It's almost time...

jessthenurse · **It's almost time...**

I posted a few months ago about how DH and I were trying to make it possible for me to work PRN come March or April. What this means is that I'd be required to work one 8 hour shift every 90 days, but I say when I'll work. I'd basically be able to work as little or as much as I needed to. Amazingly, even w/all the setbacks from having my siblings here, it looks as though it will still be possible. It'll be tight, but doable.

Being as my anxiety is kicking into high gear over this, I have a few questions for those of you who are already SAHM's. What helps you to feel as though you are providing financially for your family? I know I've seen all the articles & stuff about how much a SAHM should make and whatnot but as I already do all of those things (cooking, cleaning, childrearing) I feel as though I'm taking something away from my family by not providing a paycheck. I also feel as though I'm adding alot to DH's plate by making him solely responsible for the financial income for the family.

TIA

desertmom · 02-16-2008, 07:21 PM

Jess...I bet within 2 weeks of being SAHM, you'll be able to answer that question on your own. You become a full-time mom, and yes, you will be working constantly. First of all, I think you are awesome for taking on what you have. But rather than being able to escape to work, where you work very hard, but away from the kids. You will be doing your cleaning and cooking, but most of your day will be entertaining them, refereeing disagreements, pretty much what you do on the weekends, but it will be every day. Coffee breaks and even bathroom breaks will be a thing of the past. Coming up with helping them learn and grow each day, plus just keep them from becoming bored, and teaching them to find things to do on their own takes a lot.

Call around and find out what the daycare costs would be if you weren't home. That'll give you a financial picture. But a lot of staying home can't be quantified only financially. The kids get the benefit of having someone very close to them teaching them daily.

Being a SAHM is not for everyone. But it is very rewarding to be there to see those daily accomplishments. But you will have moments of pulling your hair out as I am right this minute while both kids are screaming and fighting over Lincoln Logs.

jessthenurse · 02-16-2008, 07:33 PM

Thansk for answering. The cost of daycare is the main reason we're going to make this change. It is outrageous! It would be almost a third of my paycheck!

mom23kj · 02-17-2008, 05:39 AM

Jess, it's a mindset you have to get past. You may not be contributing financially, but you can be saving and finding ways to stretch your $'s. That counts. It's a tough job to stay home, I've been doing it for 7 years and at times it's stressful, but it is so rewarding. Good luck!