62 Miles for a Cause: My January Movement Challenge with the American Cancer Society

January 5, 2026 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

January often comes with pressure to overhaul everything at once—our bodies, our habits, our lives.
This year, I’m choosing something more intentional.

For the month of January, I’m completing a 62-mile movement challenge in support of the American Cancer Society. My goal is to raise $500 to help fund cancer research, patient support, and prevention efforts. If you’d like to support the cause, you can donate here: https://gofund.me/7926ab0e7

This challenge isn’t about speed or perfection. It’s about purpose.

Why 62 Miles Matters to Me

Sixty-two miles, spread across a month, is both a physical and emotional commitment. Some days those miles will be run. Other days they’ll be walked. What matters is showing up consistently and honoring what my body can do on any given day.

Cancer has touched too many lives to feel distant or theoretical. Supporting the American Cancer Society feels like a way to turn movement into meaning—one mile at a time.

How I’m Approaching This Challenge

I’m keeping this challenge sustainable and compassionate. That means:

Breaking the miles up across the month
Mixing running, walking, and strength training
Listening closely to my body and resting when needed
Letting progress be measured in effort, not pace

Some days will feel strong.
Some days will feel slow.
Both still count toward the 62 miles.

Movement as Gratitude, Not Punishment

For a long time, exercise felt tied to guilt or pressure. This challenge has helped me shift that mindset.

Each mile is an act of gratitude.
Each step is a reminder that movement can be a privilege.
Each workout supports something bigger than me.

That perspective changes everything.

Why the $500 Goal Matters

The $500 fundraising goal isn’t just a number. It represents:

Research that saves lives
Support for individuals and families navigating cancer
Education and prevention efforts that create long-term impact

Every donation—no matter the size—helps push that work forward.
If you’d like to support my challenge and help me reach my $500 goal, you can donate here: https://gofund.me/7926ab0e7

An Invitation

If you’re moving your body this month, you’re already doing something powerful. If you’re looking for a way to pair movement with purpose, I invite you to support this challenge. Alternatively, find one that aligns with your own “why.”

Your movement doesn’t have to look like mine to matter.

Closing

January doesn’t have to be about becoming someone new.
Sometimes, it’s about showing up as you are and choosing intention over pressure.

This month, I’m moving 62 miles with purpose—for awareness, for hope, and for the people who need it most.

Closing the Year with Intention: A Reflection on 2025 and What’s Coming in 2026

December 29, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

As the year comes to an end, I’ve been taking time to slow down, breathe, and look back at everything 2025 brought into my life — the growth, the challenges, the small joys, and the big victories. This year has been a season of showing up for myself in deeper, more intentional ways. It has been a year of rediscovering my voice, nurturing my creativity, strengthening my body, and creating traditions that reflect who I am becoming.

I entered this year wanting stability and connection — and I’m ending it feeling grounded, hopeful, and proud.

Here is a look back at the year through each of the four corners of this blog: health & fitness, reading, gardening, and recipes — the spaces where so much of my growth took root.

💪 Health & Fitness: A Year of Movement and Milestones

This year, I ran more races than I ever have before — and I pushed myself farther than I knew I could go. From the Turkey Trot I ran with my daughter to the Blue and Gray Half Marathon, each finish line taught me something new about my resilience, discipline, and joy.

I set personal records. I found strength in early mornings and in quiet miles. I learned to trust my body again. And perhaps most importantly, I found confidence — the kind that comes from showing up even when you’re tired, overwhelmed, or unsure.

Running became a reflection of my healing: slow, steady, and deeply personal.

📚 Book Club: Choosing Courage, Creativity, and Connection

My book of the month, Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes, could not have been more timely. Reading it reminded me to stretch, to take up space, and to lean into the opportunities that make me feel alive. Her voice pushed me to say “yes” to myself — yes to rest, yes to creativity, yes to courage.

And that energy followed me straight into my writing.

Book Two of my Tidewalker series began taking shape in new and exciting ways. I made progress on Ezra’s internal journey, deepened Grandmother Fatu’s backstory, and built the tension between the two worlds in ways that feel richer and more purposeful.

This was also the year I became more consistent with my blog — saying “yes” to sharing my voice, my journey, and my creativity with others.

🌱 Garden: Lessons from the Soil

My garden was one of my grounding spaces this year. From planting collards that ended up on our Thanksgiving table to experimenting with new vegetables and learning more about what my soil needs, gardening reminded me to slow down, stay patient, and trust the process.

Some plants thrived, some didn’t, and all of it taught me something.

Next year, I’m excited to bring the garden back to life in the spring — with new layouts, new crops, and a renewed appreciation for what grows when you nurture it with intention.

🍽️ Recipes: A Year of Flavor, Culture, and Tradition

Cooking has always been a form of connection for me — to my family, to my culture, and to my creativity. This year, I shared some of my favorite recipes, from sweet potato pie to sweet potato rolls (the only version my youngest gladly accepts!).

Food remains a place where tradition meets innovation in my home — a way to honor my Sierra Leonean roots while creating new memories with my children.

In 2026, I’m planning to share more dishes inspired by Mama Africa, more home-baked favorites, and possibly a cultural cooking series that highlights flavors from across the continent.

✨ Looking Ahead: What’s Coming in 2026

As I step into the new year, I’m carrying a deep sense of clarity about what I want — and what I’m ready to grow into.

Here’s a preview of what’s ahead:

📘 Book Two Release Timeline

I’ll be sharing more concrete updates early in the year, including sneak peeks, character insights, and details on when you can expect the next Tidewalker installment.

🌿 A New Garden Season

I’m already planning my spring planting: herbs, collards, vegetables, and maybe a few new experiments.

🍲 New Recipes + A Cultural Cooking Series

2026 will bring new flavors to the blog — including traditional dishes, West African favorites, and original recipes inspired by my roots.

📝 2026 Blog Themes

Next year, I’ll continue rotating through Health & Fitness, Book Club, Gardening, and Recipes — with a deeper commitment to consistency, reflection, and creativity.

❤️ Personal Goals

Above all, 2026 will be a year of:

emotional wellness
rest
travel
continued healing
and choosing courage, both quietly and boldly

Thank You for Being Here

Ending this year with gratitude feels right. Thank you for reading, for showing up, and for taking this journey with me. Whether you’re here for the recipes, the reflections, the stories, or the updates — I’m truly grateful.

Here’s to a year of growth behind us, and a year of intention ahead.

See you in 2026. 🌿✨

Health & Fitness · Health & Fitness

🏃🏾‍♀️ Thanksgiving Traditions: Our Health & Fitness Update

December 8, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

This season has been full of gratitude, growth, and quiet victories — both on and off the pavement. By the time you read this, I will have crossed the finish lines of two meaningful races: the Turkey Trot I ran with my oldest daughter, and the Blue and Gray Half Marathon, which I completed just yesterday on December 7th.

This year’s Turkey Trot was more than just a race. It was a celebration, a tradition, and a moment of connection I’ll always hold close. Running it with my daughter made it even more special. She is one of the biggest reasons I strive to grow — emotionally, academically, and professionally. Sharing those early-morning jitters, the laughter, the determination, and finally the pride of reaching the finish line together reminded me why these moments matter.

Races like this aren’t just about miles or pace. They’re about memories. They’re about showing our children what resilience looks like. They’re about joy, community, and carrying traditions forward in ways that feel both familiar and new.

And then came the Blue and Gray Half Marathon — now in its 25th year. Yesterday was my first time running it, and it lived up to everything I had heard. There is a different kind of magic in running through familiar streets, surrounded by neighbors, friends, and volunteers who cheer because they recognize you, or simply because they want to see you win.

Completing this race also marks a personal milestone:
My first time finishing two half marathons in one calendar year.

I showed up yesterday with more confidence, more experience, and a deeper appreciation for what my body can do. Running has been an anchor for me in seasons when I needed strength, clarity, and a sense of grounding. And crossing that finish line reminded me, yet again, that I am capable of so much more than I often give myself credit for.

Every early morning run, every long training day, every mile logged led to that moment — and I’m proud of myself for trusting the process and honoring the journey.

December feels like a month of finishing strong, celebrating progress, and stepping into the new year with purpose.

5 Things I Learned from Racing This Year

1. My body is stronger than I thought.

Every race — from 5Ks to half marathons — revealed strength I didn’t know I was building. Growth often shows up at the finish line, long after the work is done.

2. Showing up matters more than speed.

Some days felt effortless; others were a struggle. But every time I laced up and stepped outside, that was the real victory.

3. Running with family brings a different kind of joy.

Sharing the Turkey Trot with my daughter reminded me that movement can be a source of connection, laughter, and memories that last long after the race ends.

4. Community energy is its own kind of fuel.

From volunteers to cheering strangers, the support along the course gives you a lift you didn’t know you needed — and carries you farther than you expected.

5. Every race teaches you something about yourself.

Each finish line offered a lesson — patience, resilience, self-trust, gratitude. The miles helped me see who I’m becoming and what I’m capable of.

As I close out this year, I’m already looking ahead to my 2026 race season — a year I plan to challenge myself in new ways. My goal is to complete two half marathons, one full marathon, one 5K every month, and three 10Ks within the same calendar year. I already have a few races in mind, and right now I’m focused on creating a realistic financial plan to make it all possible. Running has become more than a hobby for me; it’s a commitment to my growth, my health, and the example I’m setting for my children. Stepping into 2026, I’m excited to continue building consistency, discipline, and joy — one race, one mile, one moment at a time.

Health & Fitness · Health & Fitness

Health & Fitness: Running the FredNats Salute to Veterans 5K — And Hitting a Personal Record

November 17, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

On November 9th, I laced up my shoes and ran the FredNats Salute to Veterans 5K, and to my surprise—and honestly, my joy—I set a new personal record. I didn’t go into the race expecting to hit a milestone. I just wanted to show up, breathe, and be part of something meaningful. But crossing that finish line felt like reclaiming a piece of myself.

As a Veteran, this race meant more than miles and timing chips. It was powerful to see the community gather with so much warmth and gratitude. Families lined the route with signs, volunteers cheered strangers on by name, and runners of every age moved together with purpose. It reminded me that service doesn’t end when you take the uniform off; it lives on in the connections we make and the communities that hold us up.

Running has become one of the ways I heal, release stress, and stay grounded. That morning, every step felt like a reminder of the strength I’ve rebuilt—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Grief, transition, motherhood, new new beginnings… sometimes it feels like life is one long marathon. But moments like this 5K show me how far I’ve come.

My personal record wasn’t just about speed.
It was about courage, consistency, and choosing myself again and again.

If you’re thinking about running your first race—or getting back into movement—here are a few gentle tips that helped me:

Start where you are, not where you “wish” you were. Progress builds from presence, not pressure.
Find a race with meaning. Purpose can carry you when your legs get tired.
Train with kindness. Rest days, stretching, slow miles—they matter.
Celebrate every win. Even small milestones deserve recognition.

I’m proud of this moment.
I’m proud of this body.
And I’m grateful for a community that shows up—not just for Veterans, but for each other.

Here’s to more miles, more healing, and more personal victories.

And if you enjoy following this journey, stay tuned for next Monday’s Book Club post, where I’ll be sharing a story that taught me something meaningful about forgiveness and growth.

Until then, take care of yourselves… and keep moving. 🖤

Health & Fitness · Health & Fitness

🧠 Train Your Mind Like a Muscle

November 3, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

How Learning New Skills Protects Your Brain

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the blog.

As we age, we often focus on keeping our bodies strong — eating well, exercising, and managing stress. But what about our minds? Just like our muscles, our brains need regular training to stay sharp.

Studies show that learning new skills can help protect the brain from neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and dementia. Each time we take on a new challenge, we build cognitive reserve. This reserve is the brain’s ability to create new neural pathways. It also helps the brain stay resilient against decline. The good news? It’s never too late to start.

Why the Brain Thrives on Challenge

Our brains are wired for growth. Every time we step out of our comfort zones, we activate parts of the brain. These parts control memory, focus, and problem-solving. Novelty keeps the mind active. Whether it’s picking up a new language, it encourages mental engagement. Learning to cook a new recipe encourages mental engagement. Tackling a home project encourages mental engagement. The harder you work to master something unfamiliar, the stronger those neural connections become.

My Experience: Learning by Doing

This year, I challenged myself with something completely different — car repair. My front brake pads needed replacing, as did the left rear tail light assembly on my Toyota Highlander. Instead of heading to a mechanic, I decided to learn how to do it myself.

I spent several evenings reading guides and watching YouTube tutorials before I felt confident enough to start. At first, it was intimidating. I had never done anything mechanical before. But once I began, I felt empowered. Every turn of a wrench taught me patience and focus. By the end, I had successfully replaced my brakes and tail light assembly. It wasn’t just about fixing a car; it was about strengthening trust in myself. That sense of accomplishment reminded me that growth happens when we push through discomfort.

The Science Behind “Cognitive Fitness”

Just as lifting weights builds physical strength, learning new skills builds mental strength. Psychologists call this neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to rewire itself by forming new connections. Regularly engaging in mentally demanding activities can help improve memory and concentration. It can also boost problem-solving skills. Furthermore, these activities delay cognitive decline as we age. When we stay curious and open to learning, we give our brains a powerful defense mechanism — adaptability.

Shifting Your Mindset Toward Lifelong Learning

Many people believe that learning stops after school, but the truth is, the brain never loses its ability to grow. The key is embracing the right mindset:
– Replace “I’m too old for this” with “I’m just getting started.”
– View mistakes as evidence of progress, not failure.
– Celebrate small wins — they build motivation and confidence.
Every time you take on a new challenge, you’re proving that growth is still possible. That mindset is one of the healthiest you can cultivate.

Everyday Ways to Strengthen Your Mind

You don’t need a classroom to keep learning. You can start small, right where you are:
– Try a new recipe or cooking technique.
– Learn a few words in another language.
– Practice meditation or journaling.
– Take on a DIY project.
– Read new genres or listen to educational podcasts.
Consistency matters more than difficulty — even a few minutes a day of focused learning keeps your brain active.

What I Used to Replace My Front Brakes and Left Rear Tail Light (Toyota Highlander)

If you’d like to try something similar, here are the exact tools and parts I used for my project:

– Power Stop Front Brake Pads Kit – Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XM0F0F0?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title
– Tail Light Assembly – Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09TKVLMLN?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
– 27-Piece Magnetic T-Handle Ratchet Wrench & Screwdriver Set – Amazon Basics: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V3TF3NG?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
– Dasbecan Compatible Tail Light Assembly for Toyota Highlander – Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dasbecan-Compatible-Highlander-815500E070-815600E070/dp/B0BL2C126T/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=26UFLB3549PYD
– YouTube Tutorial: How to Replace Front Brakes on a Toyota Highlander
– YouTube Tutorial: Left Rear Tail Light Assembly Replacement for Toyota Highlander
Always double-check compatibility for your car’s make and model before purchasing parts.

Closing Thought

Learning new skills keeps more than your hands busy — it keeps your mind alive. Every time you challenge yourself, you’re not just building knowledge; you’re strengthening the very structure of your brain. So pick up that tool, try that recipe, or start that class you’ve been putting off. Your brain will thank you — today and years from now.

Taking out the old brake pads on the right side of the vehicle.

Health & Fitness · Health & Fitness

Reclaiming My Health: A Journey Back to Myself

October 8, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

🕊️ Reclaiming My Health: A Journey Back to Myself

For as long as I can remember, being active has been part of who I am. I loved the rhythm of movement — the way running clears my head, the way a good stretch makes me feel strong and centered. But somewhere along the way, life shifted.

Motherhood, work, and injury quietly rearranged my priorities. My days filled up with responsibilities and fatigue, and what used to be a daily ritual of self-care slowly became something I did “when I had time.” For years, that time never came.

Then, I lost my mother to complications related to diabetes.
Her passing shook me to my core. It forced me to look closely at my own health — not from a place of guilt or vanity, but from love. I wanted to live fully and care for myself the way she always wanted to.

🏃‍♀️ Finding My Way Back

In the months that followed, I made a promise to myself: to honor my body the way I once did, and to build a sustainable routine — not a punishment, but a lifestyle.

Now, I try to run at least three days a week. Those runs have become my moving meditations — a space to breathe, think, and heal. On alternating days, I lift weights, focusing on strength and endurance. Sundays are my rest days, a gentle reminder that recovery is just as sacred as effort.

Movement has become my anchor again — not a chore, but a celebration of what my body can do.

🍎 Nourishing from the Inside Out

For years, I had a complicated relationship with food. I often ate for comfort, for escape, or out of habit — rarely out of intention. But as I began to move more mindfully, I also started to eat that way.

I gave up meat and dairy and began to focus on foods that truly energize me — fruits, vegetables, grains, and plant-based proteins. I don’t chase perfection; I simply choose what makes me feel vibrant and alive.

Eating this way has taught me to listen — to my body, to my cravings, to my emotions. Food no longer feels like an enemy or a reward. It feels like care.

🌸 Rest as Resistance

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that rest is not laziness — it’s necessary. Between work and motherhood, I’ve learned to carve out small pockets of peace. A long, relaxing bath three times a week has become my favorite ritual. It’s where I reflect, release tension, and reconnect with myself.

I also take time to journal before bed, even if it’s just a few lines. Writing helps me empty my thoughts and end the day with gratitude instead of worry. Some nights I write about what challenged me; other nights, I jot down what made me smile. Either way, it’s a gentle exhale before sleep — a way to honor my growth, my grief, and my progress.

If you’d like the same journal I use, you can check it out here: Spiral Notebook – 3 Pack A5 Ruled Journal

Those quiet moments — the bath, the pages, the silence — remind me that I’m more than the roles I play. I’m a whole person, deserving of rest, joy, and softness.

🌿 Moving Forward

This journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about consistency, grace, and gratitude. Each run, each meal, each journal entry, and each quiet bath is a reminder that I’m still here — choosing life, choosing strength, choosing myself.

If you’re reading this and trying to find your way back, start small. Take a walk. Drink more water. Eat something green. Write down what you’re grateful for. Rest when you need to. You don’t have to do it all — just begin.

💭 Reflection Prompt for Readers

What’s one small way you can honor your body or your peace this week?

(Leave a comment — I’d love to hear your journey.)

Health & Fitness

🏃‍♀️ What I Learned Training for My First Half Marathon

September 8, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

When a former classmate convinced me to sign up for my first half marathon, I didn’t exactly think it through. I only had about a month to prepare. I was cocky back then. I figured, “I’ll be fine.” Spoiler alert: I wasn’t. At least, not in the way I thought.

🏅 Race Day: The Wake-Up Call

Race day came, and I barely slept the night before. Still, I laced up my shoes and got my family out the door so they could cheer me on. My first half marathon was the Marine Corps Historic Half, and the energy at the start line was electric.

The first few miles felt amazing—I actually believed I could finish in around 2 hours and 30 minutes. But then came the hills. Big ones. Hills I hadn’t prepared for.

“Hospital Hill felt like Mount Everest after mile 10. I almost cried, but I kept moving.”

For those who have run the Historic Half, you already know that Hospital Hill is a monster. Trying to tackle it after 10 miles nearly broke me. I walked several times during that race—something I never planned on doing. By the end, I had lost a toenail. I could barely walk for days. I realized just how much I had underestimated what I signed up for.

And yet—I finished. And that finish line changed me.

💡 Lesson 1: Consistency Beats Confidence

My biggest mistake? Thinking confidence could replace training. I skipped workouts, ignored mileage, and assumed “being young and fit enough” would carry me through. Hospital Hill proved otherwise. Consistency, not bravado, is what builds endurance.

💤 Lesson 2: Rest Is Part of the Process

In my rush to train, I thought running hard every day would make me stronger. Instead, my legs were screaming by race week. Hospital Hill showed me that recovery is fuel. Rest isn’t laziness—it’s training.

🥗 Lesson 3: Nutrition Matters

By mile 9, I had nothing left in the tank. I hadn’t fueled properly, and it showed. That race taught me that food isn’t just fuel—it’s survival. Oatmeal, bananas, and water became my essentials for future runs.

🧠 Lesson 4: The Mental Game Is Everything

When my body wanted to quit, my mind had to take over.

“At mile 10, my legs were done. My mind had to run the race for me.”

Repeating mantras like “one step at a time” helped me push up Hospital Hill. Running is as much mental as it is physical. Another mantra that kept me going was, “pain is weakness leaving the body”. Something I picked up from my Drill Sergeants back in the day. The body can do almost anything your mind wills it to.

👟 Lesson 5: Gear Can Save You

Blisters, sore feet, and losing a toenail taught me the hard way that the right shoes and socks matter. Gear can’t do the running for you, but it can make the journey bearable. Back then I wasn’t wise enough to know that your shoe size for running matters. I was naive about running shoes. I didn’t know that long-distance runners need to get their shoes 1/2 size larger than their regular everyday shoes. I learned that lesson the hard way and I had to learn it again…apparently I didn’t learn it well enough the first time.

🎉 Lesson 6: Celebrate the Finish—Even If It’s Messy

By the time I crossed the finish line, I wasn’t running—I was surviving. But I finished. That medal means more to me than any “perfect” run ever could. One of my favorite memories from that race is the picture I took with my family at the finish line. I also remember thinking that I wanted to run that race again immediately after I crossed the finish line. I can’t explain it but most long distance runners will tell you that.

✨ Final Thoughts

My first half marathon humbled me, but it also transformed me. I went in overconfident. I was under-prepared. I came out with a new respect for the distance, for training, and for myself.

If you’re thinking about running your first half marathon, here’s my advice:

Train smart.
Give yourself time.
Respect the distance.

And if your race doesn’t go perfectly? Celebrate anyway. Every finish line is a victory.

💬 Your Turn: Have you ever jumped into a challenge unprepared? Drop your story in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on!

Health & Fitness · Health & Fitness

Summer Running Goals: How It’s Going So Far

August 25, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

Affiliate Disclosure:
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my writing and this blog.

We all know that summer running is not easy. Personally, I prefer running when the weather is cooler. This summer has been especially hot and humid, but that hasn’t stopped me from lacing up and getting out there.

For the month of June, I ran 41.9 miles — a major change from previous years and something I’m proud of. Encouraged by that progress, I challenged myself to run 125 miles in July. But as the heat and humidity set in, I quickly realized that was too lofty of a goal. I changed my plan. My new goal was 100 miles in July. It was a more realistic target that still pushed me forward.

For August, my focus has been on balance. I dedicate three days a week to strength training at the gym. I also allocate three days to running. My weekly mileage goal is 20 miles, and for the most part, that plan has been going well. Along the way, I’ve dealt with some hip pain, which meant taking a few days to rest and recharge. Even with setbacks, I’m still chugging along with my summer running plans.

What this season has taught me is that goals don’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Adjusting doesn’t mean failing. It means listening to your body. It means honoring your limits. It also means celebrating your wins along the way.

My Running Essentials

Over the summer, a few items have become non-negotiables in my running routine. They aren’t just gear. They’re the little things that help me stay consistent, comfortable, and motivated. This is true even when the air is thick with humidity.

Fly Buds Wireless Earbuds – Light, reliable, and sweat-ready. These earbuds turn every run into its own personal playlist or podcast escape.
Brooks Ghost 16 Running Shoes – My daily trainers this season. They are cushioned and breathable. These shoes are supportive enough to carry me 40+ miles in a month. They handle humid runs with ease.
Fitness Tracker / Smartwatch – Tracking my pace, mileage, and milestones keeps me accountable—even on days when motivation feels low.
Hydration Gear – Staying hydrated is essential. This gear is a lifesaver during summer runs when the heat kicks up.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Running in the summer heat hasn’t been easy, but it’s been full of lessons and small victories. Now I’d love to hear from you:

👉 Have you set any summer fitness goals? How’s it going so far? Share your wins, struggles, or tips in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on.

And if you’re thinking about starting or growing your own running journey, check out the gear I’ve linked above. These essentials have made a real difference for me. They include my Fly Buds earbuds and Brooks Ghost 16 shoes. They might help you too.

Looking Ahead

I am not where I want to be yet, but every mile this summer has taught me something. My plan is to keep building consistency, stay strong through cross-training, and listen closely to what my body needs.

I am also working on adding energy gels into my running routine. On longer runs, my energy tends to dip around miles six and seven. I tried an energy gel I bought locally and it worked well. My next step is to order more from Amazon so I can keep them on hand for future runs.

Thank you for stopping by—I hope you found something helpful in this week’s post. Don’t forget to like and share 🙂

Health & Fitness · Health & Fitness

Seasons of Growth: Running, Writing, and Tending to my heart.

July 11, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

On the Run: Training and Races

Running has become more than a routine — it’s been a return to discipline, breath, and strength. Over the past few months, I’ve trained consistently and challenged myself in new ways. I’ve completed a few races so far. The first was the Shamrock 5K in March. Then there the Race Towards Autism Acceptance 5K in April, Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon in May. The Father’s Legacy Inaugural 5K was held first. The most recent race was the Fallen Heroes 5 Miler on July 4th, 2025. Each race brought its own lessons — in perseverance, in honoring the moment, and in trusting my body’s quiet power.

Some mornings were hard. Some finishes were emotional. But every step has been worth it.

Right now, I’m deep in training for something big — my very first full marathon! I’ll be running the Richmond Marathon this October. I couldn’t be more excited. I am also a little nervous for the journey ahead. It’s a milestone I’ve dreamed about for years, and I’m ready to meet it head-on.

On the Page: Stories Taking Root

Writing has been both refuge and revelation. I recently completed my debut novel, Songs of the Eleven Suns. It is the first book in a trilogy that explores the delicate balance between land and sea. It delves into memory and myth, as well as love and legacy. It’s a story rooted in ancestry and longing — and one that’s been with me for a long time.

Working on this book stretched me in every way. I poured so much of myself into its pages. It was not just the craft of writing, but the emotional truth beneath the story. Seeing it finished felt like watching a dream step into the light.

Alongside that, I’ve been working on a deeply personal poetry chapbook titled Dark, Still Rising. It’s a collection centered on themes of defiance, self-love, childhood, ancestry, and healing. It is written as a lyrical tribute to dark brown skin, identity, and survival. These poems have helped me rediscover voice, power, and presence in the quietest corners of myself.

Now, I’m continuing the journey with Book Two of the trilogy. I am expanding the world, deepening the characters, and raising the stakes. It’s thrilling to return to a place I know so well and keep discovering new depths.

There’s more to come — and I can’t wait to bring you along as these stories continue to unfold.

Below are the links for the books…if you are interested!!

Songs of the Eleven Suns https://a.co/d/iALittq

Dark, Still Rising https://a.co/d/43TsNRY

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Health & Fitness

Born to Run? Maybe Not. But I Chose To.

May 3, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

Running never came naturally to me. I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest. From the moment I stepped onto that dusty field in Sierra Leone as a kid, I felt inspired. I knew I wanted to run. What started as a way to follow in my siblings’ footsteps became a personal journey. It has taken me across continents and through setbacks. It has led me toward a deeper understanding of who I am.

Some people are born with a natural talent for certain things. Others have to work hard to excel at whatever they choose to pursue.

I fall into the latter group. Running has always been a part of my life, but it’s something I’ve had to work at consistently. My earliest memory of running goes back to grade school in Sierra Leone.

I believe I was in second grade. Back then, we had a huge event called Field Day. It was more than just a school event. It brought together the entire town. It felt almost like a mini Olympics. Students were divided into four teams, each represented by a different color. We trained for various track and field events leading up to the big day.

This is a great race to raise funds for Veterans.

I was on the same team as my older brother and sister. I was thrilled to compete alongside them. I was clearly one of the slowest kids on the team, but that didn’t dampen my excitement.

I don’t remember which team won that year. I do remember falling in love with the feeling of pushing myself. My brother and sister were standout runners, and I wanted to be just like them.

From that point on, I became my brother’s shadow. He was my hero. I watched him train with his friends and thought, I can do that too—if I put in the work.

Over the years, running became more than a hobby—it became a passion. Not sprinting or track events, though. My love is long-distance, cross-country running. I was never fast, and I’m still not, but that’s okay. What matters most to me is endurance and connection.

Long-distance running helps me feel connected—to nature, to myself, and to my limits. It challenges me in ways nothing else has.

I moved to the United States in 1993. By 1996, I had joined my high school’s cross-country team. In college, I pushed to help form a cross-country program. Later, my love for running helped me thrive during my time in the military.

I’ve had my fair share of physical setbacks. These include injuries, a surgery to repair torn tendons and ligaments, and bursitis in my hip. I’ve also had plenty of physical therapy. None of it has taken away my love for running. I continue to work at it because running is a part of who I am. I always feel most alive during and after a run.

Are you just as obsessed with running? If so, when did you get hooked—and what keeps you going?

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