Holly, I know how hard it is, the holidays, birthdays, and still I'm dreading Mothers Day. My Moms birthday was January 1st. So after getting through the 1st Thanksgiving, 1st Christmas, New Years, her birthday, I then had my birthday a couple of weeks later. It was beyond difficult. Talk about a walking zombie. That was me.... Some days I still feel that way but what I've learned from these boards is that it's ok. It's gonna take some time.... more time..... and for now, that's ok.
Please don't feel guilty for waiting so long to start a family. I know your Mom wouldn't want that. Just concentrate on loving and nurturing that little bug of yours. I'm sure your Mom is looking down, with big eyes, proud of everything that your doing. As far as bring up Carolyn without your Moms involvement, not true. As time goes on, you will see, by your actions and your words, that your Mom is very much involved. How she raised you, will play a huge roll in how you raise Carolyn. Maybe when she's a little older, you'll be faced with a situtation, and 1st you'll think, "How would Mom handle this" or words will fly out of your mouth and you'll think, "wow, that was my Mom talking". I love it when that happens. I always like to share those thoughts with my boys, so one day when they are faced with a similar situation, maybe Grandma will play a role in them bring up their children too.
If you can hold off on going back to work for now, do so. Work will always be there. Carolyn will only be little for now, enjoy her and take care of yourself.
Patty