Just looking for any advice/info about move... (Painesville, Oak Harbor: for sale, home)

[momx5]

Hello all...I am a single mom of 5 children (and after reading a few other posts, I will just clarify that yes they are all from the same father, lol). Although Im only 34 I was married for 14 years and have now been widowed for almost 3. My kids range in age from 15 -7 and are all involved in sports and other activities.

My motive here is to get as much info and advice as I can about an almost definite move. We currently live in CT (new haven area and please feel free to bash all you want, lol) and will hopefully be moving to Ohio by years end. I have been looking into the Elmore/Oak Harbor area as I have very close friends that live out that way and I absolutely love it there each time I visit. I know that is NOT a reason to move there but having support of people who love and care for me and my family is a necessity. I am totally interested in the country life and think it will be a good, although huge change for my children. My two older boys are not 'thrilled' with the idea but do understand this is something we need to do right now. I know it will be a huge adjustment, not only starting fresh but the way of life will be a drastic change from what they are used to now. I do believe that in the long run, this will be good for all of us. Where we are now has gotten way out of control and being a single parent with no male figure in my kids lives is very difficult. My main reason for moving is due to financial reasons. As Im sure most of you statistically correct posters know, CT is just the most ridiculous place to be as far as taxes and financial aspects go. I realistically just cannot afford to be here anymore. My other reasons are to give my children a better life. I understand there will be problems no matter where we go, but the life we are living now is not good enough anymore. And I refuse to be one of those people who are 'stuck' just because Im afraid of making a change and taking a chance. The fast paced, hurry up and go nowhere life is just not what I want for them any longer. The crime/violence that is creeping into our somewhat small town from the larger ones is not sitting well with me either.
Although I have the benefit of already knowing people that live in the area and can pick their brains about things such as schools/jobs, etc...Id still like the input of others as most of what Ill get from them is all positive, obviously they love where they live if they've been there their entire lives. Im just looking to get as much info as I can regardless if its positive or negative. Im struggling with this only because I am the sole decision maker and do worry about making the 'right' choice.
I HOPE to be able to move by december (yes I know...winter?) and the wait til then is because I promised my 13 yo he could finish out this year of football here as he has been on the same team now for 5 years and this will be his last year in this division before high school. I also need to sell my home which Im hoping will not be as big of a task as it seems to be for some. (fingers crossed)
I dont mean to get so personal or long with this post but I figure the more you know about the situation, the better you will be able to offer help.
I have also considered in the past, when I was 'running away' from life, moving more toward the cleveland area...my best friend of 9 years lives in Painesville, OH...but that was for the wrong reasons and Id much rather give the country life a shot right now. Being 2 hours from her is much more doable than being 10 so that will still be a bonus
I appreciate you taking the time to read and have no problem with anyone wanting to contact me privately if you'd prefer.
Have a wonderful 4th of July, be safe and always SMILE

[tags4]

Hi, I live in Painesville and have my home for sale. It is a great family home, good neighborhood. I raised my daughters here, schools good and ect. If interested in looking at my home online, email me. Have a good day, Janet

[bethontheriver]

If you are still considering moving here, I have lived here with my husband for 4 years now and we love it! If you have any questions, email me and I'd be happy to tell you everything you care to know!
Good luck!
Beth McGlynn
bethontheriver@yahoo.com

[Jashrema]

You could also look in Pemberville...nice little town out that way. Love Elmore too..but you really aren't close to any type of culture, entertainment stuff.