I think my main goal for 2009 is to have a solid plan in purchasing a new van.
Not that there is anything wrong with our current van… well, anymore than normal, that is.
If we were to get a van that suited our needs better, traveling would be a lot easier.
Currently the van we own works alright for short trips, or necessary doctors visits.
But, its a super bouncy ride, which jostles Tom and makes him very sore, very quickly. The side doors that houses the wheelchair lift haven’t been made taller, either. In order to get Tom’s tall chair into the van, he must tilt back far… which (as a safety function) makes him unable to drive his chair. Therefore, we have to manually move the chair into the correct spot in the van. Its all a well orchestrated ordeal with Paul, Tom and myself each playing a vital role.
Its not impossible for one person to get Tom into the van by themselves. But, its not a lot of fun. And, lets face it, no one is getting younger over here. Therefore, it’s just going to get more difficult.
So, a van is on my list of To-Do’s for 2009.
Cost? Uhm… looking around a little online has me guessing at least $20,000 for one that will suite Tom’s needs.
If his chair weren’t so darned tall, I’m sure we could possibly find something cheaper. I’d say that Tom sits up about about 5 feet tall in that electric throne of his. Geez.
Anyhow, financing isn’t out of the question. But, we cannot afford a typical 5 year note at this juncture in our lives. Some Lots offer 10 year financing, which sounds great… except if the van goes kaput before we get the thing paid off.
I checked Ebay, too. There are some possibilities there. Although, money upfront is not an option. And, we’d then have to find a way to get the vehicle to Missouri.
Point being… I’m just in the beginning stages of trying to figure this out.
But, its definitely something I’d like to see accomplished in 2009, if at all possible.



Saturday, 3. January 2009
Hmm…new van. I will keep my eyes open for any specials that come about!!
trishk’s last blog post..Happy New Year!
Saturday, 3. January 2009
Wow, good luck with the hunt. I hope you find something that meets your needs!
Andi’s last blog post..Spoiler Alert
Sunday, 4. January 2009
Well, one of the good things about this bad economy, Sheila, is that car salesmen are DESPERATE to bring in a customer. It should be a buyers market for you.
annie’s last blog post..Merry Ho-Ho!