Respect may not come along with choosing the job of raising kids. But, your kids will have more time with you, and you will have more time with your kids. This is more important in the long run. I say this as a dad who has worked part-time (both running my own business and also at a job working from home), and taken care of my son.
I always hated Brussels as a kid. I tried them raw in a slaw, since they are all the rage, and I actually liked them! I think the pasta and cheese will help to grow my love for these little guys.