"HOW THE GURL MOVED TO THE ATL AND LEARNED TO BE THRIFTY PART1"

I migrated to the ATL in December of 2006 quite by default. The one and only roommate I have ever had and I, wanted to leave the small town that she was born in and I found myself stranded in. That's a totally different story...smiles. We could not agree where to move to...I had long ago wanted to move to Miami...realized I didn't want to live on the tip of anything hanging out in the middle of the ocean like a fish waiting for a tiny "Whale" of a hurricane to come snatch it. Then its was Las Vegas because I don't gamble the weather is great, and you can eat at buffets for 5 or 6 dollars. That plan went out the window because its a bad location for anyone that does gamble. My roommate and I could not agree...I wanted to move to Tempe Arizona and she wanted to move to Texas. Tempe was too far away from her family and I was like..."What's in Texas?" She mentioned Atlanta and I quickly agreed remembering my visits as a teen and how every time I was visiting I left with regret wishing I could stay there forever. We looked at apartments online through Promove and thought we had one all picked out...but we found out that the surrounding area wasn't the best so do your homework! You can actually go online and find out the cost of bread and milk where you want to relocate to. Use a cost of living calculator site such as http://money.cnn.com/calculator/pf/cost-of-living/. This will give you an idea, but by no means if you are determined to move somewhere, let the numbers deter you...just be prepared. Have a plan and then make a backup plan. As for the move...rent a truck. No matter how expensive it is...it will be 8-10x more costly to hire someone. If you have money to toss...buy boxes...if not gather them from everywhere. No matter what location, most products arrive in boxes. Due to recycling, boxes are often returned to the vendor so you may have to do some searching. Free is always best but if you must buy specialty boxes...do your research and get the best price. When renting a truck...always rent a dolly! You can hire friends, family, or day workers to help you load. $$$ always help the issue and even then..many friends and family who say they will help just plain won't show up, so be prepared. I would personally consider day workers if I ever need to move again. Only you know the reliability of your family and friends. 

Stay tuned for Part 2 of How the Gurl Moved to the ATL and Became Thrifty!