I don't think you should make your decision based on what you hear on this forum. This is a great website, and we feel comfortable talking and venting. But in my opinion, the reason it seems negative sometimes is because we don't have colleagues to vent to. I enjoy being self employed, and I really enjoy the kids when I have good kids. I'm lucky to be in an area that allows me to be picky about which children I accept. If I had to take kids who frustrated me all day just to pay the bills, I probably wouldn't do this.
I can't imagine going back to work at this point in my life. I really enjoy this.