Right Where We Need to Be

One of the characteristics of life in the military is the tendency to move - a lot. It's often both a joy and trial of this life. Some people can't imagine moving as often as we have, but it's just part of what we do, so we do it. And there are definitely some positives to moving frequently. We get to purge our belongings and clean out closets often. We have friends all over the US and the world. And if you don't like something about where you live, you know that in not too long you'll be moving on to new and different annoyances. (Currently, the sand gnats are at the top of my "Can't Wait to Get Away From" list. I'm fairly certain that this swamp land we live in was not meant to be inhabited by anything other than bugs!)

But most importantly, it's trusting that God is sovereign and good that gets us through any part of this crazy life. My husband and I know that we are doing exactly what He has called us to do vocationally for now. And therefor, this must be exactly the place that we are supposed to live (gnats and all!) While it's not a perfect town, we are blessed beyond measure by our friends and our church here. And even on the days that we can't see exactly what His purposes are, we trust that they are far superior to our desires for where we'd pick to live at any given time. I often hear things like, "I could never do what you do!" But the truth is that I don't do it well. It's only when I let God work through me and grant me His grace that I deal with each and every move in the way that I should.

And while I am no expert, I thankfully have learned a few things along the way that I can share as some practical advice for those of you looking ahead to a move.

1. Get rid of things before you move. You don't want to be unpacking and realize there was no need to move that broken toy or outdated decorative item. If it doesn't have a place or use in your current home, it probably won't in your new home. Donate it to charity and keep your receipts for a tax write-off.

2. Think ahead to what you might need before you get a chance to unpack. Baby items, towels, blankets, paper towels, toilet paper, flashlights, snacks and cleaning products all top my list. Plan for spending the night in your new home before you unpack. Think about anything a hotel would offer - that can help you decide what to put in your "Open me first!" box.

3. Plan for items that the movers won't take. Ask for a list before the pack out date of what they won't move. It could include candles and other items you want to move yourself. Plants and food are at the top of my list of things I don't usually move, but don't want to waste. If you aren't taking your plants in your own vehicle make arrangements to give them to a friend or neighbor. Consider doing the same with some of your opened food. A good friend would often be grateful for that almost-full bottle of mustard that you would have to throw away.

4. Unpack your kids rooms first. This was huge for us when we moved twice in 6 months with a baby and a toddler. While it's tempting to start with the kitchen or another high-traffic area, try to completely get your children's rooms set up on the first day of unpacking. It will help them adjust to their new surroundings and give them a safe place to play and sleep while you tackle other rooms.

5. Above all, be flexible. It will never go as you expect it to go. Make a plan and then when things change, don't sweat it.