see the full collection of pictures over on Google+

Kristopher Freedain – Google+ – Had a great day out at Whittier Narrows Park on Sunday…..

First up,  a round of mini-golf. We both got a hole-in-one on the 12th hole!

Next was a race on the cart track. Definitely favorite part of the evening with Ian screaming “this is like real life Mario Kart!!!” as we raced around the track.  Even with another car tailing us, we came in first place. Even lapped two other single drivers.

After that, dinner. No comment on the food, but good conversation.

Lastly we finished the night with video games (of course).

Fun times!

Next is a lot of sanding. He does all of this by hand. I feel it is really important for him to do a lot of the design and work, part of the experience is learning to take pride in the work you put into something.  If he designs and helps build a car, then sees his own creation race down the track he can see the results of his own effort.

Next, the little man paints his car. His latest obsession love is LEGO Ninjago, so of course he designed a paint job around that theme. It turned out great too.

Last, he and I work on the wheels and axles. I’m not going to give away any trade secrets here, but let’s just say it is all about ensuring the least amount of resistance when speeding down the track.

Here is a great shot of him and Momma on our way to the races.

Weighing in, adding just the right amount of weight to ensure maximum speed

Ready to check the car in. Once it’s checked in, the pit crew can no longer touch the car!

We had a great time watching his car speed down the track. He won every race he was in!!! Watch him leave the competition in the dust

After round 1, he was a very happy man

We enjoyed watching each race, seeing his efforts continue to speed past other racers.  And, at the end of the rounds, he had 1st place in his age group!

and 4th place overall!!!

He even received a nice ribbon for all his hard work.

The Pinewood Derby was a great event again this year and we are looking forward to next year’s race.

Here is a link to the full set of pictures, and a few more videos:

2012 – Jan 28 – Cub Scout Pinewood Derby

On the steps of temple.

The main shrine, beautifully decorated.

Making a wish for the New Year.

Year of the Dragon

Heavenly Blessings and Protection – Venerable Master Hsing Yun (me standing next to a blessing from Master)

Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva on Dragon

Venerable Hsin Ting and Ian.  We were very fortunate to see Venerable while he is visiting from Fo Guang Shan.

Here is a link to the full set of pictures: “2012 – Jan 22 – Chinese New Year at Hsi Lai“

Happy New Year!

Not positive if this would qualify as a ‘Dharma Burger‘ but I’ll admit, this looks very interesting to me.  Added to my wishlist.

Read more over at The Laughing Squid:

The Zen Of Steve Jobs, A Graphic Novel That Reimagines Jobs’ Relationship With Zen Buddhist Priest.

(via Access to Insight)

And whatever translation of the precept you follow, whether it is completely refraining, or consumption without drunkenness, my best wishes to you, your friends, and family.

…joining palms

“Can you think of anything that lasts forever and doesn’t change?”

“Sand, no. Water, no. Plastic, no. There isn’t anything that lasts forever without changing.”

“true”

And so we waited for the water to come in and wash away the sandcastle.

Of course, if impermanence does not happen quick enough, an 8 year old boy can act like Godzilla and help it along.

Today I received a message on Twitter from Kevin Sablan, a writer for the OC Register, that my picture was included in a Register post.

Check out picture (7/13):

Twitter, Facebook light up with rainbow shots – OC Science : The Orange County Register.

What a great surprise! Thanks Kevin.

Today is our 14th anniversary.

I am so lucky to have found the person I will spend the rest of my life with.

Dawn, I adore you.