Ysh, Susan. I'm right there with you. You can have all the hugs and hairpats you want. I have a very hard time not being gloomy either, as we're in pretty similar boats, occupationally speaking.
As far as that beautiful kid goes, I have to tell you that from here, she looks just as bright as can be. She looks right into the camera, she clearly makes eye contact, and she knows who you are and what the word means, even if she won't say it yet. I'm glad the doc reassured you somewhat. I think she's just not very talkative yet. I'm betting a year from now you'll be in here wishing you could get her to shut up for five minutes.
I don't know what to tell you on the job front. I have a hard time being positive about that myself. If my experience is any indicator, don't read any news items about jobs, employment or the economy. It won't help your outlook any, and it's always hard to remember that sensational negativity sells, and it's probably not as bad as all that.