PINE WOOD
Derby.
I know, that's three. It should be just two, 'cause there's very little Derby in it. Unless the term 'Derby' is derived from the Greek word Der*Bee, meaning made by your father.
But I don't have hard feelings. I'm just stating the facts. Some parents do all the work, some kids do all the work. I think it's true of anything relating to kids. You can either let them learn how to do their best and win or loose on their own, or do it yourself. It's a hard thing as a parent, but it's funny, each time Jodi and I have tried our best to step back - it has really paid off for our kids.
Like a couple of years ago at our first Pinewood Derby. Brayden insisted on making his own car, a "Shark" car. He designed it, went to the neighbors and did all the cuts himself. Painted it silver, put a fin on it, and a lego man as a driver and you had an instant classic. It took first place. Sweet justice!
Tonight was incredible. Matt had done all the work by himself, making all the design and cuts, sanding it down. He decided he wanted a black car. Then I made a suggestion that flames always help a car go faster. Matt agreed. I showed him how to make flames, we decided on the colors and he was off. Literally, the only thing I did on the car was put the wheels on. That was probably what hindered the most.
So a good deal of kid effort went into it.
So as a parent your heart sinks a little when you see that CLEARLY not all effots were solely 9-year-old born. I pass no judgement, just observations based on testimonials from unwitting wives.
We press forward with faith knowing that inside the walls of your local cultural hall, miracles can happen.
And they did.
No, the flaming bullet didn't take first place. In fact, it took all places. It came in last one race, 2nd another, and 1st another. There were only three tracks, so 3 races each. Matt couldn't have been more pleased. As a parent, you can't ask for anything more. A complete 'break even'.
Then, the best par of the night: 3 prizes were given out: 1st place overall, best paint, and best design.
You guessed it:
The big HERSHEY'S bar he's holding is the first prize for "Best Paint".
Congratulations, Matt.
Mmmmmm, Derby Chocolate.
3 comments:
Good for you...and good for Brayden!!
I remember hovering over my brother in the garage as he would work his pinewood creations. He always did it by himself, and he ALWAYS won!!
Go speed racer! So proud of all of my boys.
I love you.
You're right. Those were the 'perfect results'...especially for that great kid in the photo.
And by the way, thanks for the German translation. It all makes so much more sense now....
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