An Ode to our Ms. Jen

I used to work in a daycare center when I was 19 for 2 1/2 years.  After witnessing some "behind the scenes" things I left that job vowing I would never put my kids in daycare.  Granted, it was nothing major but it was things I knew I wanted better for my kids.

Now as a mom of 2 I have been doing the daycare thing for 7 years.  To lessen the trauma of daycare I have always looked within in-home daycare environments.  Smaller groups, more one on one, usually less expensive - better care in my book.

Putting your kids in daycare is tough.  It is finding someone you trust with the most precious thing you have.  To me, it is finding someone with similar parenting styles and values as us because essentially they are co-parents.  It isn't an easy task.  The very first in-home daycare person I used when Parker was an infant was a terrible experience.  But I didn't shy away.  I knew there had to be someone out there that would be a perfect match.

For 3 years now we have been going to Ms. Jen.  And let me tell you...we couldn't be happier.  She is as perfect as a perfect match can possibly get.  She is flexible, affordable, compassionate, patient, thoughtful, kind-hearted AND we attend the same church she has been going to all her life.  BONUS!!

She is always doing things trying to perfect her business, even though she already does a fantastic job.  She maintains a consistent routine but just flexible enough to accommodate the very young ages in her care.  She provides a loving environment, and has the kids engaged and learning, too.  That Ms. Jen, she is one amazing chick.

During school if one of us can't pick Parker up from school we can put him on the bus and her husband will grab him from the bus stop.  When we went to Jamaica, she actually kept Camden for us.  Placing him in her safe, loving and more than capable care, it was so nice to not have to worry for a single second if he was ok. She really just goes above and beyond the call of duty.

So Jen...if you read this, I hope you know how much we truly value and appreciate you and Aaron and everything you have done for us and our boys.  You are more than just our 'daycare lady', you are a part of our family.  We are so lucky and blessed to have you!