Moving: Do it like a pro

Here we are again. Another address change. Definitely not the last (unless Jesus comes back soon...which would be aaaaaaawesome!).

I'm writing down these notes for my future self as much as I'm imparting tips to any of you who might find them useful.

General moving tips

• Before the move, make a pact with your partner that you will remain friends. Make a tremendous effort to protect your relationship. It is a stressful time. Don't forget to cultivate your relationship throughout this period. Hug a lot.
• Ensure that the place you are moving into is clean before moving day. Make sure cabinets have all been wiped down, the fridge has no funk, carpet as been cleaned, and things are generally in good order before moving things in.
• When disassembling furniture, beds, lamps, etc., put the hardware in a plastic bag along with any written assembly tips and tape it to the item itself.
• Designate a box (or preferably a clear bin) called "Essential Items" that should be accessible throughout moving day. Include the following:
• Snacks 
• Pen/marker 
• Packing tape 
• Scissors 
• Tape measurer 
• Basic tools 
• Flashlight 
• Toilet paper 
• Paper towels 
• Cleaning supplies (including bleach wipes) 
• Dishes & utensils (disposables) 
• Garbage bags + plastic grocery bags 
• Ziplock bags 
• Hand soap 
• Dish soap + sponge 
• Towels + hand towels 
• Toiletries 
• Shower curtain 
• Bedding 
• Electronics + their chargers
• Don't hate on those who never help you move even though you've helped move their asses a ton of times. (That's us. Sorry.)

Where to find boxes

• Craigslist free listings - Look for bubble wrap and packing paper, too.
• Liquor stores - Since these are rare nowadays, look for places like BevMo!
• Grocery stores - Most of the time, the people to ask are the folks in the produce section. Most other boxes are broken down and crushed immediately to save space. But sometimes you can catch some produce peeps with fruit boxes (which are nice because they are sturdy and have handles).
• Parents of babies in diapers - Those bulk diaper boxes typically come with dandles and they are great for moving.
• Printer paper boxes are also nice and sturdy.
• UHaul also has this take-a-box/leave-a-box program where people dump off their used boxes and you can pick them up. Sweet!

Packing

• Get way more boxes than you think you need. Get a variety of sizes.
• Make awesome moving labels. Spend way more time perfecting them than actually packing.
• Also, do spend an exorbitant amount of time compiling the perfect "Packing Mix" playlist on Grooveshark. While you compile this playlist, also blog about it.
• Pack plates vertically for maximum protection. And, of course, cushion each piece with packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Don't pack away sheets and blankets just yet. For the linen pieces that are easily washable, leave them out so they can be used to cushion your furniture, TV, etc. on moving day.

Change of address

Change your address here:

• The post office
• Work/school
• For those in this region: Puget Sound Energy
• Church directory
• Car insurance
• Department of licensing/DMV
• The bank
• Credit cards
• Gym (what's that?)
• Places where you owe money

We're really tired. But we're very grateful to be back in Seattle again! I feel alive to be in the city and to be closer to the ocean.

Seriously, though, the next move will be our last move. Ugh.