Good chance that we would start with Slovenia.  It is very near to Italy, espeially Venice and only about 3-4 hours by  bus or train from there to the start. 

I do see some roadwalking in this country, but, after talking it over with those who made the Maine meeting, they like the fact that the trail starts out fairly easy with only one big mountain near the eastern end of this country.  
I am talking to a retired guy here about possibly driving a support vehicle for us.

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That could be interesting.  

Maybe bikes? bigger cooking gear? guitar?  etc.