The excitement is palpable

It just isn't that often you get to use a word like "palpable", you have to exercise every opportunity.

palpable \PAL-puh-buhl\, adjective:
1. Capable of being touched and felt; perceptible by the touch; as, a palpable form.
2. Easily perceptible; plain; distinct; obvious; readily perceived and detected; gross; as, palpable imposture; palpable absurdity; palpable errors.

Only a day and a wake-up until our vacation starts. Three weeks worth. It has been almost 20 years since I've taken that much time off all in one streach, other than being unemployed, that is. Last time it was a trip to London, Paris and Washington DC. The capitols of three of the worlds most powerful countries. Quite a contrast. Old world vs new world. But that was then, this time, we are going on the grand tour. Up into Canada, turn right and drive until we hit Montreal. Visit with the family then head south to Atlantic City,take another right and drive across mid America. Lots to see along the way: America's Biggest _______ (whatever....)

It's getting down to the final preparations. One more load of laundry before we can pack the socks and underware. Three weeks is a lot of clothes. I've been filling the ipod with music and audiobooks. We have the electric cooler for the car, to keep the liquids and snacks cool and fresh. It's hard to remember everything... camera, binoculars, laptop, books, magazines, asprin and assorted pills and medications, maps, umbrellas, jackets and sweatshirts. We even have a couple of collapsable chairs just in case we need somewhere else to sit. Q-tips, dental floss, nail clippers. All that good stuff that you have at home but want with you on the road if you need it. So much to remember. So much not to forget.