Saturday, January 30, 2016

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona.

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!


The first thing we noticed about this world famous automotive auction is the vastness of the event acreage; nearly a million square feet of the auction site is under cover. Unfortunately, the second thing you are introduced to is the rudeness of the show staff. It started before we even step onto the Barrett-Jackson area.

We were greeted by the most unprofessional security personnel ever. They were overworked and hassled and not shy about expressing their frustration in words and actions. I was ordered to separate from my husband because Paul had a backpack and I did not have a bag. The gentleman overseeing the procedure hurried back and forth making disingenuous statements like, “I am only saying this because this is what I am told to say.” He really did not make much sense. The staff and exhibitors were not much better inside.

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
Burt Reynolds and McLaughlin Museum presented this 1977 Universal Studios
Promo Bandit Trans Am from the movie "Smokey and the Bandit

Not to make their excuses for them; however, we picked a bad day to attend. Saturday was Cox Charities Family Value Day and children, twelve and under, were granted free access. There was also a two-for-one entry with your current Cox bill promotion. The crowds were enormous.

All that being said, the Barrett-Jackson Auction is definitely worth the price of admission ($75 for the day). We walked over four miles. Everywhere we looked was adorned by beautiful classic cars. It was hard to remember not to touch them.

There was also tons of automobilia (automotive-related memorabilia) to tempt your wallet. Nonetheless, as if over 1,500 cars and 1,400 automobilia items on display was not enough, there were also more than 200 non-automotive vendors and interactive exhibits.

It appear to me that it was Barrett-Jackson’s attempt to make the show more wife/girlfriend friendly. You could purchase high-end alligator boots, deer antler wine stoppers, a hot tub, jewelry, women’s clothing, fishing trip, and/or sign up for Direct Television. However, we do not recommend stopping at the later because that Direct TV salesman was pretty pushy.

There was also wide variety of food and adult beverage stations from which to choose your nourishment. I opted for vegan sobe noodles (noodles made from buckwheat flour) that were stir fried perfectly and filled with vegetables. Paul enjoyed a strawberry banana smoothie for lunch.

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!

Of course I had to try a new whiskey. After an informative Jack Daniels tour, I bought a shot of Single Barrel Select. The amber liquid was very strong with a weighty vanilla accent. While it burned a bit on the way down, I liked it.

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!

On to the auction; I had my eye on Steve McQueen's 1952 Chevrolet Pickup Camper. The 3800 pickup was purchased by McQueen from a migrant farmer he passed on the side of the road in 1979. The Forest Green, one-ton features a 235 cu in Loadmaster six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission and a custom aluminum “Dust Tite” camper in the bed. A certificate of authenticity from McQueen’s estate is also included. I was surprised when it sold for a mere $55,000!!!

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!

However the highlight of my Barret-Jackson experience was the opportunity to chat with the legendary Bob Bondurant. While recuperating from a serious racing injury, Bondurant drafted an idea for a high performance driving school borrowing from the experiences he had while training James Garner for Grand Prix. The man turned his lemons into an empire!!! The Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving opened in 1968 at Orange County International Raceway. It is still going strong in Chandler, Arizona.


Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!

My son Moses is the manufacturer of the Formula Mazda racecar. The Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving uses these cars in their Master’s Race Series. Yup, I am a proud mama.

Overall, I would rate our experience at the Scottsdale, Arizona Barrett-Jackson an eight out of ten. The cons (large crowds, rude staff, and carnival atmosphere) were dimmed by the pros (awesome cars, large food selection, plenty of restrooms, ample seating areas to rest). I cannot wait to compare the Scottsdale auction to the next one to be held in Palmdale, Florida this April.

Photos from the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction on 01/30/2016

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
The event was littered with food options.

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
Barrett-Jackson  Ride ’N Drives and Thrill Rides Track

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
That's me in front of Jeff Gordon's original restored Baby Ruth '92 T-Bird Busch Grand National Car.

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
Missed seeing ex-teammate Cameron Hayley at his dad's exhibit (Cabinets by Hayley)
Watch Cameron race his #13 NASCAR Truck this 2016 season. 

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
Husband Paul standing in front of an original Mini-Cooper.

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
Husband Paul bought a battery tender for his SSR

Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Oma Loves U!
Steve McQueen's camper up for auction.

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ, Barrett-Jackson enjoys a unique reputation for its ability to value, market and consult in the classic car market to consistently achieve above-industry prices. The company’s name is synonymous with a luxury lifestyle and high-end classic and collector automobiles.


Related Posts:

Grand Prize Winner of the 2016 CRAFTSMAN Barrett-Jackson Auction Trips Sweepstakes!!!!!

Carlsbad State Beach

Carlsbad State Beach is a protected beach in the state park system of California, USA, located in Carlsbad. It is a San Diego County beach with coastal bluffs. Popular activities include swimming, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, and beach-combing. Carlsbad State Beach is a protected beach in the state park system of California, USA, located in Carlsbad. It is a San Diego County beach with coastal bluffs. 

Popular activities include swimming, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, and beach-combing.

Photos by Stacey Kuhns

Carlsbad State Beach  - Photo by Stacey Kuhns

Carlsbad State Beach  - Photo by Stacey Kuhns


Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Grand Prize Winner of the 2016 CRAFTSMAN Barrett-Jackson Auction Trips Sweepstakes!!!!!

Oma was announced as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2016 CRAFTSMAN Barrett-Jackson Auction Trips Sweepstakes!!!!!

Oma started 2016 with a great phone call. The nice lady on the other end, Linda explained that I was the grand prize winner of the 2016 CRAFTSMAN Barrett-Jackson Auction Trips Sweepstakes!!!!!. I had won not one; not two; not three; but four wonderful trips to enjoy Barrett Jackson Auctions to be held in different states!!!

The contest ended on December 27th 2015 and I remember entering daily. In order to enter, you had to be a member of the Craftsman Club.

The first auction trip is to Scottsdale, Arizona (between January 29 and 31, 2016); the second auction trip is in Palm Beach, Florida (between April 8 and 10, 2016); the third auction trip is in Las Vegas, Nevada (between September 24 and 26, 2016) and there will be one more city and date, which is to be determined. Hubby and I are hoping that the fourth trip will be the Connecticut event in June!!!

Oma loves entering contest and has won a few wonderful prizes. However, this sweepstakes for four trips is one of the best wins.

Oma was announced as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2016 CRAFTSMAN Barrett-Jackson Auction Trips Sweepstakes!!!!!
Barrett-Jackson is known as “The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions.” They specializing in providing products and services to collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts worldwide. In fact, in 2010 Barrett-Jackson was named one of the top 100 “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by Ethisphere Magazine.

We have never attended a Barrett-Jackson auction but have heard that they are very exciting and filled with automotive activates. We cannot wait to attend the 45th Annual Scottsdale Auction at Westworld of Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona at the end of the month. You can bet that I will be blogging about our wonderful adventure(s). 


Oma was announced as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2016 CRAFTSMAN Barrett-Jackson Auction Trips Sweepstakes!!!!!


Saturday, January 23, 2016

Spot and Pet Stain Remover by VeryDirtyCarpets #BestStainRemoverEver

Best Concentrated Carpet Cleaner Product 

 

Spot and Pet Stain Remover by VeryDirtyCarpets #BestStainRemoverEver

I never knew there was a name for it; however we have all experienced that annoyance of spot cleaning your carpet only to have the stain return a couple of weeks later. It is called Rapid Re-Soiling and is due to the fact that most carpet cleaning products leave a sticky residue that attracts dirt to your carpet when they dry. Spot and Pet Stain Remover by VeryDirtyCarpets does not leave that adhesive scum.

It claims to work great at most stains in the carpet like oils, food stains, sugary foods, and fresh animal stains. With two huge pound puppies at home and can attest to the fact that it did a great job on their muddy paw prints and a mystery stain that had been residing by my recliner for a couple of months.

I love that this product is Made In The USA
Comes With a Free Stain Removal Guide. 

 

 

EASY TO USE 4 STEP SYSTEM:

  1. Blot stain to remove any solid soil or residue.
  2. Apply a moderate amount (sparingly on upholstery) to the affected area then gently agitate into carpet with a brush. Do not scrub!
  3. Blot stain with a clean white cloth to remove spot. Repeat until majority of stain is removed.
  4. Allow area to dry then vacuum to remove encapsulated residue.

They have great website support; so if you have any just go to http://www.verydirtycarpets.com. Peter MacDonald is the Founder of VeryDIrtyCarpets and can boast of over twenty years of experience in Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning business. 




Tip: Always do a test on an inconspicuous part of the carpet or fabric before using it on the main area to clean.


Product Description



The VeryDirtyCarpets Carpet and Upholstery Spot and Stain Remover is designed with advanced cleaning technology to prevent the chance of this occurring. When it dries, this carpet spotter traps (encapsulates) the soiling in a polymer based nonstick microscopic powder that will vacuum easily out of the carpet or upholstery.

    Spot and Pet Stain Remover by VeryDirtyCarpets #BestStainRemoverEver
  • ✔IF YOU LIKE TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE LOOKING TIDY and you want to keep your carpets and upholstery looking beautiful, you need this FANTASTIC CARPET STAIN REMOVER. This is not some cheap solution but PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANERS for home use. Do yourself a favour and SEE WHY PEOPLE ARE RAVING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
  • ✔AMAZING ON A WIDE RANGE OF STAINS (SEE REVIEWS):COFFEE, GREASE, PET STAINS AND ODORS, URINE, SUGARY DRINKS, GENERAL GRIME, AND MORE. This formula is effective on most of the common household stains ( NOT COLOR DYE STAINS). It is also fantastic for Car, Automotive and very dirty carpets.
  • ✔FREE CARPET STAIN REMOVAL GUIDE to help you plan your way to remove the stains.
  • ✔CONCENTRATED SECRET FORMULA: GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY, No need to use a lot of product on the stain, designed for home use, and it dries quickly.
  • ✔AMAZING!!! CLEAN THE STAIN OFF ONCE: NO STICKY RESIDUE - NO REAPPEARING STAINS: Uses amazing encapsulation technology that traps the dirt in the secret nonstick formula when it dries, there is NO STICKY RESIDUE. The stain will not come back due to a sticky residue. !!!!
  • ✔TESTED AND ENDORSED BY A PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANER : Peter MacDonald the Founder of VeryDirtyCarpets has 20 years’ experience in Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning. "We searched the world to find the "Best" Formulation that fitted our requirements to give our customers "The Best". We found this outstanding product and we offer it to you with 100% MONEY BACK GUARRANTEE. Made in the USA.



Spot and Pet Stain Remover by VeryDirtyCarpets #BestStainRemoverEver

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Spot and Pet Stain Remover by VeryDirtyCarpets #BestStainRemoverEver


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Friday, January 22, 2016

TireTek 12V Car Extension Cord #TireTek


Car Cigarette Lighter Socket Extension Cord

 

TireTek 12V Car Extension Cord #TireTek

Finally, an extra-long auto power extension cord. It is so annoying when you are not able to use the outlets in the back of the car. This heavy duty cord is fifteen feet long. Perfect for me to make use of the backseat cigarette lighter socket. This product works as described and comes with a “no quibble Lifetime Warranty.”




Product Description



TireTek is an automotive accessories brand specializing in high quality products that customers can rely upon, year after year.
  • Always have the convenience of power where you need it, with this extra-long, 15ft (4.5m), heavy-duty auto power extension cord.
    TireTek 12V Car Extension Cord #TireTek
  • This premium quality male to female adapter cable plugs straight into a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket, easily extending your 12 volt ~ 24 volt power source when travelling.
  • Featuring a male plug with power indicator light, an in-line safety fuse, a metal reinforced female socket and heavy-grade wire for reliable performance year after year.
  • A super-handy car outlet extender for cell phone / tablet chargers and power inverters. Perfect for heated blankets, inflators, lights, coolers, RV & other camping equipment.
  • Buy with confidence - when you 'Add To Cart' today, you will benefit from the peace of mind provided by our industry-leading, no quibble Lifetime Warranty. - GRAB IT NOW - CURRENTLY ON 38% OFF END OF JANUARY SALE UNTIL JAN 31st.




TireTek 12V Car Extension Cord #TireTek

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Thursday, January 21, 2016

Premium Digital Baby Thermometer #BnMePremiumDigitalBabyThermometer

Premium Digital Baby Thermometer #BnMePremiumDigitalBabyThermometer

This digital baby thermometer is so easy to use. It will start measuring right away after you turn it on. Therefore, you should place it in your mouth or other opening for about eight seconds before turning it on. The screen will change during measurement. It is very fast yet accurate. Love the easy-to-read LCD display. It has different beeps to alert for fever.

I love that the company is 100% dedicated to customer satisfaction. The product is FDA approved. Comes with a LR41 type battery. This is a must have for Grandma’s babysitting bag.

Tip: When the temperature is below 93 degrees F, the screen will show "LO" which means Low.


Product Description



How do take the temperature?


Answer: You can use it three ways:

1. Oral.

  • Used in mouth: Please close your mouth for 1 minute for stability of temperature, breath calmly through nose. Respiratory air would affect the accuracy of measure of your mouth. Eating, drinking or breathing cold air right before taking the temperature can result in inaccurate readings.
  • Normal temp: About 98.6℉

2. Rectal.
Premium Digital Baby Thermometer #BnMePremiumDigitalBabyThermometer

  • Used in anus of rectum: This is the way that can get the most steady temperature and suits for both infants and children. The sensor shall be inserted for 2~3 cm. Vaseline can be used for easier inserting.
  • Normal temperature: About 99.7℉

3. Axillary Measurement.

  • Clean the thermometer with a dry cloth and put it under the armpit. Press and hold in place with your arm. The temperature value of this measurement is not the most accurate. Not recommended for accurate measurement.
  • Normal temperature: About 98.1℉



Premium Digital Baby Thermometer #BnMePremiumDigitalBabyThermometer


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Kitchen Gizmo SNAP'N STRAIN Strainer #kitchengizmo

Made with Top Quality FDA Approved, Heat- Resistant Silicone.


Kitchen Gizmo SNAP'N STRAIN Strainer #kitchengizmo

What a really simple but cute idea. This SNAP'N STRAIN Strainer fits most pans. The material is very study yet flexible. I really like that it saves me the hassle of having to clean a standalone strainer. The food is thoroughly drained of liquid while remaining in the original container. This product is very convenient; just toss it in the dishwasher when done!



Product Description



With its innovative, universal design, the Snap'n Strain will take the strain out of straining. This top quality, heat-resistant, silicone strainer is the newest, most practical way to get your food strained thoroughly, while avoiding transferring the food out of the pot.
Kitchen Gizmo SNAP'N STRAIN Strainer #kitchengizmo

The Snap'n Strain is flexible enough to fit onto nearly all pots, pans and bowls. It snaps on neatly with two clips. The clips' strong grip will keep it safely attached while in use and can be left attached to the pot while cooking.

Once snapped, the pot can be tilted over a sink or bowl and the Snap'n Strain will do its magic. The liquids will be poured out while the food remains in the pot even with heavier foods like potatoes.

  • The Snap'n Strain is super compact for storing.
  • Dishwasher safe.
  • Recommended Used Include: Vegetables, Potatoes, Eggs, Pasta



Kitchen Gizmo SNAP'N STRAIN Strainer #kitchengizmo


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Coast Oak is Six-Months Old

Coast Oak is Six-Months Old

I find it hard to believe, that Coast Oak is halfway through his first year! In just six short months, he has started to learn how to communicate and to eat solid foods.

He experienced his first sleep over at Oma and Opa's home last Saturday and did wonderfully.  He and brother Reef were so very easy to take care of.


Related Post:

Look Who Is Six Months Old

Sunday, January 17, 2016

Family Day
at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Family Day at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park


Nothing like a family walk at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, known as the San Diego Wild Animal Park until 2010, is an 1,800 acre zoo in the San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California, near Escondido. It is one of the largest tourist attractions in San Diego County.

Friday, January 15, 2016

Willie Nelson and Family Concert


Four of us went to Laughlin, Nevada to see Willie Nelson in concert on January 2nd, 2016. What a way to start the New Year!!!

The Event was excellent. Promptly at 8:00 p.m., Willie took the stage and captured the audience’s awe. I thoroughly enjoyed that Willie presented himself as an eighty-two year old Willie Nelson. His face displayed no hint of attempts to reclaim youth long ago wavered.

Nelson underwent stem cell surgery a couple of months ago that was supposed to help his lungs, which were in rough shape after years of smoking cigarettes. However, there were times when it appeared the octogenarian searched for his breath. In my opinion, this only lent credence to the artist who started performing at the age of six.

Nelson’s guitar playing lays tribute to the fact that this man has never followed rule nor conventions. Watching his furrowed fingers on that fret-board, working the strings effortlessly left me with a newly enhanced respect for his skills on the guitar. A Willie Nelson song recorded in a studio does not prepare your for the mastery of his live “laid-back” style. There were times when I thought, Oh Oh – I think he is lost; only to having Willie wind that harmonious phrase masterfully back to melody.

During a set that lasted just over an hour fifteen, Willie freely mixed his own originals with a wide range of standards that touched on honky-tonk, blues, pop, and even jazz. Willie does not talk much so the event was filled with non-stop music. He opened with “Whiskey River” and end with “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”

The set in-between was pure mastery. While everyone in the “family” is awesome; special mention must be made to professional harmonica player Mickey Raphael and Willie’s older sister, pianist Bobbie Nelson whom he called "little sister."




If you are ever presented with the opportunity to see Willie and Family in concert; I would highly recommend it!!! 



Us having fun!!!  Willie Nelson & Family 01/02/2016



* This concert was held at the Edgewater E Center. The chairs were very uncomfortable and the audience packed like sardines . . . . . it was still worth the price of admission.


**The iconic Texan is a living legend in country music, and the creative genius behind historic recordings like Crazy, Hello Walls, Red Headed Stranger and Stardust. His career has spanned six decades. His catalog boasts more than 200 albums. Willie Nelson's earned every conceivable award and honor to be bestowed a person in his profession. He has also amassed reputable credentials as an author, actor and activist.  Willie Nelson is a legend, unique and was on Oma’s bucket list!

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Rare San Diego Snow Day

by Stacey Kuhns

Thinking About a Snow Day with the Family?


Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns


Rare-San-Diego-Snow-Day As a California native, I get excited about the snow; I mean, really excited. After this past weekend, I know I am definitely not alone. It is kind of like San Diego/California news channels offering breaking news regarding "Storm Watch 2015" or some such headline and then the weather delivers a few small showers.

Well, we San Diegans definitely have "snow frenzy." I have not been to the snow in a very long time, probably over 20 years. I love winter (even though I have lived in San Diego for approximately 31 years). Cold weather, winter storms, and snow all make me feel good, peaceful, like winter is my soul's special time of year.

I have been begging my boyfriend to take me to the snow as soon as any fell in California. He was not as enthusiastic about it having grown up in Northern Idaho. His soul is happier in summer. The warmer, the better. Me, I am an air conditioning girl in the summer and in the car all the time.

Saturday, my boyfriend surprised me with a trip to the snow. Our first stop was Santa Ysabel and Crossroads Treasures (reviewed in this blog on 09/18/15). Crossroads Treasures is one of our favorite places to stop as we love rocks and gems. The women who own this establishment are so amazing and a blast to hang out with. We were lucky to meet one of the local miners while we were up there and purchase and item from him. We always learn so much when we go there about rock hunting, treating rocks and minerals, and we always break open some geodes just because it is fun and exciting. (Anyway, if you are ever headed to Dudley's or Julian, this is an amazing place to stop and kids love it too).

Rare-San-Diego-Snow-Day After spending over an hour at Crossroads Treasures, we headed up through Julian (the snow in Julian had melted) and wound up on Sunrise Highway. If you plan to visit the snow on a weekend, your best bet is to go through Julian to Sunrise Highway, travel through Laguna Mountain and the Cleveland National Forest and exit on the far side at Highway 8. If you turn around and try to go back through Julian, you will be stuck in miles of bumper to bumper traffic as people attempt to make the left turn back into Julian. It was a lot of time to wait in the car, especially if you have young ones that get restless easily.

Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns



We saw snow pretty soon after turning right out of Julian and heading up to Sunrise Highway. We chose to pull off on obscure roads away from the crowds.


Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns

Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns


We headed out to our favorite stopping point on the Pacific Crest Trail (also reviewed earlier in this blog on 09/18/15. The snow was more than ankle deep. In certain places, if the wind is blowing, a scarf, gloves and mittens, and a very warm jacket as well as a beanie or some other warm head covering should be part of your essentials for the day trip. I was fine in tennis shoes, jeans, and a long sleeved shirt in the places where there was no wind, but my toes were frozen. (This was a spur of the moment trip and not planned well, but it was a fantastic day).

Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns



I no longer have small children, but I was appalled at the parents letting their children climb fences onto personal property so their children could play in the snow. The parents were also doing this. There are so many places in that area where you can pull over and enjoy sledding or playing in the snow without having to trespass or damage other people's property. We spoke with one resident who said it is difficult for all the residents in those areas during the winter because of people's disrespect for their private roads, fences, and property. I was honestly shocked at seeing how many people were being completely disrespectful and taking part in this. Believe me, there is no shortage of areas to play and take photos or go sledding.

Further down the Sunrise Highway, before leaving Cleveland National Forest and heading towards Highway 8, there is a long stretch of road where many children and families were playing and sledding. From this picture, it looks like the perfect winter day scene in California.

Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns


I am not sure what happens to us when the snow comes. Reminds me of a shark feeding frenzy. I was thankful that we stayed in areas where there were very few people (all public areas). In looking at the pleasant scene above, you are unable to see the road. It is a narrow part of Sunrise Highway. Cars were parked on both sides of the street. There was a lot of slush everywhere. Tempers seemed to be high as one woman stopped her car in the middle of the road, with cars piling up behind her. Someone passed her and she threw a bottle of soda at their car! The scariest thing to me was how close to the street parents were letting their children play. The parents were also playing close to the street and throwing snowballs making their kids run out into the street.

We want a snow day with our loved ones to be remembered as a fun day. So, my advice as a California snow fanatic, is to be prepared. Drive slowly and always keep your eyes on the road as kids can dart out at any time. Bring plenty of fluids, lip balm, extra sets of dry clothes, and snow wear. Bring items to sled on if you wish and please take all your trash with you when you leave. Make sure dogs are on leashes. And most of all, respect other's property. A snow day can be magical but it can also cause lots of tension. Take a deep breath and don't be in a hurry. Enjoy your surroundings, your loved ones, and make some wonderful winter memories. How fortunate we are to have beaches, mountains (that get snow), and deserts in our county.

Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns

Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns


Off Sunrise Highway with the desert in the background.

Rare San Diego Snow Day photo and story by Stacey Kuhns



I hope you also get to enjoy a snow day. It is well worth it. Relax, breathe deeply and take in the gorgeous surroundings of our county.