When stuck gives way to steady

Hey friends,

The path feels clear this week, even if it leans uphill. Steep climbs remind me that progress isn’t always quick, but it’s still mine to make. I’m learning to see creative blocks as pauses along the way, not dead ends.

And in the moments when I drop in, the clarity of direction brings its own kind of calm. Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.  

🪧 Trail markers

🗓️ Boulder Field Ultra (Sep 13)
One word: rocks. Lots of them. This tough trail race winds through Hickory Run State Park and offers 100K, 50K, and 18-mile options across unforgiving terrain, including the iconic Boulder Field. If you like your trail races with a side of ankle twisters, this might just be your kind of fun. 

💡 Solo build note 

You’re always one step closer. Even when it feels like progress is slow, you’re still moving forward. Every action, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals. Keep putting in the work and trust that the results will follow in time.

💭 Parting thought 

The path is quiet, yet the distance behind you has already changed.
Something to take to the trail: what grows when you trust small steps to carry you?

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That’s all for this one.

If you found this helpful, forward it to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention. Or just hit reply, I’d love to hear what you’re working on this week.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Still rocking my Sprints hat. If you want to snag $5 off your order, here’s my affiliate link.

Community cheer and space to hear what’s true

Hey friends,

The last stretch of summer. August is winding down, and there’s that subtle nudge to wrap things up before the season turns. 

Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.  

🪧 Trail markers

🗓️ Women In Ultrarunning Fundraising Event (Sep 13)
My favorite run club is celebrating a big milestone ― Women In Ultrarunning is now an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Join us at Cloudline PT in Philly for an evening of community connection, fun raffle prizes, and light drinks and snacks. It’s a great chance to learn more about the organization and the exciting launch of the new grant program. Tickets are $25 each. Open to all.

💡 Solo build note

Sometimes, growth looks like slowing down and listening. The right ideas need time to land, and your best work usually comes after the noise clears. Momentum without intention just leads to burnout. Choose a pace that lets you keep showing up.

💭 Parting thought

Staying rooted in your values is the long game, even if it’s quieter.
Something to take to the trail: What opens when you stop rushing toward the next thing?

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That’s all for this one.

If you found this helpful, forward it to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention. Or just hit reply ― I’d love to hear what you’re working on this week.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Still rocking my Sprints hat. If you want to snag $5 off your order, here’s my affiliate link.

Quiet unraveling and joy in the work

Hey friends,

Maybe you’ve noticed it too ― midlife has a way of asking better questions. Not the loud ones about getting ahead, but the quieter ones about what really matters and why. 

That’s the headspace I’ve been in lately, and it’s showing up everywhere: in the miles, the conversations, and how I’m stepping into this next chapter.

In just a few days, I’m headed to the Wild Women NEPA Festival for a much-needed pause to breathe and gather. And it’s not too late to join; tickets are still available online and at the gate.

Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.

🪧 Trail markers

Lately, I’ve been noticing how much I’ve let go. Roles I used to play. Ideas I thought I had to prove. Goals that once felt urgent but now feel irrelevant. There’s a quiet unraveling that happens when you stop performing for the pace of the world and start listening to yourself.

💡 Solo build note

Saying no isn’t about scarcity; it’s about preserving your capacity to say yes to what matters. When you’re building something solo, your energy is your most valuable resource. Every boundary you set is a bet on your long game, not your ego or your fear, but your focus.

💭 Parting thought

You’re allowed to build your business ― and your life ― on your own terms.
Something to take to the trail: What part of your work brings you the most joy right now?

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That’s all for this one.

If you found this helpful, forward it to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention. Or just hit reply ― I’d love to hear what you’re working on this week.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Still rocking my Sprints hat. If you want to snag $5 off your order, here’s my affiliate link. 

Solar return and showing up

Hey friends,

Still catching those summer vibes, and soon, I’ll be celebrating my 45th trip around the sun. I’m sensing the pull of something new on the horizon, and maybe you are, too.

Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.

🪧 Trail markers

These days, recovery feels just as important as the runs themselves. The heat, fatigue, and everyday demands pile up quietly, but I’m paying attention to the little signs ― restless nights, tight muscles, mental fog ― and giving myself permission to take it easy.

💡 Solo build note

Not every day will feel productive or inspired, and that’s okay. Persistence means returning to your vision even when motivation wanes. Success rarely comes in big bursts; it’s the consistent effort over time that truly moves the needle forward.

💭 Parting thought

You don’t have to share every breakthrough, launch every idea, or explain every pivot.
Something to take to the trail: What’s unfolding quietly right now that doesn’t need an audience?

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That’s all for this one.

If you found this helpful, forward it to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention. Or just hit reply ― I’d love to hear what you’re working on this week.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Still rocking my Sprints hat. If you want to snag $5 off your order, here’s my affiliate link.

Reframing effort, loop by loop

Hey friends,

Loopy left me with tired legs, a clearer head, and a few lessons I didn’t know I needed. The best part? Hanging with fellow loopers ― some I’d only known online until now. Feels good when internet friends become trail buddies.

🌳 Field notes

Loopy wasn’t about pushing limits this time, it was about having fun. And now I’m totally hooked on timed loop races. What’s not to love? No trails to navigate, no gear to carry, and zero chance of surprise face-plants. Just vibes, snacks, and the freedom to run as much or as little as you want. 

My calf was cranky but I still logged 23 miles ― slower than I wanted, but every mile earned. I went in thinking I’d call it around the 6-hour mark and that turned out to be the right move. I wasn’t chasing my first 50k milestone just yet. I’m saving that for Hainesport in the fall. 

⚡ Trail + ultra buzz

👉 Hainesport Endurance Run (Oct 11–12)
This timed loop race offers 12-hour, 24-hour, 48-hour, and 100-mile options, all on a flat, paved path just shy of a mile long. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or just enjoying the day, there's a spot for you. If that’s your kind of fun, come spend the day loopin’ with me.

💡 Solo build note

Growth doesn’t always mean faster or farther. It doesn’t always look like checked boxes or clear wins. Sometimes, it’s found in stillness, reflection, or showing up slower than planned. If your pace feels off lately, maybe it isn’t. Maybe it’s exactly right for the season you’re in.

💭 Parting thought

Sometimes the real progress happens when you stop trying to chase it.
Something to take to the trail: How might slowing down help you notice what’s working?

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That’s all for this one.

If you found this helpful, forward it to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention. Or just hit reply ― I’d love to hear what you’re working on this week.

From the trail,

Laura

P.S. Still rocking my Sprints hat. If you want to snag $5 off your order, here’s my affiliate link.

Midlife edits and what’s unfolding

Hey friends,

As July winds down, here’s a quick look at what’s taking shape behind the scenes.

🌳 Field notes

The rebrand felt like a leap ― a bold step toward something more aligned. But on the other side of that shift, I’m letting things settle. I’m resisting the urge to rush and listening closely to what this new direction wants to become. The answers haven’t fully surfaced yet. The next turn always shows up when it’s time.

⚡ Miles in progress 

Loopy is two days away and my calf is cranky, but I’m not stressing about pace or distance. I’m just excited to soak it all in: the sunshine, the community, the good energy. I’m hoping this run sparks fresh ideas, unexpected insights, and the kind of mental clarity that only long miles can offer. No pressure, no expectations, just showing up and seeing what the day brings. 

💡 Solo build note

I used to think I needed every detail mapped out before taking action. But all that overplanning was just a way to delay the risk of beginning. Progress doesn’t come from perfect plans ― it comes from informed action and the willingness to adapt.

💭 Parting thought

Every time I trust my own timing, things unfold in ways I couldn’t have planned.
Something to take to the trail: How could slowing down open up new possibilities? 

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That’s all for this one.

If you want to see how I’m expanding on this theme, check out my latest blog post: The solo creator season I’m in right now. 

Make this week count. If you’ve got something great to share, I’d love to hear from you.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Forward this to someone who’s stepping into their next chapter.

P.P.S. It’s peak hat weather.🧢 Grab $5 off your Sprints order with my affiliate code ― linked here.

Open trails and intentional steps

Hey friends,

This time of year always slows me down, in a good way. Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.

🌳 Field notes

I’ve been thinking about pace lately, not just in running, but in everything. Summer has a way of forcing that conversation. Go too fast and it breaks you. But listen closely, and it offers up something rare: time that stretches, work that deepens, and a body that adjusts.

🗓️ Hikes + happenings 

Looking to log some summer miles with good company? Wissahickon Trails has a packed calendar of guided hikes to help you explore the area and stay moving.

• Connected Wissahickon Hikes (3 or 5 miles): Aug 9 & 16, Sep 4 & 11

• Power Hike (1 hour): Aug 3

• Backyard Beans Hike (2 miles + coffee!): Aug 14

• Walk the Wissahickon (choose from 3, 8, 14, or 21 miles): Sep 27

👉 wissahickontrails.org/events and filter for “Hikes” or browse all the upcoming events.

💡 Solo build note

You don’t need to go viral or be everywhere at once. What you really need is clarity, consistency, and connection with the right people. You don’t need a huge audience to build meaningful impact or sustainable income.

💭 Parting thought

Your creative rhythm isn’t meant to match someone else’s pace.
Something to take to the trail: What season are you in right now?

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That’s all for this one.

Make this week count. If you’ve got something great to share, I’d love to hear from you.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. If you found this helpful, forward it to a friend who would love it too.

P.P.S. It’s peak hat weather.🧢 Grab $5 off your Sprints order with my affiliate code ― linked here.

Shared miles and listening in

Hey friends,

Another week, another round of miles, reflections, and trail-side thoughts. Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.

🌳 Field notes

The lightning bugs are back at the edges of the trail, blinking on and off like little reminders to slow down and notice. Summer nights in PA have this soft magic ― the kind that sneaks in quietly and leaves you feeling a little more connected to the season.

🎒 Hikes + happenings

Last weekend, I joined Keystone Trails Association for a hike at the Wiss, and it was a great reminder of how good it feels to be on trail with people who care deeply about our outdoor spaces. KTA does more than just lead hikes ― they’re building a statewide trail community. From trail care days to workshops and even a new gear loaner program, they make it easy to get involved. 👉 kta-hike.org

💡 Solo build note

Not every opportunity is the right one. Sometimes the best choice is the one that feels smaller on the surface but fits better with where you're going. The most valuable clients and collaborations are the ones most aligned with your deeper purpose.

💭 Parting thought

The business you’re building is a reflection of how you want to move through the world.
Something to take to the trail: What kind of life are you building this business to support?

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That’s all for this one.

Make this week count. If you’ve got something great to share, I’d love to hear from you.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Forward this to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention.

P.P.S. It’s peak hat weather.🧢 Grab $5 off your Sprints order with my affiliate code ― linked here. 

Crew call and a different kind of progress

Hey friends,

Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.

🌳Field notes

I’ve been thinking a lot about how summer stretches time in strange ways. Long days that can feel endless and yet somehow too short. It’s a season that tests more than your pace ― it tests your patience, your willingness to show up, and your ability to pause without guilt.

⚡Trail + ultra buzz

I’m in the final weeks of my Loopy build and things aren't going exactly to plan. The tightness in my calf is back, and it’s been keeping me from running more than a few miles at a time. But I’m still planning to be out there all day for the snacks, the good energy, and the weird joy of running (shuffling?🫠) in circles with other strange and wonderful humans.

👉 Come hang at Loopy ― volunteers are still needed
August 2–3. Cooper River Park. A 12-hour (and 24-hour and 100-mile) loop race with some of the best vibes around. Events like this don’t happen without solid volunteer support, so if you’re free, consider joining the skeleton crew.

💡Solo build note

You’re allowed to change your mind. The version of your business that felt aligned a year ago might not match who you’re becoming now. Adjustment isn’t failure ― it’s evolution.

💭Parting thought

Sometimes it’s not about doing more. It’s about noticing what already feels good.
Something to take to the trail: What part of your work already feels aligned, even if it’s small?

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That’s all for this one.

And hey… the rebrand is just about done, and it feels like the right step forward. If this flew under your radar, catch up here: Embracing place and purpose in a new chapter.

Make this week count. If you’ve got something great to share, I’d love to hear from you.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Forward this to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention.

P.P.S. It’s peak hat weather.🧢 Grab $5 off your Sprints order with my affiliate code ― linked here.

New beginnings and a subtle shift

Hey friends,

This month, it’s all about Schuylkill golden hours and riverside runs.

You might notice a shift in tone ― fewer event announcements, more reflection. I’m reshaping this letter into something slower, more seasonal, and more in tune with how I’m living now: between places, paces, and seasons.

It’s all part of a quiet rebrand. If you want the full story ― the how, the why, and what’s next ― I wrote about it in my latest blog post: Embracing place and purpose in a new chapter.

Here’s what’s been moving through my world this week on the trails and in the work.

🌳Field notes

The humidity has settled in, wrapping the city in a thick, warm blanket. On some runs, it’s easy to want to push harder. But more often, I’m reminded that the trail isn’t about speed this time of year. It’s about showing up, breathing through the heat, and honoring your pace.

If you’re training for something long right now, or just logging hot summer miles, I hope you’re giving yourself permission to ease up when you need to. Progress can be quiet. Sometimes it looks like coming back to the same trail again, and leaving a little stronger than the last time.

🗓️ Hikes + happenings

KTA Philly Group Hike & Social at the Wiss (Jul 13)
The Keystone Trails Association is hosting a free group hike at Wissahickon Valley Park. You can choose from two hike length options: 4 miles or 6.7 miles (I’m doing 6.7). Highlights include Fingerspan Bridge, Devil's Pool, Climber's Rock, Forbidden Drive, and historic Rittenhousetown. Stick around for the post-hike hang to connect with fellow hikers and refuel with Philly favorites like water ice and soft pretzels.

💡Solo build note

I used to think I had to figure everything out before I began: the plan, the timeline, the outcome. But real clarity rarely comes from thinking alone. It comes from showing up, trying things, and adjusting along the way. Starting is what creates space for the figuring out.

💭Parting thought

Your worth isn’t tied to your output or your income.
Something to take to the trail: What story about your work no longer serves you?

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That’s all for this one.

Make this week count. If you’ve got something great to share, I’d love to hear from you.

From the trail,
Laura

P.S. Forward this to someone who’s navigating their own season of reinvention.

P.P.S. It’s peak hat weather.🧢 Grab $5 off your Sprints order with my affiliate code ― linked here.