POWERGRAMS

20 The boys said that working with Lego is a special time set aside after schoolwork and chores are done. Their big project of the moment is the Elizabeth Arkham Asylum, the legendary hospital of Gotham City. "Our friends see us and my Dad working on things," Patrick said. "I made blueprints for the layout of Batman's Arkham Asylum, and it's going to look really good when it's done." The Higgins have attended the annual Lego Brickfair Convention at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex for six years. In the spirit of entrepreneurship, Patrick sells his Lego designs for $10, which includes the Lego pieces and instructions to build them. He won his first Bricky trophy in 2017 for his creation of Lego X-Men, while Wesley received a Bricky for his iconic replica of the Alabama Theatre in 2013. Lego look at future projects Following the McWane Science Center and Arkham Asylum will be Wesley and family's fourth scale replica. In the past few years, Wesley has created models of the Alabama Power Corporate Headquarters and a mobile electric substation that was purchased by PG&E. In 2011, Wesley's version of the Monroe County Courthouse in Monroeville was bought by a judge for $1,200, to benefit the Alabama Humanities Foundation. He made the courthouse to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Harper Lee's famous novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird." Someday, Wesley wants to try his hand at creating a miniature version of Vulcan, Birmingham's famous cast- iron statue atop Red Mountain. One thing is certain: While Wesley and Christy have kids at home, they won't part with Lego. "Every opportunity we have, we have to make memories," Christy said. "Our children are getting into a new phase of their own lives. I want them to look back and remember that we did these projects together." As Wesley puts it, Lego is a great hobby for many reasons. "It's kind of a hobby that takes you away from the everyday stress of life, to relax and let go," he said. "I enjoy the time – it allows me to express my creativity. I can connect with my kids and talk about what they're building, which leads us to talking about different aspects of their lives." "I think it's important for me to spend time with my family," Wesley said. "We like to do this, and we're involved in church and the Boy Scouts. I like to hang out with my boys and Christy. They're my best friends." See more of Wesley Higgins' creations at https://www.flickr.com/ photos/wesleyhiggins/. From left, Jonah, Thomas Earl, Caleb and Patrick work on living room project. The Higgins family at home with their latest Lego block creation.

• Cover