This #52WeeksA4A blog challenge is bringing me on such a journey! When I came up with the weekly prompts, I had no direction in my head, just things I wanted to delve into. For me, the “best mile” was just a phrase- maybe the best trip, or relationship, or book… but, for me, it’s literal. The best mile really is the one that comes after the one before it.
Let me explain more.
About 5½ years ago I quit smoking. It had been 12 years and thousands of dollars, and I wanted children. I really wanted babies. So I stopped. Cold turkey. I did it by sleeping in running shoes and waking up to run when I would have normally been smoking (yes, I was a night waker). I remember my FIRST RUN, and the torture of my heavy lungs bearing down on me. But it got better. And I found my footing. And every mile I became less burdened by the lungs I’d been killing. I was stronger, leaner and lighter, both mentally and physically. My first 5k felt like a lifetime. I’d been smoke-free for less than 6 weeks:
I ran a few 5ks, but was lonely running. So I set a goal. I ran my first half marathon, the ING Philadelphia Rock’n’Roll, in 2011 with my mom and sister just 3 months after I’d quit smoking. It was brutal.
And then, I needed motivation. I looked to Team in Training, in which my mom had participated in years prior, and hopped on board, running two half marathons and a 5k with them. I loved the team… being cheered on, the friendship and coaching- all invaluable to me. I wanted to run with them again- to feel all those best miles pass under my feet.
This time, my best mile is for Belle. She was diagnosed with leukemia right before Christmas in 2012. She was 2½. February 5, 2015, she had her last chemo treatment… her family bought all the kids flowers that day. I cried, at home, overwhelmed with emotion. So I signed up to run. (<— my fundraising page)
I first met her mom, Melissa, right after Belle’s diagnosis. I fell in love with her spirit and drive… a mama warrior, with a sweet warrior of her own. Belle spent a few afternoons with me and Addie when she wasn’t well enough to go to school, and I’ve delivered dinner to the children’s hospital a few times for Melissa and Belle… but I could never take the pain away.
As her sweet curls grow back and her smile with them, I can’t help but think: my best mile has yet to come.
This May, as I toe the line at Boston’s Run to Remember, I’ll race 5 miles, each the best. I run to honor Belle. And I run the best mile each mile after the last.
So… the best mile turned out to be quite literal to me. I love running, the relationship I have with the road, my running partner, my health and sweat-therapy. Each and every mile ahead, and all the ones behind.
What does the best mile mean to you? Don’t forget to link up below!
Proud of you!! What a great thing to do in your life. Amazing!
Jamie recently posted…The Berenstain Bears – “Please & Thank You Book”
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
What an inspiration! I enjoy running but reading this gives me more motivation to run farther, faster, and better for others.
lisa recently posted…My Thoughts On McFarland USA and My Talk With Director Niki Caro
Running is the best!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Congrats on your run! That take guts
marty recently posted…The World’s Best Valentine of 2015 is..
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
For me, the best mile, is purely contextual. It could be anything from the last mile of a 1/2 marathon to watching my daughter accomplish something for the first time. I find that if I look for them, best miles are everywhere.
Melissa Pezza recently posted…McFarland USA opens TODAY! Why you Should See It…
So true!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
What an uplifting story. Congratulations on replacing a very unhealthy habit with a healthy one!
Mags recently posted…The Colors of Old San Juan
She is definitely an amazing gal and we are all so proud of her accomplishments.
Thank you, ladies <3
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
The best mile for me is always when I accomplish something that I was sure I couldn’t. There is no victory more sweet than that.
Dawn recently posted…What If Cold Medicine Could Taste More Like Chocolate?
AMEN!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
I loved this article so much. Then again, I love all your articles. I think the best mile can be almost anything. For me, my best mile is at the end of everyday when my husband and I tuck our daughter in. I can’t think of anything better than that.
Courtney recently posted…McFarland, USA Movie Review #McFarlandUSAEvent
Aw- that is the best!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
congrats way to go
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Great job. I wish that I could run. I have health problems that prevent it.
Uplifting Families recently posted…6 Benefits of Eating Meals Together As a Family
Oh no! That’s no fun, but I hope that you find other ways to stay active!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Wow! Such a heartwarming, inspiring, and very uplifting story. Thanks so much for sharing 🙂
Cara (@StylishGeek) recently posted…My First Lovely Letter
Thanks for stopping by!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
What an incredible story! You are a real inspiration and have brightened my day!
Aw- thank you so much!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Good for you! I love reading inspiring stories like this!
AJ @ NutriFitMama recently posted…5 Races to Run in 2015 | Friday Five
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Your story is inspiring. I love to run too because it’s a way to clear my mind.
Right?! I call it my cheap therapy!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Your amazing! The best mile for me is finishing something I start, I tend to start sooo many projects and forget about them. When I actually complete something it feels so good.
Jenn recently posted…Alternatives When You Don’t Have Time To Go Back To School
Oh man… I’ve totally been there recently!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Very inspiring story. Good luck on your next 5k!
Anne recently posted…Don’t Worry Retire Happy – Retirement Security
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
This is so inspiring! I have tried running and just couldn’t get into it. I have decided to start with a walking regimen and when that gets boring to try running again. I hope I can do it.
Danielle recently posted…Giveaway: Vitabath Lime Citron Basil Bundle
You can do it!!!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
WELL DONE!!! you look great!! love the photo of your race! you are beaming and what a smile!
Kathleen Kennedy-Leon recently posted…MyBestofBothWorlds wrote a new post, Ready to make the #LumiaSwitch
Running always makes me smile!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Congrats on quitting smoking and running for such great causes!
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
That’s great that you quit smoking and have an addiction to running! I’ve never been much of a runner (more walking/light jogging), but with the sub-zero temps, I haven’t even be leaving the house. Can’t wait for spring! I’m trying to think of a “best mile” for me, hmmmm…. You’ve given me something to think about.
Nancy L. recently posted…Go From Day To Night In Style With Mellow World Handbags! {Giveaway!}
I’m loving other answers here… putting my kids to sleep- that is a favorite of mine, too!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
How inspiring! I would love to run in a marathon someday! Congrats on quitting smoking for good. You look amazing. =-)
Jillian Fisher recently posted…Brooklyn Bamboo Baby Bibs Burp Cloths Review
My goal is a full marathon, too!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
I love that you’re honoring Belle. I also love that your mom ran Team in Training. How cool that you have that similar passion in common. 🙂
Rosey recently posted…Zazzle 30 Days of Maker #Giveaway List! $1,000 Grand Prize Shopping Spree!
I love having her to look up to, still. It means a lot to me!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
This is such a beautiful and a very inspirational story indeed! I’ve been trying to get my boyfriend to quit dip (he traded smoking for dip) and he just can’t do it cold turkey so that takes guts, will, and determination! I guess for me, the best mile means keeping a positive attitude through all my health issues.
Kayla @ TheEclecticElement recently posted…Keep Calm, Connected & Worry-free with Stayfree + 30 Days FREE Yoga Offer
Good for you! Health issues are hard- my daughter never gets down or frustrated- but I freak out for her and all the doctors!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Way to go! Such a great encouragement!
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Thank you, Lois!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
This is inspiring! First …congrats on quitting smoking cold turkey. That is HUGE! Then to run for such great causes. Go you!!! The best mile really is the next one :-).
Angie recently posted…Friday Favorites (Gold Edition) & Blogger Love
So true!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
I just started running for my martial arts classes. I have to run a timed mile and you are so inspiring 🙂
You are gonna rock it, mama!!! You are amazing! I love all the martial arts class photos you post- I want to try a class, but I always chicken out!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Congrats to you on your running. Wishing you the best on the next one.
Debbie Denny recently posted…Newly Discovered Dr. Seuss Book To Be Released July 28th! âª#âWhatPetâ¬
Thank you, Debbie!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Great post. Way to go!
Crystal recently posted…McFarland, USA Movie Review
Thanks!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
I quit smoking January 1st, and I’m doing a 5K in April that I’m completely unprepared for! You’re inspiring!
Amy @ Marvelous Mommy recently posted…Project 52 | Week #7 – Love
You have clear lungs- you’re totally prepared! <3 Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
That’s such a touching story. How wonderful that running allowed you to have that connection.
Onica {MommyFactor} recently posted…Teaching My Son’s Class Chinese New Year & McDonalds “Year of the Goat” Giveaway #YearoftheGoat #CNY15
It really is!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
What an inspiring story, I shall share it with my Friend who has been trying to stop smoking for years and keeps backsliding! I too nee dto loose those Xmas Mince pies, they settled somewhere on my tum & behind…Gotta run more. I need to find my run tribe!
Julie Syl Kalungi recently posted…How To Write Riveting Emails Today – Call To Action
You just have to want to. I never really wanted to before… I’ve tried quitting before, but this time it stuck. I knew I wanted to quit for the kids!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
That is amazing. Good for you. It is such an accomplishment. My husband is a marathon runner and it still blows me away each and every time I go to watch him. You go girl and I love your story.
the pinterested parent recently posted…The Difference Between Dating and Married
That is awesome!!! Ask him to leave me some tips! I want to do a full, but I”m so scared!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
wow you are doing amazing!!! keep up the great fight!
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
The runs afre fun but even better when you know you are running for someone special
Erinn S recently posted…2015 Parenting Healthy Easter Gift Guide for the active child announcement
That is so true- running for someone or a cause means so much. It keeps me motivated!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
What an amazing story! One of my closest friends does Team in Training, and loves it!
It’s awesome! GO TEAM!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
I admire anyone who can do this. I’m working up to just running a minute.
Raijean recently posted…Check Out My WCIU, You & Me This Morning Segment on Unique Monthly Box Subscriptions
Everyone starts at the beginning- next thing you know you’ll be running miles!! <3
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Very Impressive. I’m always heartened by the selflessness of people who can achieve great things with others as inspiration.
Gabriel Bregg recently posted…Peach Jar Cakes and Creative Blog Hop
Without motivation, no one would accomplish anything. I am so grateful for Team in Training- they are such a wonderful organization!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
Congrats on quitting smoking. Not always the easiest thing to do. What a great thing you did. I have been wanting to run a marathon for so long. This gives me even more motivation to accomplish that.
Esther recently posted…British Soccer Camps In North America
Go for it,Esther!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
I have always wanted to run a marathon but that requires me to train which i am always lazy about. Congrats on quitting smoking it must not have been easy but well done you
DO IT!!!!! I know that if I register for one, I will train for it… the feat is actually putting my name down to do it!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
What a beautifully shared story. I can imagine that first 5k too. See how far you have come? I am so proud of you and delighted to be your blogger friend. Keep up the great work. Bravo!
Thank you so much! That really means a lot to me. Sometimes I forget to look back, but I have done a lot and need to remember that- keeps me moving forward.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A
The best mile…I’ve never really thought about it, but I guess I’ve had a lot of best miles. When my kids were born, when I got married, when I have a great achievement at work or life. There are a lot of moments in life to celebrate that could be my best mile.
Alison recently posted…Weeknight Fun With The Original Harlem Globetrotters
That means a life well lived 🙂
What a fabulous journey! I also quit smoking, cold turkey, when I wanted to have kids. Funny how that works, huh?
Wendy recently posted…Goodbye Child
We are awesome, Wendy! It takes a lot to commit to that!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…My Favorite Jewel, #52WeeksA4A