So far so good (Part 2)....

Some ppl still ask us about our nanny, esp since they remember the debacle with the first one. She left after two months, A WEEK before I was to return to work from maternity leave---talking about short notice!

I'm happy to report, Maria has been with us for almost 9mos now.

Maria is great. She is highly dependable (has yet to call in sick) and always on time. This is a must, since she feeds Laurel the minute she walks thru the door at 8AM. Vienna is the early bird and gets a bottle at 7:15AM.

And lastly, the most important criteria, Maria adores the girls (and vice versa). She laughs, hugs and kisses them all day long. Like any new mom, trusting a stranger with your precious wee-ones is a scary thought, esp at this age. So how was I able to let go and made sure they had loving care? Two words: nanny cam.

And this is even with background and references checks. It also helped, Maria has two kids of her own and is part of a huge family (of 9 siblings!).

Maria doesnt have years and years experience as a nanny, mainly just worked at a gym's daycare. But considering we're not paying her top dollar ($15-20/hr---which both parents would have to be VPs or be part of a nanny share to afford!), I'm thrilled with her performance. She understands more than speaks English, but she takes directions very well. I only have to ask or show once.

Her main job and focus is caring for the girls. She doesnt do any housework for me. She does keep all their equipment (toys, high chair, bottles, bottle warmers, etc) sparkly clean and their laundry---which can be a big help. She doesnt iron or vacuum for them, I do this as part of my Saturday morning clean sweep.

I did interview quite a few candidates (advertised in the spanish newspapers) and some other clinching factors were: Maria was the perfect age (mid 40s, mature but still has lots of energy) and lived relatively close by. Yup, Eric was disappointed the young clubby ones were rejected, but sorry, this momma doesnt play 'the hand that rocks the cradle' game....hehehe.

For now things are working out. My only concern is when they are older (2-3yrs) and will need more stimulation and guidance. Maria does like to take them on walks and out back where we have a swing set.

And I'm hoping in the fall, when the new Oakton Library is finished, she can take them to story times and children events. But I think eventually, they might be bored and need more creative and educational play on a daily basis, which I'm not sure she'll be able to provide.

(Sigh) We'll cross that bridge when we get there. Momma just might have to work part-time then!