" I've already stated my wish - If my wife were talented and skilled, I'd be disappointed if her role in "our" lives were limited to her cooking delicious meals, doing laundary, taking care of kids and doing grocery"

--- This is kind of an oxymoron to me. I think one has to be talented and skilled to make delicious meals, taking care of kids and doing grocery. Maybe you haven't watched super couponing ;). Besides, any parent plays a very important role not only taking care of the kids but also nurturing them intellectually. So while it may be true that independent woman might be implied as being someone who goes beyond the realm of the household, but I have immense respect for anyone that instead decides to stay home and make use of their skill sets on their own kids.

Furthermore, Woman plays a more critical role for the simple reason that "biologically" they are wired to be more sympathetic, compassionate, and caregivers since cavemen days. And when it comes to organization, women are hands down a better choice.The whole animal kingdom has evolved on this principle. So, it is not a surprise that they are the focal point of make/break family.

My 1 cent. (The other cent I am saving to be a "home economist") :)