From here on out I feel this blog is meant to be a inside look into the non-writer sides of me. A husband; dad, technician, craftsman, home owner, etc.
Much like you – so much more than a name on a page.
That being said:
A couple weeks ago my son participated in his first pinewood derby race. Due to the freezing weather apocalypse we had it had largely slipped our minds. The night before weigh-ins he sanded, shaped and painted a very nice racer in a couple hours thanks to our high-end belt sander. The car was on the light side but we were short on time to add (fishing) weights: at least in the way I thought. For example several of the cars had washers glued to them. One of the Mom’s was kind enough to donate some stick on tire weights.
After all the rush and drama he turned in a very nice racer. In his first heat he won! By a couple car lengths. As a Dad I could not be prouder. The cautious optimist in me was hoping that he would continue to do well after such an auspicious start. The format was that every racer ran once in all five lanes. He never finished later than 3rd in all the races. Including the final race that was very close. He took home the 3rd Place Trophy. A very nice trophy that the Pack Leader designed and my wife hand painted. His aggregate time was 3.081, missing second place by two hundredths of a second. Next year we are aiming for the top prize. And I will surely participate in the “parents and siblings” races for bragging rights.
Last night I made apple wood smoked queso dip. Super simple and delicious. Rotel; sausage, veggies, velvetta and whatever other cheeses you want. In less than an hour everyone’s stomachs will be happy and the house will smell fantastic.
The other day I met the woodworker from the Market. I am very jealous of the size of his shop/garage. His process for finishing was incredibly simple, easy and gets wonderful results. Plus he also casts his own blanks for pens and bowls. It was a short visit but I learned a ton.
I hope y’all are doing well. Take care of one another.
