I forgot to mention I hit 1000 miles back in Missoula. This was a major milestone and in the midsts of getting over passes, changing gear, and anticipation for the GDMBR I forgot to cover it. At this point I am 1400 miles in and several big passes climbed.
To me this is the logical time to say thanks. While this seems like a solo endeavor, and believe me there have been moments out on empty stretches where it felt that way, many people have and continue to help me down the road.
So here it goes. Please know this is a partial list from the top of my head and that everyone reading and commenting have had an impact.
My Parents and Sister- You gave me this wandering spirit and encouragement that I could do anything. Mom, you gave me the skills and courage needed to walk into any situation and make friends and maybe most importantly my legs. Dad you insisted that we were never to be afraid but always be prepared. You and the rest of the family have accepted my limited visits to accumulate time off. You have offered words of encouragement and sometimes worried more than I wanted. Without your support and willingness to catch me if I fall I would not be here. To Jo my sister all of the same and a little extra for being there for mom and dad.
My Friends – Traci and family, TJ, Faith, and Sandra thanks for looking after my place, lawn, mail, and sending me gear and candy. Your emotional support is invaluable as well. I feel all of Stoverhood, Smith Crew and Olive Annex is cheering me on. To Joe, Sheri, and Chris thanks for getting me on the road.
My Team at Work- To everyone in the construction group and engineering as a whole, thank you for picking up all the work I left behind and for doing so without question. I was able to leave due to your competence and willingness to take on extra. You have shown that we are not just coworkers but family. And a special thanks to Jason for filling in for me in my absence. Kathy and Katie thanks for doing my timesheets.
My Supervisors and Larimer County – Thank you for working with me to find a way that I could take this trip and not quit my job. It speaks volumes of an organization and its leadership that it supports personal fulfillment and growth. Not just accepting my sabbatical but supporting and encouraging it has only strengthened my belief I have the best place to work possible.
The People I Have Met Along the Way – Quite frankly you are the biggest reason to take on this trip. To everyone that has suffered through a round of golf with my body odor and pitiful play thank you. To the friendly people I meet on the street thank you for the encouragement. To my fellow travelers thanks for the conversation, encouragement, and advice.
So THANK YOU all. This has been amazing and only seems to be getting more special.
