The Official 2012 Overland Expo thread!!! Post your comments, questions, images...
- Thread starter Christian P.
- Start date
Exploring Elements
Supporting Sponsor
Full Vehicle Coverage from OEX '12 on Exploring Elements
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-oex-2012-vehicles/
I think I caught most of the cool rigs at OEX on my camera, sorry if I missed yours
Be sure to check out the expanded FB albums for the full image galleries of all the rigs.
Vans are going live tomorrow
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-oex-2012-vehicles/
I think I caught most of the cool rigs at OEX on my camera, sorry if I missed yours
Be sure to check out the expanded FB albums for the full image galleries of all the rigs.Vans are going live tomorrow
jpeater
New member
Personal Pictures from the Expo
I admit I wasn't planning on attending the Expo but it just so happened (could have been guided by my subconscious) that my wife and I were staying in Sedona for our anniversary that same weekend. I managed to sneak away for a few hours on Friday and make the trip over Schnebly Hill Road , through Munds Park and over to Mormon Lake. I didn't know a single person when I entered the gate but quite a few people went out of their way to say hello and ******** chat for a bit.
While my primary allegiance lies with International Harvester vehicles (Scouts, Scout II, Travelalls, etc.) this was an amazing event and it was great to see all of the various makes and models prepped for overlanding - there was even one IH in the mix. I plan to attend next year and spend more time at the workshops and poking around the various vendor's displays. Here is a link to my pictures for those that care to take a look.
http://s658.photobucket.com/albums/uu303/jpeater/OX%202012/
Dirk
I admit I wasn't planning on attending the Expo but it just so happened (could have been guided by my subconscious) that my wife and I were staying in Sedona for our anniversary that same weekend. I managed to sneak away for a few hours on Friday and make the trip over Schnebly Hill Road , through Munds Park and over to Mormon Lake. I didn't know a single person when I entered the gate but quite a few people went out of their way to say hello and ******** chat for a bit.
While my primary allegiance lies with International Harvester vehicles (Scouts, Scout II, Travelalls, etc.) this was an amazing event and it was great to see all of the various makes and models prepped for overlanding - there was even one IH in the mix. I plan to attend next year and spend more time at the workshops and poking around the various vendor's displays. Here is a link to my pictures for those that care to take a look.
http://s658.photobucket.com/albums/uu303/jpeater/OX%202012/
Dirk
Driver-Navigator
Explorer
Thanks for posting a ton of photos, I'm having fun going through them! You even got around to our camp and the backs of our dusty 80s...
whatcharterboat
Supporting Sponsor, Overland Certified OC0018
Thanks to all those who made this event possible. Epic!! We'll be back for sure.
http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...s-All-Terrain-Warriors-as-Title-Sponsor/page2
http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...s-All-Terrain-Warriors-as-Title-Sponsor/page2
Exploring Elements
Supporting Sponsor
Van, vans, and more VANS!
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-oex-2012-vans/
Final post on www.ExploringElements.com about OEX '12 is now live. Fun little video and full Van coverage of the event. Be sure to check out the expanded FB gallery linked from the post.
You can also see the full event coverage, with links to all the coverage on EE, here:
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-overland-expo-2012/
See you on road, and at next year's Expo
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-oex-2012-vans/
Final post on www.ExploringElements.com about OEX '12 is now live. Fun little video and full Van coverage of the event. Be sure to check out the expanded FB gallery linked from the post.
You can also see the full event coverage, with links to all the coverage on EE, here:
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-overland-expo-2012/
See you on road, and at next year's Expo
Gooseberry
Explorer
very nicely done.
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-oex-2012-vans/
Final post on www.ExploringElements.com about OEX '12 is now live. Fun little video and full Van coverage of the event. Be sure to check out the expanded FB gallery linked from the post.
You can also see the full event coverage, with links to all the coverage on EE, here:
http://www.exploringelements.com/event-overland-expo-2012/
See you on road, and at next year's Expo
I arrived on Wednesday afternoon and settled in to my spot in the RV Park. On Thursday I moved my trailer in to my vendor space. It was a bit perplexing to figure out which way to park it to give me some sort of shelter from the breeze. I started to notice that as the day progressed, the breeze would change directions, and Friday was a WIND event.
I finally settled on having the left side of the trailer face towards the rodeo arena. That direction also worked to provide shade up through mid afternoon. Since it was breezy on occasion, I delayed deploying the side awning until I needed it for shade, which was usually around 3pm. I paid a fortune for the awning (and installation) the week prior and wasn't going to see it wrecked from the wind.
The new products I had were a hit this year, I sold out of a few of the bags and packs I had. I'd like to thank everyone for a great event. Being able to camp at the RV park was a benefit for me with my big truck and camper. The on site Post Office over at the lodge complex was a benefit too, I was there shipping orders every day they were open.
After seeing the variety of nicely equipped Jeep JK Unlimited models, it really makes me want one (again). I've been contemplating one for the last year or more.
I love my 2004 TJ, but I'm ready for a change to a more ExPo ready rig that has more gear hauling capacity than a TJ. I could even sleep in a JKU. (JKU is the acronym Jeep guys use for the Jeep JK-Unlimited)
I finally settled on having the left side of the trailer face towards the rodeo arena. That direction also worked to provide shade up through mid afternoon. Since it was breezy on occasion, I delayed deploying the side awning until I needed it for shade, which was usually around 3pm. I paid a fortune for the awning (and installation) the week prior and wasn't going to see it wrecked from the wind.
The new products I had were a hit this year, I sold out of a few of the bags and packs I had. I'd like to thank everyone for a great event. Being able to camp at the RV park was a benefit for me with my big truck and camper. The on site Post Office over at the lodge complex was a benefit too, I was there shipping orders every day they were open.
After seeing the variety of nicely equipped Jeep JK Unlimited models, it really makes me want one (again). I've been contemplating one for the last year or more.
I love my 2004 TJ, but I'm ready for a change to a more ExPo ready rig that has more gear hauling capacity than a TJ. I could even sleep in a JKU. (JKU is the acronym Jeep guys use for the Jeep JK-Unlimited)
Last edited:
Ace Brown
Retired Ol’ Fart
Just finished wading thru all 20 pages of this thread and feel almost as tired as I did last Monday. This was my fourth OEX and the best by far, although I fondly remember the first at Prescott. First, big thanks to Roseann and all the hardworking crew that assembles and runs this well oiled machine.
I did the NMBR trip to the Expo which was a great way to get there (thanks Jake). Camped at the FJ Cruiser group camp which was close to everything (thanks Shane).
Really liked the vendor displays this year and bought quite a few things, several of which were not available last year. The VMI Xtender all-aluminum trailer was a big hit to me.
End of the World party was cool!
Due to do some scheduling errors I only attended one indoor class and could not hear anything due to being right above the busy restaurant. For us old folks with weak hearing can we get a sound system next year? Many classes should be longer, like advanced nav in 50'? Liked driving the Camel Course and even talked Bob into pulling his new trailer over it on Monday. Would liked to have seen all the trailers run it.
I will be back next year to take advantage of my free Experience Package for attending all previous Expos. That was a neat surprise - THANKS.
Ace
I did the NMBR trip to the Expo which was a great way to get there (thanks Jake). Camped at the FJ Cruiser group camp which was close to everything (thanks Shane).
Really liked the vendor displays this year and bought quite a few things, several of which were not available last year. The VMI Xtender all-aluminum trailer was a big hit to me.
End of the World party was cool!
Due to do some scheduling errors I only attended one indoor class and could not hear anything due to being right above the busy restaurant. For us old folks with weak hearing can we get a sound system next year? Many classes should be longer, like advanced nav in 50'? Liked driving the Camel Course and even talked Bob into pulling his new trailer over it on Monday. Would liked to have seen all the trailers run it.
I will be back next year to take advantage of my free Experience Package for attending all previous Expos. That was a neat surprise - THANKS.
Ace
Adventure Trio
New member
Overland Expo 2012 Family: We're Not Weird Here
It's hard to put into words when just a glance or a look will suffice. Words can be overused, overstretched and pushed out of the scope of their proper meaning. When you find your true "family", you don't have to talk much. Just listen, take in their stories, learn from their lives, sit back and be who you are as they are more than willing to accept you without the strings. I'm talking about Overland Expo and the true "family" that comes together for one short weekend a year.
First, I must say that I'm putting the word "family" in quotes as to not disrespect my blood family. All of you know what I mean when I say your connections with certain like-minded friends go beyond just having each other over for barbeques or birthday parties. With your true "family", every day is a celebration of life, of love, of the willingness to allow yourself to put down your walls and put up yourself. Please don't get me wrong. We love our families, most of the members of them at least, but tend to feel the pressure to conform, mold to their specifications, show-up when it's "expected". In true "family" style, you are only expected to be honest, to be respectful. Listen, learn and share. When you are surrounded by "family", it is natural. Yes, it's okay to blend family and "family" as you may be fortunate enough to find those kinds of connections within your childhood circle. But, not all of us have a mother, a father or a sibling to count on when life interferes with living. With our Overland Expo "family", we have found our birthday party. Our family was continuing to grow.
With Carla, we have found not just an editor but a sister, a friend, a mentor. She knows how to bring people together, to find the common bond that holds us together for years to come. She's good at that. Upon arrival the day before the official set-up, we found our wisest "family" figure already relaxing under the pines, Ara and his buddy, Spirit. With open arms, we were greeted with warmth and continued mutual respect, talking as if no time had passed. "Did you get your tires yet?" "Are you feeling better?" These were questions we had been chatting about for months leading up to this moment. True interest is what each other have been doing. Hank and Spirit sniffed and licked as if they, too, were happy to be in each others presence once again. "When are Nicole and the kids getting here?" Jack asked over and over. Not to worry, little man, they will be here very soon. Not a few hours later, a honking of the horn and a wave out the window signaled their arrival. Running to give hugs and introductions to the newest members of the "family", the kids finally met and Paul became a part of the "family" as well. Jeff was a soul that we met briefly 2 years ago during a moto repair in Iowa. With only 4 hours of time together in person but years together via technology, the relationship was formed. Our family was continuing to grow.
In rolls Alison and Bill. Having only spent a short time with Alison last year, I knew that the length of time didn't matter. It was the quality of the time that was special. Once again, an instant bond. Bill was new to the Trio, but became a quick part of the festivities, having solo traveled to many countries, educating his self, becoming wiser after each region. Carl and Wen-Ling strolled in as dusk approached. They weren't staying with us, but that was okay. Our bond was solidified last year with a quick ride back to our camp for pasta eaten by headlamp. We hadn't met Wen-Ling last year but that didn't matter. Just hearing about her made the introduction much more meaningful. Our family was continuing to grow.
As more "family" rolled in and set up by the masses, we watched as faces beamed, stories flowed over glasses of wine and cold beer, hugs ending each conversation. Jules, T-Roy, Spence, Paul, Jennifer, Shawn, all "family" that journeyed 2 to 24 hours just to share in the OX energy. Sure, business cards were exchanged, as that's how we start of the moment, but it's physical contact that ends the moment. Living Overland, our lovely neighbors, quickly became part of the "family". Amazing what asking to borrow a pair of tongs will turn in to. They were foodies as well, bearing a FOODIE sticker on their rig as a badge of honor. The gentlemen to our other side did not camp at their site but that was fine. They were good people who even offered up one of their campers for Terry and I to stay in on the last night. Ah, the honeymoon suite, fitting as it was our 19-year anniversary. Ted found himself making his way to our camp on more than one occasion. He knew where to find good food - fine cheeses and meats in the evening, British style back bacon in the morning. There's a reason why this man has lived over 80 years. He knows how to make the proper choices. Nothing is contrived. All is good. Our family was continuing to grow.
As Roseann and Jonathan watched their "family" grow to over twice the size of the previous year, they stood in utter amazement as 2-wheels rolled in, 4-wheels rolled by and 6-wheels? 8-wheels? Such admiration for all no matter how many tires carried the load. Presentations and panels, demos and dirt, all was good with our "family" world. But with great times must come great ends. The Trio had to depart much too soon. Jack stood motionless but not emotionless, his little face covered in muddy tears. My face was wet as well. How could I not tear up? To watch our 10-year-old son wish to stay forever with his "family" made Terry and I ache. Oh, the pain of having to say goodbye. Stoic faces from the men as shedding a tear may completely shatter them if one happened to slip out. I do not possess such a gift. Hank and Spirit said their canine farewells. The Trio reluctantly put the Burb in DRIVE and headed out. It's so hard to say goodbye. The memories we shall treasure. There is a respect and admiration for those who make the choice to wander rather than settle, to learn from all rather than learn from a few. What a blessing to be so fortunate. The new "family" members we have acquired. Lorraine, J., Tiffany, Chris, Adam, Ken, Beau, Krista, Gus, too many to name though I wish I had time. Why no time? Because, life interferes with living. But there is one thing that we know for next year's Overland Expo...our family will continue to grow.
It's hard to put into words when just a glance or a look will suffice. Words can be overused, overstretched and pushed out of the scope of their proper meaning. When you find your true "family", you don't have to talk much. Just listen, take in their stories, learn from their lives, sit back and be who you are as they are more than willing to accept you without the strings. I'm talking about Overland Expo and the true "family" that comes together for one short weekend a year.
First, I must say that I'm putting the word "family" in quotes as to not disrespect my blood family. All of you know what I mean when I say your connections with certain like-minded friends go beyond just having each other over for barbeques or birthday parties. With your true "family", every day is a celebration of life, of love, of the willingness to allow yourself to put down your walls and put up yourself. Please don't get me wrong. We love our families, most of the members of them at least, but tend to feel the pressure to conform, mold to their specifications, show-up when it's "expected". In true "family" style, you are only expected to be honest, to be respectful. Listen, learn and share. When you are surrounded by "family", it is natural. Yes, it's okay to blend family and "family" as you may be fortunate enough to find those kinds of connections within your childhood circle. But, not all of us have a mother, a father or a sibling to count on when life interferes with living. With our Overland Expo "family", we have found our birthday party. Our family was continuing to grow.
With Carla, we have found not just an editor but a sister, a friend, a mentor. She knows how to bring people together, to find the common bond that holds us together for years to come. She's good at that. Upon arrival the day before the official set-up, we found our wisest "family" figure already relaxing under the pines, Ara and his buddy, Spirit. With open arms, we were greeted with warmth and continued mutual respect, talking as if no time had passed. "Did you get your tires yet?" "Are you feeling better?" These were questions we had been chatting about for months leading up to this moment. True interest is what each other have been doing. Hank and Spirit sniffed and licked as if they, too, were happy to be in each others presence once again. "When are Nicole and the kids getting here?" Jack asked over and over. Not to worry, little man, they will be here very soon. Not a few hours later, a honking of the horn and a wave out the window signaled their arrival. Running to give hugs and introductions to the newest members of the "family", the kids finally met and Paul became a part of the "family" as well. Jeff was a soul that we met briefly 2 years ago during a moto repair in Iowa. With only 4 hours of time together in person but years together via technology, the relationship was formed. Our family was continuing to grow.
In rolls Alison and Bill. Having only spent a short time with Alison last year, I knew that the length of time didn't matter. It was the quality of the time that was special. Once again, an instant bond. Bill was new to the Trio, but became a quick part of the festivities, having solo traveled to many countries, educating his self, becoming wiser after each region. Carl and Wen-Ling strolled in as dusk approached. They weren't staying with us, but that was okay. Our bond was solidified last year with a quick ride back to our camp for pasta eaten by headlamp. We hadn't met Wen-Ling last year but that didn't matter. Just hearing about her made the introduction much more meaningful. Our family was continuing to grow.
As more "family" rolled in and set up by the masses, we watched as faces beamed, stories flowed over glasses of wine and cold beer, hugs ending each conversation. Jules, T-Roy, Spence, Paul, Jennifer, Shawn, all "family" that journeyed 2 to 24 hours just to share in the OX energy. Sure, business cards were exchanged, as that's how we start of the moment, but it's physical contact that ends the moment. Living Overland, our lovely neighbors, quickly became part of the "family". Amazing what asking to borrow a pair of tongs will turn in to. They were foodies as well, bearing a FOODIE sticker on their rig as a badge of honor. The gentlemen to our other side did not camp at their site but that was fine. They were good people who even offered up one of their campers for Terry and I to stay in on the last night. Ah, the honeymoon suite, fitting as it was our 19-year anniversary. Ted found himself making his way to our camp on more than one occasion. He knew where to find good food - fine cheeses and meats in the evening, British style back bacon in the morning. There's a reason why this man has lived over 80 years. He knows how to make the proper choices. Nothing is contrived. All is good. Our family was continuing to grow.
As Roseann and Jonathan watched their "family" grow to over twice the size of the previous year, they stood in utter amazement as 2-wheels rolled in, 4-wheels rolled by and 6-wheels? 8-wheels? Such admiration for all no matter how many tires carried the load. Presentations and panels, demos and dirt, all was good with our "family" world. But with great times must come great ends. The Trio had to depart much too soon. Jack stood motionless but not emotionless, his little face covered in muddy tears. My face was wet as well. How could I not tear up? To watch our 10-year-old son wish to stay forever with his "family" made Terry and I ache. Oh, the pain of having to say goodbye. Stoic faces from the men as shedding a tear may completely shatter them if one happened to slip out. I do not possess such a gift. Hank and Spirit said their canine farewells. The Trio reluctantly put the Burb in DRIVE and headed out. It's so hard to say goodbye. The memories we shall treasure. There is a respect and admiration for those who make the choice to wander rather than settle, to learn from all rather than learn from a few. What a blessing to be so fortunate. The new "family" members we have acquired. Lorraine, J., Tiffany, Chris, Adam, Ken, Beau, Krista, Gus, too many to name though I wish I had time. Why no time? Because, life interferes with living. But there is one thing that we know for next year's Overland Expo...our family will continue to grow.
upcruiser
Perpetual Transient
Just finished up a monster write up with a ton of photos from our trip down to Expo.
http://kristiansaile.wordpress.com/2012/05/27/travelling-light-part-vi-extraterrestrials-expo-and-excellent-times-on-the-north-rim/
http://kristiansaile.wordpress.com/2012/05/27/travelling-light-part-vi-extraterrestrials-expo-and-excellent-times-on-the-north-rim/
fasteddy47
Adventurer
Great write up and xcellent framing on your shots....love the pics!!!!
Very well said.
One thing I've noticed about the "Overland Family" is that you don't see people trying to impress each other, or tell a story or share experiences that top the story or experience that someone else just shared. In other enthusiast groups I've been a part of, people always seem to try and top everyone else's stories, to somehow make themselves the "king of coolness" or what-have-you.
I'm still traveling and haven't returned home from my trip to Overland Expo.