Today was my first day on the job. I woke up early to beat the early riser Honorine, and to make some tea in my new Bodum travel mug.
This week is going to be more busy for me, because I have one of the boys at day-camp, while I have two to take care of at home. When you don't speak the language, the older one isn't always cooperative, there are a few things that become more difficult than they should be. Today was a lot more work than I expected, but at least it's all interesting.
In one week the boys will start school and I will form a more concrete routine, that involves Honorine in the morning, boys during lunch, and free time in the afternoon while Honorine naps :) Life will soon start moving too fast.
Oh Eric, I'm glad things are going so well!! I'm very excited for you. The kids are adorable, and I'm sure they love you. Have fun :)
ReplyDeleteI love the photos of you both! So cute!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure the language problems will soon resolve. When do you start french lessons?
Eric!
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about you when you were on the plane to Paris, I couldn't even sleep! I kept thinking about my experience leaving to stay with a new family I knew nothing about. I am so glad is working out for you. I can't believe the language barrier and how challenging that would be for you. Having all the kids home for the first bit must have been overwhelming! Have you found that the older ones are more wary about you than the younger ones? What are the parents like? Are they down to earth? Or have similar parenting styles you are use to? How are your french classes? Have you figured out the transportation system yet? I found that it was much better when you have complete "rein" of things then when you're tagging alone with the parents.
I'm thinking and praying for you :D
Hope to here from you soon.
-mel
Awe Thanks Mel! I was sooo nervous on the plane! The language barrier hasn't been an issues at all actually.. Everyone I've come across speaks alright english! It's a little depressing actually. But French lessons started last night, and since that, the parents are only going to speak french to me. In return I will only speak english to the kids. ...that part will be challenging. Well, the older boys have had nannies before, and all female, so I was anticipated by them! We play a lot of soccer.. I spend a lot of time with the little one Honorine, so we already have a love/hate relationship.. haha. The parents are great. Very social and down to earth, just like all the families in this town... ! this is a town for nice normal europeans.. very little drama. YES! When I'm in control, its much better for all. I like it when Christine leaves the house to go to work which is about 2 times a week. I don't have to feel like she's listening in, even though I know she completely trusts me. When mom is around, she's the boss, obviously, and I like to be the boss when I'm with the kids...
ReplyDeleteOn sunday we walked through a castles garden (which took hours... Royalty likes their long strolls), which was beautiful by the way, and all of us were there, so when the kids would become out of hand, it is awkward for me to prove my power in front of them. I'm sure you understand.
Thanks Ren and Claudia!