North by Northeast Lights

Just five days away from a trip that I have thought about for a long time.

As a backyard stargazer, I've been fascinated by the phenomenon of the Northern Lights. Late last year, I found a picture in a magazine and saved it.

This year, that trip is coming to fruition. I thought it would be a few days in Alaska. It's become two weeks in Iceland.

So along with my lights, I will see glaciers and volcanoes, waterfalls and thermal baths, black sand beaches and whales.

The clothes are all laid out on my bed so I can pick a suitcase. Needless to say, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday will be tough days.

See this article about this year's lights.

All done but the shouting!

I just sent the last two e-mails, crossed the last things off my list, and am ready for the home stretch.

My plane leaves at 6:55. I have Charlie packed and ready to go. The house is clean. All my clothes are laid out. I've got to run Charlie to Dad's and pick up Mom, then come home and throw it all in a suitcase.

According to my plan, I have about 45 minutes to spare. Woohoo!