Auction Madness (redux)

Well, this last Friday saw me attend one of the other auto auctions in the area, this being the Kruse International. It is much more down to earth, being a regular guys (in the car guy sense) type of collector auction. Prices are WAY more reasonable, and you find a variety from daily drivers to classics to exotics. Last year I saw some smokin' deals pass through here, and so this year I bit the bullet and registered as a bidder. Truth told, I knew there were going to be a number of Hertz Shelby Mustang convertibles on the block, and was hoping to steal one with the state of the economy. Well, that did not happen, but I still got to see some pretty cool cars.



I did get in the action and bid on one car. It was a former Bondurant Racing School Corvette, which was still able to be registered on the street. I thought "wow, what a cool track day car". So yes, I bid it up a little, and apparently have bought a race ready street car !?!??! This could be the epitome of mid-life crisis !!!!!

A p.s. to this story. A glitch occured in this deal, as all was not as advertised; the deal ended up falling apart. Whew !!! Saved by the gods from myself again...... :)

Auction Madness !!!

Well, as January goes here in Phoenix, some of the big events are numerous classic and collector auto auctions, with the wildest and biggest hoopla being associated with Barrett-Jackson. It is truly beyond compare, with fabulous cars, a few stars, and lots of people watching as well. This year provided perfect weather, and even with the economy, there was plenty to see. As I had a 2 day weekend (rare these days with the state of the FAA) I took advantage Friday for a day of ogling all the automotive bling there was to be seen.

This events boasts not only cars, but a "lifestyle" area where automakers show off their stuff, including the 2010 Camaro, but many booths with automotive-related clothing, art, accessories - you name it- geared toward the well-heeled car guy (or gal).

After that, it was time for something a little more down to earth, so on Saturday Caryl and I headed a few miles north in the convertible to take in a fine afternoon of sun and art at the Carefree Art & Wine festival. They host these a number of times over the winter, and are a great way to spend an afternoon and see some fine original art. I even bought a couple of prints and a vase this time. Now if I can just find time to hang them!

The Big 5-0 !!!!

Yes, it finally happened to me; I hit 50 years old. Still not sure what to think of it. I don't really feel any different, yet all those friends(and AARP) are doing a fine job of reminding that I passed a half century, and am now a part of the "mature" generation. To make sure that I did not forget my younger past, I went to Vegas to usher out my 40s and party with a buddy. Most of the time was spent watching football and enjoying a few adult libations, but I did manage to get him to go out to a club on Saturday night as well. It was a fun outing as we started in the casino/hotel, but then they felt the need to show me the "other side" as we headed across the street to the Longhorn (definitely a locals hangout). Saturday we headed down to the strip to see the Wynn resort, Encore. What a culture shock. Let me tell you, there are plenty of people in the world not affected by the current economic situation..........

On the way up, I stopped at a neat campground area with great views of the AZ scenery.

Then on the way back I took the truck off-road (sort of) to traverse Christmas Tree Pass outside of Laughlin, AZ. This is named for the desert shrubs midway through the pass that are year-round decorated by anonymous locals with Christmas ornaments. A cool little 15 mile jaunt, to say the least.

Then on Monday (the big day) I headed out to a local brewery, Gordon Biersch, to celebrate the night with Caryl and a few other friends. All in all, a pretty good way to usher in the age 50 !!!

By the way, tonight I spoke with an old friend back in KC as it is his 50th birthday today. John, Happy Birthday, big guy !!