I think it's really hard to raise kids as well as both work and do all the other stuff that needs doing. In fact, I believe it's impossible to do everything and do it well. Something always has to give, and everyone prioritizes differently. When I was a single mum I was studying full time and working part time off and on. It was hard to get everything done and often I didn't. The kids were great though. Because it was just the three of us for quite a few years, we sort of worked out a routine, and in all honesty, some people would say I asked too much of them, but they're both turning into really wonderful young adults, so I'd do it the same again if I had to.
At one stage, Dazza and I were both working full time (and his idea of full time is about 70 hours a week or more) mine was about 35 to 40 hours. We noticed that the kids were suffering a bit...going off the rails, so we tightened our belts and I gave up my job. That was a couple of years ago now, and I think it was the best thing in the end. The kids are doing well, and they're our priority moreso than anything else.
Everyone does things their own way, but believe it when I say that even the houses where everything looks perfect all the time just simply aren't. We all put on faces individually and collectively.
Just as long as you're all healthy and happy, that's all that matters. If you want my opinion anyway.
