moving: Moving Countdown Part 5: Moving Day! - 02/03/10 09:29 AM
After much anticipation, it's finally arrived: moving day! Here are some tips to make this move a good one:
Strip the beds and put all bedding in a box labeled "Load Last". That way, it's the first to be unloaded and you'll have blankets for the first night in your new home! Make sure to be on hand when the movers arrive. If you're not available, authorize another adult and tell the movers who's in charge for the day. Spend plenty of time with the movers and make sure special instructions are understood. Don't be bossy or condescending - communicate well … (0 comments)

moving: Moving Countdown Part 4: The Week Before - 01/29/10 03:42 AM
We started this series with tips for 6-8 weeks before moving. Now we're up to the week before the big day! Here are some ideas to make it less stressful:
Tie up those loose ends! Make sure you've returned movie rentals, library books, and items borrowed from friends and neighbors. Review moving tips from previous posts to make sure you haven't missed anything. Confirm your travel arrangements. Pack suitcases and check airline and hotel reservations. Keep plans as flexible as possible to accomodate last minute changes. At least one day before your move, empty, defrost, and clean your fridge and freezer. … (1 comments)

moving: Moving Countdown Part 3: 2-3 Weeks Before - 01/21/10 03:35 AM
So far we've covered tips for 6-8 weeks and 4-5 weeks before your move. Here are some ideas for 2-3 weeks before the big day:
Call ahead to schedule utilites to be connected at your new home. This includes electricity, gas, water, phone, cable, internet, etc. Call your bank to change your address or transfer accounts. If you use a local credit union or bank that doesn't have branches in your new area, ask if they have recommendations or "partner" banks. Make final packing decisions and start packing items you don't use very often. Create a staging area in the garage … (1 comments)

moving: Moving Countdown Part 2: 4-5 Weeks Before - 01/12/10 03:51 PM
In the last blog, we covered what to do 6-8 weeks before your move. Here are some tips to follow 4-5 weeks before the big day arrives:
If you live in an apartment or condo, now is the time to talk with your property manager about scheduling your move. There may be date or time restrictions as to when moving can be done. Make sure to abide by any rental or lease agreement you may have to avoid hefty fines. Contact the moving company to schedule your move date and reserve the appropriate sized truck. Notify your insurance company and schedule … (1 comments)

moving: Moving Countdown Part 1: 6-8 Weeks Before - 01/11/10 05:55 PM
Moving. The word can bring up feelings ranging from happiness and excitement to exhaustion and dread. No matter where you fall on the scale, these tips can help your next move be a smooth one.
What to do 6-8 weeks before the big day:
Determine which items you wish to take to your new home. Items you don't need should either be donated to charity or sold at a garage sale. You may consider teaming up with your neighbors who want to sell some of their belongings and hold a "neighborhood sale." If you plan on packing your own items, start … (1 comments)