Good Thing I Didn't Defrost That Pie!

An anonymous comment was made on Wednesday in reference to my Humble Berry posting wherein the poster advised me not to defrost the humble pie just yet. As it turns out this was sound advice.

Tuesday night I received a call with a request for an interview. This family had a care arrangement set up for their daughter that suddenly fell through and found themselves searching for care for September. Of course, I happily agreed to meet with them. They arrived last night and spent an hour in my home.

It's funny how life works out sometimes. Just Wednesday I complained about my bruised ego and being at the mercy of families who are taking far too long these days to commit to care. And, then, suddenly, out of nowhere appears a terrific, sound, considerate family seeking daycare. And what a family they are! One could not ask for nicer people. And their daughter - oh, their daughter! She is simply the sweetest child one could ever meet. Any daycare provider would be lucky to have her in their care.

As a daycare provider you know that you have hit the jackpot of families when, while standing at your door, they ask if you have had any other interviews. And, when you truthfully tell them that there is one other family you have interviewed for the space they ask, "Is there anything we can do to increase our chances of being the family is chosen for the spot?" you know, right then, in that moment, that you have found a gem. And, I knew then that such a brilliant jewel does not come along often. Increase their chances? Wow! And I already thought they were as great as any daycare family could aspire to be.

Needless to say, today this wonderful family signed on to care. I am happy and excited to welcome their child to my home. I have no doubt that she will be a positive addition to the group of children I currently have in my care.

I will be the first to admit that my last year of daycare has been one of my worst. Too many special considerations made for families from who it was not reciprocated. Kids who wore out their welcome long ago who managed to stay in care due to ties to emotion and friendship, and those who were coddled, spoiled and cajoled by parents. And, even though I feared starting over with nearly a whole new batch of kids I have to say that every moment of fear and anticipation was worth it. There were days in the last few months when I dreaded getting out of bed in the morning knowing what laid in waiting on the other side of my front door.

I am the first person to advice other providers to terminate those families who no longer fit your group, your goals or your philosophy. But, I am not to proudto admit that sometimes even taking your own advice is hard. It's not easy to start over. But, then again, nothing worth doing is ever easy. In the last three months I have said good-bye to four children in my care. Were there nights when I laid in bed wondering how the hell I was going to fill spots in this current daycare climate? Absolutely! But, in the end, as usual, it all worked out.

There is a little more pep in my step today. For the first time in the last two years I actually look forward to Monday. Now, providing daycare is about making ME happy first and foremost. Great kids and great parents who expect me to provide a service and happily pay for that service. There are no "favours" or unreal expectations. Just real, genuine people who understand that I too, am a real, genuine person. And at the end of the day what more can you ask for?

If I can do it then so can you. Do what it takes to make YOU happy. If you have to start over then so be it. Life is too short to be miserable. There are other daycare gems out there for the taking. You might have to sift through the coal pile to find them but trust me, they do exist and they too are waiting for you to find them. Now get out there and be happy. You deserve it!



For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca