The Military Wife Winter 2011 | Página 12

(continued from pg. 11)

Bribe the packers with food, Tim Horton's, and anything else you think might get them on your good side. That way, they MIGHT agree to sneak a contraband item or two into a box and save you having to give it away or haul it in the backseat with your three kids, two cats and the dog.

List box contents to save yourself trying to find items at the new place. Usually the packers will label each box by room, ask them to list main contents as well. If they give you a look, give them a sweet smile and another cup of timmies. If you're dealing with patronizing old men, giggle while showing some cleavage or leg. Remember an "open me first box" as well, it's not a new idea but definitely a good one. Those things that you can't survive without go into this box.

Stay within budget while traveling & KEEP ALL RECEIPTS! Know which funds you can keep and which ones you have to give back. Make sure to have breakfasts included with the cost of the stay whenever possible, as the funds allocated for food do not have to be returned after the move, so any money saved from not having to buy groceries or fast food during the traveling counts as bingo bonus for you. Most of the other funds remaining are required to be returned to the "people" after the move, if it's not spent.

PACKING & MOVING DAYS:

Empty garbage cans and ensure bags of trash are well away from the house. Your best bet is to sneak them into the neighbours cans, when they're not looking. Ensure anything you do NOT want packed is designated off-limits"; they will pack anything that's not nailed down.

(continued on pg. 18)

10 things to know when you're posted