Hi Marydean,
I too have my DH away a lot. He has been away for more than half of my little guys life (and is actually away now till August). It is hard, but manageable. I have always looked at myself as lucky. At least when DH is away I don't have to cook, clean or look after anyone else. It is just me and bub and we do whatever we like. It doesn't matter if we don't wash for a week or clean the house for a month. And hey who needs S** when you can have chocolate!! Your DD is at a hard age, but by the time your DH goes away she will be at a much better age where they can start playing by themselves again, which means more time for you and/or getting stuff done.
* Play dates are fabulous. Organise to get out of the house as much as you can and meet up with people for coffee or a walk. We meet up with friends from BB in my area four days a week. It makes a huge difference to my sanity.
* BB is fabulous. We are always here for you to talk to and you'd be surprise the amount of time you can waste on here.
* Showers versus baths. I take my DS in the shower with me instead of bathing him. It saves so much time and energy sitting there watching them. I have toys in the shower and a bucket of water than he can put his toys in and out of and splash in. He loves it.
* Try and get into a routine as soon as you can where you put DD to put by a certain time and stick to it. And after they are in bed, it is your time to relax.
* Ring everyone and anyone for a chat when ever you are lonely. Don't wait for people to ring you to see how you are as they never will. Unless they have been in the same situation, they don't understand what it is like.
* Spending money on yourself always makes you feel better too
You'll be fine. The anticipation is the worst. I always hate the lead up to when they go away. Once they are gone it is always easier. If that makes sense.
I wish you the best of luck darl.