One of our favorite things about publishing Macaroni Kid is the chance to connect with other moms in our community. Often times these connections inspire us and remind us of the ability of one person to make a difference. It is with this in mind that we launch a new article series called Mom on a Mission. Our hope is to introduce you to some amazing moms living right in our communities who not only are doing unique and wonderful things but also deserve to have some attention brought to their mission.
Julie Parker is a mom who loves an adventure, lives life to the fullest, and gives back every chance she gets. She built one of the first Little Free Libraries in Sammamish. It's the chance for neighbors - of all ages - to share their favorite stories. Her motivation was two fold: give a little something back to the community while involving her two young sons in the process. That project and some inspiration from another local mom led her to Our Year of Giving. Julie organized monthly community service projects and supported Eastside Baby Corner, Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank, Any Soldier, and many more. Once again she involved her young sons in those acts of kindness. Julie is a mom who knows that actions speak louder than words, and her sons are learning from the example she sets.
Julie Parker is on a mission that I know you'll find both unique and challenging. Please get to know this local mom a little better by reading her answers to our questions.
What is your MISSION? What do you want to accomplish?
My mission is to complete a marathon in every state by the time I turn 50 years old. 50 by 50.
Dana's side note: While I am sure you're not counting ... that is a total of 1310.94 miles ... of running, which doesn't even begin to include the number of miles and hours Julie spends training for each marathon.
Dana's side note: While I am sure you're not counting ... that is a total of 1310.94 miles ... of running, which doesn't even begin to include the number of miles and hours Julie spends training for each marathon.
What inspired to run your first marathon ... and then decide to run 49 more?
I moved to Seattle solo when I was 24 to simply experience a new way of life. I left all the comforts of home and had no one to rely upon besides myself. Everything challenged me, which I loved. I spent a lot of time alone the first year so I took up long distance running and eventually decided that I could run a half marathon. I ran the Vancouver B.C. half marathon and shortly after that began training for the Chicago marathon. I chose Chicago because that is where I am originally from and it made sense to begin my journey there. From there, I wanted to qualify for the Boston marathon. I was lucky enough to run Boston in 2006 and can honestly say it was in the top five of my best experiences. After Boston I decided I would run a marathon in every state. So far I have completed a 22 marathons in 18 states: IL, CA, GA, WA, AZ, AK, WY, UT, TN, MA, NY, OR, MT, ID, MI, CO, MN, and NV. In the spring, I'll be running in North Dakota, Ohio or Wisconsin.
What lessons/values are you learning through this process?
I am learning that the value of setting goals and working hard is very important in all aspects of life. Once you put your mind to something, it is nearly impossible not to achieve it. I have also learned that setbacks are going to happen and that is simply life's way of teaching you to slow down and appreciate the simple things. I hope my boys are able to one day apply these lessons to their lives and find a hobby that they are passionate about.
What do you do to take care of yourself and how do you make time to do it?
I believe self care is extremely important and I make time for it every day. It can be as simple as enjoying a cup of coffee for 15 minutes or sitting still and taking a few deep breaths. Of course you need to schedule those longer times alone but it is more about quality than quantity. It is important to put it all in the calendar at the beginning of the month especially with having a family. My husband is very supportive and we make sure we both have time together, with the kids, alone and with our friends. I run, hike, do yoga, walk, and I also love to enjoy good coffee or wine with friends.
What can fellow moms do to support your mission?
Moms should make it priority to find the time to do the things they love. Your family will thank you and you will be a better person all around. Get your children excited about fitness and they will carry that feeling around with them for a lifetime. Also, if you want to chase me around any of the marathon courses with donuts or beer that would help, too.
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Find out about our other MOMS ON A MISSION:
JAMIE MENOLD is on a mission to raise awareness of and funds for pediatric cancer research.
KRISTEN BRANTNER is on a mission to make a difference in the future of rare disease and created a local non-profit called RAREevents.
CHRISTIE MALCHOW is on a mission to make sure the city hears the voices of young families and is running for Sammamish City Council.
