Hi!
I am a stay at home mom by choice, of 12 year old autistic son. I left the viper/backstabbing world of utility billing 6 months ago, and I wouldn't change a thing. I now freelance as a mystery shopper and am in the process of developing a beading group, scifi group for children with disabilities and various other projects. Financially, it might not have been a good idea, but my health is not suffering from the antics of horrible co workers and my son likes knowing that mom is home when he gets done at school. He hasn't had an episode since I quit!
So, I say, if you want to stay at home, then do it. Don't let what others think bother you. If you do what you feel is right, then what anyone else thinks shouldn't matter. Do what is best for you and your family. There plenty of things at home to keep you busy, including your kids. I have suddenly developed a need to cook more, now that I am home. I also keep busy with various other groups and my hubbie is great about watching his stepson. So, basically, do what makes you happy. Yes, they need you when they're young, but they need you just as much when they are teenagers, if not more so, to keep them on the straight and narrow!
Best of luck,
Liz
Lombard, IL