Logistics

In less than two weeks we leave.

Usually I don't stress much over vacation -- just pack and leave -- but this one I've been thinking about more (for 2 years to be precise) which means that I'm developing expectations which means gaps between expectations and reality are forming which means stress.  ... I'll be fine once we head out the door.

There IS a lot of stuff that still needs to be done before we leave.  I have a lot of end-of-year office administration type work that needs to be done at the office early before I can "disappear" for 2 months.  People need to be talked to.  Stuff like this blog needed to be set-up.  We need to deal with suitcases, airline luggage limits, computer back-ups, iPods, bills, house projects, International Drivers licenses, etc ... I need a vacation.

Have been acquiring things; shoes (three pair!); wireless travel router; a  new camera lens (Canon EOS f4 L 24-105 mm), guidebooks, and these next two weeks will be intensive acquistion weeks.  It is a good thing we are not attempting an assault on the South Pole, which is probably logistically more complicated than our plan to slouch in an apartment in Paris.

Spoke with Tom yesterday.  He is coming down a few days early to visit with us before we head out.  He seems excited about "vacationing" in our house for 8 weeks.  He's got a bunch of plans to shop for California cars for a bunch of people.  Our house needs a new roof.  He agreed to let roofers stomp around the roof for a week while he is in the house.  A nice guy.

Dayton & Gaye are all set with their logistics; Greg and Lauri are just finalizing a few things.  All the pieces are falling into place.  I really want them all to have fun.