23 Comments
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Amie McGraham's avatar

"Can I refill your eggnog for you? Get you something to eat? Drive you out to the middle of nowhere and leave you for dead?"

Sorry, I got sidetracked by the eggnog comment. 🤭

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

HA! The best part! I laugh every time.

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Vineet Mani's avatar

To even get prepared to undertake such daunting tasks, a Guru (reach Coach) plays a phenomenal role as s/he brings along experience, expertise and effective ways to tackle crisis in the most crucial situation. I am so glad you have one.

Honestly, Julie, I believe that things happen for a reason and you meeting Jim and covering some distance alongside was not only a refreshing distraction, but an incredible way of rejuvenation.

I am all set to be a part of the next eight miles and await to read of twists, turns and bends that you have already covered magnificently.

God bless you, Ms. Inspiring Soul!

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

Hi Vineet, It's so great to get your note here. Yes, I'm so grateful for my run coach and all his wisdom and experience.

Thank you for sticking with me on this 50-mile adventure. :)

God bless,

Julie

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Vineet Mani's avatar

You are a lucky runner, but you are lucky because you are so dedicated and devoted. I am all here to undergo numerous such adventures in times to come. Take great care. God bless you too!

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

Glad to hear Vineet and hope you share some of your adventures with us. :)

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Vineet Mani's avatar

By all means, my friend. 😊😊

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Clark Rose's avatar

"Raw blisters on feet"

Each foot fall explores "pain cave"

Mind over matter?????

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

I'm proud to say I didn't let those blisters consume my thoughts! Brain triumph! :)

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Rebecca Holden's avatar

Oh, I'd read this over Christmas but hadn't hit the heart or commented!

I'm loving the whole story of this race, Julie - it's wonderful!

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

Thank you so much Rebecca for reading along. :)

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Mary B's avatar

Running with blisters while hungry and tired can feel like forever. Good for you to keep going, Julie. Each step one second closer to finishing. I love this story.

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

Thank you so much Mary B for reading. I’m so glad I didn’t let those blisters unravel me and at moments forgot they were even there. Thanks again for reading.

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Claudette Henson's avatar

I am enjoying this so much. Have a wonderful Christ mas with your family!

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

Thank you so much Claudette. Have a Merry Christmas!

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KAREN V. BLOOM's avatar

Things happen in waves , I guess running is like life. I’m really enjoying this story.❤️

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

It sure is! Grateful to be a runner to help me train for life. :) Thank you for reading along Mom. :)

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Renate Jacobsohn's avatar

Wow. How things change in a photo. I was thinking I will look funny with a pen in the hand laughing, however I look so serious. Upps. Next time more teeth. Thank you it was lovely to be there. Merry christmas .

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

I might have clicked it at the moment your laughter paused. Thank you so much for joining us and see you next time Renate. Merry Christmas to you and yours.

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Clark Rose's avatar

Enjoy "Holy Days"

With your precious family

Hugs from C & S

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

Thank you so much, Clark! Hugs to you both as well and Merry Christmas

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Linda McLachlan's avatar

I don't want this story to end -- only the pain you are experiencing but I know the euphoria will be incredible. I love that Jim helped you break through. I needed that in NY. I am learning so much from you here. xo

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Julie B. Hughes's avatar

I was so grateful for Jim too! Perfect timing. In N.Y.C. did you find yourself surrounded by runners most of the time?

This is one of many lessons I've recognized in this last year—pick bigger races—so many runners, volunteers, and spectators to keep me going.

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