Wow, this thread was very interesting to read, to learn of all the different situations.
I am pretty sure that every single one of us who have married someone from the other country and had to make decisions about one of the 2 moving to a new country, has been through much of the same process of questions, endles worries of 'what if', stress beyond belief, and so much more.
We did, but we talked about it. The funny thing about our situation is that BOTH OF US wanted to move to the other country, but Hubby wons first and he moved to the USA. It was just easier for him to move, as he had a very small flat, not much stuff, and was/still is in construction on contract work mostly, so all around it was easier for him since I had a good full time job and a big house and tons of stuff.
Now, after we lived in the USA for 5 yrs, I decided that I was ready to retire early due to health issues (nothing serious). I was just ready after working for many years, reaching my 50th birthday next week, and I had always told hubby that I wanted to retire and move to England b/c I loved it so much. So, again, we went through all the questions, fears, worries, and we made the move, both of us this time to England, back to his home area. He is very happy to be back and I am happy to be here, so we sorta have had the best of both sides, living in both places.
Maybe the older you get, you realize that is it about Happiness for both of you, and not about jobs or friends or even extended family members..... it is about you and your partner (and kids be it human or pet).
Life is NEVER easy,