Staying at home is not easy.
For those of you who have never done this, it is not what you would expect.
For the record, I love being home with the kids but it is definitely a job.
Contrary to some people's belief, I do not sit at home and eat bon bons all day and watch TV.
I am guilty of trying to start a work at home business, take care of my children and the household, and find ways to make our day special.
The reality of being a stay at home mom is quite different than the stereotypes, which I despise.
If you are considering whether or not you want to do this, here are some things for you to think about:

• You have limited adult interaction unless you make an effort to go find adult interaction.
  
• Your days are consumed with children's activities, discipline, and chores.
  
• You will hear your children scream and/or fight with each other at least once an hour if you have at least 2 children.
  
• On a positive note, you will get an endless supply of hugs and kisses from your sweet little ones.
  
• You will treasure the little things your children do.
  
• You will forget to take pictures and video as they grow older, so make sure you do that!
• You will not find enough time for yourself, so make sure you find some "me time".
  
• You will not get enough sleep so you will become a coffee drinker if you weren't already.
  
• You will probably try to find ways to make extra money, whether you need it or not.
  
• You will try to coupon.
  
• You are now a full time counselor who provides conflict resolution between your children.
  
• You are also a full time money manager.
  
• You will realize that you can't keep your house clean, no matter how hard you try.
  
• You will be told to nap when the kids nap, but you really won't most of the time.
  
• You will go through a stage when your children won't nap and wonder what happened.
  
• You will be confronted with the possibility whether you want to work full time, part time, or stay at home.
  
• You will publish a blog.
  
• Your brain will be active and busy all day long with no chance to rest.
  
• When your spouse gets home, there is no time clock.
  You are still the caregiver of your children and will be taking care of them.
  Make sure your spouse is an equal partner to caregiving and that he helps you.
  

It isn't easy.
It is a job.
For the critics of stay at home parents have clearly never stayed at home.
Do what is best for your family, whether that be staying with the kids or working outside of the home.
Don't be pressured to do what other people say.
Do what you and your spouse decide together.