We brought Jonah home in May 2004, and I was off with him for 10-weeks, then my husband was off for 6-weeks with him. We began researching daycare about a week after we came home (we had done some preliminary stuff before, but at 3-months out we were looking for places with space available). We got referrals from friends and looked into about five places actively before choosing a large center. We wanted him to go to a home daycare run by a friend of a friend, but she didn't have space. Two weeks after placing Jonah at the center (where he did fine, but what CHAOS!
)the home daycare had space open up and he was there from then until August of 2005 when we relocated.
We loved the home situation and the owner was from Peru, which was awesome for Jonah. She spoke spanish to him and taught Mike and I a ton about central and south america. We were devastated to leave her, but relocating was a great choice.
Now Jonah goes to a home daycare a couple of days a week. He goes with his cousin and I am staying at home building a business, so it's the best of all worlds.
I couldn't be a SAHM, it's tough work and kudos to all who do it. The part-time gig works best for our family.
Best of luck! My only advice is this: no matter what you think now, make room for change. I said I'd never give up full-time work, but look at me now.
Your priorities totally change when your little one comes home. (in a great way!)
Kelley