More Than Just Shipping

Many people all across the world are being told to stay home now because of the pandemic. At first this sounds like fantastic news! Everyone loves a little break from their work and day-to-day obligations. Families might have a chance to get ahead on spring cleaning, maybe organize the toy bin and playroom, finally go through all of the closets and decide what to keep, what to donate, and what to throw away. But after a day or so the excitement starts to wear off as the reality of having to stay at home (without leaving!) with your entire family starts to set in. I’m here to tell you to stick with those goals and get stuff done you never had the chance to even start! Grab your shipping boxes leftover in your house and let’s get started.

Go Through Your Closet

The last time I really looked at the back of my closet all I could do was laugh. I have so much stuff. And I know we all do. I had pieces of clothing in my closet from at least ten years ago. Surprisingly, it was in pretty good shape. I always had it in the back of my mind to organize this stuff. Now, I have a chance. And so do you. This could even be done with kids. Might even be a way to keep them entertained in their own room for a few hours. Tell them it is going to be a little fashion show. Try everything on and determine if it fits. If it does then it goes in one pile, and the things that do not fit go directly into the shipping boxes in the middle of their room. You can use the same method for you, but also add clothes you no longer enjoy wearing even if they fit into your boxes.

Organize the Playroom

Kids grow out/get bored of toys all the time. Explain to them that some kids may not have toys at home during this extended break. It will be hard for kids to give up toys even if they have not played with them in two years. Give them a few days to decide and really praise them for being able to pick a few toys to give away.

Once you are set on which toys stay, come up with a system on how to clean up and organize each night before bed. This may be harder to teach and enforce during the school year because the kids have to go to bed at a certain time even if everything is not clean. This break allows the kids a few extra minutes to clean up until everything is done before bed. Making this a habit now will help the kids when they do start school again.

Guidelines for Successfully Unpacking After Arriving in Your New Home

Everyone knows that feeling of wanting to get the job done when moving to a new location. At this point all of the boxes are unloaded from the truck and inside your new location. Some might say “NOW” is when the real work begins. Getting everything unpacked and in its new proper place takes time, patience and creativity to say the least. Having a plan is important when unpacking everything at your new location. Below is an orderly list for unpacking using strategy and organization to avoid problems.

1. Food and Perishable Items
Obviously anything refrigerated or frozen should be the first to be unpacked and rushed to the refrigerator. If you are not moving very far and lucky enough to have the option of moving your fridge upright from one location to the other then you might be able to simply unplug the refrigerator and plug it in again at your new location leaving the food intact inside.

2. Toiletries and Hygiene
You will likely find yourself needing some of these items soon after arriving and taking on the job of setting up your new place. Needing to wash your hands with soap or use the restroom are a certainty while unpacking and setting up your new place. Having everything needed to also take a fast shower will make everything more relaxing at the end of the day.

3. Child and Pet Items
Keeping the kids and pets busy when trying to establish a sense of organization in your new place is a big plus. Unpacking a few of their favorite toys or security blankets can bring a sense of relaxation allowing you to focus on completing the job ahead.

4. Kitchen and Food Preparation Items
Having the kitchen stuff unpacked and set up is a big help. While adjusting to your new home many times you might find the kids or yourself craving a simple home prepared snack or even your favorite microwavable frozen dish from the grocery store.

5. Items for the Bedroom
Since we spend about 1/3 of our life asleep then it makes perfect sense that getting the bedroom setup is something that should not be put on hold. Some find themselves spending the first night or two sleeping on the couch or floor because they prioritized other things. Getting a good night of sleep will help supply you with the energy needed for effectively getting your house in order.

6. Occupational Objects
By this time it is important to start unpacking items related to work. Whether it is a laptop or day planner, staying updated with important people and tasks can make the difference between success and failure. Having your home office or business attire ready as soon as possible will assure the stress of moving will not interfere at the workplace.

7. Legal Documents
Moving to a new location is certainly going to mean handling some legal documents. Often times it will be necessary to file personal and residential related documents. Having these readily available for any needed changes will make life a little easier.

8. Electronics and Computer Gadgets
Getting connected again and staying in touch with the outside world through tv and internet can be a nice way to reduce stress after a big day of moving. Having these devices up and running again as soon as possible will not only give the kids something to do but will also allow you to entertain family or friends who are helping during break time.

9. Tension Relief
Finally as you near the end of the unpacking process everyone can take the time to unpack their favorite items. For some this might be a video game or DVD and for others it might be an MP3 music player. Enjoying your favorite item will help relieve any remaining stress at the end of the day.

In any moving situation it pays to have a good strategy ready for unpacking and getting everything organized for enjoying your new place.