I can count how many times Keegan has been babysat on one hand. Part of it has to do with my whole not leaving him to burden (perceived) other people thing and the other part is I haven't really needed to use anyone else. But I was lecturing Erika the other day about letting people help her out when I realized that I haven't done that myself. Last night I had a condo association meeting and I asked my mom to watch Keegan so I could attend. She was happy to do it and after all she did raise three children and none of us are permanently disfigured. Bedtime was a little tough and when I got home he was awake and calling out for me. It took another 25 minutes to get him settled but he did fine. The best part was when he heard my mom drop a dish downstairs and he looked at me questioningly and said, "Nana?" Boy does he know her already.

Alisa. 37. New Hampshire. Married for almost three years to this wonderful, funny, smart guy. Previously married. Went through in-vitro fertilization to have my five year old magical son Keegan. Stepmother to the charming Isabelle (6). Gushingly in love with our baby boy Harper(1). Policy Wonk and dreaded bureaucrat. Lover of fine cuisine, honeybees, truly romantic moments and the underdog.

Curried Beef Short Ribs
Note: I found this was more realistically four servings.
Finishing this dish with lime zest and juice brightens its rich flavors.
Yield 6 servings (serving size: about 3 ounces ribs, 2/3 cup rice, and about 2 1/2 tablespoons sauce)
2 teaspoons canola oil
2 pounds ...continue reading
view all my recipes



Across The Universe
With Each Goodbye, You Learn
Harper Stats
Happy Birthday Gorgeous!
Oh God, Book One
Peep Peep
Kissiversary 2009
The Puzzle
Curried Beef Short Ribs
Black Bean-Taco Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
With Each Goodbye, You Learn
Harper Stats
Happy Birthday Gorgeous!
Oh God, Book One
Peep Peep
Kissiversary 2009
The Puzzle
Curried Beef Short Ribs
Black Bean-Taco Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

http://www.fillorburst.com/mt-tb.cgi/821
It IS very hard to let go and let others watch our kids. Until recently, Rachel was rarely babysat by anyone. We don't have a lot of people nearby who can help us out if we need/want to go somewhere...but friends and family offer to make the trip-and lately, we've been taking them up on it. I was reluctant at first, and I still call a few times to check in...as Rachel gets older and is easier to "read", I'm more ok with leaving her with someone responsible who knows her pretty well. My mother in law and sister in law are great with her, and my friends are learning the ropes as well. They never quite do it "Mommy's way", but it good that are kids are learning to adapt to new situations and experiences-this WILL help them later on when they are older and change cannot be avoided in certain situations.
Now go give Erika some practice and have her watch Keegan for a few hours, while you take some time to (gasp!) YOURSELF!
I have to agree about letting go. I am definitely a type A personality and feel that if I let something go to be handled by someone else, it may not get done the way I would like. I find it easier to just do things myself. But then I have no room to complain when I feel I have too much on my plate. I am learning to delegate and let go. But you definitely need to find time for yourself, that way you are more refreshed and can really enjoy the moments you have with Keegan.
Get used to letting him go now... because it'll be easier on you later too. I can count on one hand how many times WE have left Jake with a sitter, and he's almost SIX! Yes, I'm insane, I know. :)