Kari and Jessica, we have been given some advice from Brian Lewis. He suggests we refine our blog to something like "Is it better for mothers to stay home and raise a family or for them to work outside the home?" Brian suggest we narrow it to one group, perhaps.

My thoughts are a bit torn on this issue. When my children were growing up I stayed home with them. This was back in the 70's and 80's. My husband at that time didn't allow the option for me to go out and get a job. I was creative and decided to start a small daycare in our home. That way our children would have playmates and I could bring in some extra money for the family. My husband was ok with that and our family did benefit in many ways. My oldest son, who is now 38, to this day says it has helped him to be more of a people person and can start a conversation with just about anyone. Reason being that he formed friendships early in his life and learned how to work with others to get what he wanted. My youngest child is now age 30 and has her masers in Math, teaching 7th grade Math in Forest Lake. She also benefited from the daycare but a twist to this is, I was the daycare provider and also the mom working out of the home with my children. I regret some days having the daycare. My middle son who is now 32, could have used more one on one time with me. So, this is why I'm a bit torn on this subject. I plan on adding to this blog with data and cited MLA references soon. Kathy Rossi