Mom Guilt

Okay, as much as we all like to think so, none of us are perfect Moms. Some of us are pretty awesome at it, but it's an art, not a science, isn't it?

I've been feeling guilty about daycare. Here's the thing - Duncan loves to go. He puts on his shoes (boots) and jacket, waits at the door "Alright! Let's go!" I drop him off, get a quick hug and he is gone. So I know it's not like I'm sending my child to some place he dreads.

But as I have this year off work, I'm still sending him 2 days a week, and I feel like I'm cheating. Isn't it though? Everyone tells me how smart we are to still send him - gives me a break, he gets to play with his little friends, and from the practical stand point, it's keeping his spot in daycare until I go back full time next year.

But isn't this the easy way out? Am I cheating? I love him, and I love the time I spend with him. I think staying home full time with your kids is a lot more work, and so am I less of a Mom, or a cheating Mom for sending him, and enjoying that I can get stuff done, and not worry about him two days a week? I'm grateful to live in a country where the gov't sends us money each month to help with daycare costs (which makes this possible). However, it still feels like the easy way out.

Full time stay at home Moms - I'd love for you to chime in. Be honest - am I being "smart" or am I "cheating"? Just looking for a bit of a thought/direction/input.