Orange County CA ----> Leicestershire

Hello all!

My husband, 11 month old son and I have just moved to Leicestershire from California. Hubby has accepted a position at the Bruntingthorpe Proving Grounds, and we are looking to rent in/around Market Harborough.

Before the baby, I taught high school French and lived in France on several occasions. Hubby is Swiss, but raised and lived all over the world (South America, India, Southeast Asia, Switzerland, Illinois, Michigan...).

This is a big adventure for us, and I feel quite apprehensive. I miss my brother already, and had a great network of moms and playdates. I'm also sad that my little guy is going to celebrate his first birthday all alone. I'm afraid of feeling isolated, and of course every move has a learning curve (what stores will replace my beloved Trader Joe's and Target?). We also are a bit tight on money, and everything seems so expensive.

So, if any of you are in the area, have little ones, have anything to sell, have any advice, I'd love to hear it!

Cheers!

I have been to Market Harborough!  I live near Northampton so not too far and we go to a wonderful furniture store out there called Furniture Barn.  They have some great stuff.  Alas nothing will replace Target or Trader Joes

Welcome to the forum

My British husband misses Trader Joe's, too, and he's only been there maybe 10 times. The Brits would love that nonsense, no idea why there aren't any in the UK yet. (Especially given that the German holding company that owns Aldi also owns TJ's. Get it together!)

Welcome! My husband's parents live in NE Leicestershire; it's a lovely area. A couple of tips for you:

1) It's not TJs, but there is a brand new Costco in Thurmaston, just north east of Leicester. And because of the farming all around you, I'm sure you'll have fun discovering all the local farm shops.
2) Rutland Water is a lovely place to go for walks, nature stuff and there are some lovely pubs nearby to finish off your afternoon. Your 11yo might love all the nature stuff.
3) It's expensive at the last minute, but MH station has direct trains to King's Cross for London outings. Plan your days out in advance for *much* cheaper fares.

Welcome!  We are moving north of you to Manchester this summer.  I have 3 kids ages 8, 6, and 4.  I too have a huge network of mom friends here and that's my biggest fear is not having any friends when we move. 

Welcome mllependley! I think there are probably some mum's groups you can join that will help you find friends for yourself and your son.

Erin - I think with younger children it will be easier for you to make friends.  I worry because my kids that are coming with me are 13 & 15 and I will be working full time in London.  Not sure I'll even have time to make friends!