Need opinions on moving situation

[EllyBell]

I am considering a move to another state and scared!  Love to hear from others who have done it, things you wish you had known, surprises, regrets etc.

Currently, we have lived in a small town for 10+ years, I work part time and go to college full time online.

In the new area we will be living with a sibling, splitting rent - yes!!  No more being the only adult in the house!  Number one reason to move.  Better climate, a very close second!  I will be able to transfer to a college there almost immediately and obtain my degree in less time due to lighter requirements.  Family court has already approved the move.  All my family lives in the new area.  I really want to get a fresh start where everyone does not know alllll about my divorce. It can be somewhat of a scandal in a small town, even several years later.

Hesitations. My current job is flexible, pays well, and I can either bring my children or schedule around their activities.  In the new area this would not be the case and I think I would have to find work in a different area.  My children go to a wonderful school now and schools in the new area are unsafe and private schools are outrageous. And last but not least, we would all miss our friends. 

I keep telling myself if its awful we can always move back.  I am worried that the school here would think badly of me if I pull my children out and then bring them back a few months later though.  

[hillymum]

Boy, that is a tough one! I can't say too much on the subject, but I will confess one thing, I would do anything right now to be near to family! But that is because family is in a different country and I can't visit them at all. What do your children think? Are they old enough to have a say in the decision making? How well do you get on with the person you will be living with? That would be a huge factor for me! What if their parenting style is different, do they expect to be allowed to discipline your children? DO you expect the adult to do as much housework as you do? The two of you really need to discuss all the ins and outs of living together.

Good luck!

[EllyBell]

We get along very well and have already gone over house rules and etc.  I think I am just getting scared cold feet!  

My children say they don't want to move because they will miss their friends.  When we go visit though they love it.  I have struck a deal with them to give it a shot for a few months and then make a decision.