The Twelve Days of Moving

A Packing Survival Carol

As the holidays rolled in, I didn't find myself nestled by the fire with the kids, but rather surrounded by boxes, bags, and the chaos of moving.

While this Christmas Eve is anything but traditional (though we'll still have a turkey dinner tonight at "home"), it seems the perfect time to look back at the adventure of packing up our lives and starting a new search for our next home.

Inspired by the season, I present to you The Twelve Days of Moving—trying to capture the ups, downs, and (unintentionally) humorous moments of the past two months. Here's hoping 2025 brings fewer boxes and more blessings!

1. A Pile of Shoes Nobody Knew

   Hundreds of unworn children’s shoes hidden in the attic and basement.

   
   

2. Two Reliable Helpers

   Myself and the trusty horse trailer, maneuvering through it all.

   
   

3. Three Baby Boxes

   Each filled with hospital bands, tiny outfits, and firsts that made me pause.

   
   

4. Four Tight Corners

   Squeezing large furniture through doorways and the driveway.

   
   

5. Five Stubborn Tapes

   Clinging to everything except the boxes they’re meant for.

   
   

6. Six Audiobooks Later

   Making hours of packing (almost) enjoyable.

   
   

7. Seven Bags for Trash

   A cleansing purge, though there’s always more to toss.

   
   

8. Eight Trips for Donations

   Clothes and toys to the church, crafting supplies to the kindergarten—paying it forward.

   
   

9. Nine Trips to Storage

   Carefully sorting what stays, what goes, and what lives in limbo.

   
   

10. Ten Furniture Shuffles

    The heavy-lifting Olympics, with occasional help from my son.

    
    

11. Eleven Labeled Moving Boxes

    Masterpieces of organization—until I lose track of what’s where.

    
    

12. Twelve Tired Smiles

    Finally settling into the short-term rental, ready to tackle what’s next.

    
    

Now that we’re officially moved into our short-term rental, the (almost ex-) rental house sits empty, awaiting a fresh coat of paint over the next days, and its next chapter. Much like the house, I’m also in transition, hoping for new opportunities and a better year ahead. How can 2025 not be better? For now, I’ll take a deep breath, a sip of tea, and a moment of gratitude for making it this far. Happy Holidays to all who’ve navigated their own “Twelve Days of Chaos” this year—you’re not alone!