
Julie
Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when published Winter's Hard Lovestreams hushunder jagged iceuneven peaceas theblue jayflys across the greya streak of joywinds blowpatience to maplebare and alivewhilesnowflakeshover with goodnessa bold beautysnow stirsbuilds our endurancewinter's hard loveThis week at The Winter Writer’s Camp we all brought a photo of our choice. We used this photo to write a story, poem, or what we remember about the photo.
Give it a go.
Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and let it rip!
Leigh, Tracy, and me— moving and writing. Thank you! thank you for permitting me to share yours here.
Tracy’s SubstackThe Word of the Day: SlushGlobs of brown, wet snow and rain splashed my pants as I crossed the road. The car coming down the street didn’t mean for it to happen. Thank God I wore brown pants to match the mushy slush. It’s that time of year in Central New York…Read more19 hours ago · 1 like · Tracy Chamberlain HigginbothamWe’re meeting on Monday for our community write together on Zoom. I hope you can join us. Have a beautiful weekend.
Run to Write Winter Playlist— Sometimes I like to have music in the background when I write and work.
What song would you add?
January 27, 2025
Silent lessons
A handwritten letter from my sonMy son, Brindsley, wrote me a letter—his cursive writing covered the page. It was a few months before I toed the start line of the JFK 50-miler.
This gift came out of 2022: handwritten letters between my children and me. He asked what I wanted for Christmas and my second favorite marathon.
I chuckled.
One thing he wrote that I don’t want to forget— “I’m super happy you are running the JFK 50 miler. I am happy that you run and write because it encourages me to do so.”
When I showed my daughter, Delaney the medal, she said, “I’m going to run the JFK 50-miler, too.”
I smiled.
In that moment, the persistent 'mom guilt' melted away. I realized my actions were more than personal endeavors—they were silent lessons for my children. I didn’t need to say a word.
The secret to life might just be— Show, don't tell.
Where do you show in your life?
You’re invited!
Join us for our community writing session today at 11 am EST! We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up.
You're welcome here if you seek accountability partners, fellow writers, or a supportive community space. After the prompt, use this focused time to advance your project in any way you like.
Be part of our creative community! Click the button below to join our Zoom room.
Thank you Rebecca, Wayne and SharonRegistration opens for the next 6 session Run to Write Club—Spring into Action
Here's what makes it special:
🏃♀️ Move at YOUR pace - run or walk, all levels welcome
✍️ Discover the magic of pen-to-paper writing (we've got your supplies covered!)
🌟 Connect with an amazing, supportive community
🌿 Get outdoors and get inspired
Where real life happens: movement, creativity, and genuine connections
10 spots available! Please email me to save your place or ask questions. ✨
Registration opens 2/3/2025
Another great session of The Winter Writer’s Camp. What a pleasure to collaborate with Tracy, Leigh, and Wayne.
January 23, 2025
5 degrees
Welcome new subscribers to the Run to Write Community— , Lindsay, David, mcrandazz, rmarti, joyanslaman, Leigh, steve.godderidge, carolina, rsaudant, mark, ekwhite, mdnavygirl, and kanderson.
We’re thrilled that you’re here!
Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when published 5 Degreesstillness of the frozen airalerts my sensessneakers crunch, squeak with each muffled breath fox tracks travel on my left eager to keep upAnd even though my thighs burnAnd my feet ache And it’s a bitter morning The road stretches to the starsI’m almost in reachWhat's your favorite way to stay active and move your body? I'd love to hear what brings you joy through movement. Comment below.
Thankful Thursday…
I’m so thankful for The Winter Writer’s Camp. We got out of the house! We collaborated on a story and didn’t worry if it was good, right, or even useful.
We laughed, showed up, and created. I call that a brain triumph!
Thank you for the restack! I’m grateful we’re in the “relearn” and “begin again” times together.
Thank you for sharing your business nuggets of wisdom with me.
Thank you for your recent post. It resonated.
Thank you, Wayne, , and Sharon for joining me on Monday to write. It’s always a joy to have others to write with.
A quick reminder— Join us for a community writing session every Monday at 11 am EST! We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up.
You're welcome here if you're seeking accountability partners, fellow writers, or simply a supportive community space. After the prompt, use this focused time however you'd like to advance your project.
Come be part of our creative community! Click the button below to join our Zoom room.
Local friends: Here is the next Run to Write Club information. Registration will open on 2/3/2025. Please feel free to share with two friends who may be interested.
The Run to Write Club kicks off their next 6 session club on March 12th at Freedom of Espresso in Liverpool, NY.
Here's what makes it special:
🏃♀️ Move at YOUR pace - run or walk, all levels welcome
✍️ Discover the magic of pen-to-paper writing (we've got your supplies covered!)
🌟 Connect with an amazing community
🌿 Get outdoors and get inspired
Where real life happens: movement, creativity, and genuine connections
10 spots available! Reply to this email to save your place or ask questions. ✨
January 20, 2025
What surprised you about the race?
One of my favorite photos taken by Mike McNeil at the JFK 50 mile race“What surprised you about the race?” my coach asked during our New Year's call. I had just completed the JFK 50-miler, and the answer was easy— “My left heel didn't bother me at all!”
Just three months before race day, I'd been hobbling out of bed each morning, wincing at the pain in my left heel. As a physical therapist, I knew enough to be dangerous—my mind immediately jumped to worst-case scenarios. Achilles tendon rupture? Do I need to stop running? What if I can’t toe the line in November?
Here's where the story gets interesting.
Instead of prescribing rest, my performance coach said, “Keep moving.” My fingers loosened their grip on the phone, and I grinned. He added 20-30 minutes of targeted calf-strengthening exercises to my weekly routine—simple enough.
Training continued, though not without doubts. Some mornings I'd wake up limping, others surprisingly pain-free. My Achilles was reminding me not to skip those strength training exercises.
I’d worked with my coach for a long time. I trusted the plan. I stayed consistent. The pain-free mornings became more frequent. My stride felt stronger.
Then came race day. 50.2 challenging miles—plenty of time for any weakness to reveal itself. Mile after mile ticked by, and my Achilles held strong. Not a twinge, not a complaint even after the Appalachian Trail. The same heel that had me worried sick three months earlier carried me toward the finish line.
But the real surprise? I could walk the next day. Yes, really walk! This body of ours— the same one we sometimes curse and doubt— was capable of incredible adaptation when given the right tools and trust.
So here's what I learned or maybe relearned. Those niggles and pains that feel like stop signs? Sometimes they're just your body asking for something more or something different—in my case, more strength training focused on the calf-muscle complex.
With the right guidance, patience, curiosity, and consistent work, what seems like a roadblock might be a detour to becoming stronger. Thank you coach for your guidance and for being in my corner.
And if you're dealing with your own “Achilles heel” right now —whatever it might be —remember my limping mornings that turned into 50.2 strong miles. Progress isn't always linear but can still be positive. Trust the process.
Thank you for being here,
Julie
Thank you friends. :) Join us for a community writing session today at 11 am EST! We'll gather in silent solidarity to work on our creative projects, starting with a writing prompt to warm up.
Whether you're seeking accountability partners, fellow writers, or simply a supportive community space, you're welcome here. After the prompt, use this focused time however you'd like to advance your project.
Come be part of our creative community! Click the button below to join our Zoom room.
The Winter Writer’s Camp meets this Wednesday at Kairos Cafe in Syracuse, NY at 9:30 am. We’re building a community through movement, collaboration, and creativity. If you would like to join one of the sessions click the button below for details and to register.
Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
January 16, 2025
Care, conversation, & loads of bananas
Where we left off:
We did it! Thank you Sheila for taking this photo. I sipped the Gatorade. I slouched on the bench staring at the banana in front of me. How am I gonna open it? I set the cup down with both hands. I eyed the banana again. My fingers fumbled and wouldn’t cooperate. Sigh.
I glanced around the gym. A runner hunched on the bench in front of me. Another runner was sitting on the cot his sneakers off and his blisters being examined. That’s funny, I don’t even feel my feet. My brain was occupied by the pins and needles around my mouth and nose, the numbness of my arms, and what felt like bricks for my hands.
Another medical staff came over to check on me.
She came around the table eyeing the banana, “Let me help you.”
She picked it up and started peeling one side.
“My fingers won’t move, I’m so sorry. I don’t know what’s happening.”
“Nothing to be sorry about. We’re here to help. Let's get you out of these wet clothes, where are your dry clothes?”
“My crew has them.”
“Okay, I’ll go and get them. Where can I find your crew?”
“At the finish line, wearing bright yellow shirts and hats.”
“Okay, let’s get you to sit on a cot. I’ll be right back with your clothes.”
She helped me up from the bench. My legs were like overcooked spaghetti limp and mushy. My feet ached and throbbed. Ouch, there’s those blisters. Her arm wrapped around my forearm. I trudged over to the cot and sat. She handed the banana to another woman in a red jacket.
“I’ll be right back with your clothes. Nicole will help you.”
Nicole knelt next to me. She took chunks of banana and started to feed me. Tears gathered at the corner of my eyes.
“I’m so embarrassed. I’m so sorry.” I whispered looking around the gym.
She smiled with concern, “We need to get your potassium up so I’ll help you. It’s okay.”
I chewed the pieces she fed me and drank from the cup of Gatorade she held to my lips. She shared she was a mom and had a toddler at home— “This is nothing.”
I laughed through my tears. My shoulders softened grateful for her kindness, though I still wished Jeff could be here instead.
Before I'd finished the last bite, she was already heading off to get another banana.
“Where are you from?” as she peeled the banana.
“Manlius, New York near Syracuse.”
Her eyes lit up, “Oh, I went to Syracuse University.”
I smiled, “No way. That’s awesome.”
She continued breaking off pieces of banana and placing them in my mouth. I chewed diligently, praying the potassium would hurry up and flood my system. How long would this take? Gratitude for her presence battled with frustration at being stuck on this cot. My friend Felicia would be finishing any minute. I was going to miss it.
Deep breath.
Nicole handed me the last piece as she stood up, “Have you run this race before?”
I shook my head. "It's my first. I’ve run lots of marathons thought.”
“I ran my first marathon for my Dad,” she said quietly, her fingers paused. “He died of cancer.”
The banana turned heavy in my mouth. I met her gaze and forced myself to swallow.
“I'm so sorry about your Dad.”
“Thank you.” she folded the banana peel in half and tossed it in the garbage.
I wanted to hug her. Tears rolled down my cheeks as I shared Jeff’s story and how I dedicated this run to those touched by cancer.
We continued chatting between bites of banana and sips of Gatorade. I was amazed at how many I'd eaten. Thank goodness I liked bananas.
Gradually, the heaviness lifted from my arms, and my fingers regained their flexibility. The strange buzzing in my nose faded, and the tingling on my lips subsided.
“How are you feeling?” she asked.
“I’m feeling better. I think I can hold the cup.”
She handed me the cup of Gatorade. “Keep drinking, it’s helping. Once your clothes get here I’ll help you change. You’re going to be okay. We won’t leave you until you feel better.”
I was relieved she didn’t hand me another banana. I noticed the pins and needles around my mouth were gone and my arms and fingers were in sync with the rest of my body.
“Thank you so much. I’m sorry you had to feed me.” I laughed. I was so grateful for her care and patience. It took over an hour for my symptoms to improve.
She grinned, “And here are your clothes!”
I looked over my shoulder to see Felicia and my crew with my bag of clothes. Felicia was wearing her medal. I was so happy and disappointed. I missed out on her finish. I hope she understood why I wasn’t out there.
“Congratulations Felicia!” I was so happy to see her. I could tell she wanted to get back to the hotel. I felt the same way.
I grabbed my bag of clothes. Nicole ushered me towards the bathroom holding onto my arm. I shuffled along. My feet stung with each step. My legs wobbled. Oh yeah, I just ran for over 9 hours. What did I expect?
Nicole waited outside the bathroom stall while I changed into dry clothes.
“Thank you for being here and helping me,” I said.
“No problem, Julie. I'm glad you're feeling better,” she replied.
As I pulled on dry socks, I felt a surge of relief. I could move my fingers and arms with ease. I didn’t need anyone to help me dress. I was grateful the Lord placed Nicole in my path. She was exactly who I needed.
Stepping out of the stall with renewed energy - amazing what dry clothes can do - I gave Nicole another heartfelt thanks for her care and company.
Outside, Felicia and I made our way together toward the finish area. The scene that greeted us gave me goose bumps or goose pimples as my friend Rebecca would say— floodlights illuminated the night, crowds cheered enthusiastically as runners crossed the finish line.
The atmosphere was infectious, and despite my limp, my heart soared seeing all the supporters gathered to celebrate each finisher's triumph. After everything, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment being among them.
THE END! (well, for now)
Thank you so much for reading along or listening in! It’s been incredible to share the JFK 50-mile race with you. I would love to know…
What was your favorite part of the JFK 50 miler story? Why?
Have a great weekend and see you on Monday,
Julie
Come write with us. We meet every Monday at 11 am (EST). I provide a writing prompt as a warm up then we silence our devices and begin. If you’re looking for focused time and perhaps accountability to work on your project or start your writing practice, join us.
Click the button below to our Zoom room.
January 13, 2025
Are you okay?
This was the icing on the cake…a gold medal.I just ran 50.2 miles. My mind was stunned, my body grateful, and I smiled from ear to ear.
A volunteer turned towards me, holding a gold medal. "Congratulations," he said, placing the ribbon over my head.
As the medal rested against my chest, the enormity of what I'd just done hit me. My vision blurred with tears.
"Are you okay?" he asked, his hand steadying my shoulder.
A tear rolled down my cheek, then another.
"Yes, yes," I managed to say.
He smiled. "Is this your first JFK 50?"
I nodded with a grin.
He smiled, “I understand, I see this a lot.”
I scanned the crowd imagining my children and Jeff rushing towards me. I wanted to hug them. I needed a hug. I wish they could have come.
My tears continued and the man asked again, “Are you okay?”
I shivered, “Where’s the gym?”
Another volunteer approached and handed me a shiny, foil blanket to help maintain my body temperature. She pointed toward the school. “Go inside and get warmed up. They have tables set up with food too.”
I smiled. “Thank you.”
I shuffled towards the school weaving around spectators and runners. I grinned at everyone who passed. A strange tingling spread across my upper lip then crept toward my nose like novocaine at the dentist. Just need some food, I told myself, hobbling toward the refreshment table.
The spread of sandwiches, soup, and bananas blurred before me. I couldn't make my hand grab anything. How long had I been standing here?
"Are you okay?" a volunteer's voice cut through my daze. Her eyes crinkled with concern as she leaned across the table.
I shook my head, “My face feels like pins and needles.”
“Let’s get you to medical.”
She came alongside me. Her fingers around my wrist steadied me as we made our way to the gym. The squeak of our sneakers echoed across the wood floor. In the far corner, medical cots formed a makeshift triage area, and runners occupied each one. Medical staff in bright red jackets moved between them.
"Right here," she said, leading me to a school lunch table. I sank onto the bench, relieved to rest. "Don't move – I'll find someone."
This is so strange, don’t freak out. My nervous system is just looking out for me. I ran for a long time this is just how my body is letting me know.
I closed my eyes and focused on my breath. I continued to coach myself—anything to stay calm. I hadn’t expected this. I wasn’t sure what to do.
Deep breath.
Outside hundreds of feet were still pounding the pavement. Felicia would be crossing the finish line any minute now and I wouldn't be there to cheer her on. My mouth and nose buzzed while my arms felt heavy and numb.
This is so weird.
I clenched and unclenched my fists; my fingers were stiff. I found it difficult to move them to remove my running vest.
Deep breath.
A man came over in a red jacket and asked, “What’s going on?”
I hesitated a moment. “My mouth and nose are tingling and numb. My arms feel the same.”
“Are you allergic to anything?”
“No.”
“Has this happened to you before?”
I shook my head, “No, this is my first 50 miles.”
“Let’s get you some fluids and something to eat.”
He came back with a paper cup of Gatorade and a banana.
“Drink this. You might be low on potassium.”
My stiff, cold fingers could barely grasp the cup, forcing me to use both hands like a child. As my fingers refused to cooperate, panic began to rise. I focused on my breathing, reminding myself— I just ran 50 miles. I’ll be okay. Just keep breathing.
To be continued…
I have more to write than I thought. Thank you for sticking around and allowing me space in your inbox each Monday and Thursday.
Full house to start 2025! It was so great to see all your smiling faces and write together. Hope to see you again today or real soon. Today we meet at 11 am (EST) to write in communal silence. If you're looking for a space to focus, write, or work on your next project, please come.
Click the button below to join our Zoom room.
We meet in person this Wednesday at Karios Cafe, in Syracuse, NY. If you would like to join us please check out the details below and register. Drop-ins are welcome.
January 9, 2025
The Finish!
We did it! photo credit: H3 PhotographySix miles to go.
I would not back down. Each name secured in my vest would get the victory. I would finish.
I sipped from my flask washing down what remained of the salt potatoes. A police officer stood on the opposite side of the road blocking traffic. I gave him a wave and a thank you.
How blessed to have him looking out for us as we made our way to Williamsport. I smiled. Almost there. Look how far I’ve come!
Right arm, left arm matched the silent cadence in my mind—Be brave and believe. Be brave and believe.
At mile forty-five, my legs flowed. How could this be?
I'd imagined worst-case scenarios: a sprained ankle, vomiting, uncontrollable diarrhea, or being stranded at an aid station. Grateful now, none of these fears had materialized.
I was surprised by my strength and confidence. My mind was calm and encouraging, with no room for fear. The mental training leading up to this race shone through with five miles to go.
One of several key mental training strategies was the "If-then" technique from Addie Bracy's book, Mental Training for Ultrarunning.
I planned for potential challenges and wrote them down.
If I can’t find my crew, I will carry hydration powder in my vest as a backup.
If my stomach is upset or nauseous, I will carry chewable Pepto Bismol tablets to ease the symptoms.
Another strategy focused on negative self-talk and the stories I told myself when I was tired or in pain. I took the time to write each one out. I noticed. I challenged them. I became self-aware of the sentences that didn’t serve me.
You know the ones...I can’t do this, I didn’t prepare enough, my stomach is off, or my legs feel heavy and slow.
When race day came I would choose to listen to the right voice.
It feels hard because it is hard. This is racing and it’s a good thing. I completed over 95% of the training my coach prescribed. I’m ready. I get to do this. Be brave and believe.
The growing sound of voices and cheers told me another aid station was nearby. I smiled as I spotted the tables and volunteers up ahead.
What did I grab to eat? I don’t remember.
I remember what I asked, “Is this the last aid station before the finish.”
"Yes, this is it, then the finish. You're almost there!" a volunteer called out.
I grinned, “Thank you.”
My spirit lifted. Thank you, Lord.
The sign marked 47 miles now in my rearview. Three more miles to go— a 5K— I can do this.
As I pounded out those final three miles, I pictured Delaney, Brindsley, and Jeff huddled around our TV at home, watching the Mountain Outpost Livestream. I could almost hear their cheers through the screen— Go! Mama Moose, Go! The thought of running strong for them pushed me toward the finish, even if their hugs would have to wait until I made it home.
*****
I had no idea where I stood for time. My eyes stayed up rather than on my watch. I anticipated the finish line. A few runners were within reach.
A man stood on the left side of the road. He shouted out to us, “The finish line is just ahead. You’ll see it once you get up this hill.”
Sure enough, as I made my way to the crest of the short incline, I saw the finish—an enormous red inflatable arch in the distance. It had to be at least a mile and a half away. Adrenaline shot through me as my legs took over.
We had a spectacular downhill finish. I was grateful. I focused on the goal and ran as fast as I could.
My arms pumped, my legs soared. My eyes narrowed in on the red arch. Is this the finish? Is it really there? My wild mind questioned my eyes.
The cheers and shouts grew louder. I passed two more runners. I wouldn’t save anything. I gave it all I had. My family was watching.
Ten feet before the finish, I raised my right arm and fist-pumped in celebration.
We did it! We finished 50.2 miles.
TBC… (to be continued)
The first Run to Write Club of 2025! Thank you, Diane, Wayne, Errol, and Syl.Join us at the exciting new Winter Writer's Camp! We've found the perfect home at Kairos Cafe in Syracuse, NY, where our private space creates a welcoming atmosphere for creativity and connection.
Our first session sparked inspiration as we crafted winter-themed haikus together. We'd love for you to become part of our in-person community where movement and writing meet.
Come be part of our growing creative circle! No writing experience is necessary. Simply click below or reply for all the details about our in-person gatherings.
Unable to attend in person…no problem!
Join us every Monday on Zoom to start or restart your writing practice. We meet at 11 am (EST) and write in communal silence. I’ll sprinkle in some movement halfway through. :)
January 6, 2025
Soup, salt potatoes, & a tiki bar
Happy 2025! It’s great to be back in your inbox (I hope you feel the same way).
We continue the 50-mile adventure—almost to the finish!
If you need a refresher we left off here:
Photo credit: Mike McNeilMy heart soared— 8.4 miles to go and I wasn’t alone. Three runners were just ahead of me making their way uphill.
At the bottom of the hill, a man sat in his driveway with a small table in front of him. This must be the man who handed out soup.
I heard about him from Billy of Cloudsplitter Coffee.
“He hands out soup every year at the race. It’s the perfect temperature and so good. I look forward to the soup every year.”
He told me his name was Jim. There’s that name again.
I slowed down and caught his eye. He called out. “Soup.”
I moved closer, “Yes please.”
He removed the cloth covering the container of soup and poured some into a cup. He handed me the warm cup and replied, “Good luck with the rest of the race.”
“Thank you so much, Jim.”
I sipped the broth as I attempted to run. I didn’t want to lose the runners ahead of me. I hadn’t quite perfected this skill. Broth jumped up onto my upper lip and into my nose. I laughed to myself as I slowed down to drink the rest. I tossed the cup near a garbage bag and then shook out my arms.
I leaned forward, pumped my arms, and shortened my stride as I made my climb. I was determined to run hard these next 8 miles. I didn’t bother looking at my watch. My focus returned to the runners ahead of me and the views.
Wide open fields, rolling hills, and a bright blue sky. What a beautiful day to run. I smiled. My legs took on the uphills with strength and power. I was grateful for my energy. Thank you body.
My mind was determined to run hard. Give it all you got.
Another female runner came into view. There’s number 100— go get her.
I narrowed my eyes on her blue shirt and managed to catch up to her. We ran together and chatted admiring the country roads.
She looked to her right, “Wow look at that yellow house.”
My eyes were struck with an enormous bright yellow home.
“Wow, gorgeous. What a beautiful run we have.”
She nodded. “Have you run this race before?”
“No, this is my first time and first 50 miler. How about you?”
“This is my first JFK, I ran a 100K last weekend.”
“Wow! You’re amazing.”
Her enthusiastic smile lit up as she shared her passion for ultrarunning and trail racing. We connected over raising children and our hopes to inspire their love for movement and nature's adventures.
Our footsteps synchronized as we pushed through mile forty-three together. At the sight of grass skirts and colorful leis, we burst into laughter. The tiki-themed aid station erupted in cheers, fueling our spirits. Gratitude washed over me— these volunteers had transformed an ordinary pit stop into an unforgettable oasis.
Several runners gathered with us as we grabbed hydration and food. One volunteer shouted out, “We have boiled potatoes, it will help your stomach!”
My ears perked up. I headed his way and nodded. “I’ll take some.”
“Would you like salt on top?”
“Yes please.”
I’m from Syracuse, NY, I love salt potatoes.
He sprinkled salt on top before handing me the paper cup.
“Thank you.” I grinned as I peered into the cup—tiny cubed boiled potatoes—genius! How generous. I couldn’t believe the thought and care that went into each aid station.
I savored the salty snack, tossed the empty cup, and rallied the female runners with an energetic clap.
“Let's go ladies!”
TBC…..
Last write session of 2024. I’m looking forward to our writing sessions in 2025.Are you looking to start or restart your writing practice? Do you need accountability to focus and work on your project?
Join our focused Monday Writing Sessions!
Every Monday at 11 AM EST, writers like you gather in supportive silence to make progress on their projects. Our quiet communal workspace helps you stay on track.
Join our Zoom room to get started!
Run to Write Clubs: Where movement and writing meet in 2025!
The next Run to Write Club—in person and offline—starts this Wednesday, 1/8/25 at Kairos Cafe in Syracuse, NY.
Please join us. All writing levels are welcome.
Click the button below for all the details and to register.
Onward!
