That’s how many times I have left the Buddha at day care without any tears on her part. Without her even noticing my departure, really.
The streak ended today.
Not only did she cling to me as I was trying to leave, not only did she refuse to go to her favorite teacher who tried to bribe her with offers of cuddles and books, not only did she break down sobbing when I actually did manage to slip out the half-door and wave to her, she actually crawled up to the door and head-butted it repeatedly in an effort to get to me.
I think I just died a little inside.
Also, it didn’t occur to me until I was nearly at work that maybe her stuffy nose isn’t just a stuffy nose and maybe she is really, really sick. And I just left her screaming at day care. Am terrible, terrible mother.
Terrible.
Ooohhh, maybe I should have another!
June 16, 2009 at 12:00 pm
This happened to me. I was devastated. But then I learned this is all very normal. What you cannot do, according to the experts (yes, I asked a shrink about this) is give in. If it keeps happening, you are supposed to establish some kind of ritual for them so they can get used to you leaving all over again.
But me? I totally caved. Scooped up my child and had to start all over again the next day.
This went on for several days and then one day – poof! it was all over.
June 17, 2009 at 2:08 pm
I’m sorry. I’d say ‘I know how you feel’ but I’m sure I really don’t. Although, about five years ago, my younger brother lived with my husband and me in Monterey. He was 16 at the time. He lived with us for about a year. Once during that time, he went to visit his dad and took the train to get there. Watching him get on the train by himself and leave for the weekend nearly tore my heart out. I cried. If it’s anything like that, I’m doomed.
June 19, 2009 at 1:42 pm
I’m sending you HUGE, ENORMOUS, MASSIVE internet hugs. It sounds like you need a few! Share them with your daughter; I hope it helps =)