Suggestions for dealing with separation anxiety in 1 yr old golden?

My husband and I both work M-F, 8-5 outside of the home since beginning of Jan. Since then, our golden has been exhibiting separation anxiety. Our first child is due in 4 weeks and we want to make the transition as easy as possible for our puppy. I will be home for 3 months, and then have 3 months of in home care before our puppy will be alone for long stretches of time, but we want to address this now, so we can be proactive, and eliminate the destructive behaviors. She is a very aggressive chewer (has destroyed many toys) and likes to steal clothing (she has figured out how to open the lid to my laundry hamper). We have tried putting all her toys in a small clear tote with the lid off, so she can pull them out during the day, but she doesn't seem to be interested in them unless we are home. We do not want to crate her or leave her outdoors while we are gone. Minnesota is cold!