Who else here has moved far from family?

[evilmantis]

My DH is a very smart husband and keeps saying "Whatever you want, dear." But I need to hear from others who have dealt with long distance moves.

Here's the story. In September I was offered a job in MO. I have lived in OH all my life. Was about to sign on when my stepfather was killed and my brother hospitalized thanks to a drunk driver. So I turned down the offer. Now, almost 4 months later (and still 5 months from a trial... but that's a post for another day) I have a great offer from a place in SC -- 12 hours from our families. We are strongly considering it.

Pros:
Much higher salary -- would allow us to pay off our bills finally (pd relocation)
lower cost of living by 10%+ would let us get into a cheaper house and pay off bills faster yet
Ridiculous sign on bonus that would let us drop 20% on a house right off
1.5 hours from the beach
Close to schools for my DH, who is interested in radiation dosimetry
NO SNOW!!! (well, rarely)
Excellent facility, great staff, workload is normal

Cons:
12 hours from family -- my brother is back to work and lives 1 minute from mom, sister lives 45 minutes from mom
$300 roundtrip flight to see family and come back for trials
moving 2 dogs, 3 cats, a macaw, a conure, a 75g fresh and 55g saltwater tank
selling a house
is all of SC that run-down?


So... I guess I am looking for experiences from other people who have uprooted themselves. Any other thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks
Goldie

 

[ggnl]

It really depends on how close you are to your family. How much would it bother you to only see them on holidays and random vacations?

Aside from that the move seems like a great opportunity for you.

 

[JulesMaximus]

Do it. Sounds like you want to and it's a good move. Your family should be happy for you and proud of you for taking a bold step like this. If they aren't then they aren't really supporting you but holding you back.

I moved from Rochester, New York to Los Angeles, CA when I was 23. I had never even visited CA before I moved here. I sold everything I had or gave it away and moved all the way across the country leaving my entire family in NY (Mom, Sister, Brother & Dad). They were all very supportive though and I don't regret it for a minute.

That was 16 years ago. I am married to a wonderful woman I met shortly after moving here, we have good jobs, a house and a very happy young son.