Going Back to Work.

Good for you going back to a job you love!!!!!
I don't think there is anything to make it easier for us moms to be away from our kids, it is inbred in us to ache for them when not around. Your daughter will be fine, if you have a good place for her that you trust she will do great, kids do great in daycare!!!!!!!
Just maybe pictures on your desk however that could make it worse. See if you can check in throughout the day to ease your mind? I have no answer, I will be going back to work this fall and though it has been a blessing to be home with my kids I wish I had done it a while ago as re entering the workforce after all this time is proving very hard!!!!!
Good luck, it will take time, try and stay busy and let the time fly before you pick her up!! HUGS

Wow, that sounds familiar. I was out for about the same time with my first (a daughter too!)I remember I couldn't imagine being away from her either, and yes, there were mornings and afternoons of tears from time to time. You will get through the adjustment - keep that in mind. Some words of advice and encouragement that got me through (she's 2 1/2 now).
1. We can't be everywhere at once. When you are with your daughter or at work, focus on what you are doing and do the best you can. Don't let guilt eat up your time.
2. You love her more than anything and she knows that and will continue to.
3. You are doing the best for her and for you (don't forget about you - unhappy Mom's are doing no favors for their kids)
4. It's not forever. Things change over time - you may end up home with her again some time; she will go to school. Just focus on the here and now and enjoy the moments you have together.
5. Day care teaches children some valuable life skills, focus on the positive's of the situation
6. Don't be too hard on yourself
7. Plan a day off each month (or whenver you can) to have a "mommy-daughter" day and schedule that time as you would any critical meeting on your calendar.
You are doing a great job - enjoy and hang in there.
I promise, it will get easier.

Dear Ke, I think all that you are feeling is normal. My daughter teared up leaving the baby with me. It is just normal. It did not mean that she did not trust me and she knew she was leaving her somewhere she would be safe. But, she still cried. Just part of parenting, who would have thought? Her daddy sent a text to me the other day, I had sent him a picture he was missing her so bad. He said, "Thank you, I miss her so much today. She is like a drug to me....a very expensive drug." hahaha For now it will be leaving her at daycare, the next problem will be the day she cries after you. I thought my daughter was going to turn around and come back in and get her. This parenting thing is the most wonderful thing you will ever do and the hardest job you will ever do. K. K.

KE,

Hello! It is wonderful that you are going to be able to go back to work. What I did to get through it was assure myself I was returning for my daughter and to be able to have the extra income to provide her will all the necessities she needs to grow up healthy and safe! With out the extra income I would be doing her a dis justice.

I had to return to work after 6 weeks. I think it was all still so knew that it was a little easier to make the transition. Plus, my mom forced me out of the house a bunch away from my daughter even in the first two weeks to help for just an hour or two a day. I remember the one night my boyfriend and I went 2 blocks down the road to a local restaurant for just a drink and I cried the whole time we left early... It's an adjustment no matter when you return to work. Just remember - YOU & YOUR EMOTIONS ARE NORMALLL!! Also, you're doing one of the best things you can, which is transition for you and you're child! I am no thankful my mom helped me realize it was ok to leave her and I am not a bad mom because of it.

If possible... go back to work part-time first until you feel ready or need to do full-time. It may make it easier if you have the option.

Good luck...and remember - like one mom said make sure you keep yourself happy too!
C.

Since you love your job, I have a hunch it will be slightly better to leave her when you have someplace to go and something to keep your mind busy. However, she'll still be on your mind. I find it much easier to leave the kids for "real" stuff, rather than just for down time. The busier I am, the better. GL!