The office sounds great.
Ken did you really get it in a week?
I went to the US website and below is the current processing time so I'd think if it has to be mailed back and forth it would take longer.
ROUTINE SERVICE
As of ( Sunday February 27, 2011 ), we are processing routine applications in approximately 4-6 weeks from the time of application.
EXPEDITED SERVICE*
As of ( Sunday February 27, 2011 ), we are processing requests for expedited service, that include overnight delivery to and from the Passport Agency, about 2-3 weeks door-to-door*.