I know what it is like to consider having someone else take care of your children for more than an hour, and especially for an extended stay. It is a complicated combination of figuring out just who you can trust with these irreplaceable beings who own your heart but also coming to terms with who you can impose on in such an intimate way. I’ve asked myself if it is actually reasonable for someone who is not genetically mandated to do so to to deal with ALL the vagaries of MY daily life as well as theirs. I get that. I’ve been there.
So, I was thrilled once again when a dear friend took that leap and brought her precious children to my house for nearly a week. This was the whole nine yards-suitcases, lunches for school, picky eating, homework, everything. I’m completely over-emotional and tender about it because not only do I love my friends here who trust and love me so much, but of course for me it was another opportunity to do for someone nearby what I can’t do for my siblings and nieces and nephews right now. I like to think that this will spin the Karmic wheel and that all my family far away will be able to find their local “family” to step in when they need it. I loved feeling that easy routine that comes from familiarity-to hear them say, “my room” and “my spot at the table.” Of course, hearing them all cheer out loud when I said I’d come jump on the trampoline was a nice bonus as well.
So really friend, it was great. Really really. We had so much fun. There was much of laughter and coziness. My kids loved it. Bring them back and let us play again soon.
