Tuesday, September 1, 2015

The village I don't even know

There is not a single daycare spot for a 17 month old in my new hometown. Not one. I've called every home daycare and preschool there is. If someone wants to move to Salida, the way to make a steady living is to open a daycare center for kids under 2. The demand is high.

So this has left me in an interesting spot. This week I started my new job. And fortunately for me, I have my village to help us out, with my mom here this week, and my in-laws next week. After that... who knows. My fingers are crossed that something will work out.

We have reached out to our local connections- people we've only just begun to get to know- to ask for help or suggestions. It dawned on me today just how much support we are getting- some from people we've never met. I emailed my new supervisor, who passed my question on to other people in my office. Even though I have yet to set foot in that building, I have received two messages with ideas for us. I met a new coworker today, and when I lamented about our situation, she immediately texted friends who have young children. Brian's coworkers are asking around, too. It's as if we have a whole team we inherited just because we live here. And I feel so lucky.

Kinnie is thriving in Kindergarten. She just started week 3, and is already a whole new kid. My shy girl is ordering her own ice cream, approaching friends in the grocery store, and responding when strangers ask her about her new toy. She used to hide behind my legs in all these situations- and this has truly all changed in 2 weeks. It's as though she realized that she can feel safe in the world around us, and she is blossoming. I feel so proud of her, and excited for her. The light I always get to see is being shone more and more.

And Ellie... Oh, Ellie. Turns out she's a feisty as her sister. We didn't get to experience it when she was an infant, but now that she's a full-fledged toddler, watch out. She is into everything. Lucky for her, and us, she is adorable, and gives the best hugs to make all okay. She learns new words every day. She loves the cows who live in the pastures nearby, and moos at them every time we bike to school. Just like her big sister, if she's outside, she's happy.

I miss my people, a lot. Which I was expecting. Some days are more difficult than others. Everything else about this place is amazing. It's quiet, and friendly, and fun. The sense of community is incredible. All of this moving business has been so challenging... and overall, worth it so far. I'm a grateful Mama.