Blue & Gold Banquet 2013

On February 9th we attended Noah's first Blue & Gold Banquet.  Held at the Masonic Temple in Webster Groves, the circus themed room pulsed with testosterone and the smell of fried chicken.  The kids and I met Steve there as he was in charge of picking up 300 pieces of King Edward's finest for the event.  It was a fun evening punctuated with lots of laughs thanks to our entertainer, Juggling Jeff.  But, the best part was seeing the look on Noah's face when he heard his name called during the award ceremony.  As it turns out, you don't have to build the fastest car to win at Pinewood Derby.  Noah earned a 1st place trophy for his entry in the category of "Original Design".

Smorgasbord of side dishes.

Juggling Jeff  is always a good time.

Each den was charged with making a cake for the cake decorating contest.  This one was done by Noah's group.  I can only imagine what the poor Den mother's kitchen looked like after a dozen boys had been through it.

Noah looks a bit shellshocked.

The A Team

Noah with his buddy, Jacob

Derby Days 2013

Though Noah's car didn't earn any awards, I feel like the experience of participating was a win for our entire family. For weeks leading up to the race, Noah and Steve worked together -- planning, shaping and constructing his entry. During that time the conversations between the two of them seemed richer -- a tall order when you are dealing with a child with very narrow interests and whose conversations often involve reenacting a movie scene.  Not only am I thankful that this event gave my husband and son an opportunity to bond and spend quality time together - it also allowed Natalie and I the chance to root for our favorite team.

Prep work

Weigh In

Natalie wore her lucky Santa hat for good measure.

Ready, Set...

Go!

Noah with his Luke Skywalker Landspeeder that inspired his Pinewood Derby entry

World's Cutest Cub Scout