JenR

ARGH! So, DH did our budget for 2008 and now instead of September (as originally planned) or January (as then revised), I can't quit until June 2009. I'm so sad at the prospect of another year and a half of work, when originally it was supposed to be 9 more months. I just want to cry! He wants to have all of our debt (including my very low interest school loan) paid off before I quit. Which I understand, but at the same time, the whole idea is to spend time with them while they're little. And meanwhile he's planning $3,000 vacations! All I want is a couple years in the grand scheme of life to be with my kids and he's just not getting it. He keeps saying "Stop complaining - just quit! I'd love it if you quit!" and then when we talk seriously about it "well, actually, no, you can quit in 18 months." I really don't know if I can take 18 more months of this lifestyle! Thanks for listening ladies - I'm just so disappointed and down

ThatSuzyGirl

Oy, that stinks. I've been in that same situation and I know how painful it is. There is nothing in the world that can replace a cooperative spouse...

*sigh*
Suzy

Vanesa

((Jen))
I'm sorry.

Carol in Maryland

Does he understand that the kids are not going to exist in suspended animation during those 18 months. You are missing a lot by waiting to quit. You should point out to him that his budget is probably deceptive, because when you take away your salary, you will also take away your expenses (including take-out, dry cleaning, etc.), and increase your happiness/energy. A sensible budget is not just $$$$.

_Sue_

Oh Jen, I'm really sorry. It's so hard because they're only little for such a short time. The vacation thing would really upset me too. It's difficult for him to see because his day to day won't be impacted, so he wants to look farther down the road, and of course you are mourning every day you aren't with them while they are so small.
(((Jen)))

Carol in Maryland

For me it would be closer to infuriate! $3000 to spend a week with the kids, when you could be spending every week with them? Not an option.

hotgogobot

I'm so sorry. DH and I also went through a similar thing a year ago. It was just a bit easier for me because I'm the only one who knows what our budget is like. But $3K vacations is a bit excessive when you are working toward a goal of staying home. How much earlier could you quit if you take that $3K and put it toward the debt?

MissPitchy

So, just quit! Tell him you couldn't take it anymore. Sounds like he'll understand. And when the money isn't there to take $3K vacations, they just can't be taken! Besides, he's not the boss. You both should have input into this decision.

jalapeno_76

Ohhhhhhhhhhh - take the vacation money and put on the principal of your loan. I have $10 that says you're out of there in closer to 9 months like you planned!!

mclisa

It's important to budget in those family time (vacations), but this is the time when they are so very little. They should have that time with you and not a sitter.