Life is full of distractions. When you're busy at work, slot cars can be a nice distraction. When you want to race slot cars, family life can be a distraction, either wanted or unwanted. When your personal life is stressful, sometimes work can be a nice distraction.

Why so philosophical? I just got back from hanging out with an ailing relative for a week. It was stressful, emotional and challenging, but absolutely necessary. It distracted me from slot cars and this site's maintenance. Thank you to those that continue to visit. I'm back and my energy is re-focused on this here hobby of ours.

-Cory

Several people have reported that they are going through racing withdrawals following their venture to the Fray in Ferndale. Many returned home on Sunday or Monday and are already getting together tonight (Wednesday) for story telling, practice and notes sharing.

In addition, there are proposals and calendars flying around for race events coming up as early as this weekend!

Now THAT is dedication to the hobby. Or maybe it's an addiction. Is there a slot car wing at the Betty Ford Clinic?

The 2012 Fray in Ferndale is just around the corner, March 2 and 3. A lot of racers are focused on the preparation of their cars, teams, strategies and all other aspects of traveling hundreds or even thousands of miles to race highly modified Aurora Thunderjet slot cars. They are poring over the tiny mechanical and electrical components of their steeds with tweezers, magnifying glasses, desk lamps and any number of off-the-shelf and custom made tools. The Fray in Ferndale doesn't have the big money payout of NASCAR, ARCA or even IMCA. You get your name on the cow trophy, bragging rights and you and your teammates' names are splattered all over the Internet. In addition, whatever tools and products you were using get bragging rights and a likely uptick in sales.

Most of the racers are happy to help newbies and struggling participants. I'm sure the majority of them have a couple of secrets they keep hush-hush in an effort to have some sort of competitive advantage. Fray season is an exciting time of the year for HO slot car racers.

What's your favorite slot car race to attend?
Which race are you looking forward to most this year?
What's your best slot car racing memory?
Why not share a favorite Fray race memory?
If you were stranded on an island with one slot car tool, what would it be?