I haven't read the responses either. With #1 I took off three months - only six weeks were paid. It was really tough financially for us, so with #2 and #3 I went back to work at six weeks. Six weeks always feels way too early for me and I wish there was a way I could be home for that full three months, we just can't swing it. If you can afford to do it, I recommend taking off as much time as you can. I don't think you'll regret it.