My husband and I have alternated over the years. When the kids were younger, he worked and I worked at home and from home. Now that the boys are grown, Husband has his own business and I went back into the workforce for the health insurance. In another year or so, I should be home again, working at and from home as his business grows large enough to support us.
My SIL has a great 6-figure career; her husband has been home with the kids since they were born. They’re wonderful kids and they are one happy family.
I’m retired Army. I had my career first and then and started a family at age 35. The Army was a LOT easier, LOL!
I worked for 10 years before I had kids. I’ll eventually go back to work, but not into my original field (computer software).
My SIL did the same thing. She worked while my brother stayed home. He battled a losing war with cancer their entire marriage. He was able to handle his doctor’s appointments and do things with the kids. His youngest son was 19 when he passed away. At his funeral, the scout troop that he was scout master for presented the colors, and then every member of the softball team that he coached came up and said a few things about my brother. I think my brother made significant contributions even though he was a stay at home parent.