that you're in a position to choose whether or not to go back to work. But that's not what this is about, yeah? :-)

I think a change would be good for me, which would be good for them

I really think in that statement you've already answered the "should I?" question.

Look, I know that there are some really rabid individuals out there who believe that your children will grow up to become criminals/drug addicts/prostitutes/slackers/morons if you don't stay at home with them. As there are some rabid peeps on the other side who see SAHM as some kind of societal throw-backs who are slapping feminism in the face. Neither is the truth.

I've been on both sides of the fence. I was SAHM, then a working mom. Then a working single mom. Currently, I'm a non-custodial mom. And I can tell you, that no matter what phase of mom-hood I was in, my kids have been fine. Not just fine, really. They have flourished. Their mental, psychic, emotional and physical well-being has had nothing to do with  whether or not I was working. Your bond with your children has nothing to do with whether or not you work. What does matter, is the energy and emotional investment you are able to put into being a mother.

You mentioned being "worn out". That's a telling statement. A worn out mom, is not an effective mom. You have to take care of yourself. Look after your well-being. Nourish your spirit. Just in the last few months it looks as though you've had a lot to deal with. Honestly, I think before you go to work, you should go on vacation. ;-)  I'm thinking some nice beach resort with lots of sun, fruity cocktails with paper umbrellas in them, and lovely tanned beach boys to oggle at. Would do wonders for you.

Hell. It would do wonders for me. lol