I think Region 3 is south east Texas...so it's not like you are going to have to drive WAY far down to the other side of Texas
I don't know where in NC you live, but from Shreveport Louisiana, which is just about an hour away from Region 3, to Ashville NC is 15 hours...with no kids in the car...lol makes for 2 pretty long days
Congrats!! I hope you are able to transition quickly!!