So ends one adventure and begins a new one.  Two days from now I begin the western half of the Northern Tier.  There are 25 plus women all heading out on a new adventure.  We will cycle to Fargo, ND from Anacortes.  We begin with a frightening 77 miles. The next day we do over 90 miles.  I fear I cannot do it but have faith I will give it my all.  I had a major breakdown on my bike to which the bike shop had to replace all my gear head sets.  It was stressful but Skagit cycling center pulled a rabbit out of their hat and saved me. I will look for a new de-railer while in route.  I rode up a hill and the gears changed fine.