Thoughts on finishing 12 miles

This morning the half-marathon group did their last weekend group run/walk:  6 miles on an overcast, cloudy day with temperatures hovering around 50. There's a lot of excitement for the race next weekend, but also apprehension about finishing a half-marathon. Veterans in the group are encouraging the new folks. Everyone is trading tips on clothing, carbohydrate, Vaseline vs Body Glide, and the best way to massage sore legs.

We met for breakfast at Nipper's Cafe after we finished our 6 miles and enjoyed great food, new friends, and conversation. Erin ran with her daughter, Dana, this morning - and brought her to breakfast. She's getting an early start enjoying running!

Quinn and Cubby are the youngest members of our group

Look closely at Erin at the far end of the table with Dana on her lap

Last weekend the half-marathon group did their first 12 mile distance. Not only is 12 miles a long way, but it was hot, sunny, and humid. Definitely not typical weather for Vermont in mid-March and certainly not perfect running weather. How does it feel to walk/run 12 miles?

After I finished 12 miles,I was happy,very sore and was wishing my husband made steaks for lunch!:)
Lilibeth

"When I finish 12 miles, I feel ........... pumped and so does my dog!!

Nancy

After completing 12 miles I feel:

Exhilarated and tired,confident and sore, and so thankful to be able to get out there and enjoy beautiful scenery among wonderful friends!

Audrey

When I finish a new, long distance I feel accomplished, and thankful I have so many ladies out there cheering me on, AND thankful for my family too -  who cheer me on from just up the road, or by phone!!
Linda

When I finish 12 miles, I feel really glad to be done and I think that I can go about my day thinking...I ran 12 miles today.  And after yesterday...ready for a good shower!
Erin

When I finish my 12 miles I feel …. grateful for the training over the last weeks that enabled me to walk this far !

Carol

When I finish twelve miles...I feel very accomplished.  This is something that, at one point, felt so out of reach.  So I also feel proud of myself for sticking with it and making it happen.  

Laurie

When I finish 12 miles, I feel proud and overwhelmed as I never imagined doing this.  It is a real challenge for me and I have much more to learn…love it!

Cindy

When I finish 12 miles... I feel tired but accomplished and proud and I think if I I can do 12 then I can do 13 miles!
Hannah

When I finish 12 miles I feel old but great
Mary

After completing 12 miles, I feel: Mentally & Emotionally 'WOW'! I did it and feel great.  Physically I feel a little 'wow', worn out. But the whole experience is wonderful. This year I've gotten to run more of the longer distances with the group and it has made such a difference.

Faith

I think that how I feel after finishing 12 miles is different each time - though I think this was only my 3rd time ever!  After finishing THIS 12, I felt grateful.  I am grateful that my body was strong and healthy enough to run most of the 12 miles.  I am grateful that I had an awesome group of ladies surrounding me (because it was not the easiest run I've ever had).  I was grateful for the sun, but not necessarily that much heat.  Undoubtedly, I was grateful to be done!  Looking forward to 13.1...  Sarah

When I finish 12 miles, I feel strong and so thankful that I decided to take that first step back in January!

Michelle