OMG-- I have to say that I agree on moving in with other mom's as roomies! It makes it so much easier.. and you can help each other out w/babysitting so that you can each have a little bit of a life. My High School best friend and I shared a few times (she had her daughter our Junior Year of HS).
I think it is easier to have another mom roommate also, because she will "get it".
I think you touched on something that I was looking for, too
. When you cant afford much, even the smallest thing makes them light up! They appreciate things. I know my friend's sons over Christmas were HORRIBLE... tons and tons of stuff and they were just total brats who expected it all(and got mad at what they DIDNT get!)!! It really was appalling.
But, when you start out a bit humbly you learn that appreciation for things.. because you know that it isnt something that is just required to be there.
Right now, if I were to have a baby, I think I may be more enticed to give in to the gadgets and glitsy things... simply because I can. But looking at it with a level head... I dont think I would like that message. I actually sometimes wonder if I were to start all over right now... would I even be a good mom? Im a bit more selfish.
It is that whole seeing it through tainted eye's thing. Ive had a taste of what the 'world' has to offer.... whereas, then.. she was the world....
Ramble...ramble....