Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Why We Hired a Sitter

We've been looking for an occasional sitter for a few weeks now. Our teen sitter decided that she is more comfortable with 2-3 year olds and I completely understand. Babies are hard work. There's always something that needs to be done and they demand a lot of attention.

Growing up, I thought that stay-at-home moms had it easy. It seemed like they got to stay at home and play with their kids all day. After all, they love their kids so it seemed like a dream job. Then I nannied and realized how hard it is to not only watch after kids all day, but then to have other responsibilities on top of that: laundry, cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping...you name it! Still I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom.

I haven't kept it a secret that my little guy can be a little fussy. He's doing better, but with moving in our house 6 weeks ago and trying to take care of a little guy who demands a lot of attention, there hasn't been much extra time or energy to get all of the boxes in the basement unpacked. It's a bit overwhelming and on top of that, we have family coming to stay with us next month right after we're gone for a week! So, there's a lot to get done.

My in-laws have been super helpful with a number of things, but my mother-in-law would rather unpack us then watch the baby and that's where I really need the help. I'd love to be able to go through our things and make decisions about it without having another set of eyes.

The solution? Hiring someone.

We have hired an organizer to help with some things and she's wonderful. In addition, we just interviewed for an occasional sitter to help with our little guy. No guarantee of hours and the pay is very modest, but we found two people who we feel comfortable watching our little guy while I'm here unpacking. Plus, I'm looking to get back to sewing more and if I can get that up and running, then we may be able to have someone come more often as well.

I am also thrilled that I was able to talk to my mother-in-law and she agreed to take him once a week in the summer over to her house so I can get some sewing and things done uninterrupted! Hallelujah! Of course, the days and times will change weekly, but at least it's something and will help to cut the cost of needing a sitter more often.

We're so happy that we finally decided to go this route and can't wait to get Matthew acclimated with people other than Grandma, Mom, and Dad. Separation anxiety is real and any new person (including babies looking at him the "wrong way") makes him really upset.

2 comments:

Vanessa Miller said...

My kids don't have separation anxiety I just have a hard time trusting people. It's hard to find someone you can trust your kids with! Glad you've worked it out.

Poet, Detachment Mom, and Navy Wife said...

We have a wonderful evening sitter, but no day time sitter yet! It is so nerve wracking to pick one. You are definitely lucky to have your mother in law around!