Greeting everyone!  So much has happened since September 30^th and here we are, heading out on another journey.

When the story left off, Linda and I returned from a great western US journey, logging over 5,000 miles in our restored 67 VW Westy.  There were some required changes and repairs after the inaugural run and some changes to make us more self-sufficient and comfortable for a longer stretch of time.

One of the most significant changes was changing out the single carburetor to dual carbs – resulting in an increase of about 20 horsepower, which really helps on top cruising speeds and being able to get out of one’s own way more quickly.  We built a really strong engine to begin with, and now the carbs help delivers what was originally intended.

Front and rear wheel bearings needed replacement (one of the only items that we thought were in pretty good condition previously).  Fronts are pretty easy to do, but the rears are quite a bit more work with all the gearing back there.

The shiny new boxes on top are our new storage system from Zarges, a German case manufacturer.  While our vertical profile is greater, the added horsepower seems to overcome any resistance from the boxes.  Plus, it’s certainly a unique look!  Also added a really sweet awning system by Fiamma, an Italian supplier.

So why this trip at this time???

With a number of business projects in Florida this winter / spring, we decided to look for a window where I can bring the Westy to Florida and travel back and forth at different times in the coming months and tour the state from St Augustine to the Keys.

BUT – leaving on a -10 day was a bit crazy in a vehicle without heat!  Writing this on the morning of Day 3, and I am still thawing out here in Nashville.  That said, the window of opportunity without snow and gusting winds was narrow, so off I went.

I will only say the first day was absolutely brutal.  When the temp is -10 outside, it is about -9 inside the bus.  Just brutal.  The only saving grace was the electric blanket we purchased at Target on Tuesday evening.  Since I have an inverter on the bus (converts 12v battery to 110 household current), I was able to plug in the blanket and wrap myself in it.  Fingers and toes are another story and still not completely thawed.

Sorel’s would have been better, but pretty clumsy for driving, and it wasn’t until yesterday that I got some of those hot finger packets.  The reason was, I was too brain frozen to think about trying to warm up.  Thought most about taking a nap and letting the hypothermia take its course!

In Nashville today to replace a turn signal, which has gone defective and affecting brake lights – dang Chinese aftermarket quality!  Hoping to hit the road later today and get somewhere warm as soon as possible!

Last night, I did manage to get over to Roberts Western World – one of the finest old music honky tonks for some great music, a couple beers and a burger.  Met a husband and wife originally from Baltimore, who now reside in the Orlando area.  Both retired from the US Government (Social Security to be exact).  They are on their way to Madison WI to visit kids and grandkids.  Candy thinks we are kindred spirits since I drive the bus and she wants to 🙂    By the way, she is certain we will have enough Social Security till at least 2030 something unless people keep borrowing from it.

Off to the repair shop and hopefully more time to meet people and share stories!

Stay warm all!