I love my kids, but I get sick of having to be on call and doing their things for so much of my time. I did read about the commitment of being a parent before I started, but I had no idea what I was getting into, and I don't think anyone could have convinced me how much my life would change.
Today Mr 3 was at his caregiver for most of the day. I believe in him 'keeping his hand in' for this caregiving thing in the holidays. I think that if he was to go from full time home to full time at another caregivers it is too much of a shock to his equilibrium, so he goes to reduced hours in the holidays. It works in for me too, as it reduces my work at home. With the 20 free hours we get from the government these days it doesn't even cost me to 'keep his hand in'.
Mr 7 had a friend sleepover last night, and then not go home. He comes from a whole house away - so anything left behind is just picked up in a five minute trip home. This boy is a good kid, so it is no stress to have him come stay over. It was his first time though, and Mr 7 was very excited and very ridiculous.
Then today a friend (actually more the parent of one of Mr 7's friends) had to get rid of her children so she could look after her husband while he had some medical stuff done. So I had her two boys as well. They are okay but inclined to making put downs and being snarky.
So I was here, on my own with 4 young energetic boys. I immediately made plans to leave, and because I am responsible I took them with me. We went to Kowhai Park which is a large playground here in Wangas.
I parked and they ran away. I got out my crochet and ipod and passed the time pleasantly. They came back, and I pulled out my pre-packed picnic. They ate, and they left again. IT WAS FANTASTIC. I felt so relaxed I even volunteered to take them down to the flying fox and do the pulling part for them.
I felt like one of those American Superparents you see in the movies sometime. Organised, friendly and doing stuff for kids willingly.
I wish I was like that more often.
Posted by Toni at January 31, 2008 07:51 PM