On Moving and Progress
Well, we are knee deep in the adventure of moving and I have to say I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can finally see progress being made both in packing up the old house and cleaning/restoring the new house. This has been one of those family bonding experiences that can only make us stronger.
The last time we moved, we were a family of 4; now as a family of 6 it all seems so much more difficult. We have had to work as a team and everyone has had to do their part in someway; this has actually (gasp) been kind of fun. A lot of work, but fun to see the kids getting excited and wandering around the new house pointing things out and talking about it.
Thanks to everyone who left me some great ideas about moving, making the transition easier for the kids and frugal tips to keep our moving budget in check. I have listened to everyone’s advice and made sure that we have the essentials ready at the new house (thanks to Kacie) and that the kids rooms will be the first to be set up and made comfy (thanks to Barbara and Cindi). I also found a ton of free packing supplies like boxes and bubble wrap on craigslist (thanks to Emily) and we have let the kids pick their own rooms and colors and bunking situations(we are short 1 room-so 2 boys chose to bunk together-I’m sure they won’t get into any trouble *wink*) Thanks to Grace for that idea.
All in all, I think this has been a great learning experience, bonding experience and a lesson in the value of gasoline. I have made numerous trips to the new house and that 85 miles roundtrip has really made me realize this is the best decision for us. The shorter the commute for my Hubby (at $4.15/gallon for diesel) and the shorter ride for the kids and I (at $3.45/gallon for regular) will save us some money and some sticker shock at the pump. It was also allow my Hubby to spend more time with the kids while shaving about 1.5 hours from his commute time.
We’ve also learned that bigger isn’t always better. We are, in fact, downsizing; but the new house is already starting to feel like a home-the neighborhood is overflowing with kids and families and the schools and parks are all within walking distance. We are giving up acres of land and about 200 square feet, but the money we are saving and the neighborhood “feel” we are gaining makes it worthwhile. The kids have already been scoping out the parks and the neighborhood kids, they have been finding their “hiding places” in the backyard and have big plans to build a tree fort. They are excited and so am I.
This new house will be cheaper for us to live in and maintain and I think it will be a better place for the kids to grow up. Don’t get me wrong-we have LOVED living in the country; but taking care of the big country house with the big country property gets expensive and lonesome. There aren’t many children in the area and there are no school buses or public transport of any kind. Cable is not available and we share a well with a cranky neighbor. So, with our growing family and my Hubby’s long commute; this is the best decision for us and I think it will prove to be terrific.
Thanks again for all your ideas, inspiration and well-wishes. I will be gone Thursday through Sunday and can’t wait to get back to blogging on a regular basis. I have lots to share and can’t wait to do so.
Topics: Life & Family |
April 29th, 2008
Have a GREAT move LJ!!! (Maybe a picture of two??) Please??
April 29th, 2008
Your new house sounds great! I’m really happy for you guys
April 30th, 2008
I am glad that the comments that were left were helpful. Enjoy your now space! You will be missed while you are not bloging, After I read your blog freebies have become an adiction for me. Hurry Back!!!
Grace