At least you made it. Sucks when your long trip is almost done, then there's an issue just far enough from anywhere. Your trip sounds like the way I do them. I flew to Idaho Falls to hitch a ride to Butte, where I picked up my bus and then drove straight to Bainbridge Island, Seattle for 2 nights and then turn and headed to Atl. over 3 days. Then 6 months later flew to Beaverton, Ore. and drove one back to Atl. Both buses bought on line, sight unseen. Took no tools other than the Master Card, and a positive attitude.