12 March 2009

BIG decision time!!

I work for a state, and our governor has asked all state employees to consider reducing their hours, either weekly or on a calendar year basis.

What this means is that I can switch to a 10-month work year, and have July and August off- unpaid.

So, for about a 10,000 a year (before taxes) pay cut, I can have the summer off with my kids until they are off to college. I figured out what it would be, after taxes and the pay raise we're scheduled to get July 1st, and it comes out to 4800 dollars less a year. Then if you subtract the amount I would save on daycare, it's 2600 less a year. Or, 50$ a week.

So for 50$ a week, I can spend two months with my kids every summer, hanging out, spending time together, supervising them as they get older, driving them to the movies with their friends. I can garden EVERY DAY. I can relax. I can look forward to summer like you did when you were in school.

Am I insane? Would you do it?

12 comments:

LauraC said...

I think you can not put a price on spending all that time with your kids. I would do it in a heartbeat if it were an option!!

Tia said...

Heck to the yes I would do it!

Anonymous said...

in a heartbeat

Anonymous said...

do it and maybe figure out a way to make or save money with the kids (yard sale, dog walking, etc.)

That Girl said...

oh yeah you should. I am jealous!

BabiesandBargains said...

If you can afford it I think it would be awesome. I myself would def do it!!

Kimberli said...

You'll get more out of those 2 months than you would by reducing your work day. how awesome!!!

Human runner said...

Totally worth it! Your kids will love the extra time with you. It will be fun for all of you!

Anonymous said...

you can't put a price on happiness, good health, peace of mind, time with people you love, memories, love, campfires, sleepovers... or yes. do it. i wish i could.

Katrina said...

Negative Nelly chiming in! Given your budget and your debt-reduction goals, would you work in some other way to make up that $2200? Are you able to save up enough ahead of those 2 months without pay to pay for rent, food, etc., etc.??

That being said, i would probably jump on that deal in a heartbeat :)

Anonymous said...

Do it! Life is too short and our kids are growing up too fast - don't miss out on it! What an incredible option!

dk said...

i think that sounds amazing!