The PCS ring binder (episode 3)

I got out the PCS ring binder today! Why, oh, why is this move thing called a “Permanent Change of Station” (PCS) when it’s going to last 2-3 years and then happen again? Oh well, I have more important things to do than argue about a poorly-named situation.

It feels like we are in a "doorway moment" in life

Does anyone else keep their PCS ring binder tucked away as-is for next time? Ours sat in our first home in Germany for nearly 3 years, and has rested here in Stuttgart for 1.5 years now. Why reinvent the wheel when it’s the same thing again?

We went to Mainau AGAIN... stop and smell the roses amidst the uncertainty

Task #1 = clean out leftover paperwork from the last move, such as old utility close-out bills from our former place. Ensure empty plastic sleeves and fresh lined notebook paper in every tab.

Recent trip to Indiana

Task #2 = make notes of what is going to be different. Some tabs are the same, such as “current home” and “new home”, while other tabs need adjusting. Our last move within Germany was door to door, and we loaded the cats into our cars that we just drove to the new place. Moving across the ocean involves 2 different shipments: everything in our house, and a smaller load of things we need more quickly. We are considering not shipping a car, since we are  moving to snow land, thus needing a vehicle more sturdy than the beloved Prius.

Another painting class at the arts'n'crafts center

Task #3 = start filling in sections as feasible. For example, a list of items to give away or sell before we move. Give away house plants, an older carpet, etc. Sell IKEA glass-fronted cabinet that will never survive the move. Make veterinarian appointments for the cats. Phone numbers of temporary lodging (military hotel) in all locations. Research housing options in the new location. Rent or buy?

One of three pools at our local community "Freibad" (outdoors)

Not in the ring binder: begin clearing out our belongings more ruthlessly than before. Donate, throw away, shred, or keep? We are in the “hurry up and wait” phase, which will drag out seemingly forever, and then lickety split we’ll be in zooming around mode. Stay tuned! Any PCS ring binder tips?