It’s been a while. I’ve been growing my beard out. Felt cute, might delete later.

The movers have loaded up our belongings. Now we’re on our way to our new home in Las Cruces, New Mexico. And not a moment too soon.

We're exactly one month from our moving day as of today. Knowing we're only going to glean what we want from the garage instead of completely cleaning it out, I'm feeling more optimistic now. I'm more nervous about the actual move coming up, but also getting excited about setting up in our new home.

Yesterday was Indie Bookstore Day, so I'd like to give a shout-out to COAS Books in Las Cruces, NM. It's almost like a library where everything's for sale. And there's also Mesilla Book Center. They carry a wide range of books and gift items, with books on local history front and center.

Just a "State of the Move" update: I retired from my job so that I could pack full-time for the move. The house is bought, some pre-move-in issues with the house have been addressed, and now we're in full packing mode in preparation for the movers who should be coming just after Easter (April 22).

Yesterday was my last day at my workplace after 22½ years. I've felt excited but also scared, as it's the longest job I've ever held and I'm leaving on my own terms, not for another job or for a transfer, but to move. I left with a full heart, pride in work well done, and a nice 401(k) nest egg.

I was boxing up some long-forgotten shellac 78 RPM record sets yesterday when I noticed this very pretty bookplate in the front of a Liszt set. It’s nearly 100 years old (1929?), from what I can deduce from Discogs. Upon my move, I should clean the records with the ultrasonic and have a listen.

I’ve been frantically packing for the move. Laying eyes on everything I and the hubby own is utterly exhausting and an endless chore. I’m getting much done but so much more remains.

My 2025 in a nutshell. Closing on a house this week!

Happy New Year y’all 😜