Sigh, just bought labels for daycare...

RadicalDreamer143

And now I am depressed that I am going back to work in two weeks.  I've been putting off preparing for this, but these couldn't wait any longer.  The only thought that pulls me through is to keep thinking, "This is really the best option for him - he'll have lots of friends to socialize with, the daycare itself is wonderful, they go on trips when he older, and he'll have a lot of fun."  It's just not the best option for mommy who would rather stay home (another thought I never entertained prior to actually giving birth).

What's worse is that I really COULD stay home.. but then things would be "tight" in that we couldn't really vacation, send him to fun extracurricular classes... if I do work, our retirement is set, we pay off the house in three years instead of thirty, almost 100k of student loans will be paid off by the end of next year, and we'll be able to do pretty much whatever we want - take trips around the world with our kids, send them to private schools, pay for piano lessons AND the piano, lol.  I'm trying to keep thinking these things, and have them motivate me, but ugh it is easy to sink into the doldrums, you know?  I have two very good girlfriends at work, I hope they'll be able to deal with me!

Just a mini-whine/vent I guess.  I am very fortunate to make a great salary, or even have a job in this economy, but man, it's not going to be easy

Arcadia1114

I'm sorry you're sad about going back.  I fully respect being financially responsible.  We figured out our finances if I stayed home for a few years.  With DH not doing 401k, we'd have $100 a week adfter bills.  It doesn't sound too bad, but when the car needs tires, it costs $700, etc.  As you said, I want DS to be able to do the activities he wants, go on vacations, save for emergencies, etc.   Your DS will get lots of social interaction, will get a head start on learning, and will be blessed with lots of adventures when he is with his parents.