Thought a re-introduction was in order as I haven't been online so much since first joining. Potted history: bought Daisy (our first camper) in Nov 2010. Grand plans to get up to all sorts of fun in her got knocked on the head with a cancer diagnosis in Mar 2011. Luckily doctors are super clever and after a hard year they declared me fixed in the Sept. Hence a year where Daisy barely got a look in, and spend most of the year outside getting slightly rustier . Though we did manage a short jaunt over to Ireland which was lovely, though due to various reasons most of the trip we slept in hotels (not quite the camping trip we had in mind!). 2012 was a better year, and we managed a few weekends and days out in Daisy, but could see it was time for some love and attention to bring her back. The previous owner had done lots on the underside to keep her in pretty good shape, but the inside was starting to get pretty tired and the many-shades-of-cream paint work had a few bubbling patches which we needed to get on top of. The hunt for a mechanic was on, and after a few enquiries we found our man in Lee Taylor at Manflowers in Evesham, and we booked her in for a winter overhaul. Currently Lee's working his magic and I am excitely working on plans for the interior, which we are going to try and do as much as we can ourselves (though we are limited by lack of off-road space as well as inexperience), but I'm expecting plenty of enthusiam and a few visits to the experts should get us through! I find the forum so useful for answering my many questions, but expect to see a few pop up as I get stuck in this year. Will make sure I post some pics as we progress. Away from camping I like getting out and about on my bike, which I'm hoping will improve my fitness lots this year, as I'm currently puffing like a steam-train if I have to go up the slightest incline. Mary-Jane Here's a photo of Daisy from a weekend in mid-Wales last year (if I've done it right)
welcome Mary Jane, sorry to hear about the health issues, not pleaseant at all..glad you are sorted and all clear..
A great intro Mary Jane. Your van will be well looked after at manflowers. I've seen examples of their work at Camperjam and their attention to detail was impressive. What have you got planned for the interior then, or is it a secret
It's no secret, just not fully decided. Being a typical female I keep changing my mind Full width RnR bed and a removable cooker unit (most likely to be homemade), some fold down extra seating and a table. That's going to be about it, no sink or fridge for us - we've found we're always on campsites so don't need them. I want to keep it feeling spacious and comfy. I'll pop up some pics as we get going. Might well be a case of minimal essentials to get started with, then tart it up as we have time.
Sounds good. A full width bed is a good idea and I would love a removable cooker...that's a really neat camping idea. Remember to take loads of photos.
