We're getting closer to moving, yet with the exception of a few boxes, you would never know.  I knew that packing up our life after living here for over 16 years was going to be "less than easy"... but I didn't really think about the fact that our life is already busy enough without adding a move into the equation.

I also didn't think about the stress of packing on the kids either.  While we've been preparing them for a move for awhile (our house had been for sale for almost 3 years), none of us really thought that we'd be moving into a smaller space for short period of time.  They've had to make decisions on what things to pack and store away for 9 months and that's "forever" to a kid.

Moving into a place for only 9 months makes the overall packing difficult as I try to decide what we'll need and what we won't.  I've looked for some helpful moving tips online, but haven't been able to really spend much time reading.  Wish there was some check-list or workbook... tee hee...

I was given the helpful info. on Fly Lady's site that has moving tips.  I will be looking at a little more and start making some sort of timeline next week on our move.  We leave for family camp this Sunday, and the hardest thing for me will be to NOT THINK ABOUT MOVING and just spending time with my family.  I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed with everything that isn't getting done and wish I were running ahead of schedule instead of feeling behind.

Another thing I've encountered that I hadn't anticipated was having the "moving blues".  I've always wanted to move and I'm so excited for this next step in our life, however, I've been feeling lonely lately as I know some of the friendships I have will change with distance... if for no other reason being simply the distance. 

I have been praying for God to bring new friends to my friends, and while I'm so thankful for His answers to prayers, it's also hard to watch and know that I will not be the first to hear everything in their lives.  I've prayed for my children to make new friends when we move, and my husband to have deep friendships he can count on as he moves into what can be a lonely position... but I haven't thought about myself until today... and I felt lonely.  I know God will provide... I know we are doing what He has called us to do and going where He has lead... and it will all be okay... it's just a moment that I'm having.

I'm looking forward to the "get away" with the kids and Mike, and know that when we get back next Friday, life will be moving at even a faster pace... and so for the week at camp, my "to do list" is as follows:

• celebrate "A Mother's TREK" on Sunday
  
• enjoy time with family
• relax
• laugh
• spend quiet moments with hubby
• cuddle children
• relax... uh... just in case I forget...
• spend time with God enjoying his creation
• pray for peace when we get home
• have fun!
  

So, if you've moved before,  what are some helpful tips that you used, or advice that you would give to do or NOT do?

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