Stay at home to raise kids or work to improve finances?

Tweet

I recently mad a decision after having my second child to quit my job of 13 years to stay at home and raise my kids. I have a 13 year old that I had at the young age of 19. At that point I really had no choice but to work. Now that I am married and have a supportive husband I have the greatest opportunity in the world! I wont deny that it has been really hard financally, we've had to downsize and drastically change our spending habits. But I will tell you that it is more rewarding than I ever thought possible. I enjoy everyday that I get to spend raising my beautifuly boy, and regret that I could not do the same with my older daughter. While I was a working mom it was difficult, feeling like your always in a rush running around, wondering what you could possibly throw together for dinner and then falling in bed at night after you finally get your child to sleep. Then wake up and do it all over again. I respect and give credit to both types of moms, those who have to work to make ends meet, and those who choose to stay at home. Neither are easy jobs. I am interested in getting opinions from both; For the working mom - Do you wish you could stay at home? What are your opinions about daycare? What is you general opinion of stay at home moms? For the stay at home mom - What tricks do you use to save money for the family? Do you find yourself going 'stir-crazy' and craving a night out every once in awhile? What is your opinion of mothers who work because they want to and not out of financial need?