A vey special person in our lives

These are some photos of our beloved daycare provider, Tina Lempereur. There aren't many photos of Tina in my blog but that's because she's with Rachel Claire while I'm at work. But that lack of photos is no reflection of how important and dear she has become to us. Rachel Claire started going to Tina soon after we got back from China (based on a recommendation from my great pal, Carmen)...I was still on maternity leave but was sick, not getting enough sleep and feeling uncertain about my parenting skills. RC went to Tina's two days a week at first so that I could maintain my sanity and it was just what we both needed. And it seemed to be such a good place for her that I decided not to send Rachel Claire the daycare I had originally considered which has turned out to be the right decision for our family.

Tina has been a wonderful constant in our lives, providing consistent and loving care for Rachel Claire every day. I never worried for a minute about Rachel Claire when she was with Tina because I knew she was in great hands. And I often got great parenting advice from someone who has seen many many kids...and for someone who has only had one kid, I need all the help, guidance and perspective I can get!

So it is with great sadness that we are coming to the end of our time with Tina, at least for now. Rachel Claire is going to start school at St. Richard's in about a week's time. I'm sure we'll continue to see Tina, around town and perhaps when school is on break. We will definitely both miss her a lot!! Thanks Tina for getting Rachel Claire (and me) off to a great start here in the USA. We are both so grateful to you for all of your care and kindness....I'm even getting a bit emotional as I write this and that's just not like me.

We will definitely stay in touch and recommend you to anyone who is looking for a great daycare situation. Love, Rachel Claire & Jill