Thursday, March 25, 2010

The Pinewood Derby

Nathan created his race car from a block of wood.  He came up with a design on his own and took pride in sanding and painting it.  He wanted his car to resemble an Army Hummer.  


Five quarters and a nickel were glued to the bottom to add weight.  This gave Nathan the clever idea to rename his hummer, 

"1.30"

Sadly, Nathan came down with the stomach flu the day of the Derby.  He was so disappointed to miss this exciting event.  His weakness and stomach pains led him to ask Maren to stand in his place.  Maren was thrilled with the opportunity and gave Nathan a double thumbs up with a commonly used phrase in our home, "Team Giles!"  Nathan explained that his goal was to win third place.  Why third?  Because there are four lanes and he just did not want to cross the finish line last.  He also reminded Maren to lubricate the wheels with graphite to increase the speed of the car.  

Nathan rested with his loyal, compassionate friend while dreaming of taking third place.

 
The phone rang, it was Brian offering his congratulations to Nathan for placing third in three races!  He was also awarded a certificate for the "Most Patriotic Car."  Click here to see Maren receiving this award in Nathan's honor.

Before publishing this post, Nathan asked that I include a special thanks to his Scout leader, David Hylton.  David, a devoted leader, took the time to write a kind note expressing his disappointment over not having the opportunity to watch Nathan race his car.  Thanks Brother Hylton, you made Nathan's day! 
  

9 comments:

Renee said...

Nathan, You are such an exemplary young man. I admired how you designed, sanded, painted, and named your Pinewood Derby car on your own, then chose your sister to stand in your place when you could not attend the race. This is an event neither you nor Maren will ever forget. Congratulations on a job well done! Grandpa and I are very proud of you.

Michelle Beus said...

Congratulations, Nathan! I really liked the car you made and the creative name you gave it. I hope you feel better today. Good job, Maren, for helping Nathan take third in the races! Way to go Team Giles!!

Deanna said...

Great job! I really hope you get over the stomach flu very soon.

Sara said...

Nathan we hope you feel better. What a remarkable brother you are! Maren is one of the few girls who has participated in a Pinewood Derby, so that is pretty special that you gave her the chance. She did a fabulous job.

Derek and Becca Theurer said...

Your kids are so great! That is the neatest thing that Nathan asked Maren to race his car for him. I liked the 1.30 rename. Very clever. Go Team Giles!

Jennifer said...

Nathan, you were missed at the Pinewood Derby. We loved your car. You are creative and talented with your design. How lucky you are to have such a thoughtful sister who was willing to take your place. What a remarkable family you have.

The Silly Witch said...

Nathan, You were wise to stay home and rest and get a substitute. What an awesome car! Good job team Giles.

Pat said...

Way to go Team Giles, awesome sister stepping in to help, awesome brother that trusted his sister to take his place, awesome car made it all work out. Congrats on a wonderful accomplishment. I hope you are feeling much better Nathan. love to you, Pat and Carol

Sheralie said...

I love the paint job! Very catchy, Nathan!