Thanks all.
It was truly wonderful to be there.
When my sister called to let me know it was getting close, I tossed the battery & solar suitcase, the frig, a foam pad and a sleeping bag in the van, grabbed the dog and headed out. Having the van gave me space to escape to when I needed some privacy, and I didn't have to worry about taking a bed from someone else coming from out of town. I bonded with family that I've had virtually no relationship with for years, and became very close to the rest. The standard "We should get together sometime" turned into "When are you coming to visit? I have a spot in the driveway/yard/back 40 for you!"
It was a less than ideal start, spending my first night in the van in a torrential downpour, complete with thunder and lightning. The ceiling is still unfinished so the rain pounding on the roof was LOUD!! The dog was NOT happy, and there was major flooding all around to the point of closing the interstate as well as many surface streets in surrounding counties. The roof vent leaked and the dog panted so much from anxiety the condensation was dripping from the ceiling so it was a bit clammy in the morning, but we survived and after that it got much MUCH better. Even after the house was empty, I still slept in the van because it was cozy, comfy and mine.
I think this van thing is going to work out very well for me.