Yellow Pages

Recently, I was chatting with a young, professional woman. She and her husband had recently moved from one state to another. We were discussing unique and interesting aspects of their new location. Suddenly, I realized she had not read her new, local Yellow Pages. So, I asked, "Have you read the local Yellow Pages?" She looked at me as if I had three arms or was speaking in a foreign language.
It occurred to me that having moved 20+ times during my professional career, I know some "secrets" to moving:
1) Read the Yellow Pages - you will be amazed at the resources available that you have not seen as you drove to and fro the local market
2) Always put clean sheets in the mattress box - you will not have to dig through various boxes marked "linens" to enjoy the first night in your new home, on your bed and between clean sheets
3) Whenever the movers disassemble anything - tape the hardware (packing tape) inside the drawer or to the frame; thus, there will be no issue with missing parts and assemble upon arrival...don't forget to tape the picture hanger to the back of the frame
4) Pictures Boxes, Large - be sure the unpackers open every large picture box; they are just a terror to get open
5) Boxes in General - a) be sure all boxes are well labeled when they are packed...ensuring they are delivered to the correct room upon arrival; b) have the packers open/cut the tape of every box upon arrival; and c) completely unpack any box which appears to be undamaged
6) MY Box - when the packers arrive, take one box and write on it "immediately deliver to owner when found". Keep this box in a location in which you can place things which will be essential on arrival (hammer, screwdrivers, tape, couple of old towels/cloths, ink pen and paper, small chargers, mother's silver ware). Have this be one of the last boxes placed upon the truck (one of the first off), and let the unpackers know you are looking for it
7) Take a deep breath - things will be broken and things will be damaged...immediately document anything you notice
HAPPY MOVING DAY!

Herbs Gone Wild

It is so very warm in the State of South Carolina...almost too warm to be out, and certainly too warm to be tending the herb gardens. But, keep an eye on your sweet basil and mint. It will go to seed as you sleep...thus, robbing you of your fall harvest. Just pinch off the developing heads regularly to ensure you have a great fall harvest. When the frost threatens, just clip it and place it in freezer bags or dry it on your rack. It will be enjoyed well into the winter months if you mind it now.