We currently own over 3,000 sq. ft. custom home on 4.3 acres in the rolling hills of Southern Ohio. It has a lake with a fountain and is a gorgeous home for that area.....but sadly the schools are so inferior we can't possibly reside there any longer. If only I could tranport my home to Northwest Columbus! We brought both of our children home from the hospital from that home and have ten years of memories with our children's handprints and footprints all over the place.......Because of this, we had considered Eric remaining in the South and us here in the suburbs indefinitely, but the children and I miss him so much we just realize that even your dream home is not worth jeopardizing your family.

Have any of you had a similar experience where you've had to leave your own home before you felt ready?

To try to deal with my emotions, I am now looking around here to find just the right place for us to move. The dollar doesn't spend equally, as this area is progressive, effective, and almost a 360 degree change in community and services. Therefore, it will cost us more to have less, at least in house.

Still, I believe I am doing what's right---doing whatever needed to help my child, and sometimes we have to give up something in the process. I will miss it but I will never be sorry for being a dedicated Mom....

If you are so inclined, please pray for us that this will all work out ok in the end. I'm putting on my brave face, but when/if it really does sell I'll be a basket case when I have to say goodbye once and for all.

Stephanie Vogelsong
stephvogelsong@aol.com