I hate the word babysitter. I feel like that is what I did when I was 13 and watching three kids all over the age of 5 while the parents would go out to dinner. When I tell people I am “nannying” while I try to get through college I always get 1 out of these 3 responses; “Wow, that sounds like so much fun!”, “Why would you want to do that?” and (my personal favorite) “You are just babysitting, that is not a real job.” I was a lifeguard, worked in retail and also worked at a doctor’s office doing clerical work, but “nannying” has taught me more than all those jobs combined. I always loved babysitting sporadically for different families, I always watched amazing kids and every time I left I always felt happier and that I hopefully impacted their life in a positive way. All the kids I have watched have impacted my life and made me want to be a better person but these two especially, have truly made me look at life a different way.

Thank you for welcoming me in with open arms and a smile. Walking into work being greeted by a two year old ecstatic to play with “Teen” can make any other worry disappear. To an 8 month old and a 2 year old I don't think they truly understand what I am. I am not a “real” adult (yet), but I am not a kid. I help them with food, and diapers, & getting shoes on. However, I am also a sucker for that pout so I think I give just as many “pops” as any relative would. Going to work where you feel like you matter affects you in a positive way in many aspects of your life.

Positivity and happiness truly is contagious. From dance parties at 8 AM, to signing as loud as you possibly can when you want the rain to go away, thanks for always being positive. Being around two kids that truly treat everyday like a holiday and are so happy can really make you remember what is important in life. You both made me remember to enjoy the little things in life because those are the ones you will remember the most. It’s crazy to me how many toys kids have but the only thing they want is sticky note, pen, and dollar store stickers. It doesn't take much to truly be happy.

It may not be a real job in your eyes, but to me it taught me patience, and test my creativity on a daily basis but nothing is more rewarding than seeing them grow and learn and being there to be apart of it.

Thank you for your shocked face and saying I look pretty when I come in with earnings and not like I rolled out of bed like I usually do. Thanks for bringing silliness and genuine happiness back into my life. Thanks for the smiles and sassy attitude that I cant help but laugh at. Thanks for an adventure every day and not keeping life boring. GG & Bear, thanks for letting me be apart of your lives and making this job something I look forward to every time I come to “play”.