4 days in Phoenix and I FaceTimed with the kids every night. My 4yo kept asking when I was coming home and it was... a lot. Got back last night and she wouldn't even talk to me for like an hour. This job requires maybe 1-2 weeks a quarter. Is that normal to feel this guilty? Or is everyone just used to it by now?
Four days is rough. The FaceTime thing is good but I know it's hard on them. Phoenix is a decent flight though at least, not like when I had to go to Japan last year. Those were long weeks.
How often are you traveling? If it's recurring, maybe worth looking at a job change or negotiating less frequent trips. I know that's not always possible but at this age your presence really matters.
I feel this in my soul. The guilt after work travel is real. I usually block my entire first day back as dad time, no meetings. Your family misses you, the work email can wait.
Phoenix in what month? That heat is no joke. Glad you made the FaceTime calls though, that's what matters. My kids always ask the same thing when I'm gone.
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That age when they start understanding you're gone but not really understanding why is the hardest part honestly. My 4yo is the same way. I try to make it special when I get back, like a special breakfast just us.