Trying to force a potentially life-changing decision led to nothing but stress. As I’ve learned, forcing anything never works well.

After calming down, I figured out which direction was best to take with the van situation shared in my last post: A Sudden Twist in My Van Life Journey: A Potential Life Change.

Here’s the nitty-gritty…

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Heading Back To Northwest Illinois

Knowing this could potentially be a life change, I felt it was best to head back to my hometown area in northern Illinois. I was only a few hours away.

I wanted to get a second opinion from the auto shop I know and trust. And, depending on the outcome, I’d be here in case I need to rent an apartment for a while. Apartment life isn’t the best for my MCS but I knew it might be a card I had to play.

A few years ago, I rented a storage unit in the area. I figured if things got complicated I could store everything away until I got the situation sorted out.

What I didn’t plan on was snow, icy windshields, and below-freezing temps! It felt so strange wearing long pants and socks for the first time in years. The only jacket I could find under the bed was made of thin sweatshirt type material – but it was better than nothing.

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Getting A Grip

I have a 10+ year emotional tie to Bella (my van). This connection was more solid than I realized. I had to get past this attachment before I could make a half-ways rational decision.

In the emotional state, my decision flip-flopped so many times I lost count. It was time to apply a little life wisdom to the situation!

After several decades of roaming this planet, I’ve learned to let the emotional charge have its moment in the spotlight. Then, it fizzles out and I can move forward with clear, rational thinking.

My daughter, Nikki, also helps. She’s a great listener and a phone call away.

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Considering My Options

Through my research and talks with various people, I boiled my options down to:

• Get an RV or an already built out van
• Get a new van and build it out myself
• Get a used van and build it out myself
• Keep Bella knowing there may be more repairs as she ages

Option 1: Get an RV or an Already Built Out Van

I’m always checking out Class B RVs, but so far, I can’t find one that suits me and the prices right now are a hard NOPE!

The cost of a regular van that’s already built out isn’t quite as much as a class B but it’s still in the NOPE zone.

Option 2: Get a New Van

I spoke with a salesperson to get some insight. A new van would run $50–60K, with an 8 to 12 week wait for it to be built (unless they can find one already made the way I want), and I’d still need to build it out myself.

Option 3: Get a Used Van

Finding a used high-top van is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Used high-tops with low-mileage in well-kept condition go fast.

Plenty of used low-roof vans are available but I can’t see myself living full-time in a van I can’t stand up in.

Option 4: Keep Bella

She may need more repairs as she ages. But she’s already built out, paid for, and I know all her quirks.

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The Verdict

The hard part is, there is no right or wrong choice – which is not ideal for an over-thinker to sift through!

I had to choose the best choice for right now based on my needs, wants, and what I could reasonably manage.

And the verdict is… I’ll be keeping Bella.

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Parting Thoughts

The parts are supposed to come in today but the repair will take a few business days to complete – and a few days is as far ahead as I’m going to plan!

I’m happy with my decision but always remember…

As a woman, I hold the inalienable right to change my mind at a moment’s notice… no warning, no reason, sometimes just for grins-n-giggles 😁🤭

Connie 🌼