So, the part came in today but it didn’t fix the Westy. Jamie was crestfallen as he returned to the library, where the kids and I were waiting, thinking that a valve or ring or cylinder was causing the problem. We arranged for towing to Santa Fe, interviewed a Westy mechanic on the phone and decided to try a compression check to see if the problem was indeed that serious. We got propane (at the Glass company, of course; No, not at the RV place advertising propane, nor at the business with an enormous sign “Propane Sold”, but yes, the Glass shop. Both the other businesses were out) and tools for the compression check at Jamie’s favorite parts store, Auto Zone and headed back to the gas station. I spoke with the manager and assured him that we could either leave immediately (it was 4pm or so), but that we would either have the Westy fixed by tomorrow am or have it towed; that we had arranged for a mechanic and tow in Santa Fe. He was just really pleased that a family of 7 had not just moved into his gas station and offered lodging for the night again. He is so accomodating and such a sweet guy, if you have the gumption, please send him a thank you at rhocdave@cybermesa dot com. They have allowed us to connect to electricity and get water for two nights now, and allowed Jamie to work on the Westy and never gave us anything but concern and offers of help. Everyone from the attendants to the owner has been exceedingly nice. I gave them some Talavera cups but if you have it in you, I’m sure some thankful emails would be lovely.
So, Jamie has JUST (I finally setup the tripod) replaced the O2 sensor on the Westy and we await his return to see what the state of the engine will be.
Kitty,
Wow, sounds like you need a vacation
The carraige house might not be ready when you all arrive (for t-day) – but we have figured out sleeping for everyone (Michael too, if he is still around). It is hard to have someone living with you that doesn’t take part in the group needs. Zane is at a peak in his reaction to being asked to help empty a dishwasher, or simply picking one item off the floor to put away. It is hard to deal with his fight of it, but it is easier for me to see (at the fourth child) the need for everyone to help out and not cave with his whining/moaning/etc. Cody and Graham come home today from their two week trip to the east. Cody called last night and I didn’t recognize his voice. His voice has already changed, but I think it got a lot deeper. It was strange.
-Michelle
Hi Kathy – we emailed the following to your angels:
Greetings,
We have been reading about your helping the family of 7 in the Westy. While we know these folks as friends via Blogs and email, we do not personally know them. That written we believe they are a wonderful family. They have written of your kindness towards them. In an ever more cold and selfish world that we live to read of people with such a warm and giving heart is quite encouraging. We believe your kindness will be repaid many fold as people such as yourself deserve rewards. In any case we wanted to thank you for your friendship and giving spirit towards our Internet friends.
Respectably Yours,
John & Anita Calypso
Pueblo, Colorado