My wife and I are expecting our first child in the spring, and in planning for the new addition to our family I am basically freaking out. Should I be planning on my wife not wanting to go back to work? We live comfortably, but we'll get pretty snug if our income is cut by 40%. Any suggestions?

Please stay flexible and don't try to plan too much. You may find that your wife changes her mind once the child arrives. For our first son, my wife definitely wanted to stay home for a while. However, while she loved being with our son, she found that she really missed interaction with adults. I found myself coming home to a woman that was really grumpy. Finally, we had a talk and decided that she should go back to work. I had to spend a lot of time telling her that she was still a good mom and loved her child, but the reality is that not all women are cut out to be stay-at-home moms. Once she accepted this, we found a wonderful nanny and our household became much happier. So, make some plans now, but just give yourself the freedom to change them once the baby arrives. Don't let society or anyone else tell you and your wife what is the "right" way to take care of your child. Best of luck and congratulations.

First off congrats and good luck. I am the father of 5 and my best advice is to be flexible. Having kids changes everything for both of you. You may not want her to return to work after the baby is born because of your concerns of who is raising your child. Yes living on one income is tough, but can be done. My wife did not return to work after our 3rd was born, but that was becuase we agreed it would be for the best. Our children have benefited from having a parent at home all the time. My wife helps them with their homework and they get to participate in a lot of school activities. Be patient and play it by ear once the baby is born. Good Luck!