He got the job -- we're moving!!!

[BrendaK]

Hi everyone -- just wanted to give an update because lots of people have asked if we're moving or not. And the answer is YES!! DH officially accepted a position yesterday in Wheeling, IL, so we're going to be moving to the north Chicago suburbs as soon as we can. 2 of my very close friends live up there, so we're excited about that -- but sad to leave family and friends in Michigan.

So keep us in your thoughts as we go through this huge transition. After a smooth start to first grade here, we're going to have to start all over with a new school -- and who knows how it will go.... We've never done a move this big as a family before -- so it's all a little scary! And pray for good blood sugars as my kids will be spending a LOT of time with grandma in Michigan as DH and I go house shopping in Illinois!!!

[LJS118]

Brenda,
Congrats on your hubby's new job, and good luck with the move!

[momofsingingdiabetic]

Brenda...congrats on hubby's new job and thoughts and prayers for a good transition.

[Abby-Dabby-Doo]

Glad to hear it! I know you've been wanting this!

A couple of tips about the BIG MOVE. When you box stuff up- put a big HUGE star on the boxes your going to use first or most, like bedding and everyday dishes.
After you think you've found the house you've always wanted, drive by at night after work hours are over. That way you get the feel of how crowded the street is with cars, kids outside playing, noise level of neighbors (didn't realize the next door neighbor was actually a frat house), and so forth.

[BrendaK]

GREAT TIPS!!! Thanks. We're actually having movers move us -- thanks to a great relocation package. We decided to pack ourselves -- my in-laws just moved locally and saved all of their really nice boxes for us. And I'm glad DH is a good packer -- I just look at all the "stuff" and cry...but I'll have a lot of help packing. I think DH is taking at least 1 week, maybe 2 weeks off in between jobs. Hopefully we'll have one week here, then move, then one week there to get settled before he starts work. My mom is also coming up from Kansas to help us get settled.

We are renting our house out in Michigan until it sells, and plan to rent in IL until we decide where to settle. Tomorrow I will definitely drive by the houses at night after we look at them during the day. I wouldn't have thought about that!

And I'm concerned about the commute a little -- there are a few specific roads that I know are really really bad in rush hours -- so I've been talking to my friends a lot up there about commute times!!!

[OSUMom]

How exciting! We've used the company relocation package twice - I can't imagine doing all the packing on your own - sounds like a big job! Having friends in the area will help a ton with getting recommendations for doctors, knowing the reputations of schools, etc... what a relief there.

I think it's kind of good if you can - when driving by a house you want to put an offer in on, ask someone walking or outside how they like the neighborhood. It kind of takes some courage and the people need to be honest, but it could prove to be insightful.

I love a good adventure and your kids are at good ages to move, prayers for a smooth transition!!! :)