Sentiments about relocating (again...)

[socieconomist]

My partner and I are going through the emotional ups and downs of moving. We're actually very well established in Cincinnati, our current city. Friends, colleagues, connections out the wazoo. Our primary concern, no matter when we move, is developing a reliable community... *sigh... again. ---> this will make the 7th major move in 13 years. What one gains in the attainment of one's hopes and dreams, one often sacrifices in a variety of other areas of life... sadly...

Anybody else relate?

Alternatively - if you're feeling spectacularly and uniformly thrilled about relocating and associated next steps, also post away!

Hope to see a range of sentiments, expectations, and possibly exit strategies.

Thanks to all for sharing!

[lovenhaight]

I can definitely relate! Part of the reason I applied to the schools that I did was because we are planning to move as a group with another couple. We've moved a lot, and finding friends who we have so much in common with is rare. I also have an issue with the move because my husband works in a really, really small field and jobs are not easy to come by. Everything needs to align in a workable way since we can't survive on my stipend.

So many concerns...getting an acceptance was really only the first piece of the puzzle.

Edited February 28, 2012 by lovenhaight

[socieconomist]

Yea - buying my ticket to go check out the area in March was definitely a first material step for me (us). I think setting foot in CA will really make an impact. I don't think it'll make the transition any easier... but who knows, it could.

[ohhello]

I'm probably going to move to the midwest, and as a native Californian I think 40 degree weather is too cold. Anyone have any tips on surviving the wintery weather? What exactly do people mean when they suggest buying "good" hats, jackets, and boots? I like to run outside as well - is this at all possible?

[quantitative]

I'm a bit nervous about relocating as I know absolutely nobody where I'll be moving. This is my first "real" move, so I'm just nervous about getting settled: finding friends (how did I make them in the first place!?), finding a roommate, finding an apartment--and just living in a town I've never been to.

I'm probably going to move to the midwest, and as a native Californian I think 40 degree weather is too cold. Anyone have any tips on surviving the wintery weather? What exactly do people mean when they suggest buying "good" hats, jackets, and boots? I like to run outside as well - is this at all possible?

I am a veteran of cold weather. Seriously, it's not that bad once you get used to it.

For a good jacket that fits most seasons, I'd suggest one that was made of QUALITY wool or down. Good wool will be thicker--and not scratchy! Check the liner to make sure that it's sewn tight/possibly lined with something warm. I suggest buying it 1 size up so that you can fit a sweater/layers under it. A store like Macy's carries jackets in ALL locations rather than just in colder places, so I'd try to find out which department stores would have clearance jackets right now (near you). Warning: You DO NOT need a floor length down jacket like I've seen with many migrators from warmer climates. You just need a warm coat. A peacoat is my go-to jacket 3/4 seasons. I generally buy it 1 size up so I can wear it with a sweater in winter--or sans sweater in fall/spring.

A good hat simply will cover your ears and stay on your head. Fleece is always good although there's a million materials out there. Try JcPenney or basically any major department store. In terms of shoes, you just need GOOD waterproof boots. You don't necessarily need SNOW boot although I'd suggest a cute pair of boots that is both lined with something warm in addition to being waterproof. I do own BOTH although I only use my snowboots like 10 days a year, which doesn't justify the cost to me. Some people just prefer a well-made pair of leather boots that they waterproof themselves (useful for all seasons!). However, you might just want to get one nice pair of warm boots that also look acceptable (and not just in the snow!) that is suited for late fall-spring. This isn't really the BEST time to buy them as clearance on boots just ended in Northern states. Wait until October/November to find a good pair.

Running outside IS possible! You tend to warm up so quickly that it's not worth it to spend crazy amounts on exercise gear. Personally, I start working out indoors after a certain point in winter although you will always see outdoor runners. I like UnderArmour's warm clothes although they tend to be too warm after you run for 30min. Honestly, as long as you wear a hat/gloves, you can wear a sweatshirt/sweatpants/shirt/sneakers to run in the cold. Snow is a bit tougher to run in as it weighs you down, so I'd suggest just running @ your university gym.

PM me if you want some more advice about winter.

Edited March 9, 2012 by quantitative