Well, of course people should have the option of working outside the home. I don't think anyone is saying differently here
I just think that many women don't understand that you CAN be a stay-at-home mom if you want to be.

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Umbilical Cord Blood Storage | Breastfeeding Advice and Information

Before our daughter was born, my husband and I knew we didn't want her in daycare. Besides the outrageous cost, there's also sickness and violence to worry about. (Friends of ours put their dd (she's 2) in daycare. The first week, their dd got a black eye and got the flu.) Since dd's been born (she's about 3 now), we've had some misfortunes (dh got laid-off twice & injured on the job, now his work is slow), but we've managed quite nicely.

I don't understand couples when they say they both need to work. I can understand if they have a kid with cancer or something and insurance won't pick up the entire bill. But the majority of couples I know who both work are just plain materialistic. It's a lifestyle choice for them. Why can't they just own up to that truth, instead of blaming it on economy?

I'm a freelance writer, a grants consultant, and just recently started a flower nursery (although that business is just getting off the ground). The key to working out of your home if finding something you love and doing it. I know a girl who makes pretty good money doing people ironing.

Also, cut corners where ever you can. Cut out cable, or take less channels. Use the time instead spending time as a family playing games or doing puzzels or just getting outside. Also, pack lunches whenever you are going out together. When my kids were playing ball, I always had a cooler and picnic basket handy. That way when they got hungry or thirsty I did't have to pawn the car to get something.

You can make it! Shortly after I left my job, my husband lost his job as well. We spend three years living off what he made mowing yards and substitute teaching. Believe me, it's much easier surviving off one salary than no salary.

Oh, and you never make too little. Just $10 a week can give you a nice night out as a family (or saved up could make for a quick overnight vacation at a nearby hotel).

Kelkat makes some great points! Always pack food! And this week I only made $20, but that $20 has allowed me to treat my husband and myself to a nice take-out meal. Something I wouldn't have had otherwise.

Danielle - I completely agree that is a lifestyle choice. And I get tired of people saying "My kid NEEDS name brand clothes, or a video game, or 5 pairs of shoes." No they don't. Nor do you need name brands, 2 giant SUVs in the driveway or a 4000 sq foot home.

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Umbilical Cord Blood Storage | Breastfeeding Advice and Information

Just wondering what internet sites for online work (I live in Canada), are legit...not scams?? I've actually looked into this.

I'm a stay-at-home mom and absolutely love the time I spend w/my daughter, but I often times long for adult companionship, hence why I started posting online. I used to be a really outgoing person who was always on the go, but found that once I had my daughter, suddenly my "friends" didn't want anything to do with me and my daughter. I now only have one childless friend who still enjoys my company, even w/all the toddler talk (it probably helps that she's my daughter's godmother and also longs for a child of her own). Other than that, I spend the majority of time w/family which is fine w/me. At least I know who I can count on!

I would send you a private message in case the forum moderate will delete external link; However , you're not registered so I couldnt.

Alexa - I'd be interested in the link if you'd care to send it to me privately as well. I know we'd all like to keep this nice, however I feel like that the mom's that are working are taking a hit here. It's not alwasy aa matter of working because of the things you WANT - sometimes it is a necessity and it's not just because of some terrible cancer in the family or something. And even if that's not the case, and they just want to work outside the home, they shouldn't be made to feel bad about it. I was extremely lucky to stay home with my son (almost) full time until he was about 15 years old and we live a very modest lifestyle. Don't really know that I am arguing the case one way or another, I jsut got the feeling of a very negative attitude towards those mothers who do work outside the home.

I feel sorry for anyone who HAS to work. If you think you need the income, you might want to take a good hard look at what you are actually earning. They did a show on Oprah a few years back and most of the women were bringing home very little (some where even paying out).

If you want to stay home, you can make it happen. Sometimes you just have to be a bit more creative.

I'm in agreement about the 4000sqft home. My kids share a room, the house is small so there is no hiding from each other, and there is less to clean.