No family local

[Itstime2023]

Just me and DH, no family local.
My parents 3/4 hours away, his in another country.

Close friends who could help we can count on one hand.

How do people cope or would it be easier to move closer? Really love where we live though!!

We don't have family in this country and we manage fine. It depends a lot on how flexible your work is and what kind of situations you expect where you think you might need help from others?

I'm a sahm which does give us a lot of flexibility. I handle the dc through the working day on my own with no issues. I don't see why I'd need any help from family really. DH works ft but he can opt to wfh or take time off mostly whenever he wants it. We only use that when we have to deal with having someone to be at home (eg to let tradesmen in) and I have to go out or, or something like I need a dentist appointment where I can't take the dc.

We use paid childcare for nights out etc, and use after school clubs and holiday camps for a bit of extra childcare. My dc are happier doing those activities than just being left with a relative anyway. My dcs rarely have sick days but obviously I can look after them as a sahm.