Thursday, April 28, 2016

On The Move - Part II

Y'all.  Two weeks ago today I had no clue that we were moving. 

And today we have closing dates on the house that we're buying AND the house that we sold.  Yes... our house is sold.

It's still so weird!  It was officially listed last Friday afternoon and we had our first offer Friday night.  We had tons of showings Saturday and Sunday and officially accepted and signed Sunday night. 

I've booked movers, we've picked out furniture and I'm getting quotes on painting and having a couple of things done at the new house.

Since moving has consumed our lives this past week I thought I'd share some thoughts ;)

Getting Ready To List
In general, we're pretty neat and tidy people.  We have three young kids, so there's always an abundance of toys and laundry, but for the most part, we tidy up at night and I'd feel comfortable having someone unexpectedly drop by without feeling like I needed to shove a bunch of stuff in the closet when the doorbell rings :)  That said, we're five people... so in order for it to show well I packed up a TON of stuff.  I packed away 95% of the boys Legos, and probably 85% of their clothes.  I took Griffin's doll house and play tent out of her room and pared down her closet as well.  In our bedroom I packed away all of our winter clothes and things that I had stored on the top shelf of our master closet.  I emptied out our linen closets to the bare minimum and in the office I packed away most of what was on our built ins.  Everything that I packed we have stacked neatly in the garage.



My realtor suggested that I leave up some decor (like on my kitchen counters, office shelves, kids rooms, etc.) as well as our canvas prints down the hallway and other items that I had on the walls. 

We had our carpets professionally cleaned and removed some of the area rugs to make the spaces feel as big as possible.  We also had all of the screens on our windows removed and our windows washed inside and out to make everything bright and sparkly :)

I went around and touched up paint on the walls, baseboards and on some of our doors and magic erasered everything ;)  Our cleaning ladies came in the day before showings started and had everything looking PERFECT as well.


Show Time!
I have vivid memories of being a kid and having our house on the market for weeks (or months!) with a showing every few days.  We had to keep our house spotless for weeks on end and be ready to get out on a moments notice.  Talk about a nightmare!!!

Thankfully, the market here is CRAZY right now, which means lots and lots of showings.  This is great.... but with 25+ showings over 2 and a half days,  we had to be out pretty much from 9 am until 8 pm.  Once we had our house show ready (Friday morning) we avoided being at home as much as possible.  We ate lots of meals out, hung out at my parents house, used a cottage at the country club for baths and naptime (seriously!) and spent our fair share of time in the car.  With three little ones it's hard for them to be at home and not want to get out their toys, do watercolor paints and/or spill goldfish all over the floor.  It was just easier for us to stay away and THANKFULLY we were able to do so pretty comfortably.

Jack Bauer is a sweetheart, but I was afraid that a steady stream of people in and out of house would be a lot for him.  Once again, my parents came to the rescue :)  They graciously offered to have Jack Bauer at their house for the weekend and he had the BEST time with their dog, Scooter.  We're continuing to show our house through the option period of the contract we're in and he's home (crated) for those showings since they're kind of sporadic and spur of the moment.  

The Kitchen
I can't even lie.  Leaving our kitchen is going to be ROUGH.  We adore our kitchen. 

I'm going to miss it a TON, but I'm confident that the new kitchen will feel like "ours" as soon as we start enjoying it as a family.  



Nothing will ever compare to my current kitchen window (sigh) or brick wall (double sigh)... but I'm excited about having new spaces to make special for holidays and for the mud room that's attached to the kitchen! EEEK



And just for fun... the new kitchen has a little kitchen window space that we totally took as a sign that this was the house for us :) hahaha



Decisions, Decisions, Decisions.
I feel like all I've been doing is making decisions. hahaha  First up has been paint.

I'm a HUGE fan of green (and creature of habit!) and so even though I would LOVE to go in and have all the kids rooms painted the same color they are now (hahaha), they're actually picking (with our guidance)!  Griffin wants a pink room (duh!), but I'm leaning toward green (I know, I know... it just goes so well with her bedding!) and then making her bathroom pink.  Luke wants blue and Mason wants gray.

The majority of the house is a really pretty neutral, which I'm going to leave alone.  Think 2-story family room and open loft.... it's hard to figure out where to start and stop color, so I'll probably add it in in other ways (pillows, pictures, etc.).  I'm actually kind of excited about having a neutral palette to play with.

The kitchen is kind of an orangey color which I'm going to change (any guesses???) and the dining room is full on red which I haven't decided on yet.  I'm definitely not making any drastic decisions for the big spaces until we're in and get to see it all with our stuff inside.


So excited!!! 
Now that everything is in full swing and we have official moving dates, the excitement is setting in.  

Luke is most excited to have his own room :)  While he loves his little brother, he doesn't love that all of his Legos and creations are easily accessible to five-year-old fingers. hahaha  Mason says he's excited to have own room... but he already hates sleeping in their current room by himself if Luke is gone.  I foresee lots of sleepovers in each others rooms this summer :)

Mason is most excited about having a POOL!  Yes... the new house has a pool.  It wasn't something we wanted, but wasn't a deal breaker either and if I'm being honest I'm kind of terrified.  I know that it will be something we enjoy especially as they get older, but I'd be lying if I said that my first call after buying this house wasn't to a pool safety company to find out how soon we can get a fence/net installed.  We're working through some of those choices (net vs. fence) right now, but it WILL be secured the weekend we move in.  It'a a play pool (about 5 feet deep at the deepest point) with a LONG set of stairs perfect for the little ones to play on - and once it's secure I'll be able to join in Mason's excitement a bit more :)

Griffin is pretty much just along for the ride. hahaha  I'm not sure she totally gets what's happening and we're just crossing our fingers that she's excited to sleep in her own bed upstairs once we move in ;)

Countdown has begun
We'll be moving the weekend of May 21st which means the countdown is officially on and we'll be out of this house in pretty much three weeks.  Add to that regular school responsibilities, exams, and all the end of the year activities at school.  #awesome  There is a TON to do and I've made my list and am checking things off daily.   I'm determined to not get overwhelmed and to make this a fun experience for my kids.   Wish me luck. hahaha

HELP!!!
This is where I need your help!  Leave me your best moving tips in the comments, because Lord knows I'm going to need them.

Happy Thursday, Friends!!! 

174 comments :

  1. Sounds like you're off to a great start!!!! We moved when our kids were two and three. The VERY first thing I did was set up their bedrooms...like pictures on wall, clothes arranged, etc. I needed it to feel like home to them ASAP! It was a hard change for them both even though they slept upstairs at our old house too! Can't wait to see your new house!!!

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    1. Great ideas! Setting them up first is my plan as well! Thanks, Amber!

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  2. Color coded duct tape! Assign each room a color and place that coordinating color tape on boxes that come from that area. Make a sign for each room at the new house using the assigned color. Movers and helpers will know exactly where the boxes should go!

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  3. It's gonna be a crazy busy couple weeks but you'll get through it and it'll be awesome.

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  4. As much as I'm going to miss your current house (because I love it so much!), I'm really excited about your new house too! I cannot wait to see your family all situated in it! We're so happy for you!

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    1. Thanks, girl!!! Dinner at the new place soon! (like... come unpack my boxes and eat pizza soon... hahaha)

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  5. I just moved at the beginning of April. Organization saved us! Our boxes were labeled and I wrote what was in them so I knew what ones to unpack immediately. Hire a cleaning company at the new house. We spent day 1 cleaning instead of moving. The previous owners were immaculate but it still took a full day! Congrats and good luck :)

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    1. Great ideas! We're hoping to get our cleaning ladies and carpet cleaner in on closing day and then we'll start moving in the day after. Thanks, Kate!

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  6. Not sure if you're moving your clothes (or if you're having movers do it) - but if you're doing it yourself, instead of boxing everything - purchase a hanging rod for your car (they're usually $10ish) and take clothes straight from your closet, to the rod, to the new house and straight into the new closet. This obviously works best if you're new house is close, but it's also how we moved all of our clothes when we moved from Oregon to Nebraska! Saves SO much time!

    Good luck! Can't wait for your family to enjoy your new digs! :)

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    1. I have a few wardrobe boxes already packed just to have our closets cleaned out a bit - but will definitely be getting one of these to transfer the rest. THANKS, Darcy!

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  7. You've got to do a house tour in the new house once you're settled in!! We moved last summer after we finished building. While packing, I labeled boxes with what room they went to and then labeled more specifically what they were--Bathroom: towels. Then we unloaded boxes into one central area of the house and kept boxes together that went in that room. Then I dispersed boxes into the correct rooms and unpacked there. It worked for me!
    Sarah at MeetTheShaneyfelts

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    1. GREAT idea!!! I'm trying to be specific when I label - but this is great! THanks, Sarah!

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  8. I'm sooo excited to see the new space! I know it will be just as warm and inviting as your house now!

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  9. We have a party pool as well and a 2 and a r year old. We went with the latching/locking fence from Katch-A-Kid. When we moved in our oldest was 16 months- I called every place that came up on google, asked around, debated- but the fence is definitely the way to go in my opinion.

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    1. Thanks, Lauren! We're still weighing the options - but I'm glad to hear that you like the Katch-A-Kid fence.

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    2. Will you post/share your final decision? I've been looking into fencing/netting as well and would be interested in what others think. Thanks!

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  10. I recommend getting different designs of duct tape. Use one design per room of the house to know which room to put the boxes in once you get to your new house. This saves time from labeling boxes and you can reuse the boxes without having labels all over it :)

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  11. Pick a color of duct tape for each room and label all the boxes for that space with that color duct tape. I made "guides" at the entrances of our house and put a swatch the colored duct tape on the corresponding door frame. It made it so much easier for the movers and myself when everything was where it was supposed to go! And now I have 10 rolls of left over duct tape for various crafts :)

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    1. I am ALL ABOUT having leftovers for crafts :) BONUS!!! Thanks for the great idea, Laura!

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  12. Yay!! This is so exciting girl!! So happy for you!!

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  13. Color code the boxes as mentioned above. Keep a box of things you'll need immediately - hammer, toilet paper, etc. Those things seem to disappear.
    I'm so happy to hear the new kitchen has a window space!! I always loved your holiday decor over your window.
    You are right. This house will soon be full of memories,too:)

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    1. LOVE the idea of keeping a box for immediate needs. THANK YOU!!!

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  14. You will make the new house feel like "home" in no time, it's just what you do:)So nice that you will have all summer to settle in and a POOL! So fun:) If you have to remove drawers from dressers to move, just cover them in saran wrap to keep contents in and safe. No need to pack and unpack them.

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    1. I would NEVER have thought of the saran wrap idea!!! THANK YOU!

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  15. Hi Andrea, you don't need to publish this - but I want to know how one of your comments in your post comes across. Implying that a 2200 sq ft house is too small for 5 people comes across as ungrateful. Many families where I live have that many people or more in a house significantly smaller and live comfortably. It's your choice and privilege to be able to move into a larger house, which having kids I totally understand, but please see it as that, and not as a necessity. Your family has way more things than the average US family based on your pictures on the blog, again your choice, not necessity. It's similar to the comment you made awhile back about helping at a Title IX school as being a service project that always bothered me. My kids have gone to a Title IX school before and we didn't need to be someone's "project". Please, please be thankful for your health and happiness without putting others down.

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    1. I am beyond sorry if either of my comments came across as putting anyone down. We have lived comfortably in our house for 7 years (and could continue to be comfortable there for many years), my comment today was about decluttering and making the space appear like there weren't 5 people living there. If it didn't come across that way - I'm so sorry.

      I'm well aware that lots of people live in spaces much smaller than us - in fact, my husband grew up in a 1700 square foot home with 7 people (one bathroom and no AC in Tx!) and I am extremely grateful for the privileged lifestyle we lead.

      As far as my comments on Title I schools, it WAS a service project. In our area, Title I schools are lacking in parent volunteers which is where we stepped in to help. The school needed help with things that parent volunteers would be otherwise doing and we provided the help. I'm not sure where that is a bad thing. Title I schools here are actually sponsored by local churches to provide volunteers, supplies for parties, mentoring, etc.

      Again, I never said anything derogatory about Title I schools. Dave attended Title I schools for all of his elementary (and I think Middle School as well) years and my mother-in-law spent 39 years teaching in Title I schools. But the fact of the matter is, with a large percentage of working parent families, they do need help from volunteers.

      Thank you so much for reading and for your feedback. Please know that I would NEVER speak down about anyone... especially when the people you say I'm putting down are members of my own family (my husband, in fact).

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    2. I felt the exact same way when I read that!!! I live in a 1,300 square foot house with three kids, and we are more than happy and comfortable in our space! I don't understand the constant need for bigger and better.

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    3. That's great! My comment was only in reference to clearing out our space to make it look as big as possible. My boys share a room and closet and to make it look as big as possible, I cleared a lot out. As I said in my response to the first anonymous comment, we are totally comfortable in our space and I know that lots of people live comfortably in spaces much smaller than ours. we're very comfortable in our house, but when an opportunity came up to give our kids their own rooms and a bigger yard - we jumped.

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    4. I do appreciate the feedback and have removed the square footage comment as to not step on anyone else's toes and to convey my intended point more clearly. THANKS!

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    5. You're extremely grateful for your privileged lifestyle? Wow!!! That comment sounds like an oxymoron!!! You are very materialistic. Just because your 'privlidged' school does a service project for the 'underprivileged' doesn't make you a saint!!!

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    6. I NEVER claimed to be a saint. I was addressing the comment that Title I schools don't need to be someone's service project... when in fact, they do need help.

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    7. I have a family of five as well and I live in a 1570 ft square house. I am a teacher and my husband is a laborer. Your comment stung me as well. While you have every right to do what you please with your money, you must understand that you alienate your readers at times with the materialistic comments you make. I understand that you won't publish this comment, but it saddens me that you've gone from my favorite blogger to one that I cannot relate to.

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    8. Again - my deepest apologies for saying anything that you felt was derogatory or negative. The LAST thing I would ever want to do would be to put someone down for how/where they live. If I've said other things in previous posts that have hurt your feelings I'm so sorry. I'd love the opportunity to clarify/apologize and have a conversation with you about it - if you feel comfortable doing so, shoot me an email (dave-and-andrea@hotmail.com). Thanks!

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    9. I love your space Andrea - what I actually appreciate MOST about you as opposed to other blogs I read is how real and genuine you are. I am a full-time working mom of three, too, and you truly inspire me to be grateful for a job I love and to relish the precious time I get to spend at home with my kiddos. My husband, like yours, has a crazy work schedule and it's a miracle that we make it work every day. And, our children go to a Title I school in our community - by our choice due to a specific language program that is offered in our district. Bc of the demographic make-up of the school, we don't have as many parent volunteers as we would like - not because of choice or lack of desire, but merely because they can't take time away from work. So I get you and understand very much what you are saying! You are a fantastic momma, a devoted child of God, a loving wife and create a space that is inviting for all of us that choose to stop by. Thought you'd like to know! :)

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    10. Oh my goodness. These people need to calm down.
      I think if they read your blog regularly, they should know your heart. I've NEVER felt like you are trying to be hurtful or that you act like you are better than others who may have a smaller house. And if you feel you need a bigger home for your family of 5, then that should be ok and not offend someone else. You have the right to want a bigger house if you can afford it. Everyone just needs to calm down and maybe not be so sensitive. Love your blog and your heart.

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    11. I'm sorry you have people getting so upset at you. I may not have as big of a house as you, but I have never felt you came across as entitled or anything. You always seem like a genuine person and that's why I love reading your blog. I wish people would just chill sometimes ::sigh::

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    12. I agree with all of the commenters. It's disappointing that even as people are pointing this out to you, Andrea, you are offering a perfunctory apology, but it's obvious that you still have no concept of how you come across to your readers. :(

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    13. The Queen - Thank you!! Thank you for your input about Title I schools... that's exactly the point I was attempting to make :) And I so appreciate your kind words!! THANK YOU!

      Unknown - I'm so glad that you've never felt that way! Thank you so much for reading and commenting!

      Lizzie - YAY! And house size is so irrelevant anyway!!! There are sooooo many people who live in houses half the size of mine that cost AT LEAST twice as much. Thank you so much for reading and for taking the time to comment!

      Last anonymous - My apology was genuine and heartfelt. I even removed the square footage comment that people felt was offensive. Not sure what more I could have done.

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    14. If your apology was so "heartfelt" then why down below you say that you don't have to defend yourself to anyone? That doesn't sound like you're sorry for anything. You've done this before. You offer what seems like a heartfelt apology and later, while responding to someone else, you make a very rude, snarky comment about the critical feedback you've received. Whether you realize you do this or not, you pretty much cancel out any apologies you've made previously. I can only assume THAT is at least one of the reasons why other commenters have called you disingenuous at times.

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    15. I honestly don't see what the issue is. Why, as adult women, can we not be happy for someone, regardless of where you are in life? Andrea shouldn't have to prove herself to anyone on the Internet--especially people who are saddened or offended over the way she de-cluttered her house for a showing. My goodness. Life is too short to live your life "measuring up to other people." Too many people allow jealousy or WHATEVER dictate how they react or respond to other people. I mean, seriously, what difference does it make if one of us lives in an apartment or a 4000 square foot house? If one of my friends had the opportunity to upgrade (and they have), I would be happy for them, and they would for me. I would not feel alienated if my coworker (who is a teacher) decided to buy a bigger house. That is called jealousy. If you were to go build a new home or buy a new house for your family, would you want someone (that you didn't even know) to tell you that you are ridiculous and materialistic?? Think about it. Somehow, we have it mixed up that we need to tear others and their achievements/opportunities down in order to justify our insecurities and/or make ourselves feel better. Besides, the size of someone else's house has nothing to do with anyone other than the person paying the mortgage. :) In reference to a Title I school--our ENTIRE district where I teach at are Title I schools. It's not a derogatory comment--it is what it is. Doesn't make them any less of people or less social status. Some schools have more parental involvement than others--but they are still Title I schools. The only schools that are not Title I schools in my city are private schools (and I live in a big city with a huge school system--close to 100 schools in our system) Everything doesn't have to be offensive. Society has put a whole new meaning on the word "offensive" and honestly, people need to CHILL OUT and realize that just because you might view something differently or have a different opinion doesn't mean you have to get offended and shout your opinion to make someone else change theirs. It's not hard to be happy for people; in fact, I think it takes more work to be offended and feel alienated.

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    16. Anonymous - I meant it when I said I was truly sorry if what I said hurt someone's feelings. And when I said I don't have to defend myself I meant over justifying my move... not the comment. I am sincerely sorry if someone felt I was talking down as I never meant it to be read that way.

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    17. It's her blog to document HER life. She never said anything rude or offensive. She doesn't need to apologize for wanting a new house so her boys could have their own room. She never said if you had anything smaller than a 2200 square foot house then you were less than her. I get so frustrated when people get their feelings so hurt. Put on your big girl panties...

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    18. Anonymous - I'm just a little confused. If you take so much offense to what Andrea, myself and many others don't; why do you continue to read her blog? I have only recently started to read the comments on her blog. Yet, you comment on many of her posts in a very negative, hurtful, and condescending way. You come off as a bully which is a form of harassment. No one person is the same. If they were, what a boring world we would live in. God made each and every one of us unique and special. Also, you are reading words, not someone's tone of voice. Words do not show emotion. So how you take what she writes, is what you make of it. If you don't like it, move on.
      I read your first couple comments this morning and it has been heavy on my heart ever since. Andrea is a wonderful mama to her 3 beautiful children while juggling a FULL time job, a part-time job (Slightly Askew Designs), and having a blog post ready to go for her avid readers FIVE days a week! I aspire to someday be as accomplished as Andrea. How exciting that she can provide her children with their own bedrooms and a large yard to play in! She should be proud of herself and she should be allowed to be happy and excited about moving. She keeps her family, faith, and friends first. I read her blog every single morning and it always puts a smile on my face and makes me strive to be a better Christian!!

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    19. Goodness! Can someone find a lid and get these worms back in their can!
      Andrea - You. Are. Fine. This is your PERSONAL space, and you shouldn't have to work this hard to defend comments that you have made! If someone finds something you say to be offensive, that is their problem. (Don't take this next comment the wrong way - ) You are no one special - you are not a professional athlete, nor a celebrity, nor a politician running for office. You are a mom, a wife, and a teacher. If your family and your employer are fine with what you write, those are the only things you should be concerned with!
      Can't WAIT to see what you do with your new house! Congratulations!

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    20. I agree with many of the women above. I've never once been offended by anything you've written. You seem like one of the most genuine, kind, and caring women I've ever "met" and you should not apologize for anything. There's nothing wrong with doing anything to your house to help it sell, including things to make it appear larger. That doesn't mean you're saying a smaller house is bad, you're just trying to sell yours! Chill out people! Jealousy is not flattering. And to those who have been so offended, no one is forcing you to read her blog. Keep being the wonderful wife, mother, friend, and Christian that you are Andrea!

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    21. To the "anonymous" people - this is a blog that Andrea so graciously writes and prepares about HER life and HER perspective. It's not a life requirement to read it... Clearly, you don't agree with a lot of her posts.... Stop reading!!!! Thank you, Andrea for doing everything with such class. You've apologized way more than necessary. As Taylor Swift says.. "Haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate" :)

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  16. I hired pest control to come and spray while the house was empty, to ensure all spaces were covered. Also, I always keep one box for things I need "right away". Toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, soap/shampoo, towels, etc. That way you don't have to go searching. Oh, and add to the box, sheet sets. I always make up the beds first thing moving in, because when I'm tired after the loooooong day of moving, the last thing I want to do is make a bed! Ha!

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    1. Love the idea of the must have box! That's a great one! Thanks so much, Bonnie!!!

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  17. Drawstring trash bags are a closet lifesaver! Simply slip the bag around a group of clothes on hangers and tie it up. Easy to move bags when clothes remain on hanger, and if something falls off of the hanger, it falls to the bottom of the bag - not the ground or lost and stepped on! Then, when you bring them in to new closet, hang up and untie/cut the bag and you're set! No folding and unfloding, no putting back on hangers! Trash bags were a lifesaver for my "20 minutes down the road" move! Have fun!!!

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    1. AAHHH!!! What a great idea!!! Like cheap garment bags! PERFECTION! Thanks, Megan!

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    2. I did this too when I moved in November. I didn't cut the bags or anything, but reused them. Double use!

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  18. The military always packs & moves us. But I do a lot of prep....bag or put in plastic lidded containers any kitchen items you don't want to wash on the other end.

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  19. Pack one big suitcase, just like you are going on a weekend trip, with all of your family members clothes and toiletries. This way, when everything is chaos, you at least have appropriate clothes you need for work, school, church, and moving those first few days and aren't digging through everything.

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    1. YES!!! This is great! With the last week of school the week after we move I'm scared we won't be able to find their right shoes, uniform pieces, etc. This is such a great idea! Thanks, Lindsey!

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  20. Have your cleaning company deep clean the house before you move in. This way, it's less for you to do and it feels clean and fresh for you to put everything away!

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  21. We moved about 3 years ago with kids ages 7, 5, 2, 9 mos. It was a wild time!! So after a few days of living in chaos, we figured out our best time to work was after the kids went to bed. So for a few days we shuffled where they slept and would tackle one room a night. We were able to knock out the kids rooms in no time and they loved waking up the next day to a completed room. My hubby and I had fun. We'd turn on Pandora and get to work! It made for some late nights, but we found that having the kids out of our hair, we were SO much more efficient with the little time we had after they went to bed.

    Good luck!! Your new home will feel like home in no time!! (We have a pool too, and the fence around the pool was the best money we spent!!---can't put a price tag on safety and piece of mind).

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    1. Almost like little date nights! That actually makes unpacking sound like fun :) And if you can do it with four kids I can TOTALLY do it with three! Thanks, Allison!

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  22. ISR swim lessons would be so good for your peace of mind...esp for Griffin! We've done them with my 2 littles (although before kids I saw the videos and thought I'd NEVER send my kids to those!). It was such a relief for me knowing that if I turned my back to get something for my 5 year old, that my 1.5 year old daughter would be ok if she stepped off the step to where she couldn't touch or decided to "jump" in like big brother. It's expensive but worth every penny in my opinion...for the kids' safety and your sanity! I can't recommend it enough! :-) Congrats on the new house!

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    1. Googling those now! I've looked into them before, but may bite the bullet now. THANK YOU, Kali!

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    2. I was going to suggest ISR lessons as well! All three of my children have done them and I always say it's some of the best $ we have ever spent. They have never needed any other swim lessons and have always been so confident in the water. Congrats on the new house! We are building a home and close on it the first week of June, so I've enjoyed reading these comments! (except for the hateful ones)

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  23. Yes, to the colored duct tape for each room. I also had a specific color for "unpack first". These boxes were all the essentials. Basically the last boxes to be packed up were the first that needed to be unpacked. So those boxes had tape to identify what room and also a tape to identify unpack first. They were easy to spot amongst the pile of boxes once unloaded from the truck.

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  24. Congrats on the sale and purchase of your home(s). Love that your priority is to get an enclosure around the pool - you can never be too safe around pools. I know of another family who didn't feel the need to enclose her massive pool which is bigger and deeper than yours. Blessedly nothing has happened to her, her husband and three kids, thus far, but I find it rather negligent that they opt not to put an enclosure in. Praying for a smooth transition into the new place!

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  25. I can't wait to see what fun things you do with the new place and so happy for your family. It will be a crazy May for you, but just think summer will be so fun making your house a home. Best wishes!

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    1. Thanks, Laci! We're excited to have two whole months to really settle in and enjoy!

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  26. My husbands company moved us so it was a little different because they came in and boxed up my entire house for me but the best advice anyone has ever given me is to label a box OPEN FIRST. And inside it had all of our bedding, pajamas and change of clothes for everyone, toilet paper :), you know all the necessities for that first night. Moving an entire house can be so overwhelming, even more so wth kids, so knowing where all that stuff was was so helpful because I wasn't ripping into boxes trying to find everything to just go to sleep that first night. Good luck!!

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  27. So obviously my moving experience will be different than yours since I have no children.... but I had most of my boxes put into the garage when I moved in. I had just read Marie Kondo's "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" and went through a major purge when I packed my old house AND when I unpacked at my new house. I still have several decoration boxes in the garage, because I'm not quite sure what I will use or not use. I've taken my time with decorating and painting, so that I can be 100% sure what colors I want to paint and what decor I want to use. If I don't LOVE something, I'm letting it go. You should see my yard sale pile in my garage! It has been the best decision- the clutter and extra stuff in my house is pretty much non-existent now.

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    1. That is pretty much my plan... I've been purging as I'm packing and plan on only bringing in what's going to stay. GREAT advice, Melanie!

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  28. Please don't let the negative comments get you down. You are a great blogger and I enjoy reading about YOUR life. It's your blog and you should decide what you want to write and not write. You shouldn't feel like you have to walk on eggshells with your blog. Write what you want, Jesus knows your heart and intentions - even if those who are jealous do not understand! I hate that I missed what you felt you needed to re-write. I hope the new house is PERFECT for YOUR family! Can't wait to see it!

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    1. Thanks so much, Amanda! I would never want to say something hurtful, but I've also learned through blogging that there are people out there who just flat out don't like me (which is totally fine!) and are going to interpret what I write in a way that supports their dislike of me. I don't read blogs of people I don't like, so I'm not sure why they continue to stick around... but to each their own! Thank you so much for reading and following along!!!

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  29. just remind yourself that one day the chaos will subside. ;) you've got some great suggestions - i'll add my vote for the color coding boxes and packing a suitcase to get you through that first weekend. good luck!

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    1. YES! My mom said something similar... in two months it will all be behind me!hahaha :)

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  30. Awwww....this post made me super sentimental because 1) I'm pregnant and due in a few days!! and 2) my parents just sold the house I grew up in (also in 1 day!. So I'm feeling all sorts of crazy emotional! All the best in your new home - I can't wait to see how you make it your own!

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    1. EEEEK!!! Congratulations, Christina!!! Soak in as MANY newborn snuggles as you can and remember that you really can't spoil them for like the first 2 months :) ENJOY!!!

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  31. We've moved 5 times in the 12 years we've been married and it's ROUGH. Whether it's across town or across the US (we've done both) it's hard. My best tip is to do the beds first. Set up, sheets on the bed, blankets, pillows, and pillowcases. That way you can tuck your kids in, and fall into bed no matter what the state of your house is. Good luck!

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    1. Oh, girl!!! So much moving!!! Love your tip about the beds - thank you!!!

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  32. I'm really sorry for some of the comments people leave! I think you're so gracious and respond far better than I would :) I'm so happy for y'all and can't wait to see your new house!

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  33. We moved last summer (twice! Our house sold fast so we had to go to an apartment for a month). I had an essential box - toilet paper, hand soap, paper towels, trash bags, scissors, etc and a cleaner box - Windex, sponges, lysol wipes, whatever. We cleaned/painted everything before moving in. Buy some paper plates/cups and quick meals for easy clean up. Think it was mentioned above but this really helped - give each room a color and use that color on every box. Put a piece of paper with the room color on the doors so helpers know where to put every box. Saved me a ton of time telling pple where to go. I also wrote down the contents of the box in a notebook and on the box...this was nice because if I couldn't find something, I could look at my book and see what box it was in.
    Good luck!!! Moving is fun :)

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    1. you sound so organized! Want to come help me move :) hahaha Thanks for the tips!

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  34. Being a military family, we have had our fair share of moves and my best advice is label everything you can before the movers come. Ziplock bag anything that has small pieces and label it so that they don't get lost in the bottom of the boxes or throw away in the packing paper. Think Legos, puzzles, magnets, etc. I also use my own color code system with colored tape so that when the boxes show up, I know exactly where to tell the movers to put it. Neon pink tape on all of G's boxes so when they show up you can direct them to her new room, etc. Sometimes movers aren't great spellers or the writing starts to blend so I find the bright tape helps identify quickly and get things to the proper places. Good luck on your move :-)

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    1. Great tips!!! I'm already a Ziploc fanatic.... so your advice totally spoke to me :)

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  35. Invite your best girls over for a yummy dinner and dessert and let them help you get stuff done!!! That's what friends are for.. And someday you'll return the favor :)

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    1. Great idea!!! Thanks, Lauren! Although... I'm not sure how productive we'd be. hahaha #toomuchlaughing #notenoughworking

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  36. My husband and I moved a month ago and while we don't have kids we do have two dogs. The biggest thing for them that we had to watch out for was marking their territory in a new space. We made sure they were set up in one room with their beds and toys and then slowly introduced them to the other rooms after we had unpacked and the smells were similar to the old place. I'm not sure if your dog has this problem but ours like their space!

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    1. I hadn't even thought about that!!! But it makes total sense! Thank you so much for the tip!

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  37. I am so excited for you all! I can't wait to see pictures of the new house! xo

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  38. Congratulations on the move! It's so exciting! We moved this fall and I did a post with my tips and lessons learned. They won't all apply since you have a moving company (or chickens), but #s 3-6 are key for everyone! Good luck!
    http://isntthatgrand.com/2015/11/05/local-moving-tips-when-its-diy-and-low-budget/

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  39. Oh my goodness...how fun & exciting!!!! I can't wait to see all your special touches in your new house!!! 😍😍😍

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  40. First breathe and remember this is a joyful experience! Second when we moved we kept a tote out of things we would need for the first night or two toothbrushes toliet paper PJs change of clothes and our girls stuff animals they sleep with nothing like moving into a new house and not having your teddy bear close by. We got the girls situated in their rooms first and set up a few items in their toy room that way they felt at home and could play in their rooms or toy room while my husband and I slowly set up our new home. The first thing in our wall was our Vega established sign it made it feel like home. Also our friends cooked up a meal or first night and then it was take out the next night having to mess with dinner and a dirty kitchen just the though made me feel stresses Good luck and keep us posted on your new home

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    1. Kids are first up on my list as well - great tip! And I see lots of takeout tacos in our future :) Thanks, girly!

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  41. Styrofoam plates in-between glass plates, china, etc.; pack up and move any breakable/valuables yourself. Load them in your cars to move and not in a uhaul. Unload most of the kids stuff first, that way they'll have something to do while your unloading the rest of the house (or stick them at grandmas). Load up kitchen stuff last because you'll need that first. I agree with everyone else, color coding and labeling everything is key. And the fact that most of your stuff is packed up now is great!! Slow and steady.

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    1. Love the styrofoam plate tip! Such a great idea! Thanks for the advice, Lynsey!

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  42. Reading the "anonymous" comments above rubbed me the wrong way. I am a long time reader and comment from time to time and I want you to know that you have never come off to me as someone I cannot relate to. I think the world needs more people like you!!! You should never have to defend where you choose to give of your time nor should you have to defend where you choose to live or how many square feet you choose to live in. As far as I can tell you and your husband work your tails off and I want to congratulate you on your new home. Enjoy all your square footage, enjoy your pool and your Starbucks too girl(because I am sure someone is hating on that as well)!!!!!!!!! That's all I have.....oh and Happy Moving :)

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    1. Thank you! We do work hard and are excited about having more space for our kids... and you're totally right... I don't have to defend that to anyone! #gogirl hahaha And I may swing through Starbucks on my way home JUST to celebrate that. Thanks so much, Kim! Your comment totally made me smile :)

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  43. Styrofoam plates in-between glass plates, china, etc.; pack up and move any breakable/valuables yourself. Load them in your cars to move and not in a uhaul. Unload most of the kids stuff first, that way they'll have something to do while your unloading the rest of the house (or stick them at grandmas). Load up kitchen stuff last because you'll need that first. I agree with everyone else, color coding and labeling everything is key. And the fact that most of your stuff is packed up now is great!! Slow and steady.

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  44. I CANNOT WAIT to see your new home!!! i absolutely love moving and getting to start fresh in a new home and i can't wait to see how you make your new home you! and ps I love following you on snapchat...one complaint, make more videos!! ;) (i'm @triplekidney on snap)

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    1. So funny that you say that... as much as I'm kind of dreading packing, I'm equally excited about the fresh start! And YAY for snapchat! I'm still figuring it all out, but am having a blast! So more videos of what... me? My kids? Jack Bauer? Tell me what you want to see :)

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  45. The duct tape ideas others have mentioned is the best way to move!

    I can't believe others who CHOOSE to read YOUR blog feel the need to bash you for your happiness! Shake it off girl!

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  46. I'm sorry you can't even post about your exciting move without people getting offended. You and Dave work hard and have the right to get a new house. You are obviously doing this for your kids and not for yourself. Your boys will have their own rooms and a big yard to play in. No, not everyone can provide everything for their kids but if you can more power to you. Nobody can just be happy for others anymore, they have to get jealous and offended. While I'm super sad y'all are moving (I LOVE your kitchen), I can't wait to see how you make your new house a home.

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    1. Thank you!!! I'm excited to get in and start making it ours! I so appreciate your kind words!

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  47. Congratulations on all the moving excitement. It'll be fun to see you settle into a new place :) My family has moved 4 times in the last four years so my best moving tips are... be VERY specific when you label what is inside your boxes, pack up toys and kids stuff at night when they are sleeping so they don't get upset to see their stuff being put away, unpack kid rooms/spaces first because everyone is happier when the kids start to get back into familiar set ups, leave your clothes on hangers, unpack your family room pretty quickly so you can all have a place to sit down and relax and give yourself lots of grace. Moving is exhausting/stressful/crazy/wonderful so I'll be thinking of your family and praying for an easy experience.

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  48. I'm so happy for you! I'm still living in our starter home we bought 30 years ago ;), so I don't have any helpful moving advice. Thank you for sharing with us, I can't wait to see your new home!

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  49. SO happy for y'all!! Can't wait to see what paint colors you decide on! We just redid a house and we went with light shades of gray in some areas and shades of white. What color are you thinking for kitchen cabinets? I absolutely loved picking out paint colors and caught the design bug ;). Thank you for sharing the details, I enjoy reading your blog and keeping up with you and your family every morning!

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  50. You are still and will always be my favorite. The fact that you published these comments makes you even more the person you appear to be. Keep on keeping on! I think all of us from all walks of life appreciate your genuine love for your children, family, career, and space you make your own. I have really no experience with moving with children but we are looking at that possibility in the next few months. All of these comments are amazing. Thank you!

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  51. Congratulations Andrea! So happy for your family! I'll be praying as you tackle your move!

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  52. I hope your new home is a perfect fit for your family!! We moved nearby 2 years ago and thankfully did not have a time constraint to move, so we did it in shifts a few days in advance of one large moving day for furniture. That really helped me feel more sane in at least getting boxes in the right room. Send the kids on play dates - that is one way to enjoy your move more!! :)

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  53. Andrea, let me start by saying congratulations on your new home. The thought of selling, buying, and packing up and moving again gives me hives and I feel for you having done that myself a few times with 4 little ones and a husband who travels.
    I hope you take some of the negative comments, intended to steal your joy, with a grain of salt – clearly a few people are either hyper sensitive or have failed to read your thoughts/comments in the context with which you wrote them. I interpreted ‘5 people, 2200 sf’ as that’s a lot of packing /clearing out that needs to be done to showcase our house in its best light, as I think you intended it.
    Never, never – NEVER once – did I get the feeling that you were inferring otherwise, implying that 22oo sf doesn’t measure up to an acceptable standard, that you were ungrateful for what you have and then, of all things, that you were grateful for acknowledging your success, that you look down on people, that you and your husband are materialistic for wanting more space for your family (as millions of others before you have wanted for their families), blah, blah, blah.
    Can we simply not be happy for others anymore when they have a reason to celebrate their story in their way? Honestly it takes as much energy to be kind as it does to be unkind.
    As far as the negative comment about calling the work your students do at a Title 1 school a “service project”, I have this to say.
    I work at a Title 1 school and I can assure you and your readers that we welcome, with wide open arms, any school or group that chooses to include us in their section of ‘service projects’ for their community outreach curriculums. It is a win/win and let’s just be ok with calling it what it is – a “SERVICE” ( any action of helping, doing work,, providing assistance that benefits a person or group) “PROJECT” ( an individual or collaborative enterprise that is carefully planned and designed to achieve a particular objective.)
    That surely doesn’t sound like a ‘put down’ to me. In my experience everyone considers this an honor and a virtue for both the receiving and giving end. Don’t usually comment but just need to chime in on this nonsense today.
    Well wishes for the rest of your day.
    Alison TX

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  54. I agree with the trash bags over the hanging clothes idea. I read this on someone else's blog and when I moved, I did this. It made things so easy. No clothes falling off of the hanger and no hangers getting tangled in clothes. From the moving truck to the closet, rip the bags off, and done. Seriously was the easiest part of moving!

    Not sure if this is a tip or something I did when I was at my wit's end with moving :) but towards the end of the packing process, I felt like things were multiplying. I would feel like I was finishing up, only to find a drawer or another cabinet with RANDOM things (seriously, the things we accumulate over time). I got to the point that if I did not know what was in the "random" places--I threw it out. Like I said, this probably isn't a smart tip lol but an admittance of me feeling like a crazy person trying to actually "finish" moving out of my old house. haha!

    Congrats on your new home! So happy for you and your family!

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  55. Moving can be so stressful, just try to enjoy the adventure.

    I am old enough to be your mom and I love reading your blog. What a fun mom and teacher you are. Be proud of your accomplishments and don't let those jealous, petty comments get you down.

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  56. I just want to tell you that I enjoy reading your blog. I think you have fun with your family and you do a nice job of sharing your life. My life is very different than yours but I do try to have fun with my family and my 12 grandkids. I never see you say anything that sounds offensive or arrogant. You seem grateful for your blessings and willing to share what you have.

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  57. Hi Andrea - congrats on the sale and purchase of the homes - so fast! I know you're excited and overwhelmed at the same time. Take a deep breath... So glad to see your priority is fencing in the pool, as "shallow" as it is. It's a peace of mind to have that done quickly. I know of a family that has a much bigger and deeper pool than and they did not want to do it - says it wasn't required. Can't think of why they wouldn't want to for their 3 kids' safety!

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  58. I drew a diagram of the kitchen cabinets/drawers and closets of our new house. We had 2 walk in closets just for extra storage, which I was NOT used to having! I curled up in front of the fire one night with my diagrams and spent some time deciding just where everything would go. On move-in day, I knew what I had designated each cabinet, drawer, and closet for, and it saved a lot of time overall. I'm a planner, so it was fun. When people helped with unpacking, they loved looking on the list and seeing just where medicine, utensils, or whatever was supposed to go.

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  59. I cant wait to see the new house! I moved 6 months ago and I won't pass you any of my tips because it was a hot mess!! but I made it alive lol... Is there any major renovation you will have to do or you found the house in move in ready conditions? I did a reno in our kitchen and It was a great idea to tackle that down before we moved as well as the painting. I still have some areas in my new house that are not "my own" but we are enjoying to do one room at a time.

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  60. We moved two years ago so I have a few tips that you may find helpful.
    Someone already mentioned it, but using large trash bags as makeshift garment bags made packing and unpacking our closets a breeze.

    I also bought a giant container of Styrofoam plates (not Earth-friendly) from Costco and used them to help cushion our plates inside the moving boxes. Just stick them in between each plate in your stack and then use packing tape to secure everything together. It was a super cheap alternative to buying bubble wrap. You'll need to add further cushion to the inside of the box, though.

    We also used our blankets, sheets, and towels to help cushion breakable items inside boxes rather than buying more bubble wrap/packing peanuts. You have to pack the linens anyway, why not put them to good use?!

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  61. oh my goodness, our weekend was the exact same! We listed our house Thursday and had over 15 showings in 24 hours and accepted an offer Saturday morning! Nashville is a crazy market right now too! It was certainly stressful trying to stage a home that looks lived in, yet not TOO lived in, ha! While we're not moving with 3 kiddos, I will be 8 months pregnant when we move, eek! But I'm excited to see ya'lls new space! Good luck packing up over the next few weeks!

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  62. I'm sorry some of your readers rained on your parade. I think they need to go on to other blogs. You are telling your own story and you have a right to tell it your way. I love your blog and am ready to read all about your move. Thank you for letting us into your life!

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  63. Anonymous 8:01 and Anonymous 8:30:
    I live in an 800 sf house with 4 kids, 2 cats, 3 dogs and an aging parent and we are more than happy and comfortable in our space. I don’t understand your need or desire to live in your space, your need for bigger and better (than ours). You seem to be so materialistic and it saddens me to know that your apparent life no longer makes you relatable to me. Therefore I'm now going to feel the need to point that out to you and attempt to yield some guilt from you for your obvious privilege over me. How’s that?
    Anonymous 8:06 - you make yourself sound a bit like an oxy ‘moron’.
    Need a shovel for all this BS! Just move along. :-)

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  64. We moved right about this time last year. I love the before mentioned designated duct tape idea. One thing I thought worked great for me was moving my fridge and pantry items first. If your kids are like mine the minute you'll step foot in the new house somebody will be thirsty or want a snack. Also, I read your blog daily and have never been offended or thought you were materialistic. I feel like you do your best as a Godly woman for your husband, children, family, and friends. Enjoy your new house. I'm praying for a smooth move and closing for y'all. God bless!

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  65. The trash bags as garment bags idea is my best moving tip. Especially when you're not moving far (I think you said within a mile or two) it is so nice to stack those bags in the car, carry them right into the closet where they belong and hang them right up! I have always moved my closets on my own that way even before movers came in for the furniture. It is a big time and space saver!

    And I just want to say, congrats, Andrea! You may not "need" the bigger space, but you and your husband work hard to deserve it and are teaching your kids kindness and service to others along the way. Don't let the naysayers bring you down. :)

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  66. Hi Andrea! We just moved from CO to FL last summer and were given a great tip - use your linens, towels, clothes, etc, to pack your breakables! They're things you're going to pack up anyway and make GREAT padding for those delicate items. Helps to cut down on the number of boxes you end up using for everything, too. Best of luck and I can't wait to see photos of your new place (especially as we near the holidays!).

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  67. Trash bags as a garment bag work wonders. Styrofoam plates between your breakable plates. Go to a liquor store and get boxes with inserts, use those to pack your glasses, vases, etc. We moved 2 years ago with a 3 month old and it was chaotic but over in no time. Label each box with specific items and take your valuable in your car rather than in the moving van.
    Also, I worked in Title 1 schools for 10 years before becoming a stay at home mom and we needed more schools to come in and help us. We had little to no parent support or volunteers. We would relish the time spent on our school if someone was willing to call us a "service project"! Try not to let these negative ninnies ruin your joy of the new house and move. Only God knows your heart and intentions and he is the only one you ultimately need to worry about. I love your blog and can;t wait to see what you do in the new house. I will however, miss the kitchen window and brick wall pics!

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  68. We've moved eight times in ten years. We have it down to an art (though we finally don't plan to move again anytime soon.) One thing I always do is plan my kitchen cabinets. Then I make sticky notes for the doors (cups, plates, pots and pans, coffee mugs, etc). The kitchen is always the most overwhelming - there's SO much stuff to put away, and you need it useable immediately. I quickly label the cabinets once in the house so anyone who is helping you move in can unload kitchen boxes, wash stuff, and mostly get it put where you want it. This is a huge help.

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    1. That's a great idea! I hadn't thought about planning ahead like that! Thanks, Melissa!

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  69. I bet you're so excited! Good luck with the move!!!

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  70. Congrats on selling so quickly! Your house is darling. Can't wait to see what you do with the new one!

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  71. My best advice after moving with our four kiddos was to have them stay at their grandparents parents for the weekend! They brought them to the new house on Sunday (ours was a few hours away) and they were so excited to see a partially finished product. Their rooms and such were put together and they avoided the chaos and we got down to unpacking business. They would have all been hot messes with the craziness and disorganized atmosphere and I'm sure our parenting would have been lacking too. We also installed a guardian pool fence right away. Pricey but amazing. I love we can just remove it when we're ready or remove just a section if the little guys are gone and people are coming and going. We went with the "invisible" design. Not invisible but not horrible either. Good luck!

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  72. Oh! And we used our sheets from each child's bed and laid it out on the bed. Then we put their little hanger clothes on it and tied up the corners. When we got to the new house just untie and rehang. No hangers falling all over!

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  73. I haven't moved myself in several years but have moved my college kids 437 times (at least it feels like it lol) in the last several years - and am about to do it twice more in May. My advice is this: the very first thing to go in the new house should be toilet paper, soap, and a towel or paper towels in every bathroom. Not good to be caught unprepared, especially with little ones. Congratulations! - JH

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  74. Do not (do not do not do not) skimp and try to save on the price of your home inspection. Seriously. Your realtor may refer a few of them to you but research each of the companies and look at their online reviews. Are they just party people trying to suck up to realtors or do they seem like they operate a reasonable business.

    And I realize this is probably too late for you now, but hopefully you had a good experience.

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  75. I absolutely hate that you are being jumped on and judged. Congratulations to you and your family on this new venture in life! You are truly blessed and I can see that you genuinely KNOW you are blessed!
    I don't have any moving tips...we moved for the first time in 17yrs last year and I pretty much just wanted to cry the whole time...lol
    Again, congratulations and may God continue to bless you and your family.
    Thank you so much for sharing your life on your blog! I truly look forward to reading it daily!!

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  76. Andrea I LOVE your blog. I have told you before how I look forward to it and feel we would be best friends if I lived in Texas. HA! To the rude Anonymous person: Get a life. If you feel the need to say ugly things to someone then say it with your name attached. I agree with the person above that you are a bully. I think that every rude comment is from the same person. Andrea you are a better person than me because that person would have gotten no response from me. You are a great mother and Christ follower..... Keep on keeping on. :)

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  77. Oh and moving tips would be to set up the kitchen and bedrooms first. You can operate successfully once those are done! Be prepared with paper products (paper plates to eat on until you are settled) You can also get alarms for the doors if you want so they will go off if the kids go out to the pool. I would be a nervous wreck too!

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  78. I moved last summer and it was AWFUL! I have no tips other than what has been shared so far.

    I just wanted to say that I'm sorry there were some negative comments. I'll be honest, I can even imagine 2200 sq ft. But, I just figured, "hey, things are bigger in Texas!" I cant wait to see what you do with a new house, and I'm super happy for you. :)

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  79. Here's my best advice: during the packing process, you can save time, resources, or space. If you're lucky, you can save two of these, but you simply can't save all three. Know which one you're prioritizing, stick to it, and don't feel bad about sacrificing the other two. Saving time might mean that you stuff the top of the box with paper instead of puzzle-piecing those last few items. Saving space in your boxes and vehicles might cost a lot of time due to planning and arranging. Be aware of this as you pack and just go into it with a game plan and lots of chocolate.

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  80. Andrea- congrats on the move and the new house!! As I read the hurtful comments it saddens my heart. As a fellow chirstian,I pray that God will soften their hearts and help them to not be so judgmental and to be happy for others, and look for the best in people. Best wishes to you and your family on your new chapter in your life!! I think you are an amazing person all around and hope that hurtful comments will not bring you down, or make you feel like what you are doing is wrong. Keep your head up and know that people appreciate you!

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  81. I don't really have any tips to tricks for you but I'm SO excited for you and your new house! Can't wait to see how you decorate!

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  82. We just finished a cross country move. Here's my tip- find a brightly colored bucket or plastic tote to keep all the packing tape, labels, scissors, sharpies, box cutters, and other packing/unpacking essentials in. Those things always disappear and keeping them in one location was very helpful. Good luck- love your blog and your darling family.

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  83. What an absolute blessing to have family near to help!! Many blessings to your family in the new home!

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  84. Andrea you said you were waiting to paint some rooms (like the red) until you got your stuff in there. My biggest advice is PAINT FIRST! Otherwise, you have more stuff to move out of the way, kids to occupy, wine to drink etc..... Also, we don't even have title 1 schools. Chill people. Lastly, this is a blog. About YOUR life. They don't have to read it. I never saw the original sentence about sq. footage or even school crap, but still. We are fortunate enough to get a look in to YOUR life. Don't edit it for us! xoxo Keegan

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  85. Can we all just agree how awesome it is that even negative comments are published?

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  86. Andrea,
    Thank you for being brave enough to share your life in such a public space. I know it opens the door to criticism, but your blog keeps me sane. I would be devastated if I didn't have this space to come to. You are REAL, you actually talk about the hard and challenging things that no one else is willing to and that makes you so relatable. I'm still fairly young but I've come to learn that no matter what we do or say, someone is always going to be offended. Might as well live our lives anyway :)
    I think you're wonderful, I've never once been offended by your blog, and if I was, I would pull a Frozen and LET IT GO!
    God bless you, blog friend!!

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  87. Andrea: I am not a mother, a wife, a teacher, a religious person, or a homemaker in any sense of the word, so it might seem strange to some that I follow your blog...but I have been reading since I was in high school (now a junior in college) and it is my favorite thing to wake up to in the morning - seriously, I read your posts before I even get out of bed. I have to admit I was a little sad when you announced you were moving (is that insane?) but I'm excited to see what you do with your new space. Not all your posts are always my cup of tea, but thank you for continuing to blog in your own voice without caring what I (or others) think ;)

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    1. I'm in college too and still love Andreas blog! :)

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  88. If you go to your local newspaper printing place they will give you their rolls with the ends on them. You can use that rather than saving newspapers or buying wrapping paper/ bubble wrap. Of course we've moved 9 times in 10 years so we just keep our moving boxes and wrapping papers-ha! Also, when your movers have to disassemble furniture, keep a box with the screws and parts that way you know where they are. Let your kids help you pack- they can pack their toys, and give Griffin crayons so she can "write" on the boxes.

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  89. Of course the negative comments would be anonymous -people won't say that if they had to attach a name to it. Just know you have so many more supporters than "haters" and I'm wishing you best of luck with the move. I can't wait to see how everything turns out, it's going to look great!

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  90. Congrats on a quick sell! Such a relief! This is totally random but on Snapchat a week or two ago Griffin was dancing to "You Are My Sunshine" and I was wondering if you could tell me who the artist was. I'm looking for a new album for my kids. Thanks!

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  91. Such a great sign when things go so well with the sale!! I'm so excited for you guys. This was definitely a great list...we listed our house once and I did so many of these things and it helped keep me sane. That being said I had to travel on business and almost died when I returned and saw a clump of my daughters long black hair curled in the bottom of the shower. EEk!! i'm only sad that you wasted precious time you could have been packing responding to those who hide behind "annonymous" and judge you. Love your blog, love your honesty, love the way you love your family and others. You were one of the first bloggers I followed and your blog encouraged me to start my own.

    Shelly||The Queen in Between

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  92. Congrats on the new house! How exciting! I can't wait to see pics!! As for moving tips, I'll ditto what some of the other commenters said... definitely put the beds together first so you have a place to crash and send the kids to their grandparents for the weekend! So much easier to unpack and organize without littles running around!

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  93. You had less than two weeks notice that you were moving? That's really sudden! I'd suggest packing as much of your stuff as possible, but leave the furniture to professionals to lift. My back doesn't handle couches or things like that very well. Plus, if you pack yourself, you can get rid of unnecessary stuff as you go so you won't have so much to move. http://www.melbcheapsuburbmovers.com.au/

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  94. instead of wrapping each glass, put them in the cases that wine comes in--each glass will have their own slot in the box and will be protected :) Trader Joes always has a lot of empty wine boxes!

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  95. Pleased that our home of 10 years is going to a young family excited about all it has to offer.

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  96. I have figured out that there are just some really nasty people in the world who, no matter WHAT you say, will have something ugly to say back. I am a faithful reader of both you and Shay's blog, which I love, and I even came across a website dedicated to people just bashing people with blogs. They said some really ugly things about Shay and I was sickened by this "cyber bullying." I am certain of this: every single thing I read had a common theme and that is miserable people hate happy people

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  97. I am loving all of these tips! I am getting married in a few months & slowly moving things over to my fiancé's with a full move right after. I haven't quite got to the logistics side but love all of these ideas & know I am purging & donating what I don't need or have no use for anymore! Keep us updated on what ends up working for you or your big tips post move!

    And how exciting that you all will be in the new house before summer break and can have all summer making it homie & yours! Excited for your family!

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  98. I just did a post of tips today on our local mom's blog! http://knoxville.citymomsblog.com/how-to-survive-moving/

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  99. Oh girl, I just briefly read some of those anonymous comments, sorry you even have to have people attack you like that. You are THE sweetest and most down to earth blogger I have ever come across and I love your heart for all things! I will never understand why people feel the need to attack others and not just click out and not read if they don't like a particular blog/article/etc... I have never felt you come across as you were better than anyone when I have come to this space!
    So happy for your sweet family! Good luck on the move and sorry I don't have any moving tips as we've been in our home for 7 years and who knows what I did back then, ha!
    Have a wonderful weekend!!

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  100. I assigned a color to every room in the new house and bought labels in those colors for the moving boxes. Stack boxes by room and floor - the movers will love you, and you'll save a lot of labor time for the movers and have much less hassle unpacking and organizing.

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