It’s true.

After 13 years, Inez and I have split up. I’m glad to say theseparation was amicable, and we will remain friends.

Inez, of course, is the Grand Old Lady of downtown Brookhaven.When I moved here in September of 1989, I made my home at the InezHotel. When I left there six weeks ago, nobody had called the Inezhome longer than I had. I’m not sure who has seniority now, but Ibelieve it is Edna Sones.

What I miss most about Inez is what had become my extendedfamily: Edna, Roberta, Helen, Bonnie, Velma, Paul, Charlotte, Rogerand Don. Of course, I can still go visit, and they can visit me atmy new address on Chickasaw Street.

Inez will celebrate her 100th birthday in 2004, and she’s stillgoing strong. I wish her many more great years.

Isn’t moving one of the hardest jobs in the world? I had been atthe new place for five weeks before I finally unpacked the lastbox.

I learned what I think are some valuable lessons before, duringand after the moving process. I’m going to share some of them withyou.

* Books are wonderful. I love books. A library card is easier tomove than a box of books.

* When you’ve finished reading a magazine, throw it away. If youintend to clip a recipe or a coupon or an article from a magazine,do it. A clipping is easier to move than a box of magazines.

* Fire King Turquoise dinnerware is pretty, and it’s fun tocollect, too. Paper plates and cups are easier to move than boxes(and boxes and boxes) of dishes.

* If in your packing you find an object, look at it and say,”what is this and why do I have it?” — you don’t need it. Throw itaway. If you find two of them, you’re too late. Chances are they’vemultiplied.

* When you buy new socks and underwear, throw your old socks andunderwear away. This is especially important if the socks aremissing a mate or if you’d be ashamed for emergency medicalpersonnel to see your “drawers.”

* When loading furniture onto an elevator, make certain youenter last. You’re no good to anybody if all you can do is ride upand down on the elevator — stuck in the corner — until somebodydiscovers your predicament.

* When inspecting coat closets near the front door, be sure thefurniture movers know where you are. You’re no good to anybody ifall you can do is stand in the dark until somebody discovers yourpredicament.

* When you get settled, plan to stay at least 13 years.

Write to Nanette Laster at P.O. Box 551, Brookhaven, Miss.39602, or send e-mail to news@dailyleader.com.