After Luke was born, it became very clear that I would need some help managing the kids and helping John Michael have the attention he needed while I recovered and cared for a newborn. I've never needed help before, but this time was different...
On a recommendation from a friend, we found Haley...
a Sophomore at St. Mary's College who we hired to be a nanny/babysitter/mother's helper (all-in-one) for several half days a week throughout the summer. It didn't take long for us all to warm up to Haley, and she and John Michael formed a special bond that I'm sure she didn't expect when she first started helping out.
On a recommendation from a friend, we found Haley...
a Sophomore at St. Mary's College who we hired to be a nanny/babysitter/mother's helper (all-in-one) for several half days a week throughout the summer. It didn't take long for us all to warm up to Haley, and she and John Michael formed a special bond that I'm sure she didn't expect when she first started helping out.
Within a few days, John Michael had Haley wrapped around his little finger and she quickly learned how to communicate with him and interpret his sounds, gestures/signs, and words. She took him (and usually Greta, too) to the park, both slathered in sunscreen, to work off some of their energy and to allow me some quiet time with Luke, to straighten up the house or to rest. She made it easy for me to leave the house to run errands with Luke or to have some one-on-one time with the older kids, often while John Michael was napping.
Saying "Good=bye" last Wednesday was especially difficult. The kids and I have missed her this week and I can tell John Michael misses her, too. He has even said her name, "Lay-Lee" a couple times!
Haley, we wish you well in your studies. You are always welcome to visit and babysit anytime. The kids all agree that you're the best babysitter they've EVER had. That's quite a compliment! So, don't forget to stay in touch! We'd love to see you at the Down syndrome walk!
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