| It is a new day and a new place there is a smell of | | | | • Go to the local library and get a |
| paint and boxes surrounding you. Whew, it is time to | | | | membership for the family. |
| get settled. If you handle unpacking systematically you | | | | • Introduce yourself to your new neighbors |
| will not have any problem. Get the movers to place | | | | and call up your office to let them know you have |
| boxes in the rooms where they belong, for example all | | | | arrived. |
| boxes that contain kitchen stuff should be placed in the | | | | • A visit to the mall, drugstore, and grocers is |
| kitchen. Create a priority list and unpack accordingly. | | | | a must. It will help you make new friends and stock up |
| Many people prefer getting the kitchen and bedrooms | | | | on essentials. |
| done first followed by the living areas. | | | | • Make the move an adventure for the kids |
| • Check that all appliances and electronics | | | | and plan special treats to help them settle in quickly. |
| work. Keep a master list and tick as "OK." | | | | • Go to the local bank and set up your |
| • Next have the utilities turned on and all the | | | | accounts. |
| appliances connected to the right outlets. | | | | Help the kids and pets settle in by bring them small |
| • Create a mover's file and file all receipts, | | | | gifts and set up a routine for them. This helps them |
| insurance papers, as well as contracts in it. Pin a sheet | | | | settle in quicker. Many families hold a "new life" party |
| with the mover's numbers and contact details. Ensure | | | | or ritual, and plant a tree or bush to symbolize new life |
| that you have the bill of lading and payment receipt. | | | | and order pizza or have a barbeque in the yard. Music |
| • Keep ready the papers pertaining to the | | | | and laughter always eases any tensions or discomfort. |
| transfer of school registrations. Plan to go meet the | | | | Hugs and kisses help create bonds and erase fears. |
| school authorities and complete the formalities. | | | | Spend more time with the young ones and pets to |
| • Take care of essentials like registering for a | | | | reassure them of your love and support. Packing a |
| new driver's license and get new tags for your cars. | | | | "love em" box helps. This could contain favorite CDs, a |
| • Make the time to meet the new doctor, | | | | family movie, a few pictures, and a story book as well |
| dentist, as well as vet. | | | | as cuddly toy, having things that a family is |
| • Ask the newsvendor to start delivery of | | | | comfortable with eases the first night in a new home. |
| newspapers and magazines. | | | | Transitions are always hard and every bit of effort |
| • Visit the local citizens club or Y. If you are | | | | made to facilitate settling in goes a long way. Plan on |
| religious make contact with your temple or church. | | | | what to do after the move and things will go smoothly. |