Let me start off by saying I KNOW how lucky I am for being able to spend 13 months at home with DD, then go back to my job without losing anything.
Still.
It just hit me that I only have 2 weeks left before I have to go back to work. As much as I'm ready to take on some new challenges, I am definitely NOT ready to spend my days away from my baby. I've been an emotional mess these past few days just thinking about it.
I thought it would be easier since I already went through this with DD1, but it's not. In fact, it's harder. I think it may be because with DD1, I was used to spending time away from her (I was in school part time while I was on leave). But with DD2, I doubt I've spent more than 24 hours away from her TOTAL since she was born (mostly because she was EBF and would NOT take a bottle).
I also feel like I am taking away from DD1. Even though she stayed in DC while I was on leave, I would pick her up early, I'd take her to the playground, the splash park, etc. And now I won't be able to do that anymore.
Sorry for the long rambling, I am just feeling very sad this morning ![]()
Re: I need a hug
Chin up Mama. Both of your DD's will be just fine and you'll find your new normal too. We're going through something similar. I went back to work in January however SO took the remainder of the parental leave and he's returning to work on Monday. My summer vacay ends Wednesday and I'm super anxious about leaving DD with a sitter (even though it's SO's Aunt).
We'll definitely be "working for the week-end" now and I'm sure you will too
::Big Hugs::
Oh, (((hugs))). Going back to work at this age is so hard. I have to go back on Monday after being off all summer. Even though I've left DS before I think it is harder this time as he's become my sidekick while I've been off. It's been so much fun spending time with my kids. I know he's going to miss me while I'm gone too.
I always find that the anticipation of going back to work is worse than actually going back. And then very nice, well meaning people ask, "So...do you miss your baby?". I cried the entire way to work going back with DS, in my classroom before school started, but by the end of the day I was fine.
We will all make it, and we will be fine.
Thank you everyone. It's just been one of those days.
::hugs all her favourite ladies back::
Jellie, I know you're right. We WILL make it and we WILL be fine. It's just the transition that really sucks.
Lots of hugs your way!!!
I'm sure once you get through the transition, you will find a balance and be happy, it is just the beginning that will be a challenge. I actually had lunch with a bunch of my former co-workers and my former boss today, and even stopped by the office. While I love being home with DD, there is a big part of me that misses going to the office every day. Just try to focus on things that you enjoy about your job, you will be fine, in time!