At the end of June, we realized that we would be losing Lofton's nanny a little more abruptly than expected. Anyone that knows me well knows that I am very protective of my daughter and (for better or worse) very particular about the care that she receives. So...let's just say I was a little anxious about finding a new nanny that I felt comfortable about in a short period of time. However, we are so blessed to have both sets of grandparents and all L's aunts/uncles in the area to pitch in until a decision was made. We began scouring for nanny's until someone suggested that we check out a little "private preschool" (which just means fancy daycare) called Creme de la Creme. I called to get information and was so surprised that they had 2 immediate openings for her age group. What an answer to prayer! I went on a tour that day and knew this is where we were supposed to be. I felt immediate peace with the quality of care, love, and learning that our daughter would receive here. This was a Friday and Dewey was in trial so I planned to talk to him that night, make a decision over the weekend, and call them on Monday. Dewey was on board so I called on Monday and they told me that BOTH spots were filled Friday after my tour. I was in disbelief. I just knew that the Lord was telling me this was the answer. I got off the phone quickly (because I was about to cry!) and just started praying. They had part-time options in addition to the full-time that we need and so I called back to find out about any openings in part-time, figuring that family would help us out until she could move to full-time. The receptionist took a message and I waited patiently (not at all) for the director to call me back. When she did, she said that the child that was filling the last spot in L's class had decided to delay until September and so there was now an opening! I told them I was on my way immediately for signatures, a check, the title on my car, and anything else they wanted!
These pics are all from L's first day. She did fabulous. Said goodbye, never looked back, and didn't shed a tear all day. I so wished the story ended there, but sadly it does not. Each day got a little more difficult and she is now crying with each drop off, at bedtime, at ballet, at church...pretty much any experience that doesn't involve her in my arms. Lofton NEVER had even a hint of stranger anxiety so this behavior is very new to us. I still feel confident that this is the place, but I know it just takes time. She went from being with just her nanny and sometimes one other child doing whatever/whenever all day to a structured setting with 15 other kids that she has never seen and lots of new adults. I have helped Lofton memorize the latter half of Isaiah 41:13 and she often says, "'Do not fear. I will help you.' God says that Mommy!" Yes he does, baby doll. This little bump will pass and she will feel secure once again. Until then, we'll be doing a lot more rocking, kissing, reassuring, and hand-holding-while-L-is-in-bed-and-I-am-on-the-floor (you think i'm kidding). Praying for a good school update by mid-August!
