How to Afford a Baby When You Really Can't Afford Oneby Valorie Delp | More from this Blogger 27 Apr 2008 08:38 AM
Understand that I'm not judging anyone here. Whether or not you want to stay home or go to work is your choice and it doesn't have to be mine. But it makes me sad to see fellow moms lamenting over leaving their children in day care, wanting more but claiming unaffordability all the while sipping on their Starbucks displaying their beautifully manicured nails. Where there is a will, there is a way ladies. How Much Does It Cost You To Go To Work? Yes--it costs money to work. Pantyhose, professional clothing, those lunches (even if they're occassional) and child care all add up. It would be well worth your while to sit down with your spouse and figure out whether or not it's really worth going back to work. Chances are good that unless you're making a substantial amount of money it's not. In my former life I was a teacher and I'm sad to say that I would've been making less than $5 per hour. I'm sorry--but my time is worth so much more than that. Granted you can find ways to save money on these things--but just being aware might empower you to make some changes. A few other tips. . . There's always a way to save money and frequently, you might find that the art of saving money pays you much more than your job! (If you've never read the Tightwad Gazette, I highly recommend it.) Here are just a few more tips: *Use cloth diapers when possible. *Car pool. *Shop outlet malls for professional clothing. Buy clothing on clearance only (which means you'll be buying for the next season.) *Cook at home. . .even when you're tired. While sandwiches might not be considered fine dining--they are cheaper than ordering pizza. *Work at home. If that's not an option ask for a raise. If your company values you, it's very possible to get one--especially if you've been there for awhile, hold a senior position, and haven't gotten a raise in awhile. Babies take a major adjustment in all areas of our lives. Finding the time to sit down and think through the finances of having a baby may well make at least that one aspect a little easier. Related Articles: It Takes an Office to Raise a Child Is Going Back to Work Really Worth It? When Stay at Home Moms Must Go to Work Valorie Delp shares recipes and kitchen tips in the food blog, solves breastfeeding problems, shares parenting tips, and current research in the baby blog, and insight, resources and ideas as a regular guest blogger in the homeschooling blog. To read more articles by Valorie Delp, click here. Are you subscribed to the Families.com Baby Blog? With the click of a button, you can receive an email notification anytime a new blog is posted in the Families.com Baby Blog! Just look to the right of this blog and find the subscription center (it looks just like this picture). Click on "Subscribe via Email". You'll be instantly subscribed and the email address that you registered at Families.com with will receive an instant notification whenever we post a new Baby Blog! Don't miss a thing - subscribe now! Learn more about Valorie Delp  Hello everybody! My name is Valorie and I am one busy lady! When I'm not writing or editing for families, I am busy trying to get my brood of 5 in line. Relevantbaby tags User Comments  Pattie Hughes |
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This blog is actually the result of a lamenting mother who wishes she could stay home, wishes she could have more children but states she simply can't afford it. Let's face it, the economy isn't doing anyone any favors these days. She says she can barely afford diapers. 
