Citizenship

Wednesday, I became an American citizen! After living here in the US most of my life, I finally began the process of naturalization last May. It's been interesting! Things went very smoothly and I was surprised at how simple it was.

The swearing in ceremony was held at the Gerald Ford Museum here in Grand Rapids. There were 81 people from 35 different countries being naturalized. It was a very meaningful ceremony! Immediately following the ceremony I was able to register to vote - something I've been very anxious to do!

I'm proud to finally be an American!

This is the "swearing" part. You swear to renounce your homeland, be willing to protect the US, bear arms, etc...

Posing with the US District Court Judge who presided over the ceremony. The paper we're holding is the official naturalization document - my proof that I'm an American.

Only the four youngest were with us. That's Andrew, Peter, David, and Daniel.

Boys

Even with 9 sons, I still sometimes find myself amazed at what boys will do.

It's windy, snowing, 23 degrees, the windchill is 9 degress and Philip, Sam, Andrew and David are outside playing football!

I'm glad that energy is being spent outdoors!

By the way, I took these pictures from INSIDE the house!!

Time to go make some hot chocolate....

We're on the map!

The Jones home has now made the big time: Google Maps Street View. Naturally, there's no way to take a snapshot of our home without catching two of our boys in the yard. Amazing, but creepy technology. Go ahead and do a 360-degree spin.


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