Boys and their cars... they sure go hand in hand.

Being that I have four sons, there has never been a shortage of wheels, cars, trucks, and the copious accompanying sounds that go with each particular make and model in our household. Add the annual Cub Scout Pinewood Derby and there is an excitement in the air that lasts more than just one day. It is a day that makes lifelong memories. I used to feel that this was just for the dads and sons, but I no longer feel that way.

Saturday, I watched my 7th Pinewood Derby hosted by Pack 3000 and I stepped back to take it all in. The excitement, the camaraderie, the family pride, the love, and the friendly competition.

What I loved most, wasn't what car was the fastest... For me as a mom observer, it was the community, sons, dads, moms, siblings, extended family and friends spending their Saturday morning and afternoon together.

There is a sort of magic that happens when you combine, sawdust, paint, axles, and graphite!

Additional photo credit: ©Colin Boyle 2012 (Bottom 3 photos and graphite shot)