7 years ago this week I began my attempt to walk across the United States.

This was the most significant turning point in my life for so many reasons. I only made it 716 miles but every day and every mile taught me more about life than any other in all my decades.

I was exposed to more kindness than one person could ever expect. More people came out of the woodwork to offer assistance – and often it was assistance I didn’t even know I needed.

I still have a burning desire to complete my trek but it would take more people and more coordination than I’m capable of.

I learned how to accept help and that I might actually be worthy of that assistance.

I also learned that it’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help.

I learned that the majority of people are good and kind and that your attitude and mindset can attract those good and kind people into your life.

I leaned that it’s ok to stumble and fall as long as you get back up again.

I learned not to wait 30 years to live out your goal. Do it as soon as you can

I learned to start slow and build up. Had I started more slowly, perhaps i wouldn’t have gotten the stress fracture that took me out of the game.

Most of all I learned that it’s ok and perhaps I deserve to have a good time and follow my dreams.

Thanks to the people I remember (and all those who helped and I either forgot or didn’t remember (or ever know) your names.

There was the guy who owned the bike shop in Arizona who outfitted my wheels for me.

There was the Arizona state trooper who stopped and gave me a card to show other officers in case I needed anything.

Diane Durden
Marie Boyd
Brian Khepri
Alice Martinson
Michelle and Rich Kudlicki
Robert Andrulis
Tracy and Sally Thomas
Jan Walker
John price
The team terrie members that supported me from work and via Facebook
My neighbors who watched over my home while I was gone
Philip Dizon

Randall Feenette

The fire department that escorted me into Arizona

The lady I met on the train who later found me on the road

I am so blessed.