Pinewood Derby!

Last month was the Pinewood Derby. It was an event that we'd all been looking forward to since last year. When we (and by "we" I mostly mean Justin) learned from our mistakes and were trying for a better place than last year. (Not that we weren't thrilled with our third place, but there was definite room for improvement.)

It all started when my dad came out a few months ago while Justin and I house hunted in Idaho. He helped Clayton shape and sand his car. I will admit, it was pretty cool looking and REALLY smooth. Then Justin helped him finish it off with paint, wheel alignment, and weight. All my boys worked really hard on this car and it was impressive.

The day of the race was exciting. The boys were cheering for their own cars (and each others - I have to say I love how positive the whole experience is in our ward, the boys really support each other - win or lose). There were adults and kids running around, eating, watching the races. Pretty exciting stuff.

My boy holding his car.

Love this one of Noah. He was so excited to be there as well. He couldn't stop talking about how excited he is to make a Pinewood Derby car himself next year.

Josie and Sammie were mostly there for the food (no surprise).

Pootie!

If you look at the track, that's Clayton's car in the lead.

When all was said and done, we ended up with a second place finish! As always, Clayton acted like it was the grand prize. He was so proud of himself and his car. I love this kid and his positive attitude!

Of course Noah had to sneak in there for a picture with the victorious car. He was so proud of Clayton and talked for weeks afterward about his own car next year (he even made a couple Pinewood Derby cars of his own out of old granola bar boxes). This kid, he makes me laugh.

Afterward we went to Steak n Shake for a celebratory dinner.

And Urban Swirl for more celebrating!

So proud of these two. Love them both.

This kid. He melts my heart for sure. Last year he was third place, this year he was second, next year he's gunning for first (though Noah has a few thoughts about that). Watch out Jerome, the Smith boys are coming for you next year!