| FINDING THE NEXT DREAM MIATA By Denise Correia 8 years ago on July 4th weekend, I fell in love with my first Miata, a '96 M-edition. At 151,000 miles I was still happy to drive the foothills every chance I got for what I call "4-wheel therapy". I confess there were several times I was attracted to another Miata, first the Mahagany then during the last couple of years I was dreaming of a new retractable hard top in Stormy Blue. Finally, the excuse to buy a new Miata presented itself on July 4th weekend. My grandson needed my Miata and after some thought, I agreed he could adopt it. Coincidentally, on July 4th weekend, I said a teary "goodbye" to my '96 M while my grinning grandson drove it away. I heard he spent 3 hours detailing it and even changed the oil so I am convinced my much loved '96 M-edition was adopted by a true "Miata" man. Of course, I started my research of the internet with a spreadsheet containing about 40 Miatas then eventually I requested price quotations for about 15 MX-5 models scattered about California. Finally, I found two with my criteria "dreamy next Miata" ......2008 Stormy Blue Grand Touring Power Retractable Hardtop with tan/saddle leather interior with 6-speed manual plus the suspension package (premium package, sirius radio, appearance package, chrome wheels, chrome fuel door, "wood" dash/shift knob/brake/door buttom trim).....Escondido Mazda offered the most options on a similar model as offered by a San Jose dealer but San Jose model was price at $2000 higher without all the options. The decision seemed clear and easy. The sales contact at Escondido Mazda is a long time Miata lover and club member, Barb Shev, who quickly responded to my every question with energy and enthusiasum. Initially, my Placerville friend was making a trip to San Diego to visit her sone but was not able to schedule her trip in the near future. Barb was willing to pick me up from the airport and made other very kind offers. On Friday, July 11th, I caught a Southwest flight from Sacramento to San Diego. Barb met me in a titanium Miata at the airport then we drove to the dealer ....topdown during a 71 degree clear and smokeless day. Barb introduced me to everyone at the dealership. We found mine getting a last minute detail touchup. I said a teary "hello" to my new love. Time for paperwork and scary money changing then Barb provided a terrific lunch for me. After lunch she spent a couple of hours to help me drive a twisty nearby road, learn the feel of my new baby, and review the operation of every button & knob from bumper to bumper. She mentioned the differences between my '96 and my '08 then demonstrated the up & down procedure for the hardtop and numerous other items while letting me try until I felt comfortable with each operation. She helped program radio stations and even set the clock for me. Finally, with clear directions I left Barb in Escondido about 5:00pm to drive to Fresno. Five hours later I arrived at |
| my folks home in Fresno after a miraculous drive with no traffic or trouble at all. The next day my family enjoyed show and tell with me (mom, dad, brother, sister, nieces, nephew, in-laws) including rides around the country blocks and celebrated my new baby. Early Saturday afternoon SJVMC members met me for lunch (Sharon Mack and Bill Morris) to celebrate my new baby. I decided to christen him Wild Blue (as in off into the wild blue yonder) and started looking for a chrome license plate to include his name. About 4:30pm I left Fresno to return home to Placerville. I stopped for gas then learned my mileage to be 30mpg (so far, which is higher then estimates on the window sticker) during my first 48 hours of ownership and about 750 miles of driving. Sunday the "Miata High" continued during visits with SAMOA member (Skip Noyes and Ron Crawford). Also during visits with girlfriends (Ellen and Karlene) who offered lots of positive responses via ooohs & aaaahs. I am delighted and enjoying the euphoria of my new baby. Deni |
| Denise Correia |