What Would You Pack?

This is certainly an interesting time in my life. I am leaving Seattle and heading south to LA in 6 weeks. We just secured a tiny house in Hermosa Beach. Optimal word in that last sentence is tiny. Yes sirree Bob, this little cutie is 700 square feet. Two small bedrooms with a bath in between and a longish living/dining room. Wait...before it sounds like I’m whining, let me explain. There were a few bigger places in our price range…just not near the beach. So, this is a choice we made so we can have the beach experience. I have wanted to live as close as I could for as long as I can remember. But now that it is here, I am wondering what I shall carry along for this blessed adventure.

Now, for those of you who happen to have your share of accumulated belongings, I want you to look at them and prioritize. What would you take with you? I will have a place to hang my clothes that is about the size of an entry way coat closet. One lone closet for everything. Surprisingly, this does not bother me as much as some of my furniture and books that I will have to leave behind. So, I have looked around at my things and made a small list of my favorites. With a photo of each…

This is my grandfather's WWI outfit that my parents were going to get rid of so I put it in a large glass case and I've been dragging it around with me ever since. His dog tags and stick matches were in one of the pockets so they are in the case too. Grandpa Sophus was a bugler in the war...and a saint to put up with my grandmother all those years after. For many sentimental reasons and a reminder about patience, I cannot part with it.

A few of my books...there are many many more, but I think I can get by with these.

Okay, I know this is pretty oddball but I have this kamikaze helmet that I was given a long time ago. The binoculars were from the same era along with an ancient catcher's mask. Don't ask me why...but I love them. Actually, I think I will be cremated in my kamikaze helmet. It seems fitting somehow. The Andy Warhol painting goes too. My daughter is letting me care for it while she is out of the country. 

What would Thanksgiving be without my pilgrim outfit? I don't think there will be room for the mash potato pot, but the outfit has to fit in that miniature closet somewhere. 

Rupert...with a security deposit.

That's all I can take for now. My two oldest kids are on their own and living a wonderful life and the last one has opted to stay in Seattle with her dad to finish up her senior year of high school. After looking at this "must have" list, I don't blame her! I desperately wish she was coming but I will be back and forth often to see her. Also, the biggest factor of this move. The boyfriend. He is the component that makes all of this change and adjustment a true joy. He keeps me laughing and that is what this adventure will need!

Now, besides family, what would you pack for the love shack?