A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: MCI
Programs: AA Gold 1MM, AS MVP, UA Silver, WN A-List, Marriott LT Titanium, HH Diamond
Posts: 53,010
You guys are way overthinking this if the planned travel is 5 months in the future.
There is no need for expedited fees, trips to the passport agency, etc.
Basic processing. Post office. You'll have the passport back in your hands in about 6 weeks.