Today's tips: how to move and unpack while minimizing anxiety and maximizing health, fun, and happy.
Tip #1. You are underestimating the amount of crap that you have. Yeah, you purged while you were packing, but you still have too much stuff. Get a bigger truck than you think you will need or be prepared to take two trips. And, let me tell you - that second trip is a doozy.
Tip #2. Provide your helpers with sustenance. I sustained my lucky moving team (mom, dad, brother, boyfriend) with cold bottled water, almonds, homemade healthy peanut butter honey granola, dark chocolate peanut butter cupcakes, and beer (obviously).
Tip #3. Make an 'open first box'. This is vital. You would like to think that when you move you will carefully place each box in its appropriate location. This lasts for the first five, maybe six boxes. After that, all hell breaks loose. Your 'open first box' should be carefully planned, clearly labeled, and transported separately. Inside, are the essentials for a happy first few days. Mine contained items such as running shoes/gear, peanut butter, TV remote control, bottle cap opener (see Tip #2), phone charger, and cereal).
Tip #4. You don't have to order takeout on your first night. If you want takeout, order it. But, the grill is strewn in the yard - buy some chicken and bbq sauce and put your boyfriend in charge. Scour your boxes for a baking sheet and throw some sweet potatoes in the oven - or hell just put them straight on the rack. I was lucky enough to locate my knifes and sautee pan so I made asparagus. If you aren't this lucky just add some veggies to the grill and you are good to go. Oh, and cross your fingers someone will stop by with a housewarming gift of wine and fresh bread.
Tip #5. Figuring out your new running route is more important than unpacking. I may or may not have spent many, many hours online already developing running-friendly routes and, of course, running them.
Ugh can we not talk about moving?? I freaking hate moving =( and we're about to be moving again - for the fourth time in four years. ICK.
ReplyDeleteI love your "open first" box!!!!!
oh no! you have to move again! ugh i am still reeling from my move 2 weeks ago. try the open first box - it really helps!
DeleteThese are great tips, especially the open first box.
ReplyDeleteThese are some great tips Sara! I'll need to keep these in mind when I move in a few weeks. Especially the "open this first" box- I have a feeling that will come in handy :)
ReplyDeleteOh, moving is terrible. I've moved three times in two years (hello, working in the media haha). I hate it. Hate hate hate hate it. But these are wonderful tips! Especially locating the bottle opener right off the bat. Crucial.
ReplyDeleteUgh, moving is the worst. I can't believe I have to do it again in less than a month. (Long story short, my roommate is bat shit crazy and I'm getting out). I'm totally taking the PB cupcake/beer recommendation!!
ReplyDeleteUghhhh I hate moving! I just moved ROOMS a couple weeks ago (that's it) and it took all weekend, haha
ReplyDeleteMoving is the worst! It's never ending...
ReplyDeleteBut, I'm loving all of these tips! Especially labeling boxes as "open first". The next time I move (which might actually be VERY soon) I'll definitely be doing that.
And you're so sweet for baking everyone cupcakes! I'm sure they loved them.
Hopefully things will all fall into place soon! <3
We moved into our house last summer and the best thing I did was have everyone pack a suitcase with their most important items. Made everything SO much easier!!
ReplyDeleteJen@HealthyFoodandFamily
Packing up is the hardest thing to do. But if you had family with you, you can enjoy the work that you've than while having fun, bonding with them. Prepared some nutritious and healthy snacks for the whole family, this will be a great fun.
ReplyDeleteJoseph @ eastern suburbs sydney removalist