Brutal weather today huh? I was thinking of the both of you today. I think you went the correct way to punch through the cold front by going due west. We went north and fought the rain from Austin until Waco ~110 miles, and wicked winds all the way to OKC. Ugh. My car with trailer, bike and family got about 12 mpg! I typically tow and get 19. Sorry we were not able to meet. My schedule kept me hoping this year. I had an interview, two runs to the airport to pick family up, visit the rent houses, and visit store fronts (more on that later).
Regardless, ride safe and don't push it too hard. Sounds like you had an epic adventure!