Guest Author - Jennifer Minekheim

Moving can be so stressful. There are so many worries and expectations involved. “Will I like my new place?” Where will I shop, bank, eat, etc…” The list could go on forever. There is so much uncertainty! Well, I wish I could say I can take all the uncertainty away, but I can't. I do, however, have some tips that can make moving a little easier and a lot less stressful for you and your loved ones.

Let’s start with packing. Do not; I repeat, DO NOT, wait until the last second! Packing always takes longer than you think it will. When you start going through your things, you come across long lost mementos that you, number one, do not think you can live without, and number two, absolutely must show to every member of your family. This adds on a lot of time that you have usually not planned on. It is never too early to get started. Begin packing the items you aren’t currently using first, like out of season clothing and linens.

When you’re ready to pack, pick up some markers and labels at the local office supply store. Be as specific as possible about what you are putting in those boxes. For example, it will be a lot easier to prioritize your unpacking if your boxes are labeled “silverware” and “dishes”, rather than “kitchen”. Try to be as organized as possible when you pack, instead of just tossing items in boxes randomly. Put health and beauty items together in one box, clothes in several others, linen in another, etc. A little extra effort starting out will make things a lot easier when you go to unpack.

Whether you’re hiring movers or doing it yourself, pack some emergency rations that you will personally take with you when you go to your new home. Some of the things you should have immediately available to you are:
• Two days worth of clothing for everyone in the family
• Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc.)
• Sheets and towels for everyone
• Basic cleaning supplies
• Food (convenience foods—granola bars, travel packs of cereal and snacks, microwave pasta meals/soups, fruit)
• Bottled water
• Phone numbers for the police, electric/gas/water companies, family members, etc.
• One or two pots and pans, plastic dishes and silverware
• Light bulbs, batteries and flashlights
• Basic tools such as a screwdriver and a hammer
• A few toys and books for any children in the house

If you have these items with you, you can provide nourishment, clothing, warmth and light to yourself and your family your first night in your new home even if the moving van never comes or you’re too tired to unpack everything right away.

Although having those few items easily accessible makes that first day a lot easier, try to unpack and put your home in order as soon as possible. Leaving stuff in boxes for more than a few days can quickly add up to weeks and even months. You’ll stare at it every day and feel stressed out and discontented. Settle in and make your house a home! This is especially important for your children. Moving is often hardest on them and they need to get back to their routine as soon as possible. Get their input as much as possible for their rooms and/or play area but do it right away. The less stressed they are, the happier you’ll be!

Another way to make moving to a new home a little easier is to scope out the neighborhood you’re moving to before the big day. Find the nearest grocery store, bank, your favorite fast food restaurants, and your children’s school. Print out directions from your house to your job and other important places you’ll need to go right away. Getting lost is an added stressor that you don’t need and can easily avoid with a little planning.

One final tip-- relax! Even if you think you’ve planned for every situation, something will probably go wrong. Don’t worry. If you follow the tips given to you above, you will be ready for almost every situation. Things are bound to be a little messy for a while, but soon you will be settled in to your new home and wondering why you didn’t do this sooner!