re: Opinion on asking for a raise

I say there is no harm in asking for a raise now, but don't connect it to the interviews. They don't need to know about that.

If you get an offer that you are willing to take, tell them you can't start for about a month.

Then give your boss notice. Make sure you emphasize that you really enjoy the job and company, but that your family situation demands more financial compensation.

The ball is now in your boss's court.

And here's the part that sucks: if you are easily replaced, you won't hear jack and they will just let you go.

But if you are a key employ that it would suck for them to lose, expect a counteroffer.

Good luck.