[HAL9000]

My cheapskate in-laws had a similar problem a few weeks ago. I told them to FedEx their application to the expedited processing center. They griped about the overnight delivery fees, but they got their passports in a few days.

Here is some official info - http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

There are also private companies that will hand-carry your application for emergency processing, if needed.

Good luck on your trip.

[TheBattman]

I was willing to pay the extra $60 bucks for expedited service, but the lady at the passort office told me that there was plenty of time.

AS my application is currently "processing", that tells me that it's just sitting on a desk somewhere, as my understanding is that the status says that from the time they actually receive the application.

I placed a call to my Senator's office and am awaiting a return call.

Today makes 6 weeks - and the line from the Passport office was "less than 6 weeks". I guess that's why the passport office originally told me "plenty of time".