US Imports

Some things we brought back from the US (aside from our Xmas presents):

- Jif Peanut Butter... because not only can you get it in a HUGE jar, but it's also PROPER peanut butter. Not this flacid, wallpaper paste you commonly find over here (like Sunpat, no wonder most Brits we meet "don't like peanut butter" if that's what they have to go by).

- Some parts to upgrade my banjo... namely a Stockwell Moon Bridge, a Remo Renaissance head, and a no-knot tailpiece.

- Mojo Criollo marinade... a luscious Cuban concoction of sour oranges, garlic, pepper, and some herbs and spices that is oh-so-delicious!

- Clothing from Old Navy and The Gap... clothing is cheaper in the US and then you add on the savings from using a UK credit card at the tasty exchange-rate of $1.90+ per pound and you've got yourself a nice little shopping spree. Plus, it's too hard to find clothes in the UK that will fit my 6'4" frame.

- Aunt Jemima Whole Wheat Pancake Mix... because those are just so damn good and you CANNOT make them from scratch and have them taste the same, no matter what you do!

And somewhat related, I applied for a I-131 Travel Document that will allow me to stay out of the US for up to 2 years without incurring the spanking from US Immigration that I got on December 13th, 2006. It cost us $170 and cannot be renewed (if you need to extend it, you have to apply for another one).