Wow, wow, wow! The hubs and I have made it into the new place, and we’re in love! Big open windows, tons of light, charming wood floors, and so much more space. We’re already quite happy here. While things here at the new place are in far too disarray to share in full, I can’t resist sharing some sneak peeks of the new pad. The “before” pics, if you will…before the makeover begins!

{Our master bedroom was unexpectedly larger than our old one, and it features a back door to a little patio area.}

{What a relief to have all the clothes in the closet! I was a little bummed to have to share with the hubs, but turns out, the closet is also bigger than anticipated. I’m loving all these pleasant surprises!}

{…and finally, a soon-to-be guest bedroom/office. Currently the room is serving as a catch-all for the boxes we don’t know what to do with yet, but in time, it will become a beautiful little retreat. I love the little windows that look out onto that small patio, which will soon be covered in flowers and an herb garden.}

And Can I just say, I love my readers!! You guys are so amazing! When I needed help, you delivered big time.

Last Friday, when the hubs and I began our move, a very overwhelmed and overstressed housewife (yours truly) took to her blog to share her frustrations and lack of know-how on the entire moving process. After that post, several of you reached out to offer congratulations, support, and even your own expertise on the topic. I was so touched by the gestures, but also so impressed with some of the pointers I received.

I assume I’m not the only amateur out there when it comes to moving, so today I would like to share with you some excellent tips and resources for a smooth moving experience.

The first email I received was from Melanie– an interior designer and fab Army wife (a.k.a career-mover) with a cute little blog of her own. While some aspects of Army life seem completely undesirable (5 a.m. wake-up calls for example), there’s something reassuring and even sexy about moving “military style.” Melanie has some great tips for making the moving process a little easier. Here are some of my favorites:

Moving– Military Style

1. Hang on to important boxes and get creative storing them. I love her suggestion of hiding original china boxes in that little space above cabinets (or in my case, above my china cabinet), which also creates a perfect platform for arranging decor and accessories.
2. Everything soft is packing material. That means towels, sweaters, blankets, etc. With all the money spent during a move, it’s nice not to have spend on bubble wrap and packing peanuts.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. This little reassurance gave me the guts to ask some new neighbors (who had kindly brought over a plate of cookies) to help us figure out how to light the pilot on our oven. Sure, they may think twice next time they’re generously dolling out baked goods, but maybe I can get back in their good graces by returning the favor now that my oven is back in business.

Preparing for a Move

So, a huge thank you to all you loyal readers. You guys are awesome! I’m so excited to begin the Apartment to Home projects, and hope you guys will continue to reach out with your ideas and your expertise.