New Chapters
Since life isn’t stagnant, things are always changing. I had a tough time deciding if I was going to blog about this, because let’s face it, finances are in that category with religion and politics. You just don’t talk about them. The past couple of months we have been trying to get serious about our budget.
At the beginning of January, Claire started Pre-School. I felt like I left a little piece of my heart there when I drove off. Both of my girls were there two days a week. What was I going to do with my time? Sure, I had some projects that needed my attention, but that took care of the first few weeks.. but then what? After we wrote that astronomical check for that first month, I came home and cried. Why was I sending my babies to Pre-School? I don’t work outside of the home. Sure, I need a break. But was that break worth having someone else teach my children so I could read a book or blog?
THEN, we got snowed in for a week. And I actually enjoyed spending time with them. Sure I got a little stir crazy not being able to leave the house and my eyes may have crossed a time or two at all of the questions that Addison asks.. which most of my answers now follow with a “Why?” but I know she is just curious and I’m trying everyday to make me have a little more patience with her.
It was then that I decided that there was no need to fork out $400 a month for PreSchool when they were fine at home and I honestly didn’t think Claire was ready. Addison was also starting to say things like, “But I don’t want to go to school today! I want to stay at home with you and Claire!”
At one point, it was necessary for her to go to PreSchool– I was working and it was getting harder to constantly ask grandparents to watch them. They do have their own lives after all, and it doesn’t include being my full time nanny.
But the fact of the matter is, we have 3 Grandmothers that are at home and that would love to get to watch both girls for a few hours every week, if I need a break.
So I called John, and said “I think we should pull the girls out of preschool.” I felt like a horrible parent. Why can’t I just give something up so my children don’t have to suffer? Wasn’t there somewhere else to make up the $400? Nope. it’s $400 and not $50. That’s a lot of money out of your monthly budget.
After I told Addison she would be staying at home with me, she jumped up and down exclaiming, “YAY! YAY! YAY!” And I knew right then, that my little girl needed to be at home with me. She needs her mommy, even if she is too much like me in the stubborn department to ask for some snuggle time.
This is their first week at home. And it’s been amazing. The girls are playing well together. We are finally getting good use out of that expensive gym membership, since Claire will go to the nursery with Addison there. Without her, it was out of the question.
So, you should expect more pictures of this:
and this:
and this:
maybe not this, though:
Anyway.. we are kind of being Dave Ramsey about it, even though John hates Dave Ramsey, but I guess it could have a twist of J.Money- Budgets Are Sexy- I mean, who doesn’t want financial advice from a guy with a mohawk who is super rad and has awesome dance moves?
6 Responses to New Chapters
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I don't see it as "making your girls suffer". You are incredibly blessed to be able to be a stay-at-home mom and enjoy being able to be there with your girls! I think it's wonderful that they get to spend time with their mommy and each other! I, personally, see it as a good decision, not a selfish one.
Your little ones are so cute!!! Wow. And good for you for going with your heart
I don't think you can ever go wrong doing that. I hope I'm the same as you once I have kids!
Thanks for all the kinds words too, my new friend. You're awesome. You guys made our night
I think that this is the perfect solution! And like you said, they can always spend time with grandmothers if needed
I love that you have them home. Just think…you won't be able to have that much longer! We are budgeting here too. I have no idea how much I spend on groceries a month, so I am tracking it for the month of February. I got Billy hooked on J$'s site too. Its good!
Good for you for making that decision
. Looking forward to seeing more of their sweet little faces 
I commend you for making the right dcision for you are your family!!! childcare is so expensive…we have twins and a 10 yr old in private school…i can soooooooooo relate…