n2n - TCP. coming to an end

Following my return to Texas for treatment of my foot injury, I rejoined my companion in Cedar Rapids, IA --traveling up in my Tacoma pick-up.  Continuing recovery of my foot necessitated changing our trek’ing approach to incorporate using the pick-up as a support vehicle. This facilitated continuing the trek westward.  As we advanced toward Newport Nebraska, I was advised of problems (4 ea) that, in aggregate necessitated another return to Texas for personal presence in resolution. One of those problems was continuing indication of a problem in the pick-up.  

An understanding of the necessity  for vehicle support as we advanced, and uncertainty of problem resolution delay, Newport, Nebraska became the west-bound termination point of our journey. 

Resolution of the problems, particularly repair of the pick-up, took until August 14.

I greatly desired to return to Yorkville, IL and walk to Cedar Rapids, IA -- this, in my mind, 
 would in some measure count toward us making the traverse Newport RI - to - Newport, NE (n2n-TCP Rev) a combined effort.  My companion concurred.

It was not to be !!

About half way (56 miles) to the Mississippi River at Clinton, IA, I began to develop blisters on the previously-injured foot.  By the time we had crossed the Mississippi and reached our Clinton, IA objective (an additional 50 miles), the blisters had spread across the ball of my foot, were growing, and were very difficult to walk on.   This was a situation/condition my doctor had strongly cautioned me (following the first injury) to not let occur.

Crossing the Mississippi River

Following a night’s recovery time, and agonizing deliberation, I concluded it was expedient for me to quit the effort.  My companion concurred. It was, and continues to be, a decision that 
brought/brings tears to my eyes !!

But, it was the correct decision.

In making this decision, there is some consolation:

1) We dreamed and dared greatly, and pursued our dream.

2)  Truncation of the trek was a consequence of injury -- not short-coming in my ability or willingness to fulfill the dream.

3) My companion walked every step of the 1,761 miles from Newport, RI - to - Newport NE.

4) I managed to walk 1,240 miles, from the Atlantic Ocean (Newport RI) to the west side of the Mississippi River (Clinton,IA).  Half-way across the United States.

5) I experienced achievement of  two of my principle N2N-TCP objectives, connecting with great people along the way and testing my capability to meet this kind of challenge. 

6) We  established a solid foundation of future adventures.

In summary:  IT WAS A GREAT AND FULFILLING ADVENTURE!!   

It was foundational to establishing a very positive, compatible and enduring relationship between my companion and me.   It has been a remarkable educational and developmental endeavor. It will also prove to have been foundational to future adventures.  

“Sometimes The Dragon Wins” -- and so it may appear to have been in this engagement.

BUT, DON’T SWITCH CHANNELS!!

WE EXPECT TO BE BACK AFTER A SHORT INTERMISSION!!