I'm going to answer my own question! Here's what I found out in a call today. There's a date (not yet set but they believe to be 12/15) after which no new kits will be mailed until Jan. If you make your new status before that date, your kit is sent immediately. After this date, all the MR folks, etc who make it happen in the close of Dec will be collected, kits printed, and then mailed at once for arrival in Feb.
FYI--luggage tags sold at 2 for $10--no longer free.
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--Wishing for you safe travels and for me Row 1.