Jared's Final Pinewood Derby

We were all set this year. Jared and Jeff built the car in plenty of time. The paint was dry and it was the perfect weight. "Captain Zoom" was ready to take to the track.

Jeff and Jared lubing up the wheels.

Three cars race at a time. Jared is ready to beat his friends (though it is not at all about winning;)

Jared's car is the orange one that is way out in front.

He ending up having the fastest time in his den and was second place in the pack! Jeff is glad to be done for another 5 years!

One of the boys had a car that broke down on the track and was unable to race. He was in one of the younger dens and it caused a lot of tears. On his own, Jared rounded up his friends and had them vote for this boy's car as the "Best in Show". It was the best part of the day. It is moments like this that you think that your kids might actually be okay in life!

Oakland Zoo for the MLK Holiday

We went with some of our friends to the Oakland Zoo for MLK Day. Jared (with his gangsta glasses and backward hat), Makenzie, Adam, Leah and Jamie.

Claire and Lucas had fun playing on the animal statues.

Claire, Jared & Lucas hiding in a shell.

Jared's favorite animal as a baby was the elephant. It continues to be a family favorite.

Perhaps my favorite animal of the day. The alligator was sitting up right against the glass. Apparently they can sit in one place for hours at a time. He had us fooled - we thought he was dead but when we went back he had moved. It is crazy to be so close to those teeth!