Thankful Thursday: A New Van!

In October when we found out that we were having twins, Ben told our Pastor that there were three things God was going to have to do to get us ready.  We needed a new house, a new job, and a new van.  Little by little, in just His timing and way, God has provided those things.

We moved into our new apartment {on the 1st floor!} on December 15th.  In January, Ben launched out into Home Improvement Contracting business on his own.  It was nerve wracking to not have something steady & consistent, but as we trusted God, He provided job after job after job.  The only work Ben has missed since January are the days he has chosen to take off.  This arrangement has also been a blessing as I have had more doctor’s appointments that a normal pregnancy.  Ben’s flexible schedule allows him to watch the kids while I go to the doctor.

When we announced my pregnancy to our family, we asked my dad to help us find a van.  He is the “car guy” and I don’t know if there has been a time when he wasn’t looking for a car for someone.  He did a lot of research and searching, finally helping us decide to look for a Toyota Sienna between 1998 and 2003.  We were also searching for a low mileage vehicle, as we plan to take it on the road for deputation in the next couple of years. 

We “looked” at vans in Florida, Texas, Alabama, California, and other places.  Every time we thought we had found “the one”, something fell through.  Then Ben found a 2001 Sienna with 75k miles, just 3 hours from us, in Hampden, Massachusetts.  The price was a bit lower than everything else we had seen.  Surely something must have been wrong with it.  I almost didn’t forward it to my dad for his opinion.

Dad said to investigate it more.  Ben’s dad drove down to test drive it and see if it was as good as the pictures made it seem.  The dealership agreed to change the timing belt at no extra charge.  We sent a deposit, and the van was ours!

In addition to this, our church took a collection toward our van fund, in lieu of a baby shower. {Which was never expected, by the way.  Babies 3 & 4 don’t usually get a baby shower!}  Through their generosity and our savings, the van is basically paid for.  We had expected to finance part of the purchase.

On Tuesday Ben drove up to Hampden to get the van.  Now everything is in place for the twins to arrive!  We are praising the Lord for His amazing provision.

Elaine loves the little compartment and cup holder next to her seat.  Nolan likes the air vents over his head.  I am loving the keyless entry.  We are truly blessed, and even spoiled!