It is happening!

Over the last month, I hardcore researched buses -- how to inspect a bus, bus sizes, bus conversion ideas.... I cut out proportionately sized, colour-coded furniture and appliances that I moved around on different sized layouts (see image to the left).  I scoured the internet for a bus that fit my needs -- and then, it happened.

I knew I wanted:

• A solid engine
• Midsize (6-9 windows)
• From below the rust/salt belt
• Emergency or lift side door somewhere (preference)

I was somewhat patient, very thorough in searching, and a little lucky. I found a perfectly midsized 30' bus with a side lift exit that had just been decommissioned from a school in Kentucky (crossed over 160,000 miles).  The person I purchased from included a full paint job, removal of school bus materials (stop sign, front people pusher, etc.) and, for a little extra, removed the seats and lift.

Since I still live in Detroit, I recruited my friend Finn to take a road trip with me to go grab the bus before I took off for Asheville, where I will be working on it while staying with my chosen family out there (Alan, Maggie, and Rory).

With everything removed and the yellow gone, it really felt like my little dream was really happening.  Before taking off, the seller gave me a 100% dad walk-through of all the parts and test driving it.  By the time I hit the road a couple hours later, I'd say 90% off my anxiety was gone and I was filled with excitement.  I planned to drive 3 hours of the 5 hours drive, which put me in Knoxville and just before entering more mountainous terrain.   The drive was much smoother than I expected and the midsize handled extremely well - no worries about back swaying or estimating the length of the bus.  It took very little time to become accustomed to the arrangement of mirrors.
By the next morning, I was thrilled to hit the road again.  Driving US40 into Asheville was beautiful.  I took it slow and steady and had no problems with the turns and hills.  I just cruised and let the reality of my future sink in...