Hi friends,

I have been lurking around here for about a month and I guess it is time to introduce myself!  First I was waiting for our westy purchase to go through.  The seller was reluctant to part with it and now that we have officially adopted it, I think I understand why.  I love it!!!  My friends love it!!!  My kid loves it!

I am about to embark with my 7 year old daughter on a trip from Atlanta to Crested Butte, Colorado to visit a friend and bum around camping for the month of July.  It was just going to be me and my daughter but my friend's brother is now coming along for the drive from Atlanta to Colorado.  I am quite happy to have the company and the know how as he is an excellent outdoorsman.  Husband will join us for a week at some point, but except for my passenger on the first leg I am going to be on my own.

My van did not come with any manuals so I bought one on ebay for vanagons.  I need to get my hands on instructions for the fridge and stove  - I have no idea how to light these things and I think I will need some help.  Does anybody know where to get instructions for how to light these two things?

  If I understand correctly, I should first cool  the fridge for 24 hours on electric power and then switch to auxillary battery?  Only power it with propane if going to be settled in one spot for the whole time?

The van is at the mechanic now getting some things taken care of before the trip.  Because I am going to high altitude, should I ask the mechanic to adjust for this??

I have appreciated the suggestions on the list about what to pack and I am going to track down the list of repair shops between here and there if the need should arise.  I have some extra belts.  Gathering my other must have and like to have supplies and emergency items.  Really looking forward to hitting the road for 4 weeks and hope that I meet some of you out there.

Happy trails to all -

Lisa Bliss
1987 Westy "Bree"