Thank you all for your kind and helpful comments. Sorry have only now just go back in to look at them!
Notdoingthehousework - £100 a month less would make things pretty hard, we have already got belt tightening in place! We never go out as a couple due to lack of baby sitters, get a takeaway once in a full moon, we don't do dvd rentals, don't go down the pub, I may go somewhere for a meal with friends maybe once every couple of months, but that's it!
We do go abroad but that I am not prepared to give up as the only time we go abroad is to visit my Spanish family. Can't really say we're never going to see my dad and the rest again And no, they won't visit! Too expensive apparently
MrsTM -Currently not an option to get rid of my car - I have already stated, I do a 70mile round trip to work every day, not doable on public transport, and DH has a company car and works 50 miles in the opposite direction. If I stayed at home I would seriously consider getting rid of it though.
Morningpaper - Because the cost of childcare would not decrease at the same rate as any salary drop, part time working is not an option. And I need to be physcially on site so cannot work from home at all. And to be honest, the few bits I could do at home would be difficult to do with a curious, mobile baby
I think yes a 5 year break may kill my career but to be honest I don't think I am that bothered. I am open to may be looking at another role, but the job I was doing before I went on leave was tbh even more stressful and someone else is doing it (and he is welcome to it )
I will have a look at that website, Custy thank.
Beckle - dh mentioned about the childminding. Now I like look after my own child (most of the time ) but wouldn't want to look after other peoples. The supermarket thing I would consider, especially as there is a big Asda up the road.
Leo - I like your comment about doors, I've been thinking along those lines too!
I have to give 3 months notice in my job, and they will hold me to it because I will be reasonably tough to replace. But I won't do anything until DH's promotion comes through, and when that happens, that £100 deficit will disappear and it will be easier.
I am feeling a bit guilty, I do like my boss and my colleagues, and I know it will make very difficult for everyone if I do hand my notice in, but I've got to think of what is best for me and my ds. I feel quite bad as my boss is having to replace another manager who is leaving - there has been a lot of changes in personnel over the last 2 years, with people moving on within and without the company, and the strain is starting to show.