2 Adults, 5 Kids, Every Country in North and South America in a Veggie Powered F250

[discovershare]

Our family of seven left Alaska in April 2011 in our modified Ford F250 that's been converted to run on vegetable oil. We'll drive to Ushuaia Argentina, visiting every country in North and South America. We expect to take 2-3 years for this trip.

We'll be crossing into Mexico this month (Oct 2011) through Texas.

Our websites share our family overland travel adventures (http://www.discovershareinspire.com), and inspire others to design the lifestyle of their dreams (http://www.discovershareinspire.com).

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Alaska-to-Argentina-Truck-Slider-500.jpg

[Darwin]

That definitely sounds like an adventure. Are you taking any tools with you or spare parts in case you break down?

[GTABurnout]

Cruised around your web site a little. Some truly inspiring stuff on there...

Good luck on your travels.

[Martyn]

Great to meet you all at our shop in Prescott last week. Stop by if you pass our way on your journey back from Snowflake. Be glad to help you out with your spot lights and see if we have more goodies for you.

P.S. best behaved kids we'd had at the shop in a long time.

[discovershare]

Cruised around your web site a little. Some truly inspiring stuff on there...

Good luck on your travels.

Thank you!

[discovershare]

That definitely sounds like an adventure. Are you taking any tools with you or spare parts in case you break down?

Yes on both counts, plus my husbands amazing MacGyver skills :)

[discovershare]

Great to meet you all at our shop in Prescott last week. Stop by if you pass our way on your journey back from Snowflake. Be glad to help you out with your spot lights and see if we have more goodies for you.

P.S. best behaved kids we'd had at the shop in a long time.

Thanks Martyn! It was really great to meet you and see all of the cool gear you have there. Loved it!! Thanks for the lights too.

I'll talk to Greg and see if we want to head that way again.

[discovershare]

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Capitol-Reef.jpg

We embarked on this amazing hike in Capitol Reef National Park, that resulted in an extreme test of our endurance!

It was great though, because these are the types of experiences that don't occur while vegetating in your 'own little corner of the earth.' But they're the type of experiences that cause personal growth and build character. And that's what we're after.

You can read the story and see videos here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/09/an-exercise-in-personal-endurance-capitol-reef-national-park-utah/).

[dzzz]

Very interesting. Thanks for blogging about your experience

[Ray Hyland]

It was so great to talk to you guys, I can't wait to read the ongoing adventure.

[matt s]

OK I'll bite. I read through your site and can't figure it out. HOW do you fit two adults and five kids in an F250? Did you add seats somewhere?

Really like what your doing and your children will see and learn things others only dream of.

[Billhilly]

Thanks for asking Matt! I couldn't figure that bit out either. Third row somewhere...

[Syncronicity]

I admire and am envious of what you are doing and the way you are able to live your lives. Looks like you guys are having a blast and are living the dream.:bowdown: Beautiful family. That being said I hope you don't mind a little criticism. Being a long time Search & Rescue member and having done many of Utah's slot canyons over the years. Watching your family in that slot canyon had me cringing. You guys seemed to be way under prepared. Flip flops, no contingency gear to speak of (unless your wife was carrying it all), freezing and exhausted kids, exiting the canyon after dark. Looked like a recipe for disaster :Wow1: I'm glad it turned out well this time. I don't think I will be signing up for your program, but will be following your trip as much as possible. Have a great trip and Happy trails.:camping:

[discovershare]

Thanks for asking Matt! I couldn't figure that bit out either. Third row somewhere...

Yep, third row installed in the bed of the truck.

[discovershare]

I admire and am envious of what you are doing and the way you are able to live your lives. Looks like you guys are having a blast and are living the dream.:bowdown: Beautiful family. That being said I hope you don't mind a little criticism. Being a long time Search & Rescue member and having done many of Utah's slot canyons over the years. Watching your family in that slot canyon had me cringing. You guys seemed to be way under prepared. Flip flops, no contingency gear to speak of (unless your wife was carrying it all), freezing and exhausted kids, exiting the canyon after dark. Looked like a recipe for disaster :Wow1: I'm glad it turned out well this time. I don't think I will be signing up for your program, but will be following your trip as much as possible. Have a great trip and Happy trails.:camping:

Yep, we were a little unprepared. But I feel comfortable with my husband's ability to manage the potential dangers. He's had a fair share of medical emergency training, and is very clear-headed and capable. It was actually still light when we exited the canyon, you just couldn't tell from the video.

As for flip flops - that's about all we ever wear (my husband wears them year round and hikes everything in them). We're a 'flip flop flamily' as my kids say. Maybe we're related to those tribes that go everywhere barefoot :)

[Syncronicity]

I hope your husbands exuberant attitude, MacGyver skills, ability to manage the potential dangers and very clear-headed capabilities get you and the kids to your destinations safely. Nothing replaces preparedness. Be safe.

[Ray Hyland]

I loved the little video, it looked like a great day. Especially loved the mud-painting.

Yeah, our kids grew up in the rainforests and they pretty much never wore any footwear. Flip-flops on a good day, but usually barefoot.

:)

[discovershare]

I hope your husbands exuberant attitude, MacGyver skills, ability to manage the potential dangers and very clear-headed capabilities get you and the kids to your destinations safely. Nothing replaces preparedness. Be safe.

You are absolutely right. As my husband says (you've already picked up on the fact that I think very highly of my husband aka to me as Superman) - "When the time to perform arrives, the time to prepare has past." Nothing replaces preparedness.

Thanks for your concern! We'll be safe.

[discovershare]

Thanks Ray,

Glad you enjoyed it. Yeah, barefoot is pretty common :)

[discovershare]

We drove to visit a historic national monument in Utah - Hole-in-the-Rock.

It's where 250 people lowered 26 wagons over 2,000 feet to the Colorado River valley below (now Lake Powell).

It took driving down 53 miles of rough road...I can't imagine that they made that journey in wagons.

I blogged about it here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/09/i-would-have-made-a-pathetic-pioneer-hole-in-the-rock-utah/).

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_6957.jpg

[clcoyle]

What a great adventure, looking forward to following your journey.

[discovershare]

We explored Bryce Canyon - one of my favorite National Parks. My husband and I visited here on our honeymoon over ten years ago!

You can see pictures and video here. (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/09/re-visiting-beautiful-bryce-canyon-national-park-utah/)

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Bryce-Canyon-25.jpg

[VanGo]

Keep up the strong work and raising the bar on family adventure.....Just proves that where there is a will there is a way... Thank you.

[ExpediT-100n]

I appreciate having found your website earlier this year and being able to follow along on your travels. My wife and I have 5 children and were preparing to take an trip to Mexico and Central America. We were working on teaching our children Spanish and then found out this past March that my wife has Leukemia. The Spanish lessons came in handy with our newly immigrated Mexican caregiver and now that my wife has completed her Chemo treatments we can hopefully start planning again for sometime in the next two years.

I work for an employer who gives me 6 weeks of vacation time per year but my time maxes out at 4 weeks and then I start losing time. I figure between those four weeks and a leave of absence I can make it deep into Mexico at a somewhat leisurely pace or mad dash to Central America for two weeks and then return.

Stay safe on your travels and keep us posted.

Kevin

[Ford Prefect]

Hey guys,

Nice to see you are making progress south! How is Mexico treating you so far?!?

It is nice to get to read along here on the portal as well. Safe travels.

[Stoneseeker]

Thank you very much, its a great pleasure to read your report.

All the best to you and your family.

Stoneseeker

[RU55ELL]

I figured it was only a matter of time before y'all registered here. Welcome!

[DylanT]

How old are the kids now? How do you organize schoolwork, etc? Sounds fascinating.

[biggoolies]

How are you refining the waste oil on the road? Has it been difficult to find restaurants with the oil? Which ones do you target?

thanks,
Darcy

[VuickB6]

What are you plans for Mexico? With all the violence in the country right now, I sure as heck wouldn't be taking my entire family into a country like that willingly. Good luck on your journey, I hope for you and your family's sake that you don't run into the wrong people while passing through there. Seems like an unnecessary risk just to visit other countries.

[Dgurley2000]

What are you plans for Mexico? With all the violence in the country right now, I sure as heck wouldn't be taking my entire family into a country like that willingly. Good luck on your journey, I hope for you and your family's sake that you don't run into the wrong people while passing through there. Seems like an unnecessary risk just to visit other countries.

Curious, what research is this based on?

[Goochm]

I was walking out of work when I saw the F250 in the parking lot at Montezuma Castle National Monument. I knew immediately who they were and had to go back in and tell them they should visit Adventure Overland and Overland Journal. They had been there the previous day! The kids ARE great, and I had a wonderful time talking with them about the Sinagua who lived in the cliff dwelling 900 years ago (and helping a little with their "Junior Ranger" stuff too). I have met many people here who are doing the AK-to-Argentina trip as well as globe-trotting, and I'd say I have most enjoyed the few minutes I spent with them. Best wishes!

[snorkel54]

<Our websites share our family overland travel adventures, and inspire others to design the lifestyle of their dreams.>

An interesting story, to be sure, but thinly veiled marketing nonetheless, IMHO.

Or am I just an old codger who still can't understand this whole social media thing?

[Ray Hyland]

What are you plans for Mexico? With all the violence in the country right now, I sure as heck wouldn't be taking my entire family into a country like that willingly. Good luck on your journey, I hope for you and your family's sake that you don't run into the wrong people while passing through there. Seems like an unnecessary risk just to visit other countries.

Mexico is great, just zip past the border region, and then take your time, enjoy yourselves. The kids will love it.

[Ray Hyland]

<Our websites share our family overland travel adventures, and inspire others to design the lifestyle of their dreams.>

An interesting story, to be sure, but thinly veiled marketing nonetheless, IMHO.

Or am I just an old codger who still can't understand this whole social media thing?

Um, yeah, the latter.

Just kidding. :)

But actually, they do talk in their website about how they are funding their travel by selling stuff they believe in. And for the record, we asked them to share their ongoing trip here with us on ExPo, they didn't come here to market anything.

[VuickB6]

Curious, what research is this based on?

I have family and friends that won't go visit loved ones down there because of the drug war. Numerous Americans have been killed for no other reason other than being in the wrong place at the wrong time. My company no longer allows travel to Mexico except in very rare cases that has to be approved by numerous people.

The latest news on the violence:

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/americas/New-Massacre-in-Violence-Plagued-Coastal-Mexico-131317059.html



The Mexican navy says 32 bodies have been discovered in the eastern state of Veracruz, where dozens of bodies were dumped on a road in broad daylight just last month.

The bodies were found Thursday in three houses in the Gulf coast seaport, which has become the latest focal point of the country's brutally violent drug war.

Authorities suspect the violent Zetas drug cartel is responsible for last month's discovery of 35 bodies that were found littered on a main avenue in Veracruz.

President Felipe Calderon has deployed federal police and security forces to Veracruz.

More than 40,000 people have been killed in Mexico since Mr. Calderon launched a military crackdown on illegal drug activity in 2006.

Curious, would you take your family down there?

[GR8ADV]

I have family and friends that won't go visit loved ones down there because of the drug war. Numerous Americans have been killed for no other reason other than being in the wrong place at the wrong time. My company no longer allows travel to Mexico except in very rare cases that has to be approved by numerous people.

The latest news on the violence:

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/americas/New-Massacre-in-Violence-Plagued-Coastal-Mexico-131317059.html



Curious, would you take your family down there?

Absolutely.

Suffice it to say that if your main source of information is from the Media, you are sadly very mis-informed. Mods, please don't let this great thread become yet another "is it safe in Mexico" mash. I hope you have the ability to delete them if they start, this one included. If folks really want to delve deep into this subject see the "is mexico safe" thread on ADV and get a big lunch.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=546927&highlight=mexico+safe

Great adventure you are on and a wonderful inspiration to all especially those with families. thank you!

[r_w]

<Our websites share our family overland travel adventures, and inspire others to design the lifestyle of their dreams.>

An interesting story, to be sure, but thinly veiled marketing nonetheless, IMHO.

Or am I just an old codger who still can't understand this whole social media thing?

No veil at all. They are pretty up-front about it.

Whether you guys can find veggie south of the border or not, having the on-board filter setup should reduce problems with dirty fuel.

Keep up on the worldschooling, they will remember it.

[Jnich77]

"When the time to perform arrives, the time to prepare has past."




Oh, I am sooooo using that one!!!! As for being prepared, true preparedness is what you carry in between your ears, not whats on your back. All the "gee-wiz" gear and toys don't mean anything if you have no common sense. I think you guys are more than prepared. :elkgrin:

[Darwin]

I question if the truck will actually make it. I don't think it will, but I hope it does!

I am excited to see how it all turns out.

[VuickB6]

Absolutely.

Suffice it to say that if your main source of information is from the Media, you are sadly very mis-informed. Mods, please don't let this great thread become yet another "is it safe in Mexico" mash. I hope you have the ability to delete them if they start, this one included. If folks really want to delve deep into this subject see the "is mexico safe" thread on ADV and get a big lunch.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=546927&highlight=mexico+safe

Great adventure you are on and a wonderful inspiration to all especially those with families. thank you!

Read my reply again please, my main source of information is clearly NOT the media. But it sounds to me like you desperately want it to so you could whip out your "sadly mis-informed" line and show me what's what.

I've said my peace, I know I'm not going to change any minds and there will be no delving deep into the subject. I asked an honest question and was seeking a response from the OP not everyone else.

[discovershare]

I appreciate having found your website earlier this year and being able to follow along on your travels. My wife and I have 5 children and were preparing to take an trip to Mexico and Central America. We were working on teaching our children Spanish and then found out this past March that my wife has Leukemia. The Spanish lessons came in handy with our newly immigrated Mexican caregiver and now that my wife has completed her Chemo treatments we can hopefully start planning again for sometime in the next two years.

I work for an employer who gives me 6 weeks of vacation time per year but my time maxes out at 4 weeks and then I start losing time. I figure between those four weeks and a leave of absence I can make it deep into Mexico at a somewhat leisurely pace or mad dash to Central America for two weeks and then return.

Stay safe on your travels and keep us posted.

Kevin

Sorry to hear about your wife, hope she is doing better and you can move forward with your plans!

[discovershare]

How old are the kids now? How do you organize schoolwork, etc? Sounds fascinating.

Our children are 9, 7, 6, 4 and 1.

For education, we focus extensively on developing a love of learning through reading aloud, which happens at bedtime, and then during the day while driving, etc.

We also are extremely adamant about hands-on learning (especially while our children are so young) and relevant, experiential knowledge. Like learning that saguaro cactus don't grow their first arm until they are 60 years old, then reading a book to learn more and finding out that at 14 years old they are as tall as a pencil (all spawned because we saw the saguaros and were fascinated by them.)

We buy books at local stores/gift shops (like at the Grand Canyon or Bryce, etc) and read those.

Writing is done in journals or postcards/letters.

[discovershare]

How are you refining the waste oil on the road? Has it been difficult to find restaurants with the oil? Which ones do you target?

thanks,
Darcy

The oil is filtered through a filter that is installed on our veggie tank. We are very selective in the oil that we use - it has to have the right clarity. We usually find good oil at Burger King, KFC, Chinese or Mexican Restaurants.

McDonalds and Wendy's has horrible oil.

(Oh and a disgusting tid bit of info - most used veggie oil is collected and sent to feedlots to fatten the beef we eat before it's slaughtered) Ugh.

[discovershare]

Mexico is great, just zip past the border region, and then take your time, enjoy yourselves. The kids will love it.

We personally know of three separate families (each with 3-6 kids) who have driven across the Mexico border just last month. One family lives in Mexico, and they make regular trips (every 6 months at least). We will be staying with them.

We'll carefully document our crossing, and share how it goes :)

[discovershare]

Um, yeah, the latter.

Just kidding. :)

But actually, they do talk in their website about how they are funding their travel by selling stuff they believe in. And for the record, we asked them to share their ongoing trip here with us on ExPo, they didn't come here to market anything.

Thanks for the invite! We're glad to be here.

[discovershare]

I was walking out of work when I saw the F250 in the parking lot at Montezuma Castle National Monument. I knew immediately who they were and had to go back in and tell them they should visit Adventure Overland and Overland Journal. They had been there the previous day! The kids ARE great, and I had a wonderful time talking with them about the Sinagua who lived in the cliff dwelling 900 years ago (and helping a little with their "Junior Ranger" stuff too). I have met many people here who are doing the AK-to-Argentina trip as well as globe-trotting, and I'd say I have most enjoyed the few minutes I spent with them. Best wishes!

It was great to talk to you! And at such a fascinating stop too.

[discovershare]

Absolutely.

Suffice it to say that if your main source of information is from the Media, you are sadly very mis-informed. Mods, please don't let this great thread become yet another "is it safe in Mexico" mash. I hope you have the ability to delete them if they start, this one included. If folks really want to delve deep into this subject see the "is mexico safe" thread on ADV and get a big lunch.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=546927&highlight=mexico+safe

Great adventure you are on and a wonderful inspiration to all especially those with families. thank you!

I love the quote you have in your signature! One of our favorites, and we've proven it to be truth :)

[Dgurley2000]

We'll carefully document our crossing, and share how it goes :)

When and where do you plan on crossing?

[discovershare]

No veil at all. They are pretty up-front about it.

Whether you guys can find veggie south of the border or not, having the on-board filter setup should reduce problems with dirty fuel.

Keep up on the worldschooling, they will remember it.

We're definitely experimenting with the veggie south of the border. It will be a recon mission for future veggie overlanders :)

We have heard that it's easy to get in Mexico (from a veggie owner who lives there), but we'll see.

As for the worldschooling, as my 7 year old says "Home school is boring, worldschool is awesome!" We won't be stopping anytime soon.

[discovershare]

When and where do you plan on crossing?

Not entirely sure yet. Originally planned Texas, but now maybe AZ....we'll have to see what turns up in our plans over the next few days.

[discovershare]

Oh, I am sooooo using that one!!!! As for being prepared, true preparedness is what you carry in between your ears, not whats on your back. All the "gee-wiz" gear and toys don't mean anything if you have no common sense. I think you guys are more than prepared. :elkgrin:

I love that - "Preparedness is what you carry in between your ears, not what's on your back."

[discovershare]

I question if the truck will actually make it. I don't think it will, but I hope it does!

I am excited to see how it all turns out.

I hope it makes it too ;)

[discovershare]

After crossing into Arizona, we stopped at Lake Powell (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/swimming-and-cliff-diving-at-lake-powell/) right at Glen Canyon Dam. My husband has jumped into Lake Powell here every time he's driven past (including when we drove to Costa Rica in 2007 (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2007/04/photo-essay-series-part-2-lake-powell/)). We swam and cliff-dived this time (even me!) it was heavenly.


We camped on a Navajo Reservation (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/visiting-and-eating-in-navajo-indian-country-northern-arizona/) in Arizona. After stopping at a little roadside stand, the woman offered to let us camp on her land across the street. She just told us to watch out for her llamas, because they would lick us (we never saw them).

Then we ate fry bread and mutton in Tuba City the next day. When we pulled up to the 'swap meet', my kids said "Are we in Mexico?" It was fascinating to experience another culture right here in the U.S.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Lake-Powell-47.jpg

[discovershare]

I keep a monthly record of our expenditures. You can view my latest numbers here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/5-months-on-the-road-what-it-costs-how-far-weve-driven/)

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Lake-Powell-46.jpg

[trailsurfer]

I have travelled quite a bit in Mexico, and will be there in less than 3 weeks on my way to Panama (motorcycle). Have you all thought about going down the Baja peninsula and then crossing over on the ferry in La Paz to the mainland?

Baja is such a unique place with so much to do and see, I think you all would love it, and it can be done so inexpensively with all of the open land for camping.

Good luck! Hope to see you on the road.

[JJMAC]

Ok. The two major questions that I cant find answered on your website are the following:

1) Where do you get the money to do this? Who pays the bills? How? What do you do to earn money? Who covers your health insurance? How do you pay for situations that require money? Truck breaks down? Bathing? Health Issues? Books? Equipment? Tires? Food? Etc?

2) Your children are going to be out of school for 3 years right? How are you going to be able to get your nine year old into school when he/she is 13 or 14? Are you comfortable in your home schooling that they will be prepared in life?

Mac

[r_w]

2) Your children are going to be out of school for 3 years right? How are you going to be able to get your nine year old into school when he/she is 13 or 14? Are you comfortable in your home schooling that they will be prepared in life?


As a homeschool Dad that question is one of my big pet peeves--that and "what about socialization?"

You have to teach the 3 R's and the kids' curiousity will take care of the rest if you don't screw it up.

[JJMAC]

That didnt answer the question. I understand the concept. I understand kids can be taught by anyone the "3 R's". My question is how to re-enter them into the reality that is high school and college. Will a school accept them? How? Credentials? Etc. These are legitimate questions and not criticism.

[JohnnyS]

I think we just saw you in Sierra Vista this afternoon...
Have a great trip!!

[Ray Hyland]

That didnt answer the question. I understand the concept. I understand kids can be taught by anyone the "3 R's". My question is how to re-enter them into the reality that is high school and college. Will a school accept them? How? Credentials? Etc. These are legitimate questions and not criticism.

You can homeschool your kids all the way through high school. There are tons of resources available. Homeschooled kids often place higher on University entrance exams than kids who have gone through regular school.

It is not for everyone, but for many people homeschooling is a viable option.

[r_w]

That didnt answer the question. I understand the concept. I understand kids can be taught by anyone the "3 R's". My question is how to re-enter them into the reality that is high school and college. Will a school accept them? How? Credentials? Etc. These are legitimate questions and not criticism.

Sorry, it was a hot button.

If they want to go to college, take the SAT and fill out your forms like anyone else. In many states homeschooling is really a private non-accredited school. They can have records and transcripts.

How do normal HS or college kids re-enter the reality that is the world? That is a lot tougher problem. The sooner and more you can show your kids the REAL WORLD the better.

I LOVE the tagline "Take the Kids" If more people did that, the world would be a better place. Go Dennings!

[JJMAC]

ok. Fair enough. But the question still looms... how is the OP paying expenses on this? It is difficult for me to comprehend the travels and home-schooling as a reality without being a leech on the system. In other words, how to cover you health care and expenses for a trip like this. To take 3 years and travel. It takes money. Where is that money coming from? Part time jobs? If so, that is GREAT!

But if the money is coming from inheritance, gifts, etc. If the health coverage is coming from social services, I have issues with that and makes it difficult for me to comprehend...

[Beachboyy]

But if the money is coming from inheritance, gifts, etc. If the health coverage is coming from social services, I have issues with that and makes it difficult for me to comprehend...

why would it matter if it was an inheritance? this makes no sense. even if it was its their inheritance and as far as i know they could spend it any way they wish (which a 3 year trip is a pretty awesome way to do it!).

On another note this is a great trip and you are an inspiration to all of us parents who have a hard time just getting the kids out of the house to the grocery store, much less half way around the world.

[Ray Hyland]

Where is that money coming from?

They put a section devoted to that question on their website.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/08/qa-how-can-you-afford-this-lifestyle/

[Jnich77]

I am still trying to figure out why it is of anybody's business how they are paying for this trip!!! I mean really, lay off these people and stop being so judgmental!

[haven]

The Dennings are no strangers to criticism from people who can't wrap their heads around their unconventional approach to family life. That criticism can sting.

Here are two blog entries that provide insight into how difficult it can be to handle the criticism, and how the Dennings try to respond to people who are quick to pass judgement. I think we all can learn from their example.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/08/warding-off-an-attack-of-the-zombie-dream-slayers/

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/08/the-morning-after-regret-its-okay-to-be-you/

[Jnich77]

The Dennings are no strangers to criticism from people who can't wrap their heads around their unconventional approach to family life. That criticism can sting.

Here are two blog entries that provide insight into how difficult it can be to handle the criticism, and how the Dennings try to respond to people who are quick to pass judgement. I think we all can learn from their example.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/08/warding-off-an-attack-of-the-zombie-dream-slayers/

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/08/the-morning-after-regret-its-okay-to-be-you/

If people are so concerned with how others live life, why do they take it out on people who are obviously healthy, happy, and enjoying every moment while they are on this earth? It is a little disturbing how much criticism they receive from perfect strangers on this website.

Unfortunately, unlike the Dennings I lack the patience and good nature to be polite to people who woudl treat me as they have been treated. If someone throws rocks, I'd throw bricks back...lol.

[cwsqbm]

I am still trying to figure out why it is of anybody's business how they are paying for this trip!!! I mean really, lay off these people and stop being so judgmental!

People are endlessly judgement about other people's money. Just look at how most expensive projects on this site get attacked. As if its a crime that someone has a good job and can afford something I can't.

[Little Red]

Thanks for sharing your amazing journey here on Expedition Portal.

I think most of the people that are criticizing you for making this journey are really jealous that you are able to do all this amazing stuff.
I know from personal experience that it takes a lot of courage to live a lifestyle like you guys are.
I grew up in the Netherlands and always wanted to move to the US. I had no money saved up to speak of and had no idea how things were going to work out, but one day I decided I was going to pursue my dreams. I received a lot of criticism and most people did not think I would make it.
But I believed in myself and I sold almost everything I had and made just enough money to buy a one way plane ticket to Washington State and have about 1500 dollars left for when I got there. For the first 3 months I had an internship with the USFS. After that I was on my own. It’s been over 5 years ago now, and I now own a home and have a good paying job.
It been an adventure to say the least and I had to work very hard to get where I am now, but all those people that thought I could not do it or criticized me, well I proved them wrong.

My motto is: “the only thing in life that is impossible to accomplish is that which you don’t truly believe in”.

I wish you guys the very best in your journey ahead.

[Jnich77]

People are endlessly judgement about other people's money. Just look at how most expensive projects on this site get attacked. As if its a crime that someone has a good job and can afford something I can't.

Exactly, it baffles me to no end.

[Dgurley2000]

That didnt answer the question. I understand the concept. I understand kids can be taught by anyone the "3 R's". My question is how to re-enter them into the reality that is high school and college. Will a school accept them? How? Credentials? Etc. These are legitimate questions and not criticism.

They would probably be bored with a brick and mortar school. I know I would be if I was used seeing things out of a text book in-person. Think about studying the biology of a rainforest in-person vs. making models, doing worksheets, and taking multiple-choice tests.

[haven]

Please, no more chat about the Dennings' finances. They explain their approach on this web page.
http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/08/qa-how-can-you-afford-this-lifestyle/
If you wish to ask more questions, please do so in the comments section of that page.

If you wish to discuss ways to finance your own long-term adventure travel, please use this thread
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/50131-Financing-trips

Chip Haven
moderator

[Capt. REDBEARD]

[chat about the Dennings approach to financing their trip deleted. See post above. -- Chip Haven]

I do have a few questions for the Dennings:

of the 113,xxx miles currently on your truck, how many have been "veggie" miles?
how many fuel filters have you used so far on the trip?
in your budget you have "truck parts -$197.06" - is that maintenance items like oil changes and glow plug relays - or is that wear items like tires - or is that improvements like extra cup holders and heavy duty floor mats?
have you considered the extra cost of maintenance and wear & tear on the truck running veggie oil vs. the cost of fuel and decreased wear & tare / possibly longer vehicle life?
what preventative maintenance was done to the truck before you left for your trip?
do you have any pictures of the third row you installed?

[discovershare]

I have travelled quite a bit in Mexico, and will be there in less than 3 weeks on my way to Panama (motorcycle). Have you all thought about going down the Baja peninsula and then crossing over on the ferry in La Paz to the mainland?

Baja is such a unique place with so much to do and see, I think you all would love it, and it can be done so inexpensively with all of the open land for camping.

Good luck! Hope to see you on the road.

Sounds awesome, but that won't be a part of our trip this time. :(

[discovershare]

Ok. The two major questions that I cant find answered on your website are the following:

1) Where do you get the money to do this? Who pays the bills? How? What do you do to earn money? Who covers your health insurance? How do you pay for situations that require money? Truck breaks down? Bathing? Health Issues? Books? Equipment? Tires? Food? Etc?

2) Your children are going to be out of school for 3 years right? How are you going to be able to get your nine year old into school when he/she is 13 or 14? Are you comfortable in your home schooling that they will be prepared in life?

Mac

The information on our blog continues to grow as people ask us questions, so we appreciate questions.

1) Before leaving on the this trip, we've worked to save money that we are using. We are also earning income from our blog (which is our business) that continues to grow. Our goal is to grow it until it covers all the costs of our trip. If needed, we'll stop along the way to work (i.e. teach English in Mexico) My husband taught for 8 years and has a Bachelors in English. You can read about our approach to health care here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/the-unconventional-approach-to-family-travel-health-care-or-our-3-part-health-care-plan/).

2) Our children have never been in school (they've been traveling since our oldest was 4 years old) I've always homeschooled them and will continue to do so until they take over their own education. The aim of our education program is that they will be better prepared for life then they would if they sat in four walls everyday.

[discovershare]

That didnt answer the question. I understand the concept. I understand kids can be taught by anyone the "3 R's". My question is how to re-enter them into the reality that is high school and college. Will a school accept them? How? Credentials? Etc. These are legitimate questions and not criticism.

We're not concerned with 're-entry'. We're concerned with taking the road less traveled, carving out a new path. The schools (college) that we are considering for our children definitely accept (and encourage) this unconventional approach to education.

[discovershare]

Thanks for sharing your amazing journey here on Expedition Portal.

My motto is: “the only thing in life that is impossible to accomplish is that which you don’t truly believe in”.

I wish you guys the very best in your journey ahead.

Way to go in pursuing (and achieving your dream)! I love your quote. It reminds me of one of our favorites - "You'll never know what's possible if you never try the impossible."

[discovershare]

there is also this - people don't like to feel like they are reading an informercial when they thought they were being directed to a travel blog.
I was a little taken a back by the feeling that I was trying to be sold something with every blog entry I read.

to each their own though.........

Yes, we are trying to sell something - an online course that teaches lifestyle design - but more than that, the idea that you don't have to acquiesce to a life that you're not happy living because you think you 'can't afford it', or 'you can't do it with kids' or 'it's too hard'....

And it's not about traveling, or doing what we're doing. We're not trying to 'sell' people on that idea, but it's about discovering what your dream is, and then having the courage to pursue it!

We're adamantly passionate about it, and that's the message of our site (and our course, which yes, we do sell so we can finance our lifestyle. It's called a 'profitable passion'.)

[discovershare]

I do have a few questions for the Dennings:

of the 113,xxx miles currently on your truck, how many have been "veggie" miles?
how many fuel filters have you used so far on the trip?
in your budget you have "truck parts -$197.06" - is that maintenance items like oil changes and glow plug relays - or is that wear items like tires - or is that improvements like extra cup holders and heavy duty floor mats?
have you considered the extra cost of maintenance and wear & tear on the truck running veggie oil vs. the cost of fuel and decreased wear & tare / possibly longer vehicle life?
what preventative maintenance was done to the truck before you left for your trip?
do you have any pictures of the third row you installed?

We purchased the truck at 95,000. A majority of the miles since then have been veggie miles.

We change the veggie fuel filter every 1,000 - 2,000 miles (depending on the quality of the veggie we're using). They cost about $10-$20 each.

The 'truck parts' is maintenance items. We don't have anything of luxury in our truck :) (No cup holders or floor mats)

Veggie actually reduces wear and tear on the engine, it lubricates it. Our sponsor - Golden Fuel Systems (http://www.goldenfuelsystems.com) - has personally put over 750,000 miles on his vehicles on veggie. It makes them last and run longer.

My husband did a lot of work on the truck before we left Utah (we were there for 3 months). Something like ball-joints, etc... Don't know much about that. He did install A/C, which I was very happy about!

I do not have a picture of the third row, but I suppose I could take one.

[Syncronicity]

Listen, I admire and envy what you are able to do with the your family. I wish I would have had the gumption to do it while my kids were growing, but seeing the things that happen to good people with common sense, on a regular basis, I tend to look at activities with safety in mind a (especially when kids are involved).

[discovershare]

I personally don't understand this irritation with us trying to make money from our website. My website is a full-time job, one that I spent years creating for myself, and that I work on every day, after my children are asleep, before they get up, and snippets throughout the day.

It offers tons of useful and FREE information and inspiration. It also offers a lifestyle design course for sale (as well as other ebooks, etc.) for those who want to buy them. Yes I'm trying to sell them to you, because we've worked hard to create them, and because I think they will help you design an amazing life for yourself.

Would anyone like to have a job that they work at for free? I don't think so. I do enjoy my job, and I have been doing it for free for years, but I don't feel guilty trying to earn money from it- by offering something of value - just because the work I'm doing happens to be related to fun, adventure, and (enviable) travel.

[Dgurley2000]

it's obvious that you are not teaching them basic preparedness, safety and survival.

This is not obvious to me. What did I miss?

[discovershare]

In reply to some prior comments: Preparedness (as far as having the right gear or tools) can only take you so far. As for what separates survivors and victims, successful and failures, ultimately comes down to what is between your ears - attitude, mind-set and gumption.

Our hike was within a stones throw of the visitors center, it was a great educational experience for our children and taught them to rely on their inner resources, and push themselves beyond their previously believed limits. It was a controlled environment, that provided the opportunity for personal growth. We were in no real danger. There was plenty of 'safety.'

We ran out of food, we got cold and tired. We didn't want to go on. But it was only the last hour. We weren't in danger of freezing to death. We weren't going to starve. We just had a small taste of 'hardship', which I think is a dang good thing for our kids experience.

[Ruined Adventures]

I find it a little sad...even though you're here to "discover, share & inspire" (on a forum that's dedicated to that exactly), there's always going to be a band of arm-chair quarterbacks & folks who can't stand the fact that you're doing what they deem impossible. Unfortunately you'll continue to experience this as long as you're sharing your experiences on the web.

Everyone has to be creative when it comes to financing a travel lifestyle. The Denning family has found something they're passionate about selling and could possibly finance a portion of their trip. There are several threads on this forum that ask about financing trips (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/50131-Financing-trips?p=970106#post970106), sponsors (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/21028-Sponsors), or making money on the road...this family has found their own answers and put forth the effort to make a little money and inspire others.

Side note:
I'm truly inspired by your family and I hope that when we have children of our own, they will follow us with the same enthusiasm that your children have. Please continue to discover, share, and inspire and I will continue to follow your family's adventures. Hopefully we can meet somewhere along the way!
:sombrero:
Cheers,
Brenton & Shannon

[dzzz]

We're not concerned with 're-entry'. We're concerned with taking the road less traveled, carving out a new path. The schools (college) that we are considering for our children definitely accept (and encourage) this unconventional approach to education.

I expect your kids will do great in college, especially if they are enthusiastic readers now.
But don't be too disappointed if some of them love the non-moving dorm room :) They do sometimes have the annoying tendency to not mirror the motivations of their parents. It's all good if that's their path.

[TenaciousTJ]

I don't post much on here....and alot of the BS is this thread is a good example of why. This family came here to share an awesome adventure that many of us have taken, or dream of taking one day. A few of these jokers who obviously don't get out from behind their computer screens, just pick the Denning's adventure apart looking for an argument. This is an "In Progress Adventure," not a debate thread. Why hasn't a mod deleted the attacks in here? When I click on this thread, I want to read adventure stories and see photos, not have to sift through the idiotic statements and posts that don't belong in here....including this one. Who gives a F**K where they get the money, etc....it's NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS. It's rude, like asking a stranger, "how much money do you make?"

Dear Denning's family, on behalf of the people who enjoy reading your adventures and actually do get out of the house from time to time, THANK YOU FOR SHARING and PLEASE don't let the "others" discourage you from sharing your travels. I'm sorry this is the welcome you got from Expo....I use to think much better of the members on here. Keep on keepin' on and we're not all rude and judgemental.....most of us are just extremely jealous.

Will a mod with common sense please clean up this thread so we can enjoy the trip? And feel free to delete my post as well, cause just like the other's, it simply doesn't belong in an "In Progress Adventure" thread.

[r_w]

One piece of constructive rig criticism: Those storage containers you mounted on the ladder rack get brittle from the sun within a year in the midwest (and that is just sitting outside on the farm, not beating down the road). Paint them with some rattlecan, throw a tarp over them, or plan ahead to replace them. And throw a strap over them going down the road.

Some people just don't like happy people. I say keep killing them with kindness :D

[Jnich77]

is a cute quote, but it is not going to keep five freezing kids alive in a slot canyon.


Actually it will, common sense would keep you from being in the position to freeze to death in the first place.

[defrag4]

Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing with us! We are heading out in November, maybe we will run into you guys! Monetizing your website is a great idea and more and more overlanders are starting to get onboard. Oh and I am entirely jealous of your children growing up in such an awesome environment instead of the stuffy nonsensical drab places we call the "American school system" Ignore the hatred, you guys are awesome

[ExpediT-100n]

I personally don't understand this irritation with us trying to make money from our website. My website is a full-time job, one that I spent years creating for myself, and that I work on every day, after my children are asleep, before they get up, and snippets throughout the day.

It offers tons of useful and FREE information and inspiration. It also offers a lifestyle design course for sale (as well as other ebooks, etc.) for those who want to buy them. Yes I'm trying to sell them to you, because we've worked hard to create them, and because I think they will help you design an amazing life for yourself.

Would anyone like to have a job that they work at for free? I don't think so. I do enjoy my job, and I have been doing it for free for years, but I don't feel guilty trying to earn money from it- by offering something of value - just because the work I'm doing happens to be related to fun, adventure, and (enviable) travel.

Rachel, I appreciate you taking the time to share your adventures with the rest of us. I have taken my children on many expeditions such as this over the past 8 years and still find myself able to benefit from your insight and experience. I have been on expeditions to Guatemala twice, once with my wife before we had children. Now that we have 5 the rules have changed and we will likely benefit from your insight as we get ready for our BIG Expedition where we will pack up and take the family south of the border, how far, who knows? Your thread and blog have inspired us to press forward with our dream. At the end of this year we will be taking a short jaunt south of the border to Kino Bay or Guaymas Mexico so our children can experience another culture and hopefully appreciate what they have more.

If you guys are ever in Western CO, please let me know so we can put you up for a night or a few days whichever you prefer.

Thanks again and press on with your blog and your travels.

Kevin


Will a mod please clean up this thread so we can enjoy the trip?

x2, I would also like to get back to my regularly scheduled programming without the interruptions. And for the rest of the spectators: Watch the language please, I would like for my children to read this post without picking up a few new words.

One other thing, what does the mileage of a truck have to do on whether the truck will make it or not? My experience has been that the further you get south of the border, the less people worry about miles and more about overall condition. Please post your thoughts in the high mileage expedition vehicles post on General Chit Chat, instead of polluting this thread. My truck is nearing 170,000 miles and is my vehicle of choice for travels south of the border as parts are more available and it is less likely to draw attention.

Kevin

[Syncronicity]

of our hike that was within a stones throw of the visitors center
Sorry. You lead me to believe it was a 5 mile hike.
All members of your group should carry these and know how to use them.People and kids get separated from their group/parents everyday in the back country.
"The 10 Essentials"
1. map and compass
2. sunglasses and sunscreen
3. extra clothing
4. headlamp or flashlight
5. first-aid supplies
6. waterproof matches/lighter/candles
7. mult-itool/repair Kit
8. extra food
9. extra water
10. emergency shelter
Have fun and good luck with your trip. I hope to never have to say, I told you so.

[dzzz]

I did that growing up, we never carried all the crap that the people on this website do. I tend to believe the more stuff you carry, the less adaptable you are to your current situation. But I can also go off road with out a CB, VHF, SSB, Cell phone, GPS, and all the other gee wiz stuff people deem a necessity.

I mean really, 50 years ago people didn't have all this stuff, and they did just fine.

Perhaps your links show someone else's stuff? :)

[Jnich77]

Perhaps your links show someone else's stuff? :)



LMAO!!!!! That seriously got a good laugh out of me. I call it the "out door rubber band effect". I grew up camping with nothing, so now I over compensate...lol. :camping:

[kjp1969]

x100 on the praise- you guys are awesome. You are doing your kids a great service by challenging them physically, mentally and socially. Spending that kind of time on the road isn't really my cup of tea, but I will continue to follow your adventure!

x2 on the Mods cleaning this thread up.

[Jnich77]

That's right, people didn't need food, clothing, water, sun protection, form of light, fire starter, first aid until recently. I am starting to wonder why I carry all of this frivolous stuff.

Well, lets see, I grew up hiking all over New Mexico, Texas, Florida and Georgia...if it didn't fit in your pockets, it didn't go.. other than water we didn't carry much at all. My father and grandfather taught me how to survive on what I could find or build... not what I could carry.

[discovershare]

I find it a little sad...even though you're here to "discover, share & inspire" (on a forum that's dedicated to that exactly), there's always going to be a band of arm-chair quarterbacks & folks who can't stand the fact that you're doing what they deem impossible. Unfortunately you'll continue to experience this as long as you're sharing your experiences on the web.

Everyone has to be creative when it comes to financing a travel lifestyle. The Denning family has found something they're passionate about selling and could possibly finance a portion of their trip. There are several threads on this forum that ask about financing trips (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/50131-Financing-trips?p=970106#post970106), sponsors (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/21028-Sponsors), or making money on the road...this family has found their own answers and put forth the effort to make a little money and inspire others.

Side note:
I'm truly inspired by your family and I hope that when we have children of our own, they will follow us with the same enthusiasm that your children have. Please continue to discover, share, and inspire and I will continue to follow your family's adventures. Hopefully we can meet somewhere along the way!
:sombrero:
Cheers,
Brenton & Shannon

Thanks! Appreciate it. We love meet ups :)

[discovershare]

I expect your kids will do great in college, especially if they are enthusiastic readers now.

Hope so


But don't be too disappointed if some of them love the non-moving dorm room :) They do sometimes have the annoying tendency to not mirror the motivations of their parents. It's all good if that's their path.

Considered that it is a possibility - to each their own, even our own children :)

[discovershare]

Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing with us! We are heading out in November, maybe we will run into you guys! Monetizing your website is a great idea and more and more overlanders are starting to get onboard. Oh and I am entirely jealous of your children growing up in such an awesome environment instead of the stuffy nonsensical drab places we call the "American school system" Ignore the hatred, you guys are awesome

Thanks! Anywhere along the way, we'd love to meet up. Keep in touch.

[discovershare]

One piece of constructive rig criticism: Those storage containers you mounted on the ladder rack get brittle from the sun within a year in the midwest (and that is just sitting outside on the farm, not beating down the road). Paint them with some rattlecan, throw a tarp over them, or plan ahead to replace them. And throw a strap over them going down the road.

Yeah, I figure we'll probably have to replace them... we'll figure that out when we come to it. Though the tarp is not a bad idea, we do have one...

Thanks!

[discovershare]

We took a family vote today to see if we should drive to New Mexico or 'Old' Mexico. The kids unanimously picked Old Mexico, so that's where we're headed. Guess we'll have to explore other parts of the U.S. on another trip :)

We're camping right now almost within spitting distance of the wall that divides Mexico from the U.S. Tomorrow we'll cross the border, who knows when or if we'll be back.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Great-Wall-of-Mexico.jpg
Let us in to Mexico!

[mk216v]

What a true inspiration you guys are. I loved this;
http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/06/the-knitty-gritty-of-living-on-the-road-how-we-do-it/

"We personally think it’s riskier to waste our lives doing something we’re not really passionate about – working at a job just to pay bills."

Keep on keepin' on!!

[mk216v]

The Dennings are no strangers to criticism from people who can't wrap their heads around their unconventional approach to family life. That criticism can sting.

Here are two blog entries that provide insight into how difficult it can be to handle the criticism, and how the Dennings try to respond to people who are quick to pass judgement. I think we all can learn from their example.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/08/warding-off-an-attack-of-the-zombie-dream-slayers/

This was great;
"It's your God-given right to live the lif you choose to live. And it's my right as well, so please keep your opinions to yourself."

Respect, love, and peace. :smiley_drive:

[Ray Hyland]

I don't post much on here....and a lot of the BS in this thread is a good example of why. This family came here to share an awesome adventure that many of us have taken, or dream of taking one day. A few of these jokers who obviously don't get out from behind their computer screens, just pick the Denning's adventure apart looking for an argument. This is an "In Progress Adventure," not a debate thread. Why hasn't a mod deleted the attacks in here? When I click on this thread, I want to read adventure stories and see photos, not have to sift through the idiotic statements and posts that don't belong in here....including this one. Who gives a **** where they get the money, etc....it's NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS. It's rude, like asking a stranger, "how much money do you make?"

Dear Denning's family, on behalf of the people who enjoy reading your adventures and actually do get out of the house from time to time, THANK YOU FOR SHARING and PLEASE don't let the "others" discourage you from sharing your travels. I'm sorry this is the welcome you got from Expo....I use to think much better of the members on here. Keep on keepin' on and we're not all rude and judgemental.....most of us are just extremely jealous.

Will a mod with common sense please clean up this thread so we can enjoy the trip? And feel free to delete my post as well, cause just like the other's, it simply doesn't belong in an "In Progress Adventure" thread.

To TenaciousTJ and others who have asked for a clean-up:
The thread has been cleaned up a bit, but not completely sanitized. Enough remains to highlight the fact that a trip like this often reveals some deep-seated concerns among many readers.

After food, water, air, etc, Security is the most basic of human needs. (Maslow - 1943).
Security means different things to different people. To many, financial security is a big issue. To others, personal health safety when 'off the pavement" is a key concern. Everyone has their own "triggers" and we react to them in different ways. Sometimes defensively, sometimes aggressively, usually some combination.

A trip like the Dennings are taking (5 kids in a pickup truck, from Alaska to Argentina - are they crazy????) is sure to push a lot of triggers. The trip is unusual in many ways. The way they are approaching life is a little out of the ordinary. Their approach to school is not the standard. Their approach to child-rearing is not the standard. I was expecting some aggressive comments in this thread, and we have seen some. To date, the Dennings have responded with grace and style.

The edits that have been made so far are to keep the tone gentlemanly. The Dennings invite questions, but let's all remember our manners, even when we find ourselves triggered by what we read.

On a personal note - My three kids and I are really enjoying the thread thus far. Can't wait to read all about Mexico.

[matthewp]

I love this thread, not for the un-needed criticizms that keep popping up (Wasn't it not polite to ask people about their income?), but for the woderful way this family chooses to experience life! I wouldn't worry about the homeschooling, I've seen state and federally funded schooling I wouldn't waste my kids' time in!

To the Dennings, PLEASE keep doing what you're doing... PLEASE keep up the blog so we can live vicariously through your wonderful travels. I applaud you for taking the road less travelled when it comes to living life (as I sit here in my wood-and-mortar residence relaxing before I go to my mundane job in the same mundane place like I do every weekday! Yes, it's all jealousy and it's all good!:sombrero:).

Please be safe and make every day enjoyable and educational!

[Harald Hansen]

I look forward to following your trip on the net. Thanks for sharing, you are an inspiration!

[taco2go]

Go Dennings! Thoroughly enjoyed catching up on your blog over the last couple of days.
As many others, I am inspired by your enthusiasm and look forward to sharing your trip on this forum. Safe travels .
Sending you a PM- feel free to contact me as another pediatric resource if needed.


Addendum-another vote of thanks to the Mods for tactfully preserving the spirit of the thread. Debate and frustration is good. Just another microcosmic reflection of issues that our country, the larger "forum," is grappling with- and hopefully proof that we'll all come out stronger, smarter and enriched.

[zeke2.0]

As far as the crime rate, the majority of drug violence is one cartel against another. If they don't view you as a threat, they generally leave you alone. Just don't hang around the border areas where the vast majority of trouble happens. By the same token I would advise to avoid the projects in NYC or Chicago, or South LA. Doesn't mean the whole country is on fire. Do let someone always know where you are on a daily basis. That is just common sense.
Good luck and God bless on your journey in Old Mexico. Try the fish tacos :-) lol.

[grecy]

Hey guys,

From June 2009 Till early 2011 I drove from Prudhoe Bay to Tierra Del Fuego, solo, in my little Jeep TJ.
Ignore the people that are afraid, they are a dime a dozen and not worth your time. Fear is a powerful force for those people.

I wish I had known you were one your way South, I'm in Whitehorse, YT, Canada these days and I'm sure you passed right through here.
Next time we'll swap stories and photos.

If you can think of anything you'd like to know, or if I can help in any way, please don't hesitate to ask.

Have fun! (you will)

I'm sure I will enjoy reading along!

-Dan

[racingjason]

I think the message of this thread is "Those who can do, those who can't criticize."

I applaud the tenacity of the Dennings, we have a hard enough time keeping track of our one little guy let alone 5 kids! As for the controversy that has been circulating in the thread I have a few comments. I feel that the question of how the family is funding the trip can be a legitimate one provided it is asked with respect. Of course the family has every right not to comment however, I personally have a genuine interest as I am planning a trip with my family at some point in the coming years and all information is most welcome. I agree with many other posters that criticism is of their financial strategy is rude and unacceptable on this forum. The Dennings provided the information in good faith so if you can't be constructive "button it".

Similarly, I don't understand the criticism (or concern) regarding the education of their children. In many ways, the situation has many advantages over a traditional education system. Where else are you going to find two teachers for 5 students. Personally I was bored out of my mind during my school years and spent much of my time daydreaming about things I would like to be doing/learning about. Much of my learning was taught through reading and being out in the world doing things and this education has served me well. The Dennings are intelligent people and have the added advantage of some higher education as well; to me this is an ideal learning environment. As for the kids integration into the system upon their return; the Dennings seem to be doing a great job of raising interesting,self-confidant and adaptable children who will do well no matter what they do.

As a final note, we have always found that we are treated very well when traveling but even more so when with our son. There is a very strong family culture in many developing countries and we felt that we were looked at as a more "legitimate" family with a child. Sure there are risks in traveling to unfamiliar places but there is more risk in living a cloistered life to become fragile and fearful.

Best wishes.

[antler3649]

This is an incredible trip, and know that the lion's share of criticism is probably coming from people who are jealous of what you're doing right now. You're an inspiration, and the grace that you've displayed while replying to all of this criticism is astounding. Thanks for sharing your adventures - know that the majority of us are absolutely on your side. I can imagine your children are already smarter than most high-schoolers in the country.

[uli2000]

Dang, I wish I saw this sooner. Looks like you went thru my town at least twice on your journey. Next time you are near Ely, NV hit me up for dinner for the family! Im emailing this to my wife. I would love to do this myself!

[bentonrover]

Im very jealous of you guys. Nah just teasing. You guys take care be safe and continue to have fun

[BUZZKIDD]

Wow, as a new guy here I am sincerely impressed and very appreciative for being able to read about your experiences! Thank you!

[Kilroy]

Thank you for sharing. Subscribing to thread.

[discovershare]

Thank you everyone for your encouraging words and kind comments. Appreciate it!

We are in Mexico! We crossed the border at Agua Priete/Douglas, AZ on Monday. It took us an entire week to drive to Lake Chapala...wow. It's been over 4 years since we drove through Mexico last, and we had to readjust to a different pace :)

We are loving it though! It is beautiful, safe and a fantastic climate. We did have some mis-adventures (stomach and car troubles), which I'll be blogging about soon. But in the end, it's so worth it. Like my husband said, when we crossed into Mexico, we felt like we were 'coming home'. We love Latin culture.

We've kept a very detailed log of all of our expenses. We did a video detailing our crossing - the process, etc. And have kept daily video for our 'reality show' (for our channel on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/user/discovershareinspire?feature=mhee)). Our aim is to clearly show that Mexico is safe and AWESOME!

Stay tuned for the photos and videos!

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Mexico.jpg
Mexico

[Snafu]

I'm anxiously awaiting your reports from Mexico. You see I live less than two miles from it for about 2 1/2 years and have never gotten much in the way of encouraging words. I think if I steer clear of our sister city juarez, and go into the interior things will be ok. Thank u for all the inspiration for sure!

Sent from my ADR6350 using Tapatalk

[vivithemage]

very cool trip, will have to follow!

I am very interested to see how south of the border goes :).

Good luck, sounds like an epic adventure!

[Ray Hyland]

Ha, I LOVED the videos. Those were funny, but also pretty informative, with the prices and procedures at the border.

Looks like a nice quiet spot you found for the first night there.

Keep posting.

Oh, and I don't know about everyone else, but I'd love to be able to follow along the route you are taking, so if you can post the roads you are taking, or towns you are going through that would be cool too.

And if you ever come across a road that actually needs 4WD, it would be great to know that as well. I assume everything is 2WD roads, but with your spirit of adventure I wouldn't be surprised to hear of you taking some remote little mountain track somewhere. That way anyone following behind you will know what to expect too.

:-)

Ray

[Wiley]

Awesome, I look forward to seeing you tackle the challenges of finding your fuel source. I am in the same boat as those who think taking your kids around the world (best form of homeschooling!) is much better than any education a school can give. Good luck, I will be following your adventure.


I think if I steer clear of our sister city juarez, and go into the interior things will be ok. Thank u for all the inspiration for sure!

Absolutlely, I encountered zero problems (ok a minor thing here or there, but noting to worry about) after 2 months in Mex, driving from SD through baja, taking the ferry to mainland and then following the west coast and into the mountins a bit from Mazetlan to oxaca. Most reports here will show you that past the border towns much of Mexico is probably as safe, or possibly safer, than places in the US. Anyone who has the ability to go should, its an amazing experience.

[6string]

Love your story. I wholly believe in what you're doing.

Some friends and l will be making a lap through MX, GT, and BZ for a few weeks in Dec-Jan. Six adults and four kiddos in a three vehicle convoy. I hope we can find you guys!

All the best! We'll be in touch.

[discovershare]

Love your story. I wholly believe in what you're doing.

Some friends and l will be making a lap through MX, GT, and BZ for a few weeks in Dec-Jan. Six adults and four kiddos in a three vehicle convoy. I hope we can find you guys!

All the best! We'll be in touch.

Meeting up would be awesome! Keep in touch.

[discovershare]

I would have posted sooner, but I have been sooooo sick, as have most of my family and our host family as well.

Don't think it was the food or the water, just some stomach bug (we actually started having some sick kids in Arizona, maybe we brought it with us?)

I think we're finally getting over it. I did some major therapeutic doses of essential oils to finally get my gut in normal working order.

I'll start sharing posts and pictures again now that I'm feeling better!

[discovershare]

We drove to Douglas, Arizona, a town that borders Agua Priete on the Mexican side. Once in town, we did some errands, stopping at Walmart to pick up a few groceries (unfortunately the only grocery option in town.) It was located within a couple hundred of feet from the Wall that separates Mexico and the U.S.

We visited the wall, shot some video, and chatted with the border patrol, who shared lots of interesting information.

Read the full post by clicking here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/border-patrol-illegals-and-the-great-wall-douglas-az/).

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Mexico-Border-3.jpg

[discovershare]

Ha, I LOVED the videos. Those were funny, but also pretty informative, with the prices and procedures at the border.

Looks like a nice quiet spot you found for the first night there.

Keep posting.

Oh, and I don't know about everyone else, but I'd love to be able to follow along the route you are taking, so if you can post the roads you are taking, or towns you are going through that would be cool too.

And if you ever come across a road that actually needs 4WD, it would be great to know that as well. I assume everything is 2WD roads, but with your spirit of adventure I wouldn't be surprised to hear of you taking some remote little mountain track somewhere. That way anyone following behind you will know what to expect too.

:-)

Ray

Ray,

Glad you like the videos. As far as the specific route, so far the Google map on our website is pretty accurate. We haven't taken any 4WD roads yet, we just drove to Lake Chapala where we had a meet up planned.

We also share roads, routes, tolls, etc as much as we can in our YouTube Channel videos.

[discovershare]

We'd heard from multiple sources that it was too dangerous to step foot into Mexico. So we decided to record the entire border crossing so people could see for themselves.

Personally, we thought the 'dangerousness' was all media hype, and our suspicions were confirmed with every step that took us further into Mexico. What did we find? Peace, tranquility, and a lot of very nice and generous people.

There are two videos that share the crossing process, including prices, procedure, etc. You can watch them here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/how-dangerous-is-mexico-crossing-the-border-with-our-5-kids-agua-priete-mexico/).

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Mexican-girls.jpg

[discovershare]

We haven't had any trouble finding a place to camp in Northern Mexico. It has been muy tranquilo.

We did have some unpleasant gut action - too many chilis on our burrito.

I posted pictures here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/camping-begging-and-diarrhea-in-northern-mexico/) (Not of the diarrhea :) but of Northern Mexico.)

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMG_7611.jpg

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMG_7636.jpg

[r_w]

Thanks for the updates and keeping it real. The "truck broke down" day would have pushed me completely over the edge.

There is a plan in everything, it would just be nice if it was shared with us ahead of time.

BTW, if you ever get to the "Living with the Amish" on your bucket list--I might be able to help hook you up.

[discovershare]

In an attempt to find some sunflower seeds, my husband spots an OXXO conveniences store, and throws the truck into reverse in the middle of the highway.

Unexpectedly, the truck jolts and my heart leaps out of my chest. Oh no! We’ve just ran into somebody or something.

But looking behind us, nothing is there. No poles, nor cars, no motorcycles.

That was weird.

So we pull ahead into the OXXO parking lot, and my hubby runs in to search for his seeds. He comes out with a pack of mints and some pumpkin seeds. No sunflower.

Starting up the truck, he puts it into reverse and attempts to back up. It won’t move.

“It’s like the emergency brake is on,” he tells me.

Read the rest, and watch the video, here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/our-truck-breaks-down-somewhere-in-mexico-2/).

[Ruined Adventures]

i thought it was very admirable that the entire time your husband chalks it up as "this is adventure", without letting out any frustration or disappointment. Way to set a good example for the kiddos.

I've seen plenty of meltdowns over a scratch in the paint...but you guys kept your cool, entertained the little ones, and made some new friends in the process. Looking forward to the next installment :sombrero:

[mk216v]

i thought it was very admirable that the entire time your husband chalks it up as "this is adventure", without letting out any frustration or disappointment. Way to set a good example for the kiddos.

I've seen plenty of meltdowns over a scratch in the paint...but you guys kept your cool, entertained the little ones, and made some new friends in the process. Looking forward to the next installment :sombrero:

For sure. The positive outlook is so refreshing to see!

[Project510]

Thanks for posting all of your travels, a few posts back you mentioned posting photos of the 3rd row seat. Id love to see that if it were possible. Unless I missed them somehow.. Again thanks for posting here on Expo, I enjoy reading the blog posts and updates.

[adventurexp]

I know you are so far, but when you are in Argentina, you need to visit:
Salta province
Jujuy province
then of course Buenos Aires, Capital Federal
South of Argentina: Trevelin, Gayman (small wales town), Bariloche, El Bolson, El Hoyo de Epuyen, Calafate, Peninsula Valdes, Puerto Piramide, Villa la Angostura, San Martin de Los Andes (those last town are very nice and are bigger than others), but Bariloche is one of the most turistic places to sky in Argentina.

Best!

[defrag4]

Close call with the car import permit. You just reminded me I need to track down our travel/import visas from when we went to Baja in February. We didnt cancel anything either!

[sigi]

hi guys,

great stuff, good luck and all the best.
sigi

[sigi]

hi there,
are there any technical information about your veggie oil truck on your webpage?

thanks

sigi

[Darwin]

hi there,
are there any technical information about your veggie oil truck on your webpage?
It's a Golden Fuel System.

The truck is a 7.3 liter Powerstroke.

http://www.goldenfuelsystems.com/products/gfs-products/#ecwid:category=563854&mode=category&offset=0&sort=normal

[LaOutbackTrail]

??? I don't know where my post went???

But, Great adventure you guys. I'm very envious, but on the same wavelength. The best I can do is take my wee lass on short adventures. Next up is a three day hiking weekend the second weekend of November. Should be a great trip to share with a friend and his boy.

My wife and I sat down and enjoyed your videos last night and tried to catch up on the Mexico portion of your blog. We are dreaming of taking a few weeks to go down to Belize and Guatemala to do some jungle exploration to the different Mayan ruins. We've got another kiddo due in March, so we may have to wait until the following summer when the kiddo is a year+. Lots of time to prepare and learn from your encouragement!!!

Thanks for posting here, and may the nay-sayers keep their bloody mouths shut!

[discovershare]

I know you are so far, but when you are in Argentina, you need to visit:
Salta province
Jujuy province
then of course Buenos Aires, Capital Federal
South of Argentina: Trevelin, Gayman (small wales town), Bariloche, El Bolson, El Hoyo de Epuyen, Calafate, Peninsula Valdes, Puerto Piramide, Villa la Angostura, San Martin de Los Andes (those last town are very nice and are bigger than others), but Bariloche is one of the most turistic places to sky in Argentina.

Best!

Thanks for the tips!

[discovershare]

Close call with the car import permit. You just reminded me I need to track down our travel/import visas from when we went to Baja in February. We didnt cancel anything either!

Yeah, we won't forget that again! (Especially now with a $200 refundable deposit) :)

[discovershare]

From the town of Chapala, Mexico, if you head one west toward the end of the lake, you’ll reach the town of Jocotepec. But if you head east from Chapala, you’ll come across Mezcala.

We visited both on separate occasions.

Jocotepec we actually visited twice – each time with the same intent – raspberries.

Acres (or hectares) of raspberries are grown under green houses in Jocotepec (picked while still hard and pink and shipped to the states for Driscoll).

The raspberries that are already ripe can’t be shipped, and so are offered for sale to locals. That’s what we were after.

Click here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/10/raspberries-and-ruins-jocotepec-and-mezcala-mexico/) for photos and video.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jocotepec-03.jpg

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Mezcala-48.jpg

[discovershare]

Lake Chapala is a lovely place. The lake is flanked by several little towns along the length of it – Chapala, Ajijic and Jocotepec are a few that we visited.

The setting is very quaint – one of those cute little places that you like immediately. It has a nice mix of ‘authentic’ with expat influence. You can find what you need, but experience Mexico at the same time.

While there is a Walmart in Ajijic, and another large grocery store in Chapala, I prefer to do my shopping at local stores, and especially markets. That is the best way to really support local farmers and producers – (and to not support Walmart’s monopoly and infiltration of the world – can you tell I’m not a fan of Walmart?)

Click here for photos and video

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Ajijic-Tianguis-12.jpg

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Ajijic-Tianguis-27.jpg

[discovershare]

This would never happen in the States. It’s one of those unexpected experiences that only happen abroad.

We received a dinner invitation to the home of a family who lives on the road between Chapala and Guadalajara.

By the time we finished eating, the vet had anesthetized the horse (who was now belly up on the ground) and we were just in time to watch the show.

Parker was extremely fascinated, and stood staring throughout the entire surgery. Kyah, who for years has stated her intention to be a doctor, vehemently declared she would do no such thing!

See the photos and video here. (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/dinner-and-a-show-aka-hamburgers-horse-surgery-guadalajara-mexico/)

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Dinner-a-Show-03.jpg

[discovershare]

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Travel-Sickness.jpg

Sitting on the toilet, doubled over in pain, my pants around my ankles, I can hear in the dining area just outside the bathroom door, babies crying, children screaming, and chaos in general.

Between our family and that of the friends we’re staying with (http://livingoutsideofthebox.com/), there are four adults and 8 children. The adults are all feeling sick. The house is in shambles, and disorder reigns.

I think to myself – “This is travel. Glamorous, isn’t it?”

It started simple enough – a little boy complaining of being cold during our evening walk along the malecón (boardwalk) of Lake Chapala. Returning to the home of our hosts, it was apparent he had a very high fever.

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/i-dont-want-to-travel-if-i-have-to-be-sick-like-this-chapala-mexico/)

[6string]

Initially, I was laughing to myself. Then I ran into the sunroom where the rest of the family was doing homework. Then I interrupted to read them your blog entry. Then, as a family who travels Central America ourselves and understands the perils, we laughed together. Love it.

Thanks for keeping such a great, informing blog. Emily says she wants to know all of your "secret, magic pill, essential oil cure things." Maybe you can tell her all about it in a month or so.... We're still going to try and find you guys when we get down there! :sombrero:

Keep up the great writing. Hope to see y'all soon!

wc

[discovershare]

One day in 1943, a farmer was out working his field with his wife and son, when suddenly, the earth below them began to tremble and shake. A hole opened up in the earth, and out spewed ash, smoke and sparks, which caught the nearby trees on fire. The ground rose 2 meters right before their eyes.

Naturally, the farmer and his family took off running. They returned later when the commotion had ceased and tried to cover the hole with rocks, but to no avail. Within a week the volcano was five stories tall.

Click here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/the-amazing-growing-volcano-of-paricutin-and-neighboring-indian-village-of-anaghuan-mexico/) to read the rest of the post, and see video and photos.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_8224.jpg

[discovershare]

We parked our truck in the native Indian village of Angahuan, then hiked to where the village of Paricutin used to be, but now all that is left is their cathedral, jutting out from the jagged bed of lava. (If you didn’t already, read this post to learn the history of how this volcano came to be, and to see the photos from the village of Angahuan.)

Click here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/a-cathedral-encased-in-lava-and-some-dang-good-quesadillas-mexico/) to read the rest of this post.

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Paricutin-Tzararacua-042.jpg

[discovershare]

I do a monthly post on our expenses. Here's our 6th month summary. (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/6-months-on-the-road-what-it-costs-how-far-weve-driven-2/)




http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Mezcala-20.jpg

[discovershare]

Spanish is a pretty easy language to learn. It has a few rules, with a very few exceptions. The vowels always make the same sound, so it’s pretty easy to read, and say, once you learn what those are.

So when you come across words that you don’t know how to pronounce while in Mexico, it kind of throws you for a loop. Like Tzararacua, how the heck do you pronounce that?

Most often, words like that come from the more than 50 native languages that are also spoken in Mexico, besides Spanish. Languages like Nahuatl and Parépecha.

See photos and video of this huge, powerful waterfall, and read the rest of the post here (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/tzararacua-waterfalls-huh-how-do-you-say-that-mexico/).

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Paricutin-Tzararacua-122.jpg

[discovershare]

Another one of those native language words, Tzintzuntzan (sin-soon-sahn) is the name of a village neighboring Patzcuaro, where we were told that there would be a pretty big ‘to-do’ for the eve of Dia de Muertos.

Dia de Muertos is celebrated on November 2. Not at all related to Halloween (although Walmart tries to market it as such), Dia de Muertos is the day that you remember your loved ones who have passed on and celebrate their lives. It’s the day when you’re most likely to commune with them, when they are near.

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/dia-de-muertos-in-tzintzuntzan-mexico/)

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[discovershare]

We spent Dia de Muertos ‘eve’ in Tzintzuntzan. It was pretty happening. But when the kids were tired, we knew we’d never be able to sleep there in the city with the music thumping, so we drove out of town back toward Patzcuaro and pulled off by some farmer’s field.

We drove into Patzcuaro so that our friends could get their brakes replaced, then headed to el centro to see what was happening for the Day of the Dead.

Patzcuaro has a unique center. It used to be a town square that was flanked by mansions of early Conquistadors. Now they have been converted to hotels and restaurants, and today in the middle of them was a gigantic market.

See pictures and read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/patzcuaro-markets-for-day-of-the-dead-mexico/)


76865

[discovershare]

We had a busy day. A really busy day. We visited Tzintzuntzan for Dia de Muertos eve, then Patzcuaro AND Morelia for Dia de Muertos.

It was tiring, that much traveling… after all, we’re not on vacation. This is our life.

But, we had a blast! And we’ll recover, right?

Morelia is well known for it’s unique architecture, which was quite quaint. It reminded one of being in some Old World city (oh wait, I’ve never been to the Old World…someday.)


Read more and see photos... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/dia-de-muertos-yes-again-in-morelia-mexico/)

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[discovershare]

Leaving Morelia after a delicious meal, our friends grabbed a hotel and we drove out toward el campo in the dark, searching for a place to call home for the night.

We located a little turn-off, which led to a rise where we parked under a tree growing next to a corn field. We all climbed in to bed and slept peacefully for the night.


Read more about my Walmart hating... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/love-the-little-towns-but-i-hate-walmart-ananagueo-mexico/)

76868

[discovershare]

As a child, I distinctly remember one magical day when millions of Monarch butterflies migrated through the town where I was living. I twirled around like a princess, in awe and wonder, as they fluttered around me.

It was a one time experience, and one I have never forgotten. Before I even knew there was a Monarch reserve, I wanted to go there.

Then, just last year, as we were imagining up this epic expedition, I sat with my children and watched videos on YouTube about visits to the Monarch reserves in Mexico.

“One day we’ll go there,” I told them.

Well, that day had arrived.

Read more and see photos/video... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/a-dream-come-true-the-monarchs-in-mexico/)

76869

[discovershare]

There’s an old Kenny Rogers song, The Gambler, that my dearly departed dad used to listen to. It went something like this:

You’ve got to know when to hold them, know when to fold them, know when to walk away, know when to run.

You never count your cards, while you’re sittin’ at the table, they’ll be time enough for countin’, when the dealin’s done.”

Sometimes things just don’t go as planned. This might be due to unrealistic expectations, inaccurate information, or from simply pushing your limits.

Read more about our mishap... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/youve-got-to-know-when-to-walk-away-know-when-to-run/)

76870

[Ray Hyland]

Still loving your trip reports.

The above post hits home, when we travel as a family, whenever we try to push too far it goes from fun, to not fun, very quickly.

What we've done on the days when we really need to get somewhere is to pull over somewhere and let the kids get out, run around for an hour, we will cook some dinner, and then after dinner when all are full and happy we can drive on as needed, and the kids usually will fall asleep in the back of the truck. Later we just pick them up and put them into their bed in the tent once we've established camp.

[Darwin]

Where are you now?

[ExpediT-100n]

Where are you now?

Rachel, forgive me for copying from your blog, but..

"Hello We Are...Alive"

"I´m sitting (at an uncomfortable chair) in an internet cafe in Tulum, Mexico. So much has happened over the past month, it seems like ages ago. I have so much to share with you, so many incredible photos, video and experiences, I just can´t wait!!

But I´m also very frustrated. It´s tough working from the road. Even now, I struggle just writing this on a Spanish keyboard with foreign characters, where each letter has to be punched out with effort (they wouldn´t let me plug in to their ethernet so I could use MY laptop…argh).

I have to figure out how to make it easier. I need somewhere I can work so I can share what I have to share.

But for now, know we´re alive. We´ve had lots of fun, and some challenges too. There´s great stories to tell.

Right now though, my husband is waiting. We have to go to the beach, one of the most gorgeous I´ve seen. It´s tough, but someone´s got to do it.

Until next time…"

[ExpediT-100n]

Sorry for the double post guys, it appears that my previous one got posted up twice.

Anyways, I hope the family is doing well and we are eagerly awaiting updates from you guys here in the states.

Kevin

[discovershare]

Thanks for sharing a previous post of mine, yes, we are still alive! We are now in Bacalar, Mexico, camping in a nice campground right on the lagoon. We spent Christmas here, and are working on some projects.

It has been a wild ride. We've had a series of (mis)fortunate events, but we are well now, and I'll be catching up here on what we've been doing.

Thanks for all of your comments.

[discovershare]

Years ago, while we were still ‘green’, my husband declared that he would never visit Mexico City because it was so dangerous - so he had heard.

Time and again, his belief about the dangerousness of this city had been confirmed by those who spoken to – Mexico City is dangerous.

So he’d made up his mind that we would never go. (I wasn’t so sure. After all, India was too dangerous, but we lived there. The DR was too dangerous. Even Atlanta, GA was too dangerous, depending on who you talk to.)

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/driving-through-terribly-dangerous-mexico-city/)


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[discovershare]

It never fails, that while traveling with children, they will have to use the bathroom at the most inconvenient times.

Greg has been dreaming of visiting the ruins of Teotihuacan since college. Now here we were, with an entire day stretched out before us just for exploring this ancient site.

In it’s day, Teotihuacan was the largest city in Mesoamerica (and is the largest ancient ruin site in the area) – having an estimated population of up to 200,000 people spread out over 8 square miles. It was the ruling power, and it’s influence has been discovered in places such as the Zapotec’s great city of Monte Alban, as well as major Mayan cities.

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/teotihuacan-and-the-potty-pyramid-san-juan-teotihuacan-mexico/)

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[discovershare]

Some people argue that traveling with children is selfish on the part of parents, and a waste of time and money because ‘they won’t remember it anyway.’

Perhaps there is some truth to that, but for Greg and I, we believe that traveling with our kids vale la pena – it’s worth the effort – even if they don’t remember it.

There may be some selfishness there – like when we bribed our kids to climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Moon. We wanted to see it, they could only think about what they wanted right now – after a long day hiking pyramids in the hot sun, that was to go back to the truck and get some food.

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/mexico-city-by-foot-bus-and-train-with-5-kids/)

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[discovershare]

On of the most difficult challenges of our trip is deciding what not to see. Even with our plan to take up to 3 years for this expedition, we still can’t see everything. There’s just too much!

Already in Mexico we’d missed out on some great sites that we wanted to explore – like the city of Gunajuato.

But we’d also seen some incredible places that we hadn’t originally planned on either – like Patzcuaro and Morelia.

So after exploring Teotihuacan and Mexico City, we faced another dilemma. Do we drive northeast to see El Tajin in Veracruz?

Or head south to Oaxaca to explore Monte Alban?

Read More... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/im-so-glad-were-not-one-of-those-travelers-anymore/)

[discovershare]

Cholula is home to the biggest pyramid in Mesoamercia. Not only that, but on top of that pyramid (mostly in ruin and overgrown, making it look like a giant hill) is built a very large and ornate cathedral.

Cholula also has it’s own voladores, who do a very impressive performance everyday at noon.

We visited Cholula and saw the pyramid and the voladores, but I don’t have pictures of either of them. All I have is a picture of this very nice family.

Why, you might ask? Well, it started because I left my camera battery plugged into my charger, which was plugged in to an outlet at Trailer Park Teotihuacan.

I felt sick when I discovered it.

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/cholula-has-a-big-pyramid-and-even-bigger-hearts-cholula-mexico/)

80584

[discovershare]

We just spent 3+ weeks driving through Mexico with three small kids and never felt threatened. The main thing we learned was three weeks was not enough and we want to do more exploring. We'll be exploring vicariously with your family in the meantime. Looks like we nere near you guys for part of our trip - should have met-up. We spent much less on this trip than just the airfare to Costa Rica.

Totally agree!

[discovershare]

There's something special about Monte Alban. It took some effort to get there from the city of Oaxaca, mainly because the taxi drivers decided to hold a strike the day we drove into town.

While waiting for the light to turn green so we could make our turn, we watched the policia close the road to Monte Alban.

After several detours and some serious traffic, we finally made our way to the road which winds up the hillside to the city which sits like a crown on the crest.

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/?p=8107)

82963

[discovershare]

I don’t know why, but Greg just started the day in a funk. (Oh wait, I do know why…it’s because we’d planned to record more videos for our course, and I’d forgotten to charge the video camera.)

It’s pretty rare for him, really. He’s the ‘look on the bright-side’ sort of guy who usually has to deal with my moods.

But today, he was just bothered. Bothered with the traffic, the streets, no parking. He didn’t want to stop at the market. He didn’t want to stop for food we pointed out (it was breakfast time and we were all hungry).

Read more... (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/ornery-in-oaxaca-mexico/)

82964

[zeke2.0]

Always look forward to your posts. Glad things are working out for you.

[bigmex]

What a great adventure you guys are on. Hopefully in 5 years I can do a trip like this. For now I just live through your pictures. Safe travels

[Dirtytires]

Carlos Now owns you for 45.00.. What a price to pay. Just kidding, What a great adventure. Keep up the blogging..

[LaOutbackTrail]

I've noticed that the Nay-Sayers have dramatically decreased since you guys have been on the road! :wings:

Your trip has been invaluable to the mental preparations for a trip we are hoping to take in November! Again and as always, thanks for sharing!

[mochodurazo]

wow!!!! just blew my head off. Amazing adventure and keep the feedback please!!!

Too bad i didnt know about your journey, i live in Hermosillo, Sonora, just 3-4 hrs south Agua Prieta and im 100% sure that i colud help with veggie oil, oil change, and a dinner.

Safe trip. already follwing you on twitter.

Carlos Durazo

[Darwin]

They sure seem to get diarrhea a lot? Truck included.

Latest is that engine oil was going into the diesel tank and it truck was continuing to not start. My guess is they don't have a fuel pressure gauge either.

[biggoolies]

looks like it could be clogged fuel injectors or bad seal around the injector or a cracked head

[discovershare]

looks like it could be clogged fuel injectors or bad seal around the injector or a cracked head

We ended up replacing O rings on all 8 fuel injectors, that fixed the problem. The truck conveniently timed it's malfunctions with the arrival of our good friend (and diesel mechanic genius) from GoldenFuelSystems.com (http://www.GoldenFuelSystems.com) It was quite serendipitous.

[discovershare]

I've gotten behind on my updates, so here's a list of what I've posted, since I posted here last :)

Be Careful What You Ask For - Too Much Heat in Jalapa, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/be-careful-what-you-ask-for-too-much-heat-in-jalapa-mexico/)

84966



I Poop My Pants (Yes, Really)...And It's the Breaking Point (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/i-poop-my-pants-yes-really-and-its-the-breaking-point/)



Thanksgiving in Resplendent Chiapas, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/thanksgiving-in-resplendent-chiapas-mexico/)

84967



A Fender Bender and Losing All Your Money In Mexico Isn't So Bad (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/fender-benders-and-losing-all-your-money-in-mexico-isnt-so-bad/)

84968



The Most Beautiful Place We've Been So Far...Agua Azul, Chiapas, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/11/the-most-beautiful-place-weve-been-so-far-agua-azul-chiapas-mexico/)

84969



Living Local in Palenque, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/12/living-local-in-palenque-mexico/)

84970



Pensive at the Impressive Palenque Ruins, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/12/palenque-ruins-mexico/)

84971



Home-Less For Christmas (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2011/12/home-less-for-christmas/)




The Saga of Sabancuy...In the Beginning (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/01/the-saga-of-sabancuy-in-the-beginning/)

84973



The Saga of Sabancuy...There Was Trouble (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/01/the-saga-of-sabancuy-trouble-begins/)

84974



The Saga of Sabancuy...I Am Not in Control (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/01/the-saga-of-sabancuy-i-am-not-in-control/)

84975



Like Making Love After the Baby - Akumal, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/01/making-love-after-the-labor-akumal-mexico/)

84976

[discovershare]

Too Much Beach Time Gets Boring- Tulum, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/01/too-much-beach-time-gets-boring-tulum-mexico/)

84977



Howler Monkey's at Dzibanche Ruins, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/howler-monkeys-at-dzibanche-ruins-mexico/)


Spreading Literacy at a Mayan Village, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/mayan-ruins-and-spreading-literacy-in-a-mayan-village-mexico/)

[ExpediT-100n]

I was sitting on the edge of my seat for that one and am glad to hear it all worked out! It looks like I have some catching up to do in reading your posts. Thanks for sharing with those of us who are not fortunate enough to be able to join you at this time.

Kevin

[bansil]

great reading as always:victory:

[Dirtytires]

Maybe you all could get Ford to throw a little sponsorship money your way. I think this is so cool. A family living life to the fullest.

[discovershare]

Thanks everyone for you kind words!

[r_w]

It was quite serendipitous.

No such thing. It was meant to be that way.

You guys learn quick. I usually have to be stomped on multiple times before I (re)learn I am not in control...

[biggoolies]

We ended up replacing O rings on all 8 fuel injectors, that fixed the problem. The truck conveniently timed it's malfunctions with the arrival of our good friend (and diesel mechanic genius) from GoldenFuelSystems.com (http://www.GoldenFuelSystems.com) It was quite serendipitous.

ahh! Glad to hear it wasn't more serious than that.
Darcy

[zeke2.0]

Your grace concerning the con artist is inspiring. Just wish you had got a head shot to post and warn everyone.

[DylanT]

Love this story. Great times.

[discovershare]

Hello everyone,

Sorry I've been so slow on the updates...I have many full time jobs that seem to fill up my time :)

Here are the latest:


The $400 Fake Ring Scam - Chetumal, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/the-400-fake-ring-scam-chetumal-mexico/)


Six Splendid Weeks at the Lake of Seven Colors - Bacalar, Mexico (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/six-splendid-weeks-at-the-lake-of-seven-colors-bacalar-mexico/)


Uhhh, Mexico. Where's All the Danger? A Recap of What It's REALLY Like. (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/uhhh-mexico-wheres-all-the-danger-a-recap-of-what-its-really-like/)


Beauty Up North: Alaska & Canada - Free Photo Ebook - 1st in a Series. (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/my-free-gift-to-you-for-2012-photo-ebook-of-our-trip/)

Adios Mexico, Hello Belize, and Culture Shock (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/adios-mexico-hello-belize-saddle-soreness-and-culture-shock/)


Kids, How Was School Today? Worldschooling on Ambergris Caye, Belize (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/kids-how-was-school-today-ambergris-caye-belize/)


Why Wait Until Retirement to Live Like a 'King'? Interview with the King Family on Ambergris Caye (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/why-wait-until-retirement-to-live-like-a-king-why-not-do-it-now-interview-with-the-king-family-on-ambergris-caye-belize/)


Posing as Guinea Pigs in an Experiment on Human Behavior (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/02/posing-as-guinea-pigs-in-an-experiment-of-human-behavior-ambergris-caye-belize/)


Mother Nature, I Love/Hate You - Near Hopkins, Belize (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/mother-nature-i-lovehate-you-to-hopkins-belize/)


When Weird, Strange, Incredible and Crazy Becomes Normal - Placencia to Guatemala (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/when-weird-strange-incredible-and-crazy-becomes-normal-placencia-to-guatemala/)

[sp4mike]

Great stuff, and very inspiring! Couple questions though...

Are you able to have insurance (car and medical) without a home address?
How are you dealing with the license plates on the truck? What will you do when the tags expire?
Will your truck run on used motor oil, or just diesel/veggie?

[Dirtytires]

I was reading the current blogs on your all jouney's and my laptop crashed. You might want to look in to your security. My entire harddrive was wiped. My op system was 42% deleted.
took me all noight to rebuild my laptop . I lost everything.. just a heads up to all. Cool blogs although I did not get to e finish the Mother Nature reading.

Craig

[discovershare]

I was reading the current blogs on your all jouney's and my laptop crashed. You might want to look in to your security. My entire harddrive was wiped. My op system was 42% deleted.
took me all noight to rebuild my laptop . I lost everything.. just a heads up to all. Cool blogs although I did not get to e finish the Mother Nature reading.

Craig

Hmmm...I'll have to look into that.

[discovershare]

Our US insurance was not valid once we crossed into Mexico, so we cancelled it. Vehicle insurance has been available in each country so far... We haven't had medical insurance since it was offered with my husband's career, many years ago.

Alaska license plates do not expire for two years, and then they are renewable by mail.

I don't know the answer to the last question...that would be my husband I guess.

[Dirtytires]

Hmmm...I'll have to look into that.

It was a big surprise for me as well. I will go to the library and use thiers nextime.. but thanks for keeping us informed and updated as mush as you do.
What are them little monkeys climbing up Ashlyies leg. the parrot was cool. reminds of the old pirate shows.

[Chazz Layne]

We take the online safety of everyone in our community as seriously as we do physical safety. I have checked and rechecked all of the links in question, and run security scans on the site www.DiscoverShareInspire.com -- as far as we are able to determine, this site is safe.

Thanks for bringing this to our attention -- carry on...


I was reading the current blogs on your all jouney's and my laptop crashed. You might want to look in to your security. My entire harddrive was wiped. My op system was 42% deleted.
took me all noight to rebuild my laptop . I lost everything.. just a heads up to all. Cool blogs although I did not get to e finish the Mother Nature reading.

Craig


Hmmm...I'll have to look into that.

[discovershare]

We take the online safety of everyone in our community as seriously as we do physical safety. I have checked and rechecked all of the links in question, and run security scans on the site www.DiscoverShareInspire.com -- as far as we are able to determine, this site is safe.

Thanks for bringing this to our attention -- carry on...

Thank you for doing that. I appreciate it.

[mervifwdc]

What a great story unfolding each day! Keep it up, keep your spirits up and keep at it!

I've seen 2 or 3 other families travelling with kids and living in vans, trucks etc while overlanding here in Morocco, and if yours are half as smart and well behaved as these kids, then they will do fine. I would love to have experiences like this when I was a kid. Dont think of it as "we are overlanding with our kids", think what tales they will tell in years to come "I remember when we saw x,y,z...." "I remember meeting a person from that tribe / area", "I remember eating some of that, yuck". And it was all with their parents.

as I belive is the appropriate way to express oneself "Awesome"!

Merv.

[discovershare]

What a great story unfolding each day! Keep it up, keep your spirits up and keep at it!

I've seen 2 or 3 other families travelling with kids and living in vans, trucks etc while overlanding here in Morocco, and if yours are half as smart and well behaved as these kids, then they will do fine. I would love to have experiences like this when I was a kid. Dont think of it as "we are overlanding with our kids", think what tales they will tell in years to come "I remember when we saw x,y,z...." "I remember meeting a person from that tribe / area", "I remember eating some of that, yuck". And it was all with their parents.

as I belive is the appropriate way to express oneself "Awesome"!

Merv.

Thanks so much! You're right about creating memories...

[discovershare]

It's been awhile! We've been hanging out in Panajachel, Guatemala, having a wonderful time, enjoying visits from friends who are meeting up with us here, and loving the culture of Guatemala. We really like this country. It's inexpensive, beautiful, has a very nice climate, and lots of great, fresh food.

Here's some of what we've been up to since I last updated here:

Belize: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/belize-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/)

The REAL Magic Kingdom: Tikal, Guatemala (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/the-real-magic-kingdom-tikal-guatemala/)

Landing in the Lap of Luxury: Our New House in Panajachel, Guatemala (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/landing-in-the-lap-of-luxury-our-new-house-in-panajachel-guatemala/)

Working For Love Vs. Survival: Hiking in the Highlands of Guatemala (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/working-for-love-vs-survival-hiking-in-the-highlands-of-guatemala/)

[discovershare]

A lot of people ask us about this, so here is our response:

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/9-ways-we-earn-money-to-fund-our-travel-lifestyle/

[discovershare]

Here's a 'photo essay' of hiking through the Highlands of Panajachel, Guatemala


http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/ill-let-the-photos-tell-the-story-hiking-in-panajachel-guatemala/

[discovershare]

People are always telling us we're 'special' because we can travel, or assume we have lots of money. Here's what we say to that:


http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/you-have-to-be-special-like-us-if-you-want-an-awesome-life/

[LaOutbackTrail]

People are always telling us we're 'special' because we can travel, or assume we have lots of money. Here's what we say to that:


http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/you-have-to-be-special-like-us-if-you-want-an-awesome-life/

Whew. Great and excellent points.

But it was a little hard to read with the different size and styles of fonts. I ended up skipping to nearly every bolded header looking section.... but simple minds are easily distracted.

[haven]

Beautiful stories, wonderful photos. May the road rise up to meet you!

[BBslider001]

Oh, I am sooooo using that one!!!! As for being prepared, true preparedness is what you carry in between your ears, not whats on your back. All the "gee-wiz" gear and toys don't mean anything if you have no common sense. I think you guys are more than prepared. :elkgrin:

Absolutely...:snorkel:

[mk216v]

Any further updates???

[Sean VHA #60013]

Any further updates???

Their seems to be a problem with their website, as when I try to go there, my computer asks me if I want to download or save it, as though I had clicked on a file to download. Strange...

[zeke2.0]

Sounds like their site has been hit with malware. Don't download anything.

[Dirtytires]

That site Wiped out my last laptop. Cleared everything..Fried my hard drive. BE WARNED..

[discovershare]

Their seems to be a problem with their website, as when I try to go there, my computer asks me if I want to download or save it, as though I had clicked on a file to download. Strange...


That is very strange. What browser are you using? Everything should be working fine.

[discovershare]

That site Wiped out my last laptop. Cleared everything..Fried my hard drive. BE WARNED..

A few months ago we were hacked and infected by a virus. Some people's computers were affected. We have since switched hosts and had all malware removed from our site. It is 'safe' once again.

[discovershare]

Any further updates???

So sorry I haven't posted here again! I'll do some catch up.

[discovershare]

108969
Sometimes you've got to be willing to break your board...


http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/03/sometimes-youve-got-to-be-willing-to-break-your-board-surfing-misadventures-on-the-guatemalan-coast/

[discovershare]

108970 (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/04/why-guatemalans-are-tough-life-gets-hard-and-what-to-do-about-it-panajachel-guatemala/)

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/04/why-guatemalans-are-tough-life-gets-hard-and-what-to-do-about-it-panajachel-guatemala/

[discovershare]

108971 (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/04/semana-santa-holy-week-in-antigua-guatemala/)

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/04/semana-santa-holy-week-in-antigua-guatemala/

[discovershare]

108972 (http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/04/oh-please-not-another-the-truck-broke-down-story-this-is-getting-pathetic-guatemala/)

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/04/oh-please-not-another-the-truck-broke-down-story-this-is-getting-pathetic-guatemala/

[Sean VHA #60013]

That is very strange. What browser are you using? Everything should be working fine.

I am using Internet Explorer 9.

[Rockhard426]

Discovershare , It looks like you are having a Fun Trip there from the pictures !! Enjoy every min of it , Your Kids will learn so much and remember that trip for a lifetime . I know I was 10 when my Family left for Brasil back in 1987 , We Drove a 1985 ford F150 van From Florida to Southern Brasil , The only place we did not drive was through Columbia , Back in 87 Panama was bad enough but Columbia they said NO !!, we put our van on a barge and flew to Ecuador and picked up the van and continued . If you go through Bolivia be careful with the roads there especially near La Paz, That was the scariest part of the whole trip. We put almost 13000 miles on the van and took about 32 days, needless to say we did not spend much time in the countries but we had FUN !! , We sold the van and Flew Back to Florida. Again Be Safe and Enjoy the Trip of a Lifetime !!!

[Dgurley2000]

This was an interesting post on finding waste vegetable oil in Mexico and C.America. Where are you tanks mounted? Seems like you need all the space you can get in your vehicle with seven travelers and I'm sure you found a creative solution.


http://youtu.be/9mWtNyCNo_o

[discovershare]

Thank you!! Sounds like you had a great adventure.

[discovershare]

We have one 40 gallon tank that sits in the bed of the truck on the driver's side. We built a camper on the back of our truck, and the tank is enclosed with access from the back of the truck. Above it is storage space.

[discovershare]

116037

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/05/whats-the-one-change-that-you-want-to-see-in-the-world-orphanage-visit-in-solola-guatemala/

[discovershare]

116041


You know, I really don’t like everything about travel.

There are some things I just can’t stand.

Oh sure, these things can be great experiences. They can be a novelty that’s fascinating, or fun to do… the first time.

Read more...
http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/05/im-a-despicable-human-being-face-to-face-with-poverty-in-panajachel-guatemala/

[discovershare]

116044


“I happen to think it is a bit irresponsible of you to put your kids future in jeopardy just to satisfy your need for travel. What you're doing is just risky."

was the response one commenter made on an article I recently wrote for BootsnAll about letting travel transform your life.

It’s not the first time we’ve received comments like this regarding our family lifestyle choices. We’ve been attacked before by the ‘zombie-dream slayers’.

We’ve been accused of not providing our children with a ‘stable’ life; of not preparing them for their future; of being beggars; vagrants; irresponsible.

We’ve been ‘advised’ to buy a house, get a job and put our kids into school : it’s what’s best for us. We all need some stability.

Read more

http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/05/stability-comes-from-staying-in-one-place-and-other-ridiculous-myths-quetzaltenango-guatemala/

[discovershare]

116048

According to some, our kids will never be able to go to college or get a job as a result of our nomadic lifestyle, right?

Well, that's our hope anyway...

Read more:
http://www.discovershareinspire.com/2012/05/why-i-hope-my-kids-never-go-to-college-a-k-a-the-rules-have-changed-huehuetenango-guatemala/