Dr. Laura:

I'm a primary care physician, but I did not work full or part time until my son was seven years old, and only when my husband could be home to care for our kids in my absence.  When he turned seven, I started practicing a mile away from home Monday through Friday.  My husband worked at home as a software programmer while the kids were at school and I got home two hours later.  When my son was 10, I quit my job, because my husband's employer no longer let him work from home, so there would have been no parent home after school if I had stayed working.

Once I gave my notice, I asked my son this question, just to hear his thoughts:  "When you get home, do you want ME there, a babysitter or do you want to go to an after-school program in a daycare?"  He immediately said, "I want YOU to be at home."  I responded, "But if I don't quit my job, I can make a lot more money and buy more things for you."  He replied in a very matter-of-fact way: "How much money do you want to make?  Just tell me how much, and I'll give it to you when I start working.  I want YOU to be at home when I come home from school."

I've been a stay-at-home mom ever since then.  My wise son is heading off to college now.  I have no regrets and only wonderful memories.  I'm proud of him for being a caring, compassionate human being.  I will miss him but am excited about his journey and I tell him this often.  Thank you for your support of stay-at-home moms!

Rayla