Thank you so much for the kind words everyone. It means a lot to know there are friendly people out there who are ready to give support and encouragement.
For better or worse (but ultimately for better as it was not an easy decision and I would not have made it if I didn't think it was the right thing to do) I have stopped
I went into the whole thing without any idea of what it would be like. I kind of did this on purpose to make the experience a more random and interesting one...in the end it has been my downfall. I stopped because I did not see that things would change for quite a few weeks (if at all) and continuing for that long while not enjoying it would have completely destroyed any interest and motivation I have in cycle-touring. Tourista829: you make a good point by saying you cannot fail if you are having fun...I simply wasn't having fun.
As they say you live and learn and you don't know if you don't try!!
The main thing I have learnt (besides how hot it gets in southern America) is how I want to approach cycle touring in the future. To make it across America in the time I was allowed in the country, I would have had to ride a long distance pretty much everyday. I know now that that is not the way I want to do a cycling trip. As has been my backpacking style over the last eighteen months, I would much prefer to have little pressure of time so that I can stop for a few days (or however long I feel like) in places I like. With cycling, I guess there is a compromise needed between moving over a given distance and chilling out in each place...but planning a three-month trip where there is no possibility of really chilling out along the way was just silly.
Ever positive: rather than think I have given up (though I still have an embarrassing big fat tail between my legs that I need to somehow remove)... I see myself as simply adapting my plans based on what I have learnt. I am currently looking into places in America where I can have a much shorter (maybe two to three weeks), enjoyable, more relaxed cycling trip. The Transam route will always be there after all, so I can wait until I am better prepared physically and mentally.
So...any suggestions of a great two-three week route? (I am thinking northwest America as very soon I will be settling in Vancouver or Vancouver Island to live and find work, which means I could cycle to my new home...so maybe the Oregon coast??)
Thanks again
I appreciate all the input very much!!!!
Mark