[speeder]

Well, that was the shortest (non) ownership on record for me. After agreeing on a price for the Vanagon yesterday afternoon and agreeing to come back with the $$ today, I just got a call from the seller stating that someone had "topped my offer" and bought the van.

Mind you, he did not tell me that he would, "consider my offer", yesterday. The rig had been for sale for some time and we agreed on a price, shook hands and agreed to close the transaction today. I told him to consider it sold.

This is also at a business that I've done god-knows-how-much biz with over a period of many years. I'm a little shocked right now. It's amazing how small a dollar amount will make some individuals sell-out their integrity.

I sold one of my cars on eBay last week. It did not quite reach the price I would have liked and of course I started getting higher offers the minute the auction ended. The buyer is in Canada and happened to be knocked out by the flu so he did not reply to my emails promptly. I was secretly hoping that he would flake so that I could sell it for more to someone else but in the end, (as of this am, actually), he came through. He's a good guy and he will get the car plus all assistance I can give him with shipping, etc.

A deal is a fking deal in my world. I've wanted a Vanagon Wolfsburg forever but this ain't the one, I guess.

This board is filled with amazing people and I appreciate all of the advice. All of it. As much as we bicker over politics and other stuff, I can't think of one long-time poster who I would not help or trust with sending $$ to, etc. I've done business with people here that involved sending many many thousands through the banks and you guys have integrity. This schmuck sold-out his integrity for a lousy $250, and I told him as much.

Sorry for the sharp detour but this subject means a lot to me. My life is taking off this year with business oportunities that will involve a lot of $$ and mutual trust. I'm blessed to have really good people in my life as friends and business associates. And I'm lucky to know you all. Thanks again.