Mindful Miles

I was on my Mindful Miles today when my first daughter spotted a magnificent old tree, and it instantly brought a beautiful flood of memories to the surface. It’s amazing how a single moment in the present can connect you so deeply to the past. In that moment, I saw the little person I used to be, and I realized the person walking the path now is simply their grown-up, joyfully expressed version.

I began thinking about the traits that defined that adventurous, curious child, and how they show up in my life today. Every action she took, no matter how small or silly, was a foundation for the strength and heart I rely on now.

I remembered how my favorite adventure was tree climbing. I never just aimed for a low branch; I was always determined to reach the very top. I even have a scar from one great, daring ascent—my funny, favorite little trophy! Now that I’m grown, I don’t need to actually climb to prove my skills to my kids. I just flash them the scar and declare, “Proof!” It’s like my permanent, tiny, and slightly dramatic climbing certificate. That desire to always aim for the top didn’t disappear; it just grew up and became the positive ambition that fuels my days now.

And then there was my quiet, contemplative side. You could often find me sitting still at the balcony, deeply focused on sketching a picture. While my sketchpad is now replaced by the glorious chaos of adulthood, I still love those rare moments when my girls and I pull out the pencils. It’s a sweet reminder of my need for mindful focus and creation.

On the other end of the energy spectrum, I loved a game of football! I was the team striker, likely because when I wanted something—a goal, in that case—I wanted it badly. I recently tried a quick match with my son, and let’s just say he left me gasping for air and seriously questioning my “striker” status. That fire hasn’t faded; it just transformed into the unstoppable drive and dedication I bring to my passions now (and a gentle reminder that my cardio definitely needs work).

When it came to TV time, you would find me watching documentaries, often about wildlife on National Geographic Channel. Now, in my adult years, that focus on mystery has been replaced by crime series on Netflix and Investigation Discovery, swapping the mysteries of the jungle for the mysteries of human nature!

And my quiet, hidden inner life? I was always writing poems—secretly hidden away in a diary I guarded with my life, mostly about my first crush. I coudn’t even tell him I was crushing! 🤭 I was so incredibly shy back then. Those pages were classified at a level above top secret! That need for self-expression, once hidden, now finds its voice right here, with all of you.

This walk was a beautiful realization that nothing is truly lost. Every shy secret, every determined climb, and every mindful sketch contributed to the strength and joy I feel today. The best part of my past is walking right alongside me, ready for the next mile.

Embrace the amazing connections between who you were and who you are. The person I used to be is my greatest, most adventurous foundation.

Happy new month! I hope you create the time for some “Retro-Miles” this November, celebrating that little person who has become the unique individual you are today. 😁