Nearly there! …i just hope mexico starts up again soon (link). here are a few things i’ve done in the last week:

1) jerry cans & wheels are now strapped into the trunk. i’ve tested out the DOT approved metal jerry cans and they haven’t leaked yet.
2) all done with the vaccinations; and my first aid kit (with medications) is complete.
3) time lapse camera with CHDK is set up and installed in the car — with some plugs & power regulators, it even runs off of the car’s 12V. i might need to tweak it a bit more (anti-glare film on windshield?). my external hard drive is also now setup to work with my xo laptop.
4) auto insurance application submitted.
5) other: bought south/central america travel books, battery booster (to jumpstart car), usb-ethernet adapter (for xo), SD cards, etc.
6) what’s left: pack, buy medical insurance & mexican auto insurance (these are processed immediately, so can be purchased the day before), decide if i want to risk bringing a bike along (pro: bike, con: i’d have to put the bike in the backseat, which makes the car a bigger target).