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@septemberlove: This is such an agonizing decision and I'm so sorry it's eating you up so badly. I personally would take the year - not because your LO wont be just fine and dandy if you go back to work (because he will) but because you want to so, so much (I can totally tell from your previous posts and this one) - and I don't blame you. If my hubby could pay the bills and feed us for a year without my income, there is no question I'd take the year off - bigger car be damned.

Answer something for me - what is the professional certifications situation? What is is you do? What kind of damage would a year off do you to career wise?

Will you be able to go back working 28 hours after a year is up? That seems like the perfect schedule to me!

@septemberlove: I was in your shoes and totally understand what you are going through. First thing's first - 28 hours? That's awesome! It will give you a lot of time you would otherwise miss out on with your lo if you were working 40+ hour weeks. You will be able to get the fulfillment of working, as well as spending time with your lo AND funding your retirement.

I went back to work because of some of the reasons you want to go back to work. I went back so we can fund retirement and pay off our house. I would LOVE to stay home with our daughter but I know if I did, it would take a long time for me to get back to where I am in my career when I was ready. It's hard knowing the daycare teachers see her more waking hours a week than I do but I know she is learning a lot more there than she probably could at home with me.

Good luck with your decision. I can tell you're really struggling with it but I'm sure you will make the right decision for you and your family.

@septemberlove: how long do you have for maternity leave? Maybe give it some time and see how you like being at home. I never thought I would want to go back to work. As much as I hate to leave R and send her to day care, I am cut out to be a stay at home Mom. I need more interaction with adults during the day.

I get though that it would be a hard decision to make.

It was never an option in my mind to not work so I didn't have to make a decision one way or the other. I can see why that would be hard. I CAN say that for me working helps me to appreciate my time with LO more. I think working 7 hours a day won't make you feel like you aren't seeing LO enough. It is hard to adjust at first...I cried when I went back, but you adjust and now I'm so happy that I work. I think it gives me balance. Plus, I think added financial strain can be very detrimental to happiness. Good luck making your choice!