Kirsty,

I can so understand your feelings which sounds weird because my son isn't even born yet but already I am torturing myself in the middle of the night about going back to work when my year's mat leave is up. I just don't know how I'm going to do it. I would love to stay with him until he is at least two but I am thinking that we might not be able to stand the financial strain for that long.

Is there any flexibility with your current return to work date? Maybe if you feel it is too soon, you can put it off a bit longer - maybe for three months - and then see how you feel after that. I am hoping you have an understanding boss/workplace!

Also, as you are thinking about trying for number 2 next year, is it worth the disruption to your home life for that short period of time? I don't want you to think that I'm pushing you in a particular direction, but it seems like the doubt is already there in your mind and you are leaning toward wanting to stay at home for a while longer.

Best of luck with your decision Kirsty. And don't feel horrible if you do decide to go back to work. If working gives you some personal satisfaction, it is doing you some good too. Gemma will be happy if you are happy - she'll pick up the vibes!

Cheers,

Mel