Moms: do you feel the same way?

Firstly, you're completely within your rights to have your child minded for a few hours here and there to take 'time off', whether for yourself or to run errands. Two benefits are: You will enjoy the time with your daughter more when you are with her, and also, she will benefit from being around other people, especially children her age.

As far as guilt goes, maybe consider getting a babysitter who will take money, or insisting that you repay family members either in cash or in kind (mind their kids someday, pick up something for them in town etc.) That way you won't need to feel guilty as the minder is getting something in return.

I also am a stay at home mommy to a 3 year old girl with a husband in the military. Don't feel guilty to take that break. Besides, from personal experience, when hubby gets home, you'll want her to be less dependent on you. I had the people to watch her when he was deployed, but never used it. Now she would throw a raging fit if I ever left her with anybody, even her dad.

I did feel guilty but it's easier to leave them when they are willing than to "retrain them" after you've spoiled them into going EVERYWHERE with you.

I would not feel bad. Sometimes with a 3 year old it can take 2 hours to do something when by yourself it can be 45 minutes!! lol # year olds get bored easy and if you have some boring stuff to do( like going to the bank..) They will be much happier home or some place w ere ( like a friends house) they can play and run around.

My husband and I took my friend's 3 girls when she passed away. It was less than a month ago. I'm upset but I had to get a nanny to come and help me. She comes Monday thru Friday from 2:00-8:00. I'm ashamed I can't do it myself, but it's the way it is. For my own health, I need her. It's not to say I get to go to the spa while she's with them. All that I get is someone to watch the kids while I'm making dinner or cleaning.

Oh Gosh yes!

One time I left my kids with my neighbor because it was raining hard. I was feeling guilty because I am always with them and they go wherever I go. I learned to get things done before they get off from school so I can spend quality time with them.

Do you ever feel guilty when eating out without them?

I do!

Sometimes the company that I work for takes us to eat out to fancy restaurants on company time (while I am working) and I feel bad eating all these scrumptious appetizers and good food when my children aren't.

I used to feel the same way. I worked all day would come home and then have a bay sitter. My husband and I needed at least one night a month to ourselves. Its important for you and for her that you get time to yourself. And it is a nice break for you both.

You will get past that feeling as she gets older. But don't feel guilty, your husband isn't here right now, and you are doing this alone. You need the break. Don't feel bad.

i'm a stay-at-home daddy.

i feel your pain. i hate asking anyone to do my job(this is the part that gets me). i knew what i was doing when we decided to have kids. at first my wife stayed home. incidents brought us to where we are, and my duties have changed. i've been home almost 4 years now, and now i really really enjoy my lot. i've even taken on some babysitting.

don't torture yourself, you are obviously not neglecting your child, and this will actually strengthen the bond between you two.

i miss my babies when i actually do get a chance to do things without them. and the moment i get home it's always a huge reception and that is just the BEST feeling!!!

I do feel bad, so i dont get anyone to watch my child. He goes to school and daycare and other than that we take him everywhere we go, but since our husband isnt around you do need someone to help out!!! So dont feel bad. Just let your family know that if it becomes a problem just let you know.

I felt guilty to even have my husband watch them so I shopped, worked, cleaned, and did everything when they slept ( thank God for 24 hour Walmarts) It was a mistake because I was so tired during the day I forgot their childhoods.

i hear you... i don't get out much either... the last time i went out at night was for a 25th bday surprise party for a relative. my sons 17months old and i haven't left him with someone other than my mom for months!!!! so now he's at the stage where he remembers people so i felt horrible leaving him with my friend and her son. he's been around her many.. many times but not for the last couple months so he didn't remember her that much.. i stayed with him for awhile for him to get comfy and he did in like 15min he was done mallin me and wanted nothing to do with me was all involved with her sons toys.. you would have thought it was xmas he was like... wowwww..all new toys.. LOL...

but don't worry... you have to do what you have to doo.. i mean doesn't sound like your passin your child off on anyone and your doing alot on your own so don't worry yourself..