On Fri, Dec 30, 2011 at 12:27 PM, Dave Mcneely <mcneely4@cox.net> wrote:

> I don't have a VW camper because others think it is "cool," or because I
> do.  I have it because it is a tool to make camping practical for an aging,
> crusty old nut and a not always well wife.  It is that simple, and if there
> were a comparable, but more reliable vehicle, I would have that.  I also
> would not bother myself with whether it was a VW, a Ford, a Toyota, or
> whatever.  In fact, being a long-time anti-cool curmudgeon, a Toyota would
> likely be more fitting to my tastes.
>

Interesting.  If there were an equivalent vehicle but more reliable,
available at the same price, I suppose might go with it too, just because I
am so useless at repairs.

But frankly, one of the big reasons I wouldn't want to change brands is
because of all you folks out there.  Being part of the vanagon community
made living in my van a totally different experience from simply being on
the road.  I didn't know about the vanagon community when I got my van, but
realizing that I'd become part of this group of people, and wanting to stay
part of this group, is a big reason why I stick with my van now despite all
the problems.

I don't mean to sound sappy - but it's true!  So thanks, guys.

Joy