The Dreaded Derby

One more down, just a few more to go...Ryan actually did okay this year and was very happy with his 6th place finish! That tells you how we usually do.

Our friend with better tools than we have helped Ryan cut out his car. Then he sanded it until he was happy with the shape. He painted it several times before he settled with the blue and red stripe look. Our grass will never be the same!

I am so glad he was truly happy with how the car placed. I love the look of genuine joy!

The Dreaded Pinewood Derby

Ryan's first Pinewood Derby has come and gone. When my dad was here in December he helped us a little with the shaping and painting of the car, but we know that winning is all in the wheels. So, he offered to bring it to Alaska with him and he'd do the wheels and send it back to us before the race. It just felt a little to much like cheating, so Ryan and I did the wheels ourselves...and I guess they could have used some help.

I have to admit, we don't love the Pinewood Derby. We used to dread it. Now we have just learned to prepare our kids for the worst and if they don't totally come in last place, we are all pleasantly surprised! Ryan got an award for good sportsmanship and I couldn't be more proud. You could say that is like telling a fat person that they have such a pretty face or like telling an uncoordinated athelete that they have such potential, but we take it as a compliment!

Ryan was happy to cheer on his friend that got 2nd place and told him that he was still a winner to him.