To work or not to work?

[Kandykittins]

Currently I'm working I have 2 girls, one is 9 and one is 2. My husband and I both earn ok wages. I feel a real guilt for not being there for my girls whether it's dropping off /picking up eldest or actually day or day care of my youngest. I feel the drive to progress in my career. But I'm confused if it's what I think I should be doing or what I want to do.
If I give up work we will be skint. But we could do it. If I don't will I miss and regret not being there for my girls. If I do will I regret not progressing in my career. Soooo confused! Any advice ??? Also I want another baby!!

I have 2 dc (10 & 4) and went back to work when ds2 was 20 months old, 3 days per week (22.5 hours). I have a job and not a career at the moment I'd say, but have the option to learn and progress as the dc get older. Work keeps me sane! I do feel guilty about missing things they do (assemblies, sports day, nursery plays etc) because of work but they're pretty understanding and resilient kids.
I have been really lucky with my employers who have agreed that I can amend my hours come September when ds2 starts school, so I'll do the same number of hours over 5 days, meaning I'm able to cover school runs (dh is a teacher in a different county so can't help with that!).

Jeez what a ramble! If you enjoy your job then keep it I'd say. Any chance of reducing your hours or amending when they are? Or have one of you or dh going in to work really early and the other working later, that way you'd both get to spend some time each day with your dc.

I genuinely think it is also about what you do with your time when you are with your children. So is it quality time with them? Do you go places at the weekend (park/walk not sky diving)

How miserable would you be if you were skint? If you couldn't afford to do the things you currently take for granted? Could you get back into your career if you took a break?

I am a SAHM and have been for 10 years, my children are 11 and 8. My sister works full time and has 2 children. Both sets of children are blissfully happy, and both sets of parents are blissfully happy. Neither of us is right, it is what works for your family.

But as a SAHM I am not even remotely skint. We worked it out a long time ago and so financially we are fine, more than fine. If I were skint it would put a whole different spin on it. To be counting every penny just so I could stay home would be miserable for me.