To my dear babysitter,
I’m really going to miss you.
You may not realize this, but it is pretty special that I trust you with my kids. I don’t just pass out that honor to anyone. You have become a part of our family in an almost daily way. The kids tell stories about what games you play. They tell us what they like about how you put them to bed. We even adopt some of your games as family games.
I know that you are leaving for college and you are probably feeling every emotion. Well, I am, too. I’m jealous, because college is one of my absolute favorite memories. I’m sad, because when Julia has a dentist appointment on one side of town at 4pm and I have to pick up Riley on the other side of town at 4:15pm, I have no idea who I am going to call to rescue me. I’m excited, because I know what an amazing person you are. People love you right away, whether you realize it or not. I’m happy, because I can’t wait to see the next chapter of your life unfold.
I want you to know that you can count on me. If you have an emergency and can’t get a hold of your parents because they are taking an Alaskan cruise now that they are empty nesters, you can call me and I’ll help. I want you to know that if your suite-mate is mean and locks you out of the bathroom for the eighth time, you can call and vent to me. If you really want someone to send you are care package, but don’t want to ask your brother, tell me! I’d love to wander the aisles at Target and put a box of happy goodness together for you.
See, the deal is, I was once a babysitter, too. I’ve watched the little ones I babysat grow up and have babies of their own. I still write them and tell them that it is impossible that they are over 21. I still cheer them on and love to see them succeed.
I know you will feel that way about my babies, too. And that is why I want you to know you are loved and treasured.
You will be missed terribly.
Kate
P.S. I’m gonna need you to leave New Years Eve open for me, ok? Oh, and the day after Christmas for the sales!
