The above picture is actually of our Nashville to Savannah move, so three moves ago, but just the sight of boxes piled high triggers a panic attack for me. Remember our last move? It was the worst one ever…read about it {here} if you missed it two years ago when it happened.
We’ve loved living in our great big beautiful home for the past two years, but if you’re a regular reader then you already know that we’re downsizing locally so that the kids and I can stay in North Carolina next year for our son to finish his senior year of high school. Meanwhile, Chris will be moving out to Ft. Riley, KS, for a two year assignment. Since we’ll be paying for two houses (and utilities), plus hopefully lots of plane tickets to and fro, we want to be very, very conservative with our housing dollars.
Here’s our current home, all 4000 lovely square feet of it:
Here it is:
If you’re doing the math, though, and comparing 4000 sf to 1400 sf (I know I am!), then you know that I am currently doing a lot of sorting and purging! Every item in our house is getting assigned to 1) The Mint Chocolate Chip House, 2) Chris’s Little House on the Prairie, 3) temporary storage, or 4) the thrift shop/Craigslist. My favorite thrift shop is getting a donation almost daily, and I’m not even letting myself walk inside lest I buy something and undo my efforts!
Oh, and we’re also moving ourselves this time. Because the MCC house is just five minutes away from our current house, I’ll be moving most of our stuff one carload at a time. We’ll rent a truck sometime in April for the bigger stuff and to move a few pieces into storage. Chris will also be U-Hauling it out to Kansas when the time comes, that way we save our one military move for next summer, when Annabelle and I will probably be moving out to Kansas for the second year of Chris’s assignment. And if you’re confused with all of that, then I am, too!
In the meantime, I do have to share that I came home from Spain with a huge love for their cafe con leche–basically, half espresso, half hot steamed milk.
I have recreated it at home, and it’s changed my world! I bought an espresso machine that basically works like a Keurig, because I’m lazy, and a milk frother, because I’m lazy, and I am in heaven.
This is the one I bought:
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| Espresso cups | Nespresso Espresso Maker | Milk Frother |
I think we all know that a proper dose of caffeine can make your whole day better!
Meanwhile, back to sorting, and thanks for stopping by!
Lynne says
Fort Riley?? My dad was stationed there when I was 5. Not a lot going on out there but not too far from KC, which is where I am. I’d be happy to help with any information that I know. The military does require great sacrifices by their families. You have so much fortitude! I’m exhausted just thinking about all you have to do!
Christy says
Thanks so much, Lynne! My in-laws lived in KCMO for several years and it’s a great town. If my daughter and I wind up moving out there for year two, I will definitely be asking to tips. And yes, it does sound like a sleepy little town, but at least there’s KS State, right?
I appreciate the good wishes!
Christy
M says
Ft. Riley is amazing! We had the privilege of being stationed there for three years. We would go back in a heart beat. Hope. You get to live in one of the historic homes! Now we are stationed in Arlington – wish we could. PCS back to Riley!
Christy says
Everyone who has been stationed out there raves about it, and those gorgeous old houses. You know I’ll be crossing fingers to live in one of them if/when Annabelle and I go out there for the second year!!
Are you at Ft. Myer? Chris and I got married at the Old Post Chapel there; I’m from Potomac, MD.
Thanks for writing–take care–
Christy
Ashley says
You are my hero! I have no idea how you move & recreate every time – AND with kids! The Mint Choc Chip house is adorable & I can’t wait to see what you do with it!
Sending Happy Moving Vibes!
Christy says
Thanks, Ashley! I’ll take all the good moving vibes I can get! 🙂 The kids are finally old enough that they’re helpful when we move, but when they were little, it was definitely a challenge. My daughter and I spent last night sorting, organizing, and tossing in her room and actually had a ball, because we’re weird like that.
Stay tuned and we’ll see how the MCC house comes together!
XO,
Christy
Marcia Stewart says
christy,
I have enjoyed Amy’s and your blog entries for several years. I was drawn and remain a faithful reader because of your strong faith, outstanding creative designs and your dedication to our country as a military family. Thank you to your husband for his leadership and efforts to keep our country strong and safe ; you are a dedicated military spouse keeping the “home fires” burning and setting a wonderful example for other spouses during deployments and separations.
We are a retired military family so I understand somewhat the moves and the stresses placed on families. I will be praying for your son’s needs to complete his senior year in north Carolina, the sacrifices you will make while being apart from your husband, his transition to Kansas and to commanding the troops at Ft. Riley, and for your daughter’s adjustments to a new home and later a move to KS. these will be on going prayers over the next several months.
we now live in leawood, Kansas, a suburb of kansas city. i would be honored whenever you travel to kansas to assist you with anything you need ( ie transportation to Ft. Riley from the kansas city airport, or as a tour guide for aspects of kansas city you might wish to enjoy. there is an outstanding ballet company for annabelle in kansas city.
may god richly bless all of you during this transition.
Christy says
Marcia–
Your lovely comment brought me to tears when I read it last night. THANK YOU for lifting us up in prayer over these months of transition! I can’t tell you how much that means to me, plus your lovely offer of help when we head to KS, and even remembering the little details, like Annabelle’s love for ballet. You’ve touched my heart.
Thank you, too, for your family’s years of service and sacrifice. I’m glad that you’re now settled in a great location (I love KC!) and enjoying retirement.
Thank you so much for the encouragement, and the prayers!
Love,
Christy
Brandi says
Ms. Stewart – your comment got me teary-eyed also. This is yet another reason I love this blog. Shared life experiences, shared love of family, shared love of country. Beautiful! xoxo
Christy says
Hey, Brandi–
Thanks so much for writing and for the encouragement! I agree with what you said to Marcia, too–we are really just a group of friends who haven’t met each other in person yet. I really treasure that in a world where the internet and social media can be so mean!
Take care,
Christy
Marty Oravetz says
Oh wow, we just moved ourself too since it was so close – only an hour away- and boy is that a ton of work. I wish you luck, this will be interesting for sure.
Christy says
Hey, Marty–
Let me pat you on the back for being DONE with your move! An hour away sounds very tough for a DIY move–I’m crossing fingers that five minutes will be much easier than what you no doubt went through.
In the meantime, I have lots of coffee and wine! 😉
XO,
Christy
Sue says
My goodness Christy – what a busy time for all of you. I always look forward to reading yours and Amy’s blog.
All those moves – and you always remain so positive and upbeat. And because of your faith and your commitment to your family you are raising two well rounded children with the same positive outlook.
I too look forward to seeing what you do to the MCC house to make it your
Home. I’m sure it will be charming.
I’m not American but a Brit living in Canada but I still want to say thank you to you and your family and fellow service families for all the sacrifices made to keep our world safe.
All the best.
Christy says
Sue,
Thanks so much for taking the time to write such a lovely comment! I’m not sure that I’m always positive and upbeat, but I try to “fake it until I make it” and that usually works. 😉
I love that you’re British, living in Canada, and reading an American blog. The internet does bring us all closer together, doesn’t it?!
Take care and thanks again!
Christy
Brandi says
Good luck with the sorting, packing & moves! Hope the caffeine does the trick to keep you awake/going.
So wish I lived near your resale shop so I could score some of your donations. I love your style!
Julie says
From what I’ve been reading on your blog, you are a strong woman with ‘can do’ spirit, and know you will make it happen! Women just do that kind of thing! Good luck!!
Christy says
Thank you, Julie. Yes, it has to get done, and so it WILL get done! I appreciate the encouragement!
Christy
Cindy says
I don’t know how you handle the frequent moves. I just turned 60, and this is only the second place I have lived other than my parents’ house. My DIL’s family lives in the Kansas City area. Her dad was stationed at Ft. Leavenworth till he retired.
Christy says
Hi, Cindy–
I lived in the same place (Potomac, MD) until I married Chris at 23, but I’ve certainly moved a bunch since then! I think it’s like anything–you just do what you have to do. I guess the upside is that we’ve lived in some wonderful places and made friends that we would never have met otherwise.
Thanks so much for the good wishes–they are appreciated!
Christy
Shirley @Housepitality Designs says
One of our moves that was only 1 mile from one house to another was definitely our hardest move! We did it a little at a time rather than on big move. However we did not have to move and organize things in several different places! You are definitely a very strong and capable person. The truest of a military wife. Kudos to you Christy!!!
Cindi Heness says
I look forward to your posts about the move and the new little house! Thank you for your positive attitude and your family’s adapting to the moves you’ve had to make. As a veteran myself, and my husband who served 22 years, I know that the soldier couldn’t do it without his family’s support. Bless you all.
Christy says
Thanks so much, Cindi, for the good wishes and encouragement! Also, thanks to you and your husband for your service. I know you’ve “been there, done that,” too!
I’m packing the kitchen today, and it’s never ending. 🙂
Take care,
Christy
Donna Boyd says
Just a idea you might want to try. We had a daughter who lived in California & we live in KY. So,., we picked up a Delta American Express to try to get enough miles to help with our airfares. I believe I have had 3 airplane trips free from using this card. we put all our daily activities possible on our card to be converted to miles. You want to pay it off every month (you do not want to pay interest on these cards). Just check into a card with airline miles that may work for you. the best from where you live to where your husband will be.
Hope this idea helps, you are spending the money anyway on groceries, gas, restaurants, , cleaners (your husband’s uniforms), car repairs, etc. so get added value from your dollars spent. You may like other cards better for pts or cash back – you should always get added value from theses cards if at all possible. And, if you will owe a balance, please get the best interest rate possible.
I do enjoy your posts. Thanks for sharing.
Christy says
Donna, that’s a wonderful idea and definitely one that we’re planning on using! You’re right, we’re spending the money anyway, so we might as well get more bang for our buck. The more often he can come home and visit, the happier we’ll all be.
Thanks so much for the encouragement and kind words!
Take care,
Christy
Lauren@simplylkj says
Sweet friend, sorry I have been out of the loop. what a busy time for you and the family. i pray all comes together and the moves go smoothly this go round. i know how awful the previous move was, and how stressful. i pray for god’s protection and peace over each of you and your belongings as your make the transition. the mint chocolate chip house is darling. our katie was just up your way this weekend visiting her beau who is stationed at fort bragg. she has gone on and on about how beautiful it is and how lovely the town is. if we ever head up with her, i’ll let you know! would love to hug your sweet neck in person 😉
Christy says
Hey, Lauren–
Wouldn’t that be fun if we got to see you in “real life!!” And of course you’ve been out of the loop with all the sad details that surround the loss of a loved one. I hope it’s gone as smoothly as possible.
Thanks so much for the encouragement and most of all, the prayers. Since we’re doing it ourselves this time, I know it will be easier in so many ways.
Pat says
Hi Christy,
I’ve been away from the computer for awhile and missed this! I can only imagine the turmoil you and your family are in with another move. Seems this is actually 2 since your husband will be in Kansas. I have absolutely loved your current house and I’m sure you have too! So beautiful and spacious and the additions you’ve made will certainly make another family happy!
I so wish that the general public would be more connected to our military personnel and their families. Most seem to have no clue about the sacrifices the enlisted and their families experience! I have always admired you as being a great example of a military wife. Please share my appreciation with your husband for his dedication and service and to you for making a difficult situation seem “normal”.
After the last move, I’m glad you are moving yourselves! That is not an easy task at all but I pray that it is done with ease and grace that God will provide. May you all be protected by His grace and love.
I feel that I’m rambling now so will close. My precious Forrester crossed the Rainbow Bridge on Monday and I’m totally heartbroken! There’s just no pain like losing a fur baby. I will be having back surgery on the 24th so will be out of touch for a bit.
Sending you strength, peace, the perfect helpers and HUGE Texas hugs!
Much love,
Pat
Christy says
Oh, my goodness, Pat–I’m so, so sorry to hear about Forrester!! I know your heart is broken that you’ve lost your friend. They are such a huge part of our lives. Please know that I’m sending you love and prayers for your hurting heart. I’ll also put the 24th on my calendar; praying for a successful back surgery for you!
Thank you for your kind words and constant support. I so appreciate the encouragement and prayers!
Love,
Christy
PS Back to packing boxes. 🙂