6 years later...

It was 6 years ago I started watching my niece, Annabelle at their house during the day.  My sister needed a sitter and I was home so I offered.  Who would have ever guessed that me watching my niece would have turned into a full-time gig?!  But it did.

In 2010 when we decided to build our home in Maineville we would have space for me to bring in several children to watch while their parents worked.  My heart was to help parents who couldn't bear leaving their children and wanted to have peace about where their child was being dropped off.  I was a new mom and wanted to help any way I could.  This would not only give Savannah playmates but I would be able to bring in some extra money.

I wanted to offer a home I'd want Savannah to be in if I had to work.  One that was full of love, laughter, and the Lord.  A place where learning was fun, songs were sang, creative play was encouraged.  A home that was safe not only for the children but for the parents.  Where they could drop their child off and without a doubt know their child would be loved, cared for, and safe.

Each year I would tell parents; "This is my last year!" But it never really was... I always managed to meet a family who I wanted to offer that security to.  Each year Savannah made a new set of friends and we welcomed new faces into our home.

6 years and 10 children later, we have made new friends, have so many sweet memories, and there are even 2 little boys I wouldn't mind an arranged marriage with ;)  The parents have been amazing, the friendships will continue, and the memories will always bring a warmth to my heart.  I have accepted the fact that I will be the weirdo at their weddings saying; "I babysat you when you were a baby!" and get that weird look like... Okay lady!

So much laughter and joy has echoed through our home... I cannot thank the parents enough for trusting me with their children.  Allowing me to invest, teach, and pour into their children.

I have officially closed this chapter of In Home Child Care and will be focusing 100% on homeschooling our sweet Savannah.  Savannah enters 1st grade and I'm so excited for her to continue in her love for learning.  She has done so great with Kindergarten so I know she will continue to excel in her passions for Math & Science as we have more freedom to explore the world around her.

I have also opened a brand new chapter completely for myself as a Personal Trainer at the YMCA here in Landen.  It's truly amazing how the Lord orchestrated this position, it has been wonderful confirmation that I am doing the right thing.

As I walk away from child care we are entering a new an exciting season of growth for both Savannah's life and my own.

I look forward to watching the children I took care of grow-up and continue in the friendships with their parents and children.

There are so many things I am going to miss about having multiple children in our home but I'm also really looking forward to being with just Savannah.  We truly do not know what it is like to have the house to ourselves... to not offer child care.

I have a feeling the transition will be difficult at first for Savannah- she has loved watching kids, been a BIG helper, and always enjoyed the time with the kids.  I do not think it will take long for her to get use to her new routine of school, trips, and exploring her world.