I took some time to do some research and route planning today and feel a bit better about moving forward.

I explained to the owner that Penny would likely be arriving tonight and whatever she did, do not offer up a room in MY house to her.  Ha ha!  I would try to just avoid Penny if and when she did show up.  The lady knew who Penny was from previous visits.  So far, nobody seems to be impressed about how I have ended up solo on this trip.  I did see Penny through the window later, and the lady also made sure I knew later that Penny was here.  I don't really care.  I am not going to alter how I want to travel because of her. 

I ended up really allowing myself some down time and watched a movie, the remade version of "Red Dawn."  It seemed kind of wrong given the war going on in Ukraine, but at least helped me forget about everything for awhile.  Onwards with a tough day of cycling tomorrow.