I know some people use transistional objects that help them during absences..I've tried that, but it never really helped...but this waiting for something during the absence for me keeps it alive...I mean yes T Has offered transistional objects befire, but they just reminded me of the T that was getting ready to take a break..or perhaps reminded me of the mother who said goodbyE for good...but getting something from T during a break is from the "alive" T/mother thats coming back.