San Diego International Auto Show

For New Year's Day 2014, my family and I decided to check out the San Diego International Auto Show, at the convention center downtown. Running from January 1, 2014 through Sunday, January 5, 2014, the show features over 400 2014 model-year vehicles. 

With our 2004 PT Cruiser on its last legs... or, wheels... it was a good opportunity to see what kind of vehicle would best suit our family and a daily driver for my wife. With our daughter and another one on the way, as well as the habit we have of taking other family members along on trips we figured that a vehicle with 3rd row seating would best fit out needs. Ample cargo capacity would be another deciding factor. Unfortunately, these requirements would disqualify most Jeeps. While I like the Patriot and Cherokee models, my wife couldn't see them meeting her needs. The rigs she had in mind before going in was the Ford Explorer and the Hyundai Santa Fe, but we ended up finding something better. More on that below.

For more info click here: http://www.sdautoshow.com/

"The San Diego International Auto Show features the widest variety of new vehicles under one roof, featuring over 400 vehicles from 36 global manufacturers. The 2014 model-year vehicles showcase the newest levels of technology that enhance the driving experience, packaged in luxurious interiors and wrapped in cutting edge designs.

When not captivated by the cars, show visitors can participate in exciting, fun new features, family entertainment, and interactive activities. This year’s show will have 15,000 square feet dedicated to the Exotics Vault with vehicles from manufacturers like Bentley, Maserati, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Lotus and more."

Waiting for the trolley. 

Arriving in downtown San Diego.

Ford Mustang GT

Ford Fiesta

Ford Explorer

Ford Expedition

Ford F-150

Honda Pilot

Hyundai Santa Fe

GMC Acadia

GMC Terrain Denali

 

Looks like them Duke boys are in a heap of trouble again!

Getting ideas for my old YJ...

Jeep Patriot

2014 Jeep Cherokee

2014 Ford Shelby GT500 

Of all the vehicles, it seems that the GMC Acadia would best suit our needs. Plenty of cargo space and 3rd row seating. I could see ourselves in an AWD model, loaded up and headed out to the river or along some mild trails in Anza-Borrego.

SDPD was standing by in case anyone tried to make off with one of the test drive vehicles.

With only one day off work in the middle of the week for New Years, it was an enjoyable way to spend the day with my family.

My 2013 In Pictures

As this year comes to an end I reflect on all that's happened in my life and look forward to the future, thankful for all I have. Here's to many more adventures in 2014!

Flashback - Early Camping Years & Past Rigs

I recently went through some old photo albums and found some pictures of when I was younger; camping and riding with my family, and past vehicles we've owned that helped get me into the back country. Trips with my parents out to the river and desert are what inspired me to what I love doing now with my own family. Getting away from it all. 

My father with the buggy he build in the 70's out in the Imperial Sand Dunes.

My sister and I, playing in the dirt in Ocotillo.

The motor home and buggy my parents owned in the late 90's out at Gordons Well, Imperial Sand Dunes.

Back in my high school days I would load my three wheeler in the back of my 1980 Isuzu Pup and head out to the dunes. Notice the fishing gear too, I would use at one of the nearby canals.

Loaded up at the Colorado River.

My father, brother, sister, and I camped at the dunes.

The whole family out riding. Good times!

Cruising the beach in Baja with my friends in my 1990 Ford F-150.

With my Honda 250R at Gordons Well SVRA.

Pine Valley, CA

1998 Ford Ranger 4X4, Yuha Desert / U.S./Mexican Border

Somewhere in Baja, Mexico.

Down at our cabin on the river.

San Diego Zoo, December 25th 2013

I have many fond memories as a kid of my parents taking my sister and I to the San Diego Zoo. Now a days, my wife and I enjoy taking our daughter there. I still love the snake house, komodo dragons, and other reptile exhibits. So on Wednesday, December 25th 2013, we met up with my sister, brother-in-law, and their children for a day exploring around our local zoo. 

Here's a photo of my sister and I at the same zoo, back in 1986.

Here's a video of the Komodo Dragon getting a treat.

For more information click here:

San Diego Zoo Home Page

2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101