I feel like I should be updating more often and have more exciting things to say. But it's kind of boring around here. I'm waiting to get my salary offer and paperwork to fill out. I've started researching insurance (both health and property) and would love tips from parents about whether FSBP or BCBS is better. I called Clements and realized that we really need to do a full inventory of everything we own and approximate its replacement cost before we pack out. Fun!
The good news is that I already started a spreadsheet listing all our belongings to decide what to do with it all- donate, sell, store, HHE (household effects, will be in storage while we're in VA and then sent to our first post), UAB (unaccompanied air baggage, sent to our VA home within a week or 2), pack in the car, stay behind with Daddy. Could I have any more categories?!
Any inventory tips, FS friends? Do I need to write down details (eg company, purchase date) about my stuff, or is it enough to say that the couch was around $1k (I think?) and to replace my clothes I'd need $x amount of dollars? I plan to take photos and also video the stuff, but listing the details about each item would be a nightmare.
I have in the back of my mind the recent story of a family that lost their HHE when the truck carrying it to their house in South Africa was hijacked. Part of me thinks I wouldn't mind too much. I hate having so much stuff, honestly, and there is little I'm really sentimental about. The other part of me knows how hard that would be and most importantly, how expensive to replace. And I certainly feel for that family.
In other news, I've been working on my Shutterfly baby books for the kids. 1 down, 1 to go. I want to complete these before A100. First of all, they are now 4 and 2 and it's about time. Secondly, I just know that time is going to be scarce in early 2011, to say the least. I plan to complete a photo book for every post, so I want to cross this task off my list (and have beautiful baby books to carry abroad).
I'm also working on M and L's moving books. My mom made a moving book for me with construction paper and markers when I was five. She saved it and I've always enjoyed looking at it. I think it makes me feel loved. Thanks, mama.
Still reading? Thanks. :) I'll try to be more interesting soon.
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3 comments:
My inventory advice is to photograph every thing you can - and don't worry about too much detail - if you have the receipt or know the exact amount paid/value then list it - if not, guestimate. The main point of the list is to have a quick reference to be able to send to State's insurance carrier if one or any of your crates are lost or buried at sea :)
We only had 3 weeks to pack out and get to VA so I am excited to scale down our stuff with each post - of course, as we add new cool stuff!
And I was given good advice once we got to DC, but I thought it was really valuable. You should be prepared to leave your post in a moment's notice - WORST CASE SCENARIO - You only get to take your immediate family members (not pets) and 1 bag - so if there is anything you love and/or can't live without, don't bring it to post - hope this helps!!!
thanks Meredith, this is all VERY helpful! I appreciate it!
I think it is awesome that your kids are 2 and 4 and you are working on baby books already. That will be so nice to carry with you. Wish I'd done something like that.
Meredith gives great advice there too. When we evac'ed I was so grateful that I had pics and stuff scanned and in several places. Being able to just leave with passports and people and not lose anything irreplaceable gives lots of peace of mind. We were at post almost a year before we got it all done though. Good luck with everything! So excited for you all.
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