Monday, January 28, 2008
Take Me to "One for me...One for you"
Savannah loves to go to Pa and provide him directions to where she would like to go. A few days ago, she had him carry her downstairs and instructed him to go "this way" and "that way". Pa tried to take her somewhere else, knowing too well where she was trying to get him to go. Savannah told him, "No, Pa. This way." When he asked her where they were going, she smiled and said, "One for me, one for you." and pointed him toward the kitchen where the chocolates are stashed up in the cabinet.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Answered Prayer
I am now done with training and am ready to work with the kids ALL BY MYSELF. Yes, it is a little scary to be alone and unsupervised, especially when working with kids and parents I did not meet during my training period.
Last week, I met with two childcare providers. Jackie Inman is the lady that provides childcare near our neighborhood, and lives about 2 minutes away (by car). I was drawn to Jackie, mainly because of her calm personality. She cares for 6 children, including one of her own–the only girl in the bunch, between the ages of 6 months to 3 years old. She has one whole room devoted to the kids, a play area outside, and a nap room. I loved the location the most, and that she cooked the meals for the kids. Unfortunately, her rate was $100 per week. It was too much for us, especially for just basic childcare.
The other lady I met is Laura Barajas. She is a teacher, and runs a daycare at home. Robert and I chose to put Savannah in her care mainly for the fact that she has the best rate ($35/day) and runs her daycare closely to a pre-preschool program. Savannah loves to learn, do crafts, and play with other children–all of which she’ll be getting at Laura’s daycare. It might also help her transition from going to Gramma’s and Grampa’s thinking that she is going to “school”.
Also, having been an educator for children with special needs, I am glad that Savannah will get to know and learn to be friends with Laura’s 10-year-old daughter, Clara, who has Downe’s Syndrome, and another child who has autism.
Last week, I met with two childcare providers. Jackie Inman is the lady that provides childcare near our neighborhood, and lives about 2 minutes away (by car). I was drawn to Jackie, mainly because of her calm personality. She cares for 6 children, including one of her own–the only girl in the bunch, between the ages of 6 months to 3 years old. She has one whole room devoted to the kids, a play area outside, and a nap room. I loved the location the most, and that she cooked the meals for the kids. Unfortunately, her rate was $100 per week. It was too much for us, especially for just basic childcare.
The other lady I met is Laura Barajas. She is a teacher, and runs a daycare at home. Robert and I chose to put Savannah in her care mainly for the fact that she has the best rate ($35/day) and runs her daycare closely to a pre-preschool program. Savannah loves to learn, do crafts, and play with other children–all of which she’ll be getting at Laura’s daycare. It might also help her transition from going to Gramma’s and Grampa’s thinking that she is going to “school”.
Also, having been an educator for children with special needs, I am glad that Savannah will get to know and learn to be friends with Laura’s 10-year-old daughter, Clara, who has Downe’s Syndrome, and another child who has autism.
Friday, January 18, 2008
First Week of Work
WHAT A FUN WEEK!!
3 days of training, 19.75 hours, __ miles, 4 ECI's (Early Childhood Interventionists), and 7 children (all as adorable as the other)!
The sessions really seemed to fly by, mostly because it feels like play time rather than doing one drill after another. This week, I spent the earlier part just sitting in the background observing the ECI. By my third day, I was getting used to taking data and learning the terms. One thing I could not do was be INVISIBLE to the kids. No matter where I sat, they would keep looking at me, and smiling--sort of shy, and somewhat showing off. I became somewhat of a reinforcer, and was invited to play during my time with them. WHAT A TREAT!!
Two of my most difficult things were missing my girls and finding time to eat something good, especially with just 30 minutes for lunch. My most delicious lunch was at Inka Mama's. You really cannot order your food and eat it in 30 minutes! So, how was I able to consume anything? As soon as I sat down, I got my bread basket and soda. By the time the waiter took my order, I was into my second basket of bread. I also asked for a "To Go" box when I finally got my fresh hot plate of food. I devoured 1/4 of my plate, with steam coming out of my mouth. I packed my food and downed my soda, while taking care of my bill. I only had 12 minutes to actually EAT, but it was SO worth it!! THE FOOD WAS DELICIOUS!!
I am definitely happy to be home all day today, and wake up with my little ones snuggled up beside me.
3 days of training, 19.75 hours, __ miles, 4 ECI's (Early Childhood Interventionists), and 7 children (all as adorable as the other)!
The sessions really seemed to fly by, mostly because it feels like play time rather than doing one drill after another. This week, I spent the earlier part just sitting in the background observing the ECI. By my third day, I was getting used to taking data and learning the terms. One thing I could not do was be INVISIBLE to the kids. No matter where I sat, they would keep looking at me, and smiling--sort of shy, and somewhat showing off. I became somewhat of a reinforcer, and was invited to play during my time with them. WHAT A TREAT!!
Two of my most difficult things were missing my girls and finding time to eat something good, especially with just 30 minutes for lunch. My most delicious lunch was at Inka Mama's. You really cannot order your food and eat it in 30 minutes! So, how was I able to consume anything? As soon as I sat down, I got my bread basket and soda. By the time the waiter took my order, I was into my second basket of bread. I also asked for a "To Go" box when I finally got my fresh hot plate of food. I devoured 1/4 of my plate, with steam coming out of my mouth. I packed my food and downed my soda, while taking care of my bill. I only had 12 minutes to actually EAT, but it was SO worth it!! THE FOOD WAS DELICIOUS!!
I am definitely happy to be home all day today, and wake up with my little ones snuggled up beside me.
Friday, January 11, 2008
God is Listening!
I GOT THE JOB!!
Beth called me back today with the offer for the position, and a few questions regarding the next two weeks’ hours of training. I had to make a few phone calls to make sure that Savannah would be taken care of–we never imagined the process would be this quick to make sure we covered childcare!
My training starts next Tuesday, with an orientation at the office followed by days of shadowing. I should be getting my “TO HIRE” packet on Friday, along with my schedule. They gave me between 10-15 hours a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and are actually starting me at $18/hour–THAT IS A TOTAL BLESSING!
Since all of this came about so quickly, Robert and I had to make a few calls to find help with the girls. Next week is taken care of, and Wednesday and Thursday the following week is covered. We just need help for Tuesday the 22nd.
In making my phone calls, I found out that the lady who runs the childcare down the street no longer has openings. I started my search for other local childcare facilities, including churches. I got some referrals from Anne Hobbes and Jenni Ramsey. I’m hoping one of them will work out. When we started looking the first time, I was more focused on convenience. During our wait, I started thinking about how much more important it is for Savannah to be in a Christian environment. She learns things so quickly! I would rather she learns about God in addition to her numbers, letters, colors, shapes, etc.
God’s timing is perfect!
I got everything I was asking for, and even something I had forgotten I had wanted years ago–to work with children 5 and under.
Beth called me back today with the offer for the position, and a few questions regarding the next two weeks’ hours of training. I had to make a few phone calls to make sure that Savannah would be taken care of–we never imagined the process would be this quick to make sure we covered childcare!
My training starts next Tuesday, with an orientation at the office followed by days of shadowing. I should be getting my “TO HIRE” packet on Friday, along with my schedule. They gave me between 10-15 hours a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and are actually starting me at $18/hour–THAT IS A TOTAL BLESSING!
Since all of this came about so quickly, Robert and I had to make a few calls to find help with the girls. Next week is taken care of, and Wednesday and Thursday the following week is covered. We just need help for Tuesday the 22nd.
In making my phone calls, I found out that the lady who runs the childcare down the street no longer has openings. I started my search for other local childcare facilities, including churches. I got some referrals from Anne Hobbes and Jenni Ramsey. I’m hoping one of them will work out. When we started looking the first time, I was more focused on convenience. During our wait, I started thinking about how much more important it is for Savannah to be in a Christian environment. She learns things so quickly! I would rather she learns about God in addition to her numbers, letters, colors, shapes, etc.
God’s timing is perfect!
I got everything I was asking for, and even something I had forgotten I had wanted years ago–to work with children 5 and under.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Feeling Hesitant
Since September, Robert and I have been itching for me to get back to work. My options aren't that many, especially since we have to put the cost of childcare in the equation. So, whatever job I get has to cover that expense and still have leftover for me to put in the bank.
I got another email on Sunday from my friend saying that, this time, the company she is working for is now hiring. I sent an email to her boss that night, and got a request for my resume the next morning. Things proceeded quickly. By noon, I had a date and time for an interview, which was today, at 12:30 pm.
Well, the interview went well. I hope they heard a lot of good things from me, because I am extremely excited by all the wonderful things I heard from them. I have worked with children with Autism for 7 years, and this opportunity would give me the chance to work with the age group I've always dreamed of working with, 3 and under. I will hear back from them tomorrow, and I am praying that this opportunity will be a good match.
At the same time, I look at my two girls and feel hesitant to go back to being a working mom. It was hard going back when Savannah was 4 months old. I had days when I felt like crying as I drove away from the house, and the only thing that would hold me together was browsing through pictures of Savannah on my phone or in my album of wallet-sized photos. Savannah still cries when I leave without her. How much more will my heart ache at the sight of her and Gaby's faces, streaked with tears?
So, I am anxiously waiting for tomorrow, to answer the call that will set change in motion...
I got another email on Sunday from my friend saying that, this time, the company she is working for is now hiring. I sent an email to her boss that night, and got a request for my resume the next morning. Things proceeded quickly. By noon, I had a date and time for an interview, which was today, at 12:30 pm.
Well, the interview went well. I hope they heard a lot of good things from me, because I am extremely excited by all the wonderful things I heard from them. I have worked with children with Autism for 7 years, and this opportunity would give me the chance to work with the age group I've always dreamed of working with, 3 and under. I will hear back from them tomorrow, and I am praying that this opportunity will be a good match.
At the same time, I look at my two girls and feel hesitant to go back to being a working mom. It was hard going back when Savannah was 4 months old. I had days when I felt like crying as I drove away from the house, and the only thing that would hold me together was browsing through pictures of Savannah on my phone or in my album of wallet-sized photos. Savannah still cries when I leave without her. How much more will my heart ache at the sight of her and Gaby's faces, streaked with tears?
So, I am anxiously waiting for tomorrow, to answer the call that will set change in motion...
Friday, January 4, 2008
Bon Voyage, Daniel and Trip
Daniel had a much longer Christmas vacation this year, about 2 weeks. Of course, Trip came to visit the family too. Savannah was almost deathly afraid of Trip, especially since he had barked and ran at her a few times, unprovoked by any loud noises or excitable behavior. She was comfortable walking around the house until she heard the jingling of his collar. She would then break out into tears, and reach for the nearest, and TALLER, person around. She would pretty much be carried the rest of the night, whether Trip was downstairs or locked up in the room.
We were able to spend a few days with Daniel. Two were Christmas day and the day after. The day after Christmas was so beautiful. I thought it would be waste of perfectly good sunshine if we didn't get the kids outside, to a park, to ride their bikes and just enjoy some fresh air. Trip loved the outing too!
We went to PHO BAC again for our traditional Vietnamese lunch. Then I had to share the new Layer Cake Bakery with Daniel. He didn't hold back; he went home with a few treats. He was also sweet to send me home with some chocolate cake!
On Daniel's last night, the family had a dinner for him. We weren't able to make it until past 9 pm. Robert was in a meeting earlier that evening, and got the message after. We piled into the van as soon as he came home and made it in time for a game of Scrabble and just hanging out. Savannah was sad though, because she had missed "Issa".
We'll miss you, Daniel!! Sorry we won't be working on "Baby 3" yet. We'll just have to wait again until Christmas!
We were able to spend a few days with Daniel. Two were Christmas day and the day after. The day after Christmas was so beautiful. I thought it would be waste of perfectly good sunshine if we didn't get the kids outside, to a park, to ride their bikes and just enjoy some fresh air. Trip loved the outing too!
We went to PHO BAC again for our traditional Vietnamese lunch. Then I had to share the new Layer Cake Bakery with Daniel. He didn't hold back; he went home with a few treats. He was also sweet to send me home with some chocolate cake!
On Daniel's last night, the family had a dinner for him. We weren't able to make it until past 9 pm. Robert was in a meeting earlier that evening, and got the message after. We piled into the van as soon as he came home and made it in time for a game of Scrabble and just hanging out. Savannah was sad though, because she had missed "Issa".
We'll miss you, Daniel!! Sorry we won't be working on "Baby 3" yet. We'll just have to wait again until Christmas!
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Day for Pajamas
There's nothing more relaxing than being able to spend the ENTIRE day in your pajamas. Robert and I never really get a chance to sleep in, unless the girls are worn out for days of not sleeping at 8:30 pm. Our sleeping in still puts us at a decent waking hour. The rest of the house probably slept another hour or two.
We pulled out leftovers for brunch and played Man Laws, Woman Rules again, with my parents this time. It was so much fun! It was interesting to see where our thoughts differ because of the generation gap, and where it was the same for each gender.
We spent the rest of the day lounging in our jammies, and went to bed when the day was through.
We pulled out leftovers for brunch and played Man Laws, Woman Rules again, with my parents this time. It was so much fun! It was interesting to see where our thoughts differ because of the generation gap, and where it was the same for each gender.
We spent the rest of the day lounging in our jammies, and went to bed when the day was through.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
We had a quiet, intimate New Year's Eve gathering this year. Uncle Ben and Auntie Minerva, and Carlo and Kelly joined us for dinner and a night of games.
It was a good time, for my parents especially, to be able to give their undivided time and attention to Uncle Ben and Auntie Minerva. They have been enjoying their visit to California, spending a lot of time celebrating birthdays and the holidays with Harry's side of the family. Auntie Minerva got a taste of the Christmas RUSH! Most importantly, they are soaking in the presence of their children and grandchildren--I'm sure they'll have lots of stories to share with other family members when they get back home to Saipan.
After dinner, we broke in our new game--a growing favorite--Man LAWS, and Woman Rules. It's a great conversational game, and a good way to learn more about others. Carlo and Kelly have it too, and since they played it before, they were able to explain the rules and scoring. For example, here's a MAN LAW:
A male must never use the adjacent urinal to another man unless there is no other available
Here's a Woman Rule:
A woman shall not date her girlfriend's ex without her permission?
It is only when you are successful at predicting how your fellow players react to these laws that you will win the game. The game ends when a player gets 100 points. We prefer to keep going until we reach the end of the score sheet. AND if you want to make things a little more interesting, play this game with your parents!!
It was amazing we even noticed it was almost midnight! We had just enough time to scramble, and grab something to toast with and greet each other a HAPPY NEW YEAR! Then we stayed up a few more hours talking about what we hope this New Year will be like.
* Carlo and Kelly, when's the next sleepover party?
It was a good time, for my parents especially, to be able to give their undivided time and attention to Uncle Ben and Auntie Minerva. They have been enjoying their visit to California, spending a lot of time celebrating birthdays and the holidays with Harry's side of the family. Auntie Minerva got a taste of the Christmas RUSH! Most importantly, they are soaking in the presence of their children and grandchildren--I'm sure they'll have lots of stories to share with other family members when they get back home to Saipan.
After dinner, we broke in our new game--a growing favorite--Man LAWS, and Woman Rules. It's a great conversational game, and a good way to learn more about others. Carlo and Kelly have it too, and since they played it before, they were able to explain the rules and scoring. For example, here's a MAN LAW:
A male must never use the adjacent urinal to another man unless there is no other available
Here's a Woman Rule:
A woman shall not date her girlfriend's ex without her permission?
It is only when you are successful at predicting how your fellow players react to these laws that you will win the game. The game ends when a player gets 100 points. We prefer to keep going until we reach the end of the score sheet. AND if you want to make things a little more interesting, play this game with your parents!!
It was amazing we even noticed it was almost midnight! We had just enough time to scramble, and grab something to toast with and greet each other a HAPPY NEW YEAR! Then we stayed up a few more hours talking about what we hope this New Year will be like.
* Carlo and Kelly, when's the next sleepover party?
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