Jay's n2n observations; May 30, 2019.

We Iimited yesterday's walk (May 29)  to 8.7 miles, stopping in a Best Western Plus hotel in south east Sandusky OH.  This was the 23rd day straight we've walked, covering 357 miles during that time.  We're both tired, and wanting/needing amenities usually not available in the "mom & pop" motels still available off the interstates.  (And those m&p motels are becoming pretty infrequent). So, we diverted to a different type accommodation -- one close to a major road and offering more standard, predictable amenities and nearby services (read that "Wal Marts, major chain eating establishments, expansive grocery stores",  etc)) The Interstate system has resulted in a MAJOR IMPACT on the communities that developed around (or "guided") the US highway system. Traveling a route based on the US highways is revelatory in many, many ways. It immediately drives home the stark reality of how overwhelmingly our society/culture has an infrastructure that is dependent on high speed, long range, powered vehicle travel/transportation. (It is not "pedestrian friendly")  This dependence is a major driver in life style adjustments necessary to pursue an activity like ours, and discovering those adjustments continues to be an unfolding saga. For example, the items available to/for us on a continuing basis are what we can carry in our packs. Or can acquire in transit. Sources for which availability is frequently in question. (Google Maps is a great resource in this regard.) We each have Osprey packs rated for approximately 55-58 liters volume.  We're trying to keep the weight to approximately 25 lbs. Pretty severe limitations for a many week activity. In that regard, and for example, we are limiting ourselves to 2 sets/days of clothing (weight and volume). This is a challenge, given our penchant for personal hygiene. (The topic of this and other necessary adjustments will be amongst my infrequent blog entries -- but I don't know how much interest you readers may have in that aspect of our experiences.) Such minimizing is essential, and a major challenge.  And each minimization action has overlapping impact. Josh has been doing a very good job of describing our "adventure experiences", and his emphasis is pretty much depicting the positive aspects. But you may not pick up on what's necessary to achieve those positive experiences. This type of adventure is not for everybody -- but I strongly endorse it for those who want to do something like it. It has been (and continues to be) challenging to my mindset in many areas and ways.
    I've let this ramble on too long, and too broadly.   So, I'll truncate it here. Is this type "adventure philosophizing" of  interest to you readers ? Or should I stick to the less analytical aspect ? We're having a great, enlightening, challenging and culturally broadening adventure.   It's effecting change(s) in me. Thank all of you for providing encouragement, endorsement, advice, insights and other support in it -- in multitudes of ways, including emotional support.  And thank you for reading. . Jay