If you’re joining us for the first time— Welcome. We’re so glad you’re here. Feel free to start at the beginning of the story:
We left off on Monday here:
The gurgle in my stomach intensified, and the raw blisters on my feet throbbed with each step. Are you still running?
My coach's voice echoed in my mind: "It comes in waves." His wisdom always steadied me, even now when my body screamed to stop.
A week earlier, we reviewed every detail of the race—strategy, nutrition timing, and mantras, and prepared for the inevitable moments of doubt and discomfort.
Now, lost in the blurry miles of the race, I remembered his wisdom. The fatigue crept in like a rising tide, threatening to pull me under. But I was ready. I knew these waves would pass.
Hang in there…this won’t last. It comes in waves.
I could really use a run buddy right now—someone to share the struggle with. My silent prayer was answered when a soft crunch, crunch amplified.
A fellow runner glided beside me, his voice cutting through my fatigue. "You're looking strong."
I turned my head in surprise.
“Thank you so much. I’m getting tired.”
“Is this your first time running the JFK?”
“Yes, and my first 50-mile race.”
“You’re doing great. You’ll make it under the 13-hour cut-off time.”
“I would love to make it under 9 hours but I was in the trail longer than I planned.”
He looked to the river and nodded.
We ran together for several minutes like old friends. It was a wonderful distraction from the fatigue and discomfort. He mentioned he was from Boonsboro, MD, and runs this race every year.
He smiled, “When I decide to stop running I will switch to being a volunteer.”
I grinned, “That’s a great idea, the volunteers have been amazing.”
A sudden gust of wind hit us broadside. I dropped my chin and pumped my arms to counter the invisible resistance.
He did the same and muttered, “I could do without this wind.”
I was happy the wind wasn’t head-on. It was strong but— it comes in waves.
“This reminds me of the year I ran it in 2019, or was it 2018, it was windy just like today and then it turned to sleet on the trail.”
“Yikes! I’m happy we have the sun shining on us.”
He grinned.
We continued running. I was grateful for his company and conversation.
“What’s your name?”
“Jim, what’s yours?”
“Julie, great to meet you.”
“The next aid station is soon, good luck. I’m going to stop and walk now.”
“Okay, Jim thank you so much for running with me. Good luck!”
I looked ahead and focused on the next aid station. I smiled as I recalled the names in my vest, Jim A. and Jim C. miles 31, and 42 dedicated to them. Another Jim, showed up beside me during a moment of struggle. Coincidence? I don't think so.
Cheers floated on the wind filling me with renewed energy. The next aid station was here. I stepped up to the table—cups of warm chicken broth were offered. I hadn’t had chicken broth in years but my gut was nudging me to take it, to drink it.
Maybe this would help my stomach.
I picked up the styrofoam cup with my bare hands and smelled the savory aroma. I sipped the golden broth. Mmm. How did they get the temperature just right? I sipped some more.
I turned to the volunteers, “This is so good, this is so good. Thank you so much.” They probably thought I was crazy.
Do you remember the movie Christmas Vacation when Clark Griswold is drinking the egg nog before he loses his mind?
I was Clark Griswold at this moment. It’s good. It’s good.
I grinned. I grabbed a banana and off I ran.
8 more miles left on the towpath.
To be continued…
Holiday Run to Write Schedule:
I’ll post the last part of the race on the Towpath on Monday 12/23 then I’m taking some time off to be with family and friends for Christmas. I’ll return to your inbox on January 6th to resume the JFK 50-mile story.
We have one more write together scheduled for this Monday 12/23 at 11 am (EST) and I’ll see if I can get a sub for 12/30 if not I’ll see you back in our Zoom room on 1/6/25.
May your holiday season be filled with light, love, and lots of laughter! Thank you so much for allowing me space in your inbox. I’m very grateful you are here with me.
Keep moving and writing! Onward!
God Bless,
Julie
Join us Monday 12/23 at 11 am (EST) for space to focus on your next project:
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