Being a stay at home mom (SAHM) [or Domestic Engineer - hehe] isn't as rare as you may think. It seems to be coming "back into style" from my experience.
I'm amazed the criticism SAHMs & Homeschoolers get. I DARE them to spend 1 day in my shoes without bailing. It's a crazy, selfgiving life and I wouldn't trade it for a million $ paycheck. We learn to live with less to have a better quality of life. I dare you to try it!
Those who work outside of the home have their own challenges and needs, but I personally wouldn't leave my young children in someone else's care unless we were stricken with poverty.
I've seen the village, and I don't want it raising my children!
I recommend reading "The Domestic Church: Room by Room." Chapter 4 discusses this exact thing. Who ever says that it is not a job has never been a SAHM! A mothers work is worth more than a paycheck. Besides I get paid... in God's Graces, smiles, drawings, and some day grandchildren....for all my efforts!
From the book:
"A mother is the heart of her home when she is lovingly dedicating herself to her family... Any time that a mother deserts her children's care, she is opening wide the door to possible chaos and instability, and again - other people's values and morals - or lack there of - are thrust upon the innocent and impressionable children." "Motherhood is filled with sacrifice, as we know, and one particular sacrifice is in putting one's own desires on hold for the betterment of the family."
This book is incredible as I read it along with my Catholic Women's Book Club, and I suggest it to you. It reiterates what I've been taught about motherhood, gives me confidence to continue my vocation, and gives me tips to make it a little easier.
God Bless you and yours!
