This year, my 7th A to Z, I’m taking the plunge into writing. Drawing from my experiences in my career as a licensed family home childcare provider, I’m sharing some tried and true ideas, antidotes and basic survival skills in the theme: “I Don’t Sit on Babies!” I’ve been caring for children in my home since 1995, been a momma since 1993 and been a caretaker of children for years beyond that in various scenarios — babysitter, aunt, designated safe spot for moms who need a break, and (only once) even a Bible School teacher.
I’ve kept a notebook that lists the names of nearly every child who entered my doors for care. I have a thought, story or memory for every one of them. I could have taken that route for this year, but I feel that sharing Survival Skills is more important at this time. From what I’ve gathered at my latest license inspection visit, in my area, licensed home providers are reduced to 1/4 or less of what they were when I began. That’s quite a drop in just 25 years. I am sorry to hear this news as I have most definitely enjoyed my many years in this field. Maybe this A to Z discussion/writing journey will give food for thought to anyone entertaining the idea of staying at home with children as a job option. If nothing else, moms can use some of these ideas for their own. Either way, it’s a win for the children. And that’s the whole point.
An important point to remember is that everyone needs some down time after work. I spend my down time getting creative in the sewing room or in my recliner with needle in hand. I may show you the latest endeavor and its progress at the end of the posts, or just something simple that I consider relaxing. Sorry, you can take the girl out of the sewing room, but you can’t take the sewing out of the girl. See my last 4 A to Z Challenges to understand 😉
To my fellow A to Z’rs, I like to visit as many blogs as I can and if I’m not seeing yours every day, please know I’m rocking babies and will do my best to get to you as time permits.
So I hope you enjoy a peek into home daycare life with “I don’t sit on babies.”
Katy Trail Creations 
Sounds like an interesting theme. I look forward to these posts.
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You sound super busy! Cool theme. Thanks for stopping by.
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Great theme, and I’m ready to admire your sewing projects 😉
Fred at Quilting Patchwork & Appliqué
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I bet you’ve picked up some amazing survival skills from your years of child care. Looking forward to your posts. Weekends In Maine
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Thank you!
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Sounds like a great idea! Grandma’s can use some tips too! Can’t wait to read more.
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I hope to help 🙂
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Oh interesting! I’m excited to see what you post!
Giggling Fattie
http://www.noloveforfatties.com
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Glad to have you drop back in! I’ll be stopping by soon 🙂
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As a retired teacher and a grandmother I’m sure I’ll enjoy reading your A to Z this year.
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I thought my comment went thru earlier 😬 thank you for dropping in! I look forward to your insights as well.
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I’m digging it! So great to meet you through the challenge. Good luck!
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Sounds like an interesting theme… I’m back for my 5th year. I’m at: https://everyonehasafamilystorytotell.wordpress.com/2020/03/16/2020-april-a-to-z-family-stories-theme-reveal/
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Thank you for visiting! I’ll be sure to drop by!
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Love your theme title! I am interested to see how you mine your journals for writing prompts and topics. I have a pile of my own, so hoping for inspiration. Adding you to my list.
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Hope you have a successful challenge and thank you for visiting 😊
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Your theme title is lovely. I can’t wait to read more from you. Good luck with the A2Z.
Do check out if my theme interests you: http://www.rightpurchasing.com/a2zchallenge/
–rightpurchasing.com
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Thank you for the visit. I will definitely stop by!
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I love the title and the baby rocking and the sewing (not simultaenously). Looks like it will be a fun blog. I am Alice’s Grand Adventures, and you can find me at https://alicesgrandadventures.blogspot.com/2020/03/life-in-these-strange-times-part-one.html You’re always invited to visit!!!
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Aww! I appreciate your comment 😊 I’m missing the babies and children desperately this last week tho. I don’t know how I could retire. This has been an eye opener in that respect. I’ll stop by your place tomorrow on the laptop and give a proper visit.
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