I'll see your cute and raise you some incorrigible

For moira_ramsay who asked for cuteness. This is my nephew Brian. He's going to be four next week. Judging by the costuming, he is watching his favorite video, "Fire and Rescue." Brian loves to act along with Firefighter Mike and his friends as they go through training at the academy and then put out real fires.
You have not lived until you have been mooned by a three year old who has just "slid" down a mop handle then yanked his jammies down and back up again in imitation of firefighters putting on their turnout gear.

Must find something cool for his birthday.....

Pennsic planning

Back in the days when I lived a mere six hour drive from Cooper's Lake, I used to mercilessly tease anyone who started any sort of Pennsic Countdown before say, June. However, now that I'm on the opposite side of a very big continent, logistical planning requires a bit more of a think than "Stuff everything you own inside or on top of your vehicle and go."

Vacation days have been requested and approved by my employer.

Pre-registration ends May 15 for mail-in, June 15 for on-line. I'll send mine after I file my taxes. (Frankly, Dubya and Cheney can wait another couple weeks.)

Airfares from Oakland are being researched. While I'm seeing some decent prices, it's still four plus months away and schedules/prices are likely to change. I will continue to watch my cheapo ticket sites for now.

Airline luggage allowances usually provide for one carry on item (no brainer, that's the hurdy gurdy) and two suitcases. I may need to borrow or acquire another large suitcase or duffel.

Waiting to find out more about fees for renting space on the kingdom's communal truck. 

Bid has been placed on an air mattress with rechargeable pump on eBay.