Friends & Laundry & Parties

As I think back, I realize I have moved nine times in the last 10 years. It's not necessarily something I'm proud of but it's safe to say I've become pretty well versed in the activities surrounding a move...

I know exactly how much I can cram into a box and still carry it. I can shut off old and set up new utilities in a matter of 30 minutes or so. I can disassemble and reassemble all of my furniture and easily remember what hardware goes with what piece. I'm comfortable driving a 16' truck. And, in general, moving half way across the country in a matter of three weeks gives me relatively little anxiety. Yes, all of this makes me a little weird.

But when it comes to upsetting the balance of either my friends, or my laundry... I'm a mess.

Ok so the laundry part seems a little superficial, and it is, but somehow it always plays a big part in my moves. We'll get back to that. As for the friends... How many times can I see them before I leave? Will they visit? How can I make sure my place is ready for them and enticing? (smile) Do they believe me when I say I would let them show up with an hour's notice? Do they understand my willingness to live in a new city, a new state, doesn't mean I'll miss them any less?

And why does everyone always volunteer to help pack and move? Don't they know what they're in for...

So during the packing but prior to the move, we had plenty of fun. I was able to meet one of my best friends, Christy, in Galena, IL just a couple of weeks before the move. We had lunch and did a little shopping. A few hours wasn't nearly enough time but seeing her was great... she completely renewed my strength and spirit :) Thanks CB. When will I make it back to KC to see her? Hopefully soon. Sigh.

When I told my Chi town friends I was moving, I was booed and my name was reduced "Utah" (all in good fun of course). I think my Ram friends had five or six going aways for me... Sushi & bowling, plenty of time at booth 61, a hilarious evening at Rocky's. Wow I'm really missing them. I hope somebody drank the Guinness and Chimay! I must have said goodbye to some of them 15 times and each one was a little more difficult.

Speaking of difficult, back to the laundry. So, anyone who has ever helped me move (and there have been many of you by now) know that my washer and dryer are both important to me, and a serious pain. I won't bore everyone with the details, but I just have to say "thank you" to Kevin, Rich and Brian for this particular move. Kevin, I hope your back is ok. Rich, thanks for climbing on top of and behind that crap! Brian, so good you know how to make a non-magnetic screw driver magnetic...

So I've included a few pictures here... there are so many people missing and they don't even come close to telling how important you all are to me. Just know you have a place to stay in Utah! Much love my friends. Hope to see you all soon :)