My mom was a nurse and worked up until my youngest sister (her fourth) was born. She was a SAHM until my sister was in high school, so around 14 years or so. One day she was shopping at the Gap, and one of the saleswoman told her, probably half-jokingly, that she should get a job there. And wouldn't you know it, that's exactly what Mom did, and she's been there ever since, I think about 10 years now.
She still claims to be a nurse, even though it's been 24 years. H and I still laugh about how she told my L&D nurses that she's a nurse and, oh, just let her know if they need any help! lol.
My Mom was mostly a SAHM. She worked sometimes, but not when we were home. Then my Dad retired from his job and worked at home (he was a tailor). We all knew what work was and neither of them lost their identities. Neither have any of my siblings who have stayed home with their kids.
My mom stayed at home until I was 13 then became a school librarian. She still does that now. She always had odd jobs though. She was the accountant for my aunt's store, she was a home health aide (before they had to be licensed) and she always volunteered at my school.