Getting ready to head south - 2009 edition

Here we are in the countdown for another 5 or 6 weeks south.  Two main differences this year, though: 1.  Leaving in mid December and returning late January, instead of late Jan/mid March, and 2.  My travelling companion's a lot better looking this time around (might even share my bed this time). 

Oh, there seems to be a third difference, too:  3.  Last time we got out of Dodge just ahead of the big cold snap of the winter, this time it looks like we might be a week late.  Have a look:

The original plan is to head across to Cranbrook then down through Spokane to Portland, hit the coast and wander down to San Francisco.  Couple days there, then south and east to Phoenix in time for Christmas.  My Canuckleheads are playing there Dec 27, so it would be cool to see a game.  After that???

The weather's not looking great for a Saturday departure, though, and the SF forecast is rain next week.  Have to keep an eye on that.