After School Shenanigans and A Good First Week

This is what one hopes to find after leaving three eight-year-olds alone for 30 minutes with conspiring imaginations...


(Gabriella escaped from the zoo, Suzanne joined the Cirque du Soleil, and Greetje became a live TV reporter on her cardboard television)

Just a glimpse of the oh-so-sweet parts of my first official week as Au Pair. A successful week, I conclude. Much to learn about my responsibilities, the roles expected of me and new roles I'll ascertain. Right now I see a blunder of expectations in my mind, therefore driving myself a bit nuts. But I envision what my life will look like when I get settled into a routine. Similar to how it has been in any of my life settings(with the exception of a living with a family who daily depends on me). It will look like this: a mixture of busy and balanced, fun and challenging, relaxing and inspiring, with some lonesome moments, but mostly full of life and healthy interactions.

Susan has made my transition into this new life quite comfortable. She's fully welcoming, helpful and approachable. I observe her daily as "Super Mom" and she does it as a single parent. It's quite amazing. Full-time director of a bank, a wonderful mom to Greetje and foster mom to Gabriella, a hockey mom, gymnastics mom, theater mom, music mom, a wonderful home, active in the community and committees, loyal to friends and family, a host to any... and she's cool.

It's going to be a good year.

Last night the girls and their playmates planned a disco party for Susan, a friend and I in Gabriella's room...


As the winner of the Dutch word scramble my prize was an improvised dance performed by Susan and her friend. Susan chose the chicken dance in order that we were all familiar with the moves.