[Mrs. Don-o]

Childcare: that's a big, BIG one. Add up all the expenses you wouldn't have if you stayed home and took care of your own kids:

NO

• childcare

• steep personal image costs (clothes/cosmetics)

• commuting costs/second car (you can get by with one car: we did)

• costs of eating one, two, or three meals a day outside of your home

• gym/fitness? (you get your cardio running around with your kids)

....AND MORE!

Honestly, somebody worked out the whole list showing that, on average, many young married working women with a child or children are clearing almost NOTHING once their extra expenses (including taxes) are taken into account.

I think La Leche League published a couple of books showing how, with a little planning, you can stay home and have kids (and nurse your babies) and actually end up with more disposable income, more time for your spouse, more personal satisfaction, and more LIFE.

Bottom line: quit your job, save a TON of money, and have the time and energy to actually have a family life.

What a concept, eh?

[VermiciousKnid]

Exactly right. My neighbors are young marrieds, and the wife mentioned to me the cost of her daycare. Are you ready for this??

$1600 A WEEK! For ONE kid! (She was expecting their second.)

I said to her, “Why are you paying that? Just stay home.” She replied, “My mother would kill me if I ‘wasted’ my college degree.” (Like I did, I guess...)

Regards,

[victim soul]

Amen.