That's the interesting thing. I made more money than I've ever made last year while working fewer hours than I ever had. Things are going well for all intents and purposes, but building a house and having a kid or two is scary on many levels. Being responsible for yourself is pretty easy. Being responsible for a spouse adds a little bit to it. Being responsible for a kid on top of that (and having the spouse quit working to take care of it) adds significantly more.