A New Member of the Dalrymple-Roth Family!

It has been such an interesting experience being an au pair. At first, I struggled with what my place was, how to get the kids to like and respect me. Then I got the hang of it, I bonded enough witht he kids, became a disciplinarian, and have become confident in surrendering some points of leadership to be a servant.

I have been humbled by the fine line that an au pair must walk: being comfortable in the house you are living in and taking care of, while at the same time acknowledging that it is not your own house. Being an influence in children's lives, but not expecting to get to enjoy the fun and sweet moments; I am here to help with the 'dirty work' so there are more sweet and fun moments for parents to enjoy.

There is a lot that goes into this position, and I have found out how extensive and intense that can be this week.

The matriarch, Jennifer, has given birth to a healthy baby boy, Luke! Yesterday at 9am, Luke was born and I am taking the kids to visit this afternoon. Betsy, Jen's mom, arrived Monday, and so she and I have been sharing the responsibility since Wednesday at 3am when Jen knocked on my door to let me know she and Luis were headed to the hospital.

As Luis has been with Jen through such an incredible/arduous time, I have been starting my days at 6:30am when Sebastian first shouts through the quiet morning air. I feel more like a mom than ever. I get the kids, we do a potty trip, get a clean couche [diaper] for Sebastian, they play in the enclosed bedroom quietly while I lay on Alexandra's toddler bed for a half hour in an attempt to gain my wits. I don't really have a problem with the early rising so much as the alarm clock itself - waking up to a little boy screaming, rather than pleasantly babbling, or even a buzzing phone, is not ideal for me.

But, days at the park blowing bubbles, riding the manege [carousel] and picnicking have been great. I just can't imagine wanting to dabble in childcare again for a loooong time.

And so it goes.