I just can't decide whether or not to return to work. I know that I'm fortunate to be making this decision, but we made a lot of life adjustments so we could afford life on one salary. I have an opportunity to go back to work part time (afternoons) and am considering taking it. I have a toddler who is almost 2 and another who is almost 3. In my heart of hearts, I do really feel like they are too young for much substitute care. I think the children are ready for having a little "preschool" time a couple of days a week, but the job (if I accept it) would require that they be in care for about 4 to 4 and a half hours M-F.

Of course, I sound like I've already decided against it, but I wonder if my feelings about them being in substitute care for so long is more my issue than theirs. (However, the 2 year old does still nurse to sleep for her nap...) The reason I'm hemming and hawing is I do have a great opportunity and I'm so very torn. I have really loved life as a SAHM, but I don't want to be holding my children back, either.