In a nutshell, just had DC2, a change in our family circumstances means that our children will now have to attend nursery when I return to work, when it was previously planned that they would be cared for by a close relative in our home.
Apart from the obvious practical implications, this has really made me question my priorities. I really don't want to put my DC in nursery, especially the youngest who will be just 9 months old, and don't want a nanny or childminder either. I want to be the one to comfort them when they are upset, etc. and really want to avoid putting them in nursery for long days, and the hassle to the whole family of very early starts for nursery drop-offs. I only work part-time, but even that feels like too much.
DH is extremely supportive, even though my resigning will mean that our disposable income will drop to a level we will only just be able to manage, i.e. no new car, holidays, treats etc. In my occupation, a period of absence will mean that I find it very difficult to rejoin at a later date, and a career break isn't an option, so I will need to resign and possibly find another, probably lower-paid, occupation at a later date.
I am genuinely split - I know I will never have this time back with my DC, but I'm also loth to give up a well-paid career to scrimp as this may also negatively impact on our family in the long-term.
I'd be interested to hear from anyone who faced similar choices and how they feel their choice has impacted on them and their family in the longer term.