So, I just spoke to the Passport agency once again this morning at about 7:30. First of all, it was nice that my call was answered very quickly. I must also commend the representative, who was very friendly and extremely helpful.

I know from before that they started work on my passport on June 27th. It was a straightforward renewal, but I have asked for a 48 page passport, just in case.

He told me that they were about 1/4 done, and that it would likely take until July 20th. I mentioned that they seemed busy, and he told me that since the announcement that passports would be required for travel to Canada and Mexico, requests have skyrocketed.

He was extremely helpful in telling me how to arrange to change where my passport will be mailed, offering to e-mail the agency himself with the new information while I write a letter with the same instructions.

It's nice to get a helpful, courteous person on the phone, isn't it?