Karen,

Well, I have "relatives" (former sister-in-law, her husband, my nephew and his wife, and a friend and her two boys) that live in Michigan. I'm closer to them than my own family (I don't have much real family left). The last time I was out there on vacation in May, I was very depressed about leaving and cried on the plane all the way home. I guess it has to do with the bond and closeness that they all have.

The family that I have left which consists of my brother (who I haven't spoken to since my Dad passed away 5 years ago), my elderly aunt and 3 cousins and of course, my 26 year old daughter, is NOT close. I don't hear from any of them except for my daughter, Amy.

My job is going nowhere. I was passed over for a promotion so I think it's time to move on. I have lived in Connecticut my entire life and have had alot of bad memories here. I want a fresh start somewhere else.

So that's basically why. It's a huge decision but not one that I made on impulse. When I tell people what my plans are, the first words out of their mouths are "What about Amy??" I'm feeling little guilty about that. But all my life I've concentrated on taking care of other people (and animals). I think now it's time to think about what I want and go for the brass ring.

I will definitely keep coming here because I love the site so much and there are so many great, supportive people.