Run to Write: An Introduction

Hi Runners, 

My name is Julie Hughes and I’m thrilled to be hanging out with you once a month. I live with my husband and two children in Manlius, NY. I LOVE to run. I was blessed to have an amazing uncle who introduced me to running at a very young age. 

Running was my playtime. I was relieved my parents let me explore alone. I enjoyed the freedom on the roads—What will I see, hear, and find on my runs? This thought kept me lacing up my sneakers. 

I had the privilege to run for the Tully Black Knights in high school. I continued collegiately at the University at Buffalo and then Bloomsburg University. I’m a writer, author, marathoner, and physical therapist. I enjoy writing poems and many of them are inspired by my runs. I look forward to sharing stories and poems with you to inspire, encourage, spark curiosity, and fingers crossed— entertain. 

I look forward to hearing from you and what keeps you lacing up your sneakers. You can connect with me on substack at Run to Write: Transforming runs to words one poem at a time, Run to Write Poetry Podcast—listen in on Thursdays to a poem, and Facebook.  

I’ll leave you with a poem and a question to think on: 

Together on the Trail 

Two blue jays sit high 

on a branch, I slow down 

to take a glance. Bold blue

flies over my head, a color 

to make me smile— 

get out of bed.   

A crimson cardinal catches my 

eye, pecking at the ground as 

I run by. I stop to watch him 

looking for fallen seeds— 

Interrupted by a nuthatch 

two then three. 

Gather to greet me on the trail,

happy chirps in a row 

bringing joy to my soul.     

I turn to run, but just then—

my eyes meet the deepest red.

Hanging on pine, checking the 

view. Together on the trail—

            —Thank you.

Tell me— what is your favorite place to run? What makes it so special? 

I would love to know. Subscribe HERE and connect with me on Run to Write.