new apartment

A couple of weeks ago, I was out with some girlfriends and we went to a restaurant in the Metropole (the oldest and poshest hotel in Hanoi), Angelina Steakhouse.  When Sarah suggested it, my first thought was, “It’s too expensive.”  But considering my work situation, I rarely spend money.  I realized, I can well afford a few nights out like that without hurting the budget.  It felt nice.

Once I had secured my apartment, I was trying to figure out how I would move.  I tried to collect boxes from Press Club, tried to find time to pack up my things (all the things which came in boxes from San Diego had been unpacked and boxes thrown away – do you remember those photos?).  I also had no clue how to get my belongings from crapville to my new home.

And then at breakfast last weekend, my new friend, Ray re-confirmed my idea – hire a moving service.  Since I was off to Laos on that Monday, gone the entire week before my move, it really seemed the only solution.  And so I contacted Stephanie who I met in my first days here who works for the Santa Fe relocation company.

The crew arrived at 9:30 this morning.  I explained how I had organized everything and what should be packed together, etc.  I had at least organized what went where.  By noon, all the contents of the boxes were emptied, most things put away in cabinets and the crew was off to the next appointment.

I am SO glad I spent the money to have someone help me move.  It would have been silly to try and do it myself – especially in this ridiculously HOT weather.  While it is important to stay on top of my finances, I really need to let go a bit and enjoy my success, as well as make my money work for me.  These types of services exist for a reason, and I am grateful I was smart enough to make the decision to pay for it!

On the Bright Side,

Shanna