Transitioning from Working Full Time to Staying at Home.

Hi H.,
I felt the same way when I transitioned from my full time job to staying home full time with my (now 10 month old) baby. I joined Stroller Strides and it totally helped!! It gave me a place to go every morning on a schedule, there was a guarantee of other moms to chat with, I'd get my exercise in and it was fun for my baby. I know they are in SE, SW and NW now.
The transition was easier than I thought though, I feel so blessed to get to stay home with him but still some days I go crazy for adult interaction!
Good luck!

I third the vote for meetup.com and add in MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). I'm involved in a great mom's playgroup through meetup and my MOPS group has been the salvation of my sanity of more than one occassion. I hope that helps!

C.-WAHM of 4 y/o virtual twins
owner-BeHappierAtHome.com

H.,
I am in a similar situation as you are. My older son is 2 1/2 years old, and I just had another little boy. I worked as a special education teacher and am on leave for the rest of the school year. After the summer, I plan on taking one year leave from my job and am scared to death, too! I love working and am worried about being at home all the time. We don't live in walking distance to any libraries or community centers, but I'm planning on driving to play groups or book reading groups on a daily basis. Having a routine is definitely the thing to do! I also belong to a few different online mom's groups that have planned activities each week. You can search through Yahoo Groups or meetup.com. Good luck to you!

Hi dear,

I went to stay-at-home-parenting with my second, as well, but my first was 4 at the time and she was a big help. Here are my suggestions, though: Start building your postpartum network now. If you have friends and family in town that have offered to help, take them up on it. Ask them to bring you a meal or come over to watch the kids while you take a quick shower? Are there neighbors with kids your older one's age that might take him to play for a couple of hours so you can have quiet time with the baby? Look into those cheap wonderful resources we have. August and September are great for going to parks and playing outside, but when fall hits the Portland Parks and Recreation Community Centers all have a drop in program called "indoor play park" that lasts about two hours costs a nominal fee ($.75 to $2 per kid) and kids can ride around in those big plastic cars, play on a plastic play structure, etc (all the centers have differing sets of toys) and play with other kids. If your 2 year old is fairly autonomous you can bring him there to play while you sit on the sidelines and talk to other moms, nurse your baby, etc. It took me several weeks of going to these things regularly before I started to make friends, but now I definitely have a network of other stay-at-home or nearly-stay-at-home moms with kids the same age that I'm friends with in North Portland.
Also, OMSI memberships are great. They have a room called the Science Playground that is for kids 0-6 years and it has a giant sandbox, a water play area, art/playdough areas, etc and its a great place to go and let your child run free for a few hours without messing up your own house with water and sand, etc.
Good luck and write me if you need anything.

H.,

First, fabulous to hear you're eager to talk about social and political issues! Improvements to our world will not be achieved by failure to watch the news. They will be achieved through debate, constant learning and taking relevant actions. I say - do not fear the stay-at-home experience - it's a great opportunity to contribute on many valuable levels!

Now, I don't have a huge amount of advice - I simply want to suggest that the best way to eliminate anxiety is to take clear actions. If you look at your new role as having all of the requirements of a paying job, you'll see no reason for a dull moment or a television babysitter. At every job, you have responsibilities - you define them, you perform them, you reflect upon your performance. The same system is valuable to the at-home experience.

Also, I think a lot of moms fall prey to this idea that they must constantly stimulate or entertain their children. I don't know about you, but, when we were kids, we didn't require t.v., gadgets or anything else, to entertain ourselves. We used and developed our imaginations!

The world is full of stimulation for a child, without requiring you to make stuff up. Personally, I have maintained a 'craft table' in our dining area since our children were very small. They are never bored and are often there, creating things. I've also always made sure they have 'alone time' every day, if possible. I've told them that every person (including mom!) needs alone time - time to think and not do anything for anyone in the world. It's a basic human need. If they spend theirs reading or drawing or blowing bubbles or whatever - I don't care. And they can come up with the ideas as to how to spend their alone time, themselves - and they will, if you give them the task to come up with ideas and you give yourself the freedom to NOT entertain them every second of the day.

So - that's my 2 cents - to create a plan that doesn't have you performing like a clown at a 3-ring circus. One that allows you and your child the opportunities to develop, not stagnate in front of a television set. Being at home is not easy - it's hard to quantify your accomplishments and, in many ways, it makes a paying job look like a vacation. But it can have as many advantages of working outside the home - and then some! I'm certain you'll find your balance and your joys - as well as moms who need the same intellectual stimulation as you do. Best of luck to you!
T. B

I would be scared myself deciding to stay home and not work. I would join a mom's group. www.momsclub.com I belong to it and it is wonderful way of getting out of the house to know more moms around your area (and talking to an adult) and letting your child interact with other children around the same age. I work part-time in the late afternoons/night. And the activities are usually in the later part of the morning and early afternoon so you are able to continue with your home schedule. Check it out - maybe it will help you out with your transition. Good luck.

When you are up to it join a moms group. Sometimes they call them a mops group they meet at churches. Check out your library for story time, at these meetings you will meet other moms and can do things so your 2 y/old will have fun!
You will make more friends and see what they do to keep sane!
Join a book club (of course you need to have the time to read a book). Hope these help. Last Nik Jr. is a good thing for 2s too!

H.,
I am a mom who is in the same situtation you are. Look around town for mom groups and such. I have a five yr old that keeps me really busy with soccer and now Karate. I also have groups online and such.As far as activities in the house we do everything from making a shopping list together to just playing with toys and such. As the other one comes into the world try to make time with the older child. I made the mistake of putting the baby first and not following though on my promise. I have now learned to enjoy my time with both kids and keep a balance. I also have playdates for the older child, so that she has someone her age to play with and interact with. We also do quite things durning nap time(unless she needs a nap)like coloring painting and such. I find my daughter is now saying things to me like"mom I glad you dont work anymore". I and that is when I know I made the right descision to stay home.

Hi H.,

It is very different at first but I am glad now that I made the decision to stay home I am pregnant with our second and I have been fortunate enough to have been able stay home with our daughter for the last 2 and 1/2 years. To me it is a lot less stressful than dealing with daycare. The one piece of advice I do have is keep your self busy outside of the home. I am involved in a few mom's meet ups in Kent and Federal Way it really helps keep me in touch with other adults and at the same time my daughter has fun! You can go to meetup.com and find some in your area. Hope this helps and Congratulations!

Yes, it can be an adjustment. I remember feeling down when I quit work to become a SAHM, even though it's what I really wanted! I didn't realize how much the respect, companionship, and praise of my co-workers and superiors fed my self esteem. I'm totally hooked on staying home now!
The most important job you can do is to love and teach your children. That doesn't mean you lose yourself. You're still the same intelligent, talented person you have always been! Just think what a great mom that makes you. Join a book club, or begin one. This is a great opportunity to read and discuss thought-provoking books. Serve voluntarily on different boards or community organizations that interest you (social, political?), and that allow you to contribute in positive ways. Develop talents that you've always wanted to, but haven't had time to. Those are just a few ideas.
Good luck!

The best thing would be to keep in contact with your social circle. Also, you may want to join a MOPS group (you can google it they are nationwide) or some other moms group that meets regularly. Bubbles are a great entertainer with little energy expended for you and possibly with one hand while nursing. Mostly keep in mind that you will be tired and don't be unrealistic about your goals for activities. It's not a greek tragedy if he watches 30 min of cartoons so you can relax.

I recommend anything by John Rosemond. He is a huge advocate for little to no TV. He is terribly convincing in that regard. Not that your child is a terrible-two-year-old, but one book is Making the Terrible Twos Terrific and has a lot of practical advice. He recommends child proofing the whole house so that the little guy can roam freely and not have to be told "no" all day. That stimulates his imagination and creativity.

Your day will be very full, juggling the activities of a newborn and a toddler. You will be surprised. Sitting down and reading with your toddler and infant, playing, your laundry, your housework, feedings... your day will be full. Activities to stimulate you and your kids could include trips to the museums, zoo, aquarium, beach, swimming pool,walks around the neighborhood, the parks, gymboree. As far as 'stimulating' adult conversation, you get to decide that. Bring up those topics at the pool, gym, park with the 'regulars' you meet there. There are 'mommy and me' groups, go and start talking about issues that effect kids outside of diaper cream and what brand of rice cereal to serve. Heck, you could even organize a group to come to your house, a play date for kids and a mind meld for Moms. Work with your husband, maybe one or two evenings a week you go out to a meet with a group of folks who share your interests. Volunteer your time once or twice a month around an issue. You'll be surprised as to how much more there is to do now that you are 'at home'. How 'in demand' you will be by those groups you are interested in. You'll need to find the balance between life outside the house and family life.

H.,
Your bio is cracking me up , so I had to respond. I feel the same way about continuing to be yourself outside of motherhood.
I too transitioned from full time to full time Mom about 6 years ago. I'll have to look through my shelf and see if there are any resources I kept. I found that it went pretty easy. The days flew by pretty fast. And that you are keeping your job is going to be nice for you too. I ended up starting a home based business less than 2 years after my son was born so I've had grown up time since then and it's great.
Is you 2 yr old active or clingy? Mine was pretty busy and self entertained so it wasn't too much pressure on me to entertain while nursing a new born.
I'll check my shelf...
Have a great day!
Jenn

www.sensaria.com/jenn

I hear you on the scared to death. Not only did I go from being an engineer to a stay-at-home mom, we moved across the country to an area where I knew no one. My sons were 3 and 1/2 and 18 months when we moved. It was October and in Michigan but we had a great time hitting every playground we could find. Fresh air and sunshine (even when we had to wear hats and mittens) did wonders for all of our sanity. My kids were used to being in daycare and then going to being home all day in a tiny rental house for 8 months until we bought a house with no one to play with but me and the brother was quite an adjustment for us all. Like I said, playgrounds, indoor pools (most have a during the day family swim), I don't know where you live but a lot of the newer pools have zero depth entry areas which is perfect for a two year old to goof around in while you hold the baby. You said you like to be outside, I'm sure your son does too. I'm sure there are parks in your area. I also used to take little "hikes" (usually just a walking trail in a nearby park or even just around the neighborhood). It is amazing how entertained little boys are with sticks, rocks, leaves, etc. and how much they love to collect them. Put the baby in a front pack get everyone outside.

If you aren't already doing so, start including your 2 year old in your activities around the house. As you wash dishes for example, let him stand on a chair beside you & help rinse the plastic ones. Or give him a dishpan of water & unbreakable measuring cups to "wash". Let him help you sort the laundry, and my boys especially felt "big" when I asked them to help carry the basket. That builds their ego, confidence & sense of chivalry. (I also would have my young sons bandage my cuts for me for the same reasons, it helps them learn compassion too.) When the baby comes you can have him help you by bringing you a diaper, or by singing to the baby while you finish up a chore. Let him know what a great helper he is & how much he is needed & that will fill his emotional cup enough so that he'll be happy & content to play by himself when you're busy with the baby. I strongly advise against using the TV for a few reasons. 1)If TV is used only as a TREAT, it stays special & can be used as a motivational tool for good behavior, completing tasks, etc. 2)TV affects the brain development of children. 3) If a child watches a lot of tv they do not develop a long attention span & in the long run require MUCH more entertaining by you or the tv. My boys don't see tv daily & they have no problem filling their days building with Legos, Lincoln Logs, K'Nex, or drawing cartoons, making up stories, & playing outside doing similar things. My first son was 2 when I had my second & we'd read stories or do puzzles while I fed the baby. I talked to him ALL the time, telling him what I was doing. When I was too busy to play with him at a time he needed attention, I set a timer for 15 minutes & told him that I'd be with him when the timer went off. That sent him happily on his way while I finished up whatever I was working on. Don't worry about entertaining him all the time, he really just wants to be with YOU! Enjoy!

Hi H.!

That can be a really scary thought being at hiome with two small people. I read a really interesting book called "Becoming a Chief Home Officer" by Allie Pleiter. Here is a description from Amazon:

Book Description
Practical help and inspiration for moms making the "career shift" to motherhood from the working world, equipping them to be creative and passionate in pursuing the resources, support and humor they need for loving their career of motherhood as much as they love their kids.

Allie Pleiter knows firsthand the culture shock, surprises, joys, and uncertainties of leaving the workplace to stay at home and raise children. With disarming wit and a refreshing personal transparency, Pleiter tackles both the "whys" and "hows" of this transition that strike at the very core of a woman’s concept of self, of accomplishment, of worth.

Three distinct audiences will find help and hope in these pages: the working woman considering this transition, the newly-at-home mom adjusting to culture shock, and the "approaching burnout," been-home-awhile mom struggling with frustration or dissatisfaction. Pleiter’s witty admission of mistakes and mishaps evokes knowing grins and empathetic laughter to punctuate her wonderfully practical advice.

I found it quite good. Hopefully you will too.

A.

I did the same thing you are talking about, at the same time period (my kids are now 6 and 4). It was a hard adjustment, for sure. And I had unconditional support of my husband which went a long way. I knew it was what we wanted, but I was scared to death I couldn't do it.

It was easier in some ways and harder in ones I didn't expect. As for "how to entertain", as another poster said, your days will be so full you likely won't have to worry about that. For instance, we don't even have a TV so I never used cartoons for the older child. I've always been so social so my two year old and my mom friends ended up setting our social calendar, my new baby just rode in the sling or in my friends' arms and it was easy. However I also went through a rather manic postpartum depression, which I'd never experienced with my first child. This meant that even though I was hyper-functioning - cooking, cleaning, taking care of kids, writing a lot - inside I was kind of a mess. I pulled out of it and I still remember that time fondly - even if it was crazy busy! Obviously YMMV and you may have an entirely different experience; my point is, expect the unexpected.

Ultimately I discovered being a stay at home mom actually taught me so much about myself, and let me accomplish things that were more meaningful and personal than any job goal and work I'd had previously (I was doing well in an engineering career before I left). I loved work outside the home, but grew to love work inside the home far more. I am so glad I made the switch, and my family has benefited. Also, you know what? It's great to succeed at something you think you "can't" do. It gives you a lot of self-confidence.

I'd say give yourself time. It took me over a year to feel proficient at being a SAHM to two young ones. But you will likely do a great job and your family will thank you for it.

I have a preschool that accepts 2-year-olds part time, whether or not they are proficient in toilet learning. If you are interested, I have an ad here on Mamasource. The name of my business is My Father's Garden. It looks like you have had some great responses! I wish you the best in your new journey, and congratulations on your soon-to-arrive baby! :)

Believe me, you'll find lots to do such as taking up the walks and the activities you had before working full time. You can include your child in most of those. Walking, biking, making treats at home together. Get them involved in household chores appropriate for their age - like picking up. You will find your frantic pace of life has just settled for a normal pace.

You can also go to the library - there are books full of activities for kids and there are storytimes there for the kids. There are art museums, parks, you name it. There is a lot to do in this area. You can sing songs and dance with them, as I did. Playgroups are a great thing. You can also check out MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) which is a chance to get to know other moms.

It's a wonderful important thing you are doing. Don't let anyone else tell you otherwise. our society pretends that moms are unimportant. Nothing is further from the truth. Moms are VERY important.

Set up a flexible schedule for your days and join a mops group or do gymborie classes or something where you can talk with other moms while getting a break. You really need to make time for yourself so you dont loose your sanity ;) Tell your husband in advance that you will need at least an hour a day break from the kids (it's sooooo important). The schedule keeps you sane, too. Of course, the first several months are up in the air with a new born and schedules are difficult then, but when baby is on more of a schedule keep yourself and your 2 yo to a schedule. Have the toddler participate in things with you, that helps a lot (like throwing diapers away, "helping" fold laundry (give him a little basket and small amount of clothes that you can refold later when he's napping) ask him to help load the diaper bag, help push the shopping cart and then praise him for all his help. It keeps them out of trouble and occupied and makes them feel great. Then have times in the day where he has play alone play time and other times to play outdoors. Just treat it like a full time job with TONS of overtime :) Find the most efficient way of doing things, take your 30 min. lunch and two 15 min. breaks and when hubby is home the work is 50/50. Because the cost of a in-home nanny, house cleaner, laundry service, personal shopper, personal chef, etc... would most likely cost way more than your husband makes ;) And last of all...be realistic...nothing will happen if the laundry doesn't get done one day or toys are left all over the house sometimes. You're sanity is so much more important than impressing people with a clean home.

The library has Storytime which is a great way to get both you and the kids out to make new friends, and a great place to find info about being a mom. Spring is here so go for a walk on the local trail, a park or the zoo, hit the museums. Remember to do something for you on occasion (bubble bath or go out with the girls), get enough sleep, eat right, and enjoy your babies!!! Don't stress about the house too much, I find my friends that work have clean houses, and they say it is because they are never there so it doen't get as abused as mine. I long to enjoy a clean house for more than 15 minutes and they long to be home teaching their kids how to read, bake cookies and plant flowers.

I totally understand your fears. I worked for 12 years at the same company before I decided to stay at home with my then 9-month old son. It can be lonely at times until you get settled...
I'm not sure where you live, but I have written/published a book called "Bringing Out Baby: Places to Take Babies & Toddlers, Seattle, The Eastside and South Snohomish County" - it's the 2nd Edition. It's available at most bookstores or online at our website - www.jasibooks.com. It focuses on indoor and outdoor activities for you and your children and is organized by area/neighborhood.
Also, I'm pretty sure that there are PEPS groups for 2nd time mothers, or you might try using www.meetup.com to find or start a playgroup. I've found that my playgroup has been my savior when I'm looking for something to do. I hope that helps - feel free to email me back if you need any help!

Hi H.! Well I lived this, and I can give you volumes on what not to do!!LOL Most important, make yourself a schedule, this keeps you focused, when you get up, get dressed, it is real easy to skip that all day with a 2 year old and an infant! Try to schedule the nap time to coincide with the baby sleeping, that will give you a little free time, for reading, or what ever adult thing you want to do. Find some kind of kid play date thing in your area, mom's all have one thing in common, they are alone too much, even in a crowd! Ok next, plan some time out with your husband at least once a month, find someone you can trust, that can come to your house, and just relax. The one thing that is easy to do is to allow the whole thing to overwhelm you, if you are used to having adult interaction everyday, you will still need to fill that in some way. It can be the best decision you ever make, but just know the pitfalls and watch for the signs. Also, you may be able to take on some part time work-at- home projects, the distraction can be worth it's weight in gold! My girls are grown now, one is 22, married and very happy, and the younger is 21, has a husband and 2 boys. It all happens, now matter what, so relax, and enjoy every precious moment, cuz this too shall pass! Good luck! R.

H.
I too worked full time until my second was born. I learned to appreciate the precious time with the first while the baby was resting. It is challenging to keep the older one occuppied and stimulated during feedings and mama's needed rest time. I would encourage you to have special toys for feedings and also to have the older sibling participate in as much as you have patience for in caring for the newborn, and household chores. I also struggle with PPD and found it helpful to begin preventative measures in the 3rd trimester...meditation/prayer, exercise, medication, whatever works for you. I was also anxious about being home after being a professional mommy. I will say that after 6 1/2 years of having worked full-time, half-time and home all the time, I prefer having part-time work outside of the home, and I volunteer with other young moms. I also think that after a few months I was able to embrace the gift of time this was with my children and how much of a blessing this can be. I also remind myself that this is such a short season of their lives....especially on the crazy days! I wish you the very best!

I just made the transition and it has been wonderful and difficult at the same time!!! My son is very happy with being at home as we can go pull weeds and rake, go to the gym and swim together, play at the park, etc. My most difficult part is transitioning from having a tangible measure of success through my job and outside relationships to having only really daily interaction with my spouse and almost 3 yr old. As a stay-at-home-mom, I have found it hard to have a measure of myself and my success or failure at my duties. Yeah, I have a clean house and a happier child but, never hearing thank you, and the monotony of daily chores doesn't fullfill my need to feel successful! I highly recommend making play dates, finding someone to child care share so you get some time for yourself, and keeping in close contact with your women friends! Taking care of you and your needs is going to be essential to being a better mom, wife and person!!!

Enjoy the fun times at home with your kids!!!

I don't know of any books, but I have some suggestions.

Find your local mops (mothers of preschoolers) group or other mothers group.

Find some good reading books, educational, entertainment, etc...

Take an online college course

Remember that it is ok to leave the kids at a day care or with a relative for a couple hours a week to go shopping, relax, get your hair done, go to a spa, coffee with girlfriends, "me time" for you

Remember that you are being productive and are an important part of your children's lives. You are not without a career. Your career is a household engeneer, professional shopper, child specialist, etc... You don't get a paycheck you can cash at the bank, but you get paid in hugs and kisses now and some hugs and kisses and other benefits are going into your savings account and retirement fund. :)

Make play dates with friends old or new for your little ones

Take them to the park and on long walks

Plant a garden with the two year old. If you don't have a good/safe place in the ground, grow some veggies in containers. I grow tomatoes, bell peppers, lettuce, artichokes, etc... Maybe there is a veggie she doesn't care much for, but if she grows it, she might like it.

Good for you to be seeking out! It is very importlant to maintain the YOU in your mommy life. My advice is to get involved. Ther is a Moms club in OC. Just google it. My friend was a member for a long time and loved it. My church, Abuntant life in Happy Valley also has Mom groups. I love mine, it has really helped me. You can meet other Moms with kids at the library, they often times have story time.
HTH
D.
Email anytime ____@____.com :-)

Hi H.,
Actually I have the same question. I am in your exact same boat. I have been looking at very part-time preschools - like twice a week for a couple of hours, because I know I will need a little break. Some preschools really aren't too costly. Anyway, I hear you on the needing to talk about things other than babies, and when I went back to work the first time, it did feel like I mentally re-joined the human race, because during maternity leave I found my perspective was very skewed. Also, frankly, I think being a SAHM is WAY harder on a daily basis than working in an office and I am a little afraid of that too. And, it is frustrating because people who don't have kids don't realize that.

Hi H.,
It is easy to avoid all the problems. Keep exercising, if you don't have a gym, join one. Get into a PEPS group, you will meet other moms in your neighbourhood to talk and do stuff with. Join a coop Preschool with your 2 years old, another way to meet other moms and keep your 2 years old busy. And remember - stay in home mom is a job and it is not an easy one! Get up early in the morning and get ready for "work" (take a shower, dress up, put make-ups if you wear any and etc.), make a week schedule with things to do every day and follow it as much as you can - it will give you the feeling that you are in working shape and organized. Don't forget to put time in it for your-self. Half hour TV won't hurt your 2 year old and it will give you time for other things. Having a week schedule will give security to every body. The kids need to know what will happen next too, helps to avoid tantrums. Let me know if you need more advices. Good luck!

meetup.com!!!

This is a website that hosts all sorts of gatherings, but if you do a zip code search for "mom, parent, child, playdate" etc., it'll show a bunch of groups in your area. We belong to a number of groups and have something to do that gets us out of the house every day that we want to. We also do stroller strides at the community center and I know a lot of the moms do their workout for them, and then go to toddler time for their walkers. I really recommend meetup!!

I started staying home when my daughter was 2 as well. I learned to nurse while reading books to her, and my daughter learned to turn on the DVD player herself, so I understand about hte shows!

I found MOMS Club and MOPS. I am only a sane mother at home because of those two groups. I've now been part of both for over two years, and love them. They are quite complimentary I think, so don't be afraid to join both if you have them nearby. Look them up online and see if there is a club near you! I have meetup.com too, but it's new for me, and we've been too sick to make any of their activities!

Good luck. You are blessing your children. The best way to avoid depression is to be out of the house and have that support you need as a mother. Add in careful monitoring by your doctor and some excercise and you are a long way there.

:)

Hi H.! I know how you feel! It can be a scary transition! But I did it and I love it now. You definately have to find things to do, and create a daily/weekly schedule. Because my older one loves to learn, I went to a school/teacher supply store and bought some alphabet cards and lined paper, and we started working on letters and numbers. We also got an annual pass to the Chilren's Museum. I applied for financial assistance, and qualified for a free pass, because I was not working. And then also, don't feel guilty about letting your little one watch some T.V./movies. Maybe start to buy some educational DVD's? I also found a mom's group to go to which has been great. It gives me time to interact with other moms for a couple hours and gives me a break from the kiddos....and them a break from me! And lastly, my daughter learned how to use the computer when she was about 3. This has been a great tool for learning and hand/eye coordination. She loves the computer, and we are thinking about getting her her own computer now since she wants to be on it so much! Anyway, having a set schedule in your day helps get a routine going, and kids love to have a routine! Hope it goes well. Feel free to message me if you want to talk more!

You are going to be so busy with the baby, and attending to your toddler's needs that you are not going to have to worry about anything more than keeping him out of trouble. First step, is child proof your home and set up a play area that requires very little supervision.

Figure out your kids' schedule and try to stick to it each day. When you start to go stir-crazy, leave the house and go somewhere easy like the playground, or for a walk around the block. You might consider joining a mom's club for support and socialization. MOMSClub.org is a good place to start.

Remember that there will always be more cleaning and cooking to do, but your kids need you more.

I only have the experience of being at home during maternity leave so I was dealing with the hormonal ups and downs after having a baby as well as dealing with being home away from "normal" life. In my job, I am constantly thinking, putting things together in my mind and making them happen. When I was at home, I felt like my mind was screaming at me to give it something to do. I found that routine worked very well, making a schedule and sticking to it. I also found that exercising my mind helped me feel some what normal again. I did sudoko puzzles. I also found that getting away from home helped too.

Thereis this great thing called meetup.com you can find one in your area and what it is all about is there is a group organizer and then assitant organizers. They plan stuff depending on how involved the group is daily or weekly and you can just join the meetup group and start going to the different things. It is good for a trip out of the house and meet with other moms and the kids can play and in the summer they take trips to say the zoo or the market or have house playdates and some groups have mom night outs. There are meet up groups for a city say Federal Way or specific meetups for say moms with multipule children or kids with special needs that sort of thing. It is worth a shot if anythignf or support.

I went from working full time to a SAHM in January and I am expecting our third. I found routine is the best thing for our family. When I was working, My schedule differed from day to day because i worked retail. So we get up about the same time and they get to watch about an hour of cartoons. Mainly so i can get breakfast going and the day moving. Then we usually go out for a bit to do the running. Come home have lunch and a nap and then we get the house ready for daddy to come home or take a walk down to the library. You will at first either be on cloud nine for being home or I wont lie a little lonely but as soon as you get into a routine or something that works for you guys it will be wonderful. I have a day or two out of the month where I wish I were back at work but since you arent totally leaving you will still have some adult time. I hope this helps a little and COngrats!! I wanted a girl with one of mine but it is soooo much easier i think having boys!!! Soon the two of them will be close friends!! mine are 21 months apart and i cant separate them to save my life!

I worked full time all my life until I was pregnant with my daughter. I really struggled with not working after she was born, but I didn't want to miss out on any experiences with her - and I was too darn tired to do much else! It was hard for me, I missed my work-related identity and sense of purpose, so when she was about 5 months old I started working again 4-10 hours per week from home. That lasted about a year, until I finally decided I was ready to really be a full-time stay at home mom. My daughter is almost 20 months old now, and we are having a blast! We go to lots of community events - check out your local library, YMCA, and coffeehouses for ideas - and I've met lots of moms who have or had careers and who also want to talk about non-mom types of things. I enjoy taking my social little daughter with me pretty much everywhere, and when our second child is born I plan to continue taking them both with me as a matter of course. I have joined a local women's circle that meets monthly, as a place to go for "me" time and some deeper connection with other women. Finally, I have kept up about 8 hours of childcare during during the week, so I can also have some down time then, either to get stuff done or just take a nap. If you can, I highly recommend that. Good luck!

hey there...good for you! eugene is such a great place to raise our kids. the library is awesome, with story-times for different age groups. and those story-times are a great place to meet other moms. when my baby was one, we started going, and met so many moms, we started a moms group. look out for mom groups as well. especially with another one on the way, you'll need extra mama support. bounce is a fun place for kids as well. also, the eugene waldorf school has a parent-child group for babies and toddlers. it is so beautiful. the teacher is amazing and the community is so gentle. you learn sweet songs to sing, learn handwork crafts and chat with other moms about everything from recipes, to diaper creams to good doctors. however, it is alternative and you must be open-minded. anyways, check out the waldorf school if interested. also spring has sprung, so take your babies out!! tv is bad for babies so little, and nature is so much better for them. just bringing them to parks, having picnics and walking around is so much better then being inside. and if you feel like you need to stay at home, do some baking, or see if your toddler will entertain himself for a bit, instead of putting on the tv. you will do great! staying at home is so healhty for our children and you are so lucky to be doing so. have fun!!~ s

ps. weleda is by far the most magical diaper cream i have found.

I have been a stay at home mom for over 8 years now. I encourage you to find a routine...just like you would have one at work. Our days get a little repetitive, but it is easy to break them up with some fun activities outside the house. Surround yourself with other stay at home moms if you can. You will need thier support and company. Life gets a little nutsy if you only have your kids to talk to all day. I know...all my stay at home moms went back to work this year and I am itching to find some new ones. I am so happy that summer is on the way.
Enough about me... ;)
I am sure you will do great. I love being home. No one to boss me around and someone else is not raising my kids.

I hope things go smoothly for you and remember we are always here for you.

D.