It's official... I'm going to stay home with Lainey!

Before Brian and I got married we decided that we would like for me to stay home once we had children. I admire moms that can juggle working and their families, but I've always known that would be a challenge for me. Since we found out we were pregnant I've been torn about this because of the financial struggle I knew we would face. I'm a very frugal person, but it's no secret that teachers don't exactly make a ton of money and with Lainey our health insurance will now be $650 a month. Yikes! Needless to say I've struggled to decide what would be best for us. After much thought and prayer I've decided that although it will be a huge financial challenge, I just can't leave Lainey with someone else in January. I don't want to ever regret not having this time with her so I am just going to try to live as frugally as possible for the next few years. I talked to my principal today and let him know that I would not be returning in four weeks as planned and he was so supportive. He obviously didn't want me to leave, but agreed to let me out of my contract which will allow me to work in Conroe ISD again if I want to in the future. I am very thankful for that. It's a bittersweet feeling because I do love teaching. However, at this point of my life I love my little one so much more and know that I will enjoy spending time with her as she begins to grow up. I may only get to be home for a couple of years, but for now we are going to soak up every moment!