For so long as he can bear in mind, Tom Norman has loved hobbies. From crafting clocks to constructing and flying (“and crashing,” he added) remote-controlled airplanes, he has all the time favored working together with his arms. Tom spent a long time as knowledgeable carpenter, similar to his father. Ever since he constructed his late spouse a home in 1948, he had his personal workshop within the basement to mounted something and every little thing round their house.
So, you possibly can see why he thought shifting to a senior dwelling neighborhood in 2017 could be a giant adjustment. A lot to his delight, although, Tom discovered he didn’t have to surrender his hobbies when he moved to Westwood Ridge in West St. Paul. The truth is, Tom—at 92 years outdated—has discovered a brand new pastime: 3D printing.
It began when his grandson, Charlie, came visiting Tom at Westwood Ridge. Charlie introduced his 3D printer to exhibit, however Tom was desirous to get his personal as soon as he discovered the way to use the machine. Now Charlie visits as soon as per week to work on tasks together with his grandpa.
“Charlie actually helps me. We work properly collectively,” defined Tom. “He helped me be taught, and he finds new tasks for us to do. He was the one who launched me to this pastime, so I’m glad we will nonetheless do it collectively.”
Tom has made all types of issues together with his printer. Turtles, mannequin homes, piggy banks, clocks… and even airplanes. His subsequent purpose is to make a mannequin 1928 Ford, similar to his buddy drove throughout their senior yr of highschool.
“My tasks carry again reminiscences,” he stated, “and dealing with my arms retains me busy. There are all types of templates on-line that I could make. I like discovering new designs to create.” For Tom, the perfect a part of his new pastime is that he can do all of it from the consolation of house. However when he leaves his residence, he finds a welcoming, pleasant neighborhood.
“I’d should look actually exhausting to seek out one thing to complain about at Walker Methodist. It’s distinctive. The folks and group are nice,” he shared. “From life enrichment and actions to housekeeping, everyone seems to be sort and has a smile. I’m so glad I’m right here.”