Not sure I can do this

[Evandy]

I'm sorry if this gets long-winded. I'm exhausted and just need to get it out. I was a SAHM/ PT WAHM for 2 1/2 years, when we got to the point where we just couldn't afford for me not to work FT. A year ago, just after my daughter turned 5, I got a job working on contract for a government agency and was making more than I ever imagined I could without a degree. We put our daughter in the local Waldorf school, which she loves. I got pregnant a month after starting the job, and things were good. Then the bad news--my contract wouldn't be renewed after it expired at the end of last year. They weren't renewing anyone's. So I could stay on if I could get through the difficult federal job selection process, and of course without a degree it was a no go. They really wanted me to stay on and convinced me to take a student position at less than half of my pay as a contractor. There's tons of room for advancement, and it's a really supportive environment. And I didn't feel like I could turn anything down in this job market.

So, as it stands today I am: the mother of a 6-year-old and a 3-month-old. A half-time student (online). Working full time, more than half at home, but almost would be easier if I just went to the office every day. And my husband works second shift so I have no help with the kids in the evenings.

I just started school a month ago and went back to work last week. Please tell me this is an adjustment period. Please tell me it gets easier. Because I really don't feel like I have another choice, and this is so hard.

[anjelika]

Mama, that's a LOT to have on your plate.  Is there any way you can drop school until things settle down?  Can DH be a SAHD?

A supportive work environment with advancement is hard to find these days, so if you like what you do, I'd stick with it.  But I personally would not have the energy level for what you've described. 

Best Wishes for a good solution!

[Greenlea]

I agree, thats a lot to handle at one time.  I work PT and have a 2yr old and a 3mth old.  I have a degree and am having a hard time finding another job.  We really cant afford for me to work PT but finding a FT job is so hard right now, but I'm trying.  I know you want to advance your education, but maybe you should wait a little while and focus on saving money and taking care of the kids.  Maybe in the near future your DH could get a daytime shift?

I know its hard for everyone with finances and finding jobs nowadays.  But if you're working for much less pay at a FT job, would it make sense to find a PT job paying just as much so you could save on daycare and your sanity?

[mamaofprincesses]

It will probably get a little easier as you go; yes, it's a lot, and of course you will be tired. But baby will sleep better as time goes on, and you will figure out how to get a lot done while she sleeps and your older child is at school. Don't cook any more than you need to; cook in bulk and freeze, make easy, quick things for you and the kids (and in my experience, it's not the cooking, but the cleaning up, that is the real problem). Streamline your bedtime routines so the kids go down easy and you have free time at night for school or work or relaxing. Take a multivitamin and drink lots of water, because you'll need the energy.

If your DH has the option to go part time, and it's feasible budget wise, I would do that.

How long are you looking at keeping your current schedule? Two years? Four?