My friend Katie is famous for her hugs. You haven’t been hugged, if you haven’t experienced a Katie hug. They are firm and tight and she holds on for a long time. I think the real magic is that they are so genuine.
Ten years ago, I applied for a job that moved me from the school I had grown up in as a teacher. That school exposed me to all of the people that shaped the teaching philosophy and foundation that I have stood on and continued to grow upon since that time. Some of my closest friends still work there, including Katie.
Luckily, my new school shares a field with KHS and there is a track between the two. Yesterday, on my way to work, Katie texted. “I know this is a long shot but I would love to give you a hug this morning! Can I meet you at the side door when I get to school?” A long shot? Are you kidding me? How did this sweet human know that a “Katie hug” was exactly what I needed.
Katie texted when she arrived and I ran out to hug my friend. As she held me, firm and tight, a small sob rose within me. Sometimes, we all need a little love from our friends.
Today, I received another text from Katie. “If you need a hug, I’m on the track.”

This is everything! True friends do just sense those things, I think. I’m so glad you were able to get the hug you needed.
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Jessica,
This is so sweet. The right kind of hug at the right moment from the right person can make the world a whole lot better. Thanks for sharing Katie’s hugs.
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I love this celebration of Katie’s hug!
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She is one of the best humans I know. Kind and genuine, can’t ask for more. My hugs aren’t as great, but I’m here. ♥
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I’ll meet you on the track any time. ❤️
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beautiful celebration of friendship that’s as genuine as Katie’s hugs! hugs!
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I love, love this slice so much! How wonderful to have people in our lives who we care for and care for us that way, and how wonderful of you to celebrate her and those hugs through your writing! Such a good reminder of how others can uplift us♥️
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I was also lucky to receive a Katie hug this week. You are so right – the hugs are warm and tight and so filled with love and caring. Let’s all meet on the field for a huge group hug. I think it would help us all. Tracey even has research about the health benefits of hugging.
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Yes! She sent me the newsletter and caused quite the moment last year! 🤣
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The best! You capture it beautifully!
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That is wonderful. I’m glad you received a Katie Hug. I have had a hard week and my working partner greeted one morning with outstretched arms and we hugged and I could feel her care, concern, and calm. I immediately felt better.
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How awesome you can still get your hugs! I know what you mean though. There are some people that truly have magical hugs. I had a friend like this but we don’t hang out anymore and I MISS the hugs!!
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I too love this celebration of the power of a HUG!
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I forgot about reading Tracey’s hug research, but I know I’ve given more hugs in the last year because of it! Love the capture of this moment!
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Katie sounds like a beautiful person! I love that you have her in your life.
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