[Diane B]

I'm in a really great work situation now, with one small exception. Although I get to work from home, on an extremely flexible 80% time schedule, I do have to travel approximately once a month for two or three days. And I really hate it. So I'm trying to figure out some ways to make it more tolerable. My daughter seems to do pretty well with it, and my partner isn't complaining, but I hate being away from home.<br><br>
Does anyone who travels for work have tips for how to make it better???

 

[SabraMamma]

I started a new job in Nov. and have traveled for 2 or 3 days about once a month so far. I have come to really enjoy these days. I miss my kids and being at home with the family, but it is such a nice little break. Try to look at it as time that you get to unwind, not have to worry about dishes in the kitchen sink, no one but yourself to take care of, sleeping through the night, etc. I go out to dinner by myself (not even with co-workers) and really take in the peace and quiet. If your DD and partner aren't negatively affected, just try to enjoy the break and take care extra-special care of yourself.

 

[GuildJenn]

I think I know what you mean - I did a one DAY trip and at about 6 pm my skin ached for my son! It was really weird but oddly joyful to realize how intertwined we are.<br><br>
I really only have tips from the other side - my DH used to travel a lot for his work. Here's what we found connecting:<br><br>
- he and my son have an elaborate packing routine where my son picks a toy to "keep an eye on things" and it goes along. My DH confesses he quite likes to see it in his bag.<br><br>
- my DH takes a digital camera and takes pictures of weird things like... the garbage bins at the airport. Then he shares them with my son who finds the process hillarious. (No I don't get it either.)<br><br>
- my DH calls at night and reads a book over the phone (we have two copies)<br><br>
- we call him first thing in the morning (early)<br><br>
- lots of hugs on arrival <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile"><br><br>
I guess the point is, it's just fine to make comforting rituals for you too. <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile">

 

[PiePie]

bumping up

 

[Starr]

Have something special for A and DP to do while your gone. So there is something for her to look forward to and be excited about.<br><br>
Can you email them pictures or videos?<br><br>
Voice record yourself reading one of her favorite bedtime books so that if you are gone she can replay it.<br><br>
What about a Build A Bear type stuffed animal and you can voice record saying a message to her that she can replay?<br><br>
Leave her little notes or drawings for when you are gone. DP can slip them under her pillow, in her lunch and that sort of thing. Along the same lines I've read when a family member is deployed before hand they get a jar and write little notes to the children. It could be something you love about them or a message for that day and everyday you are gone they can reach in and grab one and read it. You could make the jar but only have them choose something if you are gone. Also works great for spouses!<br><br>
When my dad traveled for work on nights he was gone I would get to pick one of his shirts to sleep in.

 

[madskye]

I bought this before my last trip and filled it up with little notes and chocolate kisses for DD and DH. DD is 2 and a half so she's old enough to "be into it" and look forward to opening something every night. I'll say this was really nicely packaged, but you could easily make your own box. (That's really all it is...)<br><br><a href="http://www.onceuponafamily.net/main/products/products.cfm?CategoryTypeID=1&CategoryID=3&Page=2&ItemNumber=SI022" target="_blank">http://www.onceuponafamily.net/main/...emNumber=SI022</a><i><br>
The While I'm Away Box is a delightful way to stay connected to your loved ones while you're away on a business trip, church retreat, weekend with the girls, or a vacation with your spouse. It's also wonderful for siblings who go back and forth between two parents and two homes. The purpose of the box is to fill it up with bits of you and lots of love... cards to open on particular days, favorite stories tape-recorded by you, notes, photos, or treats... something special to wear or play with that belongs to you, perhaps a t-shirt with your perfume on it, or some old jewelry. Even though you can't be together, a part of you will always be with them. Personalize box with your own 4" x 6" photo</i> (their copy)<br><br>
Other than that, my new resolution is to bring DD with me on my next business trip--see if there is some way I can get DD and DH to come with me or have my mom meet me in Nashville, where I go for business occasionally.