It sounds like you are happy at your current job. My husband could get paid much more if he switched to a private company versus his public service company. He doesn't want to. I can't force him to.

Honestly, your job sounds amazing and I'd love a job like that. I'm a teacher. Unfortunately, I'm in an area where I'll never see the increase we should receive.

Once kids are out of daycare you'll feel much better financially. I have twins as well (& two older kids). Paying daycare for twins is a lot. I felt like I got a 10k raise when they went to school. I never paid summer either and prices are much higher now.