<p>So many of you were so kind when I posted that DH was being laid off that I wanted to post an update. He was offered a new job in Tampa today, and we accepted. We are in Chicago, so there will be transition issues, but we are grateful to have a job offer in a place that we would eventually like to retire in anyway. We are getting a head start on retirement. :-)</p>
<p>As I have mentioned before, DH worked for one of the major banks that accepted bail out money, and they are laying off people left and right. We were lucky to find out in advance that DH would be one of the laid off folks, so he was able to start a job search at the end of January. </p>
<p>What is truly sad is that this bank is accepting bail out money, but closing entire locations and sending the jobs to India and the Philippines. I think this is shameful, and I have written to all of my representatives to let them know of my displeasure. </p>
<p>Again, thanks for all your kind wishes, and my DH and I are looking forward to starting our new life.</p>
<p>Welcome to Florida. Tampa is a great area. I hope you like it. Florida takes some getting adjusted to. The humidity you WILL get used to. We think it’s paradise here. And yes, no state income taxes, but because of that be prepared for horrible property taxes.</p>
<p>That is such a great thing to hear!! Maybe things will begin to turn around soon. Though relocating is a hassle, you’re blessed to have the chance at a new start:) And you are so right, how bad is it to go from windy Chicago to Tampa!! </p>
<p>For some reason your news made me really happy…lol… Lots of luck in the future!</p>
<p>Thanks everyone! Yeah, I think the turnaround is here. DH got the job, older D is graduating from Mizzou and has a job, and younger D just got accepted for a Disney internship. </p>
<p>It’s funny, years ago my ex and I looked at houses in Dunedin, which is near Tampa. I loved it , but I couldn’t talk him into moving. It took me 2 husbands and 26 years to get there! :-)</p>
<p>What relief for you – and what excitement in the weeks/months ahead. Congratulations. In these economic times, these happy-ending stories are much needed.</p>
<p>Thanks for posting the good news. I need to hear good news like this; it gives me hope. My husband was laid off in January after 18 years at Motorola. I work part time and have no benefits; so I am also looking for full time work to tide us over until he finds a new position. </p>
<p>With a second child heading to college this fall, it is hard to stay positive as each week goes by with no leads or interviews. He spends HOURS every day on the search. But we are doing our best to stay hopeful and positive.</p>
<p>Best of luck with the move and the new adventure!!</p>
<p>Good for you and him! I am happy for you. I wish we were closer to retirement plans. I don’t want to move abruptly when the time comes, and I know this is not where we will stay. I just don’t see how we will make the transition. It 's wonderful that you are where you want to be.</p>
<p>Cptofthehouse – do yourself a favor and start clearing out the basement/storage/back bedroom now. We’re in the midst of this process and boy do we wish we’d begun it when we were just noodling around with the idea of moving. The actual packing up is a piece of cake…the figuring out what to keep and what to pitch is no fun at all.</p>
<p>That is terrific news!! Congratulations on the new job. We know a number of folks who “got a jump on relocation for retirement” due to job changes and they are all very happy!!</p>
<p>Thank you for sharing this great news ! What a great way to start off my morning. Like others I had been wondering how are things with your family. Congratulations on the new job and best wishes for the move and finding a great new home.</p>
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