I am back. At least, parts of me.

We finally have internet. After a week without it, 10 hours on the phone, tampering, rebooting, unplugging and replugging, I am reconnected!

We cleaned out our apartment, and are settling into our new home. This experience was nothing like what I expected. I didn't expect to be as stressed or have so much anxiety throughout the moving process. Moving with a baby is much more difficult- something that I seemed to not take into account. I am a "get it done" type person, and when I don't get things done, it really stresses me out.

I have learned a few things. Experience is a hard teacher.

-Have a babysitter for the closing. Especially if it's at naptime with a teething baby.
-Too many boxes is better than not enough boxes.
-Don't move during finals week or during major work deadlines.
-If possible, go to the grocery store the day before the move and stock the fridge at the new house. Or at least keep bread, peanut butter, and jelly on hand!
-Get a size larger U-Haul than you think you need - it's cheaper than having to take two trips.
-Pack your linens by wrapping breakable items in them. If I were into killing birds, I would use that expression here.
-Have a "packing party"; even if it's just for moral support, anything is more fun when friends share it with you.
-Remember to have extra patience & grace for your spouse and family members. Moving is stressful on everyone.
- Have a few "special" or new toys on hand to entertain the kids.
-Pack several days worth of clothes in a suitcase so that you can find them!
-The day of the move, start the morning off with whatever helps you relax: a bubble bath, a glass of wine, a walk, or yoga...everything will get done, and it's better to feel good when you are doing it.
-"Don't sweat the small stuff."
-Possessions are temporal.
-When in doubt, throw it away.
-It's ok to experience a wide range of emotions when moving. Relocating a home is a lot of work, physically and emotionally! Savor the happy memories and look forward to the new ones!
-Flowers make any room look happier...even if everything else is a mess.
-Say goodbye to your previous home.

I am still recovering from the ride...but we are already loving our new home and are so thankful to be a part of the vibrant history. So much more to come...