To Go Home or Not...That is the Question?

[JasmineReeseII]

I am cycling across America. I estimate I'll be in my hometown just around Independence Day. Should I visit my family? I feel like it'll be really hard to leave home if I stop in. My family lives in Missouri. My end destination is San Diego, CA.

[jamawani]

JRII - Different strokes for different folks -
But I feel that it is tough breaking the pattern of touring by making visits to family/friends.
You end up going places in cars, sleeping in beds, dealing with folks without a clue about touring.
(I also cannot tell if you are a little burned out or not.)

One way to compromise is to have family meet you at a state park nearby.
If need be, rent a cabin overnight - or just do a day visit - with you camping.

That way they can bring all kinds of goodies but you stay in the groove.

Happy trails!

[John Nelson]

Aren't you having the time of your life? You should be, and I hope you are. If so, you won't be tempted to end your trip in Missouri. Besides, I've read your blog and you don't seem like a quitter to me. Have fun! If you're not having fun, change something. If you need a bit of extra money to lighten the stress, maybe you can borrow some from your family. Figure out what you need and go after it.

[indyfabz]

During my group tour we passed somewhat near the home of one participant. Her mom picked her up and took her home for a short visit. She never rejoined the tour. While there were other forces at work, I am sure the physical and psychological comforts of home played a role in the final decision as we were less than a month from the end.

If you want to finish the trip and feel that it would be hard to continue on if you visit home, you have your own answer.

Whatever you do, you don't want to look back and regret your decision.