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I am a bit late catching up on posting about the van completion and pick up, as a lot has been going on lately and I have been focused on Pat, who I have been caregiving for years…see my previous post. ❤️
…and to be perfectly honest, a few days ago I really re-injured my 10yr old motorcycle knee injury, so resting it allows for lots of website updating time!
I delivered the van to Venturhaus January 4th, 2024…after coordinating and planning for full time van living for quite some time, my long awaited dream is happening!
TJ kept me updated on the van progress, sending photos and refining the details. I asked for certain measurements which helped me to finish up details on my end. I found the perfect sized collapsible dog crate that fits exactly in the space under my bed and a nice dog bed as well. I had an old rug that had begun to wear that I was able to re-purpose and sew into my bench seat cushions and pillow. I found a Pendleton yoga mat that fit perfectly as a floor runner and various kitchen appliances that fit well in the drawers. Coordinating the decor is right up my alley…love that whole process, so satisfying when everything comes together!
The van is finished and I excitedly picked up on February 28th…just a few days before my big 70th…a new decade and best birthday gift ever!
There were a few finishing touch delays when I arrived at Venturhaus, so I ordered the guys pizza as they worked into dinnertime getting everything perfect for me. I was pretty tired to start the drive back home, so I spent the first night in the van in Evergreen. Good that I did as the heater gave me problems and TJ resolved them the next morning.
It was a beautiful drive back to Santa Fe down 285 as lots of snow had fallen through the passes but the roads were manageable. I love how the van drives and handles and my thoughts were looking forward to being able to travel and explore full time in my new home for the road!
When back in Santa Fe, I re-registered the van from cargo to RV and re-insured with specialty RV insurance for full timers. It offers comprehensive coverage for the complete build, contents and liability similar to a homeowners policy…and a substantial savings!
Within a few days of returning home, the heater malfunctioned again. I plugged in to shore power and set up a little space heater to keep the water supply from freezing. After discussing with TJ, I decided to upgrade my heater to an Espar.
So…another enjoyable scenic trip to Evergreen!
Very happy with the replacement heater and always so great to take a scenic drive and see the guys, their dogs, enjoy the music and all around good and vibrant energy at Venturhaus!
Before I left, TJ had photographer Cory Lynch shoot photos of my van that you can see on the van page. All is well with my new home on wheels…love it!
In the days following my return, Pat had a rapid decline and her family arrived from Ohio and Virgina. Being at Pat’s side for the duration with just a few breaks, I was grateful to have the van in the parking lot at El Castillo Memory Care when I needed to retreat for some shuteye. My pup Sky, is a natural therapy dog and was sensitive to the process and was calmly with Pat as well, she just knew.
Pat had a peaceful passing with her son and daughter by her side on April 10. So grateful to have shared time with Pat and her wonderful family. Such a beautiful gift.