Thanks everyone! We had a nice time - I waited until things had settled into the early part of the gathering then opened the door to the garage - it was funny hearing the comments. Like it's a whole dark side to me, LOL. We did have to turn down the voltage to 5.5 volts and since the youngest driver had a bit of difficulty with the hairpin but otherwise, after 30 minutes he was getting the hang of it. The interesting part is that he's a bit introverted so it was difficult getting a response as to whether he was enjoying it or not...then I started noticing that after a while he was slowing down and waiting for someone to get near him and them was all smiles when the action was close and someone, or himself, wiped out. Then, when we had to go in for dinner, he was quiet again. I guess the point is that this "tactile" hobby of ours can really bring out the joy in kids and adults alike. It was great. The track's a keeper even if I have to build my 1/32 layout on wheels, 6 inches above this one (small garage syndrome).
Happy New Year!
Here's the whole track in case you have not seen it before:
