Simon's a U.S. Citizen!

Simon has officially become American! Tom, Katie, and Carrie went up to cheer him on. There were 897 people getting sworn in that hour! And there were three more ceremonies that day!

It was raining which we're pretty sure reminded Simon of why he left England.

For the record, Simon is able to keep his British Citizenship. So, British jokes are still allowed.

Simon turned 40!

We had a great party for Simon!

It was British themed and many people dressed up in British costumes or British attire.

Simon.... dressed appropriately as a Red Coat.

I as well dressed appropriately as Amy Winehouse.

The Beckhams.

All in all, it was a very fun night!

Superior Springs Outing!

Simon and I went up to Bob's Spring Shop, and we were given a wonderful 2 hour tour of the shop. His son was so wonderful to take us around and gave us a really great tour.

It was like The Willy Wonka Factory of Springs!

It's really quite amazing how springs are made. A lot goes into a spring. The machine is very technical and obviously precise, but then they may put them through an oven, in acid, grind the edges, or buff the springs.

Big springs...

Little springs...

I'm holding up a magnet, which to the naked eye, looks like there is dust on it. But, under a magnifying glass they are tiny springs.

This machine very impressive in showing what goes into a spring...

In case you were wondering...like I was.... they do not make slinkies.

Home Improvement

Simon and Tom went to work on the "Off Centered Gingerbread Thing" above our doorway...

Our neighbor Terry came out to help as well. A work day isn't complete until Terry helps, or provides a bigger and better tool.

I took this shot up on a ladder to show how close to the edge Tom was working. I'd be too scared to be that close and facing backwards, but he didn't seem to care or notice.

Finished!

Calvin came to Visit

Calvin came and played with his Uncle Simon.... we think he had fun.

...but we definitely tired him out.

Thanksgiving!

I forgot to take pictures of our fun Thanksgiving, but I did at least get a picture of Dad basting the turkey. Delicious!

My camera then was "borrowed" by some mystery people who took some pictures...

......I think Calvin stole the camera.

Pretzel Lady

I don't want to blow my own horn, but with the help of my friend Katie, and looking for new recipes, I think I've perfected it.

(This is not one of the perfected pretzels. Those ones were eaten too fast.)