Naomi, our first daughter, was born in Hoboken, NJ. We knew we'd be moving right after she was born for Arthur's new job in Seattle. We put our house up for sale one week before she was born and prayed it would sell quickly so we wouldn't have to deal with the hassle of having a newborn in the house while the house is for sale. It did. In 2 days, which is ideal when you are 9 months pregnant.
We waited until she was 5 weeks old before we moved. It really wasn't that bad actually. She was great on the plane. We got to Seattle and found a place to live right away. She wasn't so dreamy to move with when we moved into our new home when she was about 3 months old though. She demanded much more attention so that was harder. At any rate, it wasn't nearly as difficult as people had warned me. Maybe she was just a "good" baby at that point. It also helped that she was an only child and we didn't have tons of stuff to unpack. It was also very helpful that where we moved to was the place where all our family was.
We moved again after Daphne was born. She was almost one. We needed more space and were *forced* by the nature of our desire to not spend a fortune while getting a lot of space, to move to the suburbs. It was more difficult moving with two kids, for sure. Fortunately Daphne was at a pretty good stage in babyhood. Of course, having my mom's help is always priceless. She is an excellent unpacker!
So once again we are contemplating a move after having a baby. Why, you may ask? Arthur is looking for jobs (as his current one will cease to exist shortly) and so far our only option is Boston. It is still early in the game so we're praying that local things will come up. At any rate, I am NOT looking forward to moving in any way, shape, or form.
Oddly enough we never visited Boston while living on the East Coast so I have no idea what it is like. Have you been there? I know it is more expensive than Seattle and certainly more expensive than Lynnwood. I know our families aren't there and that is about all I know! We are planning to take a trip out there shortly to get a feel for the area and see what we think. I am glad that we still have good friends in NYC and NJ and one of my best friends is moving to Albany tomorrow! These are good things.
I hate making decisions like this. For me there seem like no up sides. Of course, having a husband that is employed is a plus, especially since my income is, um, non existent. But let's be honest, the income I COULD make if I were gainfully employed wouldn't get us too far anyway. I know the job is a great opportunity for him, yada yada... but seriously, baby number THREE is on the way and baby number ONE is just three! We're a bit anxious in that department. Not to mention the fact that we just moved into this house last year and the market has, um, declined, just a bit. Chances of us selling this place in 2 days is pretty much the same odds that I'll win the lotto.
So, for those of you wondering, that is what the deal is at this point. Thoughts, prayers and *useful* advice welcome!