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Lifestyle

A Moving Party!

July 26, 2013
Considering a month ago we were completely unaware of Chris's new job and content with staying in our home indefinitely, this fast move to Idaho has not only thrown us for a loop, but also all of our friends and neighbors.  So last weekend, the night after we got home from house hunting, we threw a low-maintenance going away/moving party that not only allowed us to eat, chat and say goodbyes, but also had some other benefits.

Last time we moved, Chris spent almost two weeks stopping by grocery stores to beg for boxes. Finding enough boxes is one of the most annoying parts of moving, and we're not too keen on buying boxes when so many places are willing to give them away (if you catch them at the right time). That's why we decided to hold a raffle. Basically, we gave our guests 1 raffle ticket (we picked up a roll at Walmart for $5) for every usable box they brought, and then raffled off a bunch of stuff we weren't bringing with us. We ended up collecting between 50 and 60 boxes and gave away lots of large mirrors, floor lamps, pans, table linens, curtains, quilts, decorative pillows, art, frames, planters--just lots of things that we have used and loved but were ready to pass on--it was fun for everyone to see who ended up with what, and was a total win/win for everyone involved.

We kept the food simple on our end, and just picked up some fruit, veggies, chips, pitas and hummus, and drinks--no prep at all. We also passed around our guest book for our friends to sign, since this would be the last time many of them would be in our home.

One of the reasons we continuously worked so hard on this house (besides the fact that it's a favorite hobby of ours) was because we love having people over. Coupled with Chris's love of cooking, social gatherings kinda became our "thing." And while it is sad to think that this was the last party we'll ever throw in this home we've loved, we're grateful for the many friendships we've made here--they've made it home.

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  1. What a fun idea! I bet it is so hard to leave friends behind, but what an amazing new chapter you'll have. I love the new house and can't wait to see how you make it your own. And nothing beats being close to family.

  2. Great idea! I've always had an easy time finding great boxes on craigslist. But I know some people don't like craigslist or it's not very good in their area. Epic moving parties are a must!! :)

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