Moving Tips from an Expert

A few days ago, I had the realization that this upcoming move will be my fourth in less than three years, yes, I said fourth. Gah. For a kid who NEVER moved until college, this is a big deal.

Not sure if I've gone crazy or what but alas, we are moving yet again. Since I am apparently becoming an expert at this, I thought I'd share a few tips for a stress-free (ok, thats impossible but less-stressful) move. 

Tip #1: Make a friendly visit to an ABC store and ask for boxes. You may end up looking like you drink vodka morning, noon and night but hey, they are very sturdy boxes- perfect for books! --- you can see all the vodka boxes in the picture above.

Tip #2: Label EVERYTHING. 

Tip #3: I realize this is going to sound incredibly ridiculous and over the top (...but just remember this is coming from an unorganized person, so you can do it too!), color code boxes based on the room they will go in. For example, on each box I use a different color tape to represent what room the box will land in (ie: pink for the kitchen). The tape also says what room and what items, for example: Kitchen- wine glasses.

Tip #4: Recruit some friends & provide food/drinks for them. Last time we moved, I bought a bunch of Jersey Mike's subs, chips & drinks for everyone. It keeps everyone happy & is a little "thank you" for all their hard work.

Tip #5: Don't take things too seriously. No need to get all worked up- it will all get done & in place! (I'll be reminding myself that this week!) AND, plan a relaxing night in after the move. Order some pizza with a few friends and just take a break.

So.many.boxes.

I've been sort of MIA from the blogging world because I've been packing boxes like a mad woman. It seems that you never realize how much stuff you have until you move. 

Fortunately, the ABC store here gives out boxes for free. I walked in last week and the lady at the counter was staring me down and clearly thought I was too young to be in there (naturally). I asked her about boxes and she told me take as many as you can fit in your car! I've loaded the lil' camry up a few times now. I finally feel like I'm making a dent in the moving process! We still have a ways to go, but it will get done.

We are stoked about moving from an apartment to a house. Will & I both love to be outside which is something we've really disliked about an apartment. We are excited for sitting around a fire in the backyard, riding bikes in the neighborhood and eating dinner on the patio. 

This upcoming week/weekend will be crazy, but hopefully we can get settled fairly quickly. I have attempted to be organized in this moving process (something that is so not me). I've got all the boxes color coordinated and labeled (ie: pink tape=kitchen, orange=master bedroom). Hopefully having things organized beforehand will help cut down on the unpacking time. 

Will informed me yesterday that Revolution will be filming in Raleigh for over a week starting the Monday after we move. Not too excited about that, but on the bright side, I'll have plenty of time to unpack while he is away. 

i'll admit; i'm already pretty sore from lifting boxes and carrying loads in and out.