Nancy and I drove to Birmingham yesterday for a 5-day visit with our Alabama grandkids. Mark and Jenny left this afternoon for Chicago where Mark is scheduled to speak at an orthodontic conference. They plan to spend a couple additional days taking in the sights and, I think, trying to stay warm. In the meantime, we'll be taking care of their kids.

Right after noon today Jackson entered his pinewood car in the derby sponsored by his cub scout group. In the four races that featured his creation, he took a second place, two third place finishes, and a fourth place finish in the last race. After the races were completed and the winners announced, additional accolades were given for style. Of the 20 or so cars entered into the races, Jackson's car was awarded a fourth place for style.

It's clear, from every aspect, that Jackson's car is no 2-bit vehicle!