Once in a Lifetime

[rangermom]

There's a job opening that I believe I have more than a 50/50 chance of filling. It is at a park in Arizona, just about where my husband and I have always held as our goal. The job is not a promotion, that's the only downside, but it would pay the same as my current job. Rarely is this position open, the last incumbent (a friend of mine in fact)

Comments

[skyring]

Yeah, I was just thinking that. If you apply and get it, can you knock it back without penalty?

But I appreciate the dilemma. When I was young my family moved around a lot and I swore I'd never inflict that on my kids. If the teenagers have built up significant peer networks, then it would be a huge dislocation to move and abandon all they have gained.

And to lose their company in these years would be a huge loss to you - I'm really enjoying having my kids around now that they are old enough to look after themselves.

[rangermom]

Normally you'd be right. This job is being offered as a special 'lateral transfer' opportunity, however, so the application process is a bit different and that is one reason I've more than a 50/50 chance. I'd need to discuss the transfer with my current boss, he'll need to do a special reference for the transfer, so once I start the ball rolling it will be very hard to back off.

[blloonaticbmber]

That is a real dilemma. I'm all for following your dreams, but I think it would be tough on the kids if they're that far along in high school. :-(

Sorry I don't have my magic wand handy.

[gir1fromipanema]

Rangermom, you said the children are in their final year? Which means they only have a year left? And then will probably go elsewhere for college or job? I think, if you are really interested in this job, get the family together and talk to them. I'd think a 15 or 16 year old is mature enough to consider all sides of this "problem". Discuss it with them, and tell them how important this is to you. Ask them whether they might be interested in living in Arizona (my sister and I once tried to talk our father into applying for a teacher position at the German School in Lisbon, even though none of us spoke any Portuguese!).
I don't think that moving teenagers at this age is a "fatal error". Much less than in younger years (when you really lose your basic faith in things and friends being reliable. Ask me how I know.)
Good luck in your decision! (((rangermom)))