Since September I have had a sitter two days a week, 4-5 hours each day to watch Lola.
Her sole responsibility during those 8 to 10 hours is to watch Lola, keep her safe, feed her a bottle and lunch when she wakes from her nap and do some very light housekeeping.
Typically Lola sleeps for two hours on each of those days.
One of those days I ask the sitter to do both children’s laundry. Two loads. Wash, dry, fold and put away.
It’s kind of a kick job if you ask me.
We pay well, provide meals and the hours are somewhat flexible.
I have had three different young women in this position. The first one was too old and too ill to keep up with an energetic toddler, my last one was the best, but she took on a full time job. Our current one… ugh!!
Here is a list I wish I could give her:
Dear Jane (not her real name, by the way),
If you haven’t already guessed by now, I’m completely anal about our house and the care of our children. Having said that, despite numerous conversations you and I have had, here are a few things that I wish you could get through your thick skull knew:
1. If I call you, pick up your phone. The same goes for texts.
2. If there is an incident while I am out, especially if blood is involved, contact me immediately. No exceptions. I really don’t want to find another bloody T-shirt balled up in the bottom of the laundry hamper.
3. Poopy diapers must be walked outside to the physical garbage can.
4. If Lola is napping I don’t mind if you take a break nap, however, please pick up any messes that you and/or Lola have made first. I believe that my house should look exactly the way I left it upon my return. I don’t want to do your dishes.
5. I do not provide doggie bags or to-go cups.
6. If you are going to be later than 10 minutes, you need to let me know.
7. Never, ever put a bottle in the crib with Lola. Ever!
8. A little exercise and sunshine are good for everyone. Please go outside!! Or if you are going to stay in, try one of the age-appropriate activities from the play time activity book I have left out, dogeared and made notes all over that I leave out for you every day you are here. Just saying.
9. Don’t feed Lola anything we haven’t already talked about. I’m still pissed about the apple juice.
10. I really don’t know what’s wrong with the outfits I lay out for Lola and why you refuse to put them on her. Seriously, what’s up with that?
Lastly, I realize I sound like a complete bitch control freak, but you should know I truly appreciate your time and all your efforts. Thank you.
I know how much you love Lola, I do trust you with her and I love the photos you send me.
I know when I walk out the door, my daughter is in good hands.
Sort of.
With kind regards and a hopeful heart,
Tonya
