Does Parenting Kid First = Empty Pockets

One of the biggest things I have struggled with over the last 7 years is being broke.  My husband works full-time and I work part-time.  While we make enough to make ends meet, often there is not a lot of money for the extras.  You know impromptu vacations, new furniture or even a mini-shopping spree for me.  I've been working part-time for the last 3 years fresh off a 5-year stint as a stay-at-home mom.

I'm not a  part-time working mother because my husband is ballin' or because I lack the education or experience to advance to a full-time position.  I have a degree and I've had great employment experiences.  I work part-time because the thought of someone other than me spending more than 5 hours a day with my kid, out of my sight scares me to death.  Literally, it keeps me up at night. Kudos to all of the working mothers out there who either have to work full-time or have found great, reliable caregivers for their children, more power to you!  I worked full-time and went to school full-time with my first son to get through college, but I think that experience jaded me.

Now, I'm thinking self-employment.  Over the last three months I have been actively looking for jobs and after going on a slew of interviews I received an offer two weeks ago -- which I after much thought I turned down.  After all of the resume remakes and sweating on my way to interviews in uncomfortable, stuffy suits I just couldn't leave my kids hanging.  So, I'm taking Beyonce's advice and getting my DIVA on -- you know the female version of a hustla.  So, I have created a website for my work and have been putting myself out there for independent projects. And,  so far its been working. Just over the last month, I've picked up 4 projects.

While meeting with some other Brown Mamas, we all shared similar issues.  So question of the day: Is entrepreneurship more conducive to parenting?  Or, what are your keys to successful parenting while working your 9 to 5?