Tomorrow marks my first full month of life in the Big Apple. I've settled in quite nicely and life is easy.
Three weekdays will be full of fun at the park, children's museums, playdates, etc. The other two days are spent at home where the girls and I are often playing "school" and painting each others nails. At five, the folks return from work and I am relieved of my duties. So I'll go to my room in the back of the apartment, lay down on my twin-sized bed, place my laptop on my belly, and check emails, blogs, etc. By 6:30, the girls will run back to my room to announce dinner. By eight, they're being tucked into bed. Nine o'clock brings the beer. The beer is part of a package deal, you see. I've been very fortunate. The three adults of the house kick back to shoot the shit with a nice cold beer and though I've often tried to contribute to the beer fund, they refuse to accept. If their nanny-ad had said that they were looking for a drinking-buddy as well as a nanny, I think I would have had a lot more competetion!
Sometimes they work from home. Last week, the Misses set up her living room as a studio where she took photos of seven fat and happy babies from seven different ethnicities. When the girls and I returned for dinner, the Misses said to me, "I was thinking; if you'd like to make some extra money and model for me, I'll go ahead and leave the studio set up for the night."
'Moi?' I thought, "Sure!"
After an hour or two of sitting around with "D" and the Misses, drinking beer, shooting said proverbial shit, and taking simple direction in front of a camera, they wrote me a check. The sum was three times more than I expected and with tipsy enthusiasm, I thanked them.
Sometimes, I'll go out on a weeknight. As I've mentioned before, there are often free concerts in the park, or perhaps I'll go to a movie with friends. But not at some cold theater with stinky seats. No ma'am. We go to the old McCarren Park pool, which has been dried out for many years. The huge hole will be filled with people on their blankets, couples cuddling, friends laughing so hard that beer comes out of their noses, and picnics made to share. A screen will be hanging with something like "Wet Hot American Summer" or "Desperately Seeking Susan" being projected and tall speakers surround the pool for all to hear.
On Saturdays, I'll go to the beach with a book or ride my bike on Fifth Ave in Brooklyn to shop through all the vintage stores. Sundays, I do laundry. As I wait, I'll sit in the cafe next door with free wi-fi, like I'm doing right now. I'll update my blog while drinking chai tea and make time for feeling a little homesick. But, I'm happy here in this routine of mine, which is why I said yes to this family's request for me to stay well beyond the two-month live-in agreement. So, it is certain. My break from the books will most definitly be considerable.
Time to switch over the loads!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
New York's Philharmonic Orchestra
I watched the Philharmonic Orchestra "Concert in the Park" last night, for free. I spread a blaket out on soft grass, made a makeshift pillow out of my backpack, and laid back. As I listened, I looked up at this:
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Staying Put
It's already time to change the title of my blog. This can no longer be The Megabondery Diaries: Tales of a Nomadic Nanny. I've decided to stay here with this family until my "break from the books" is done. (That could be a year or two from now.) You see, I've been falling madly in love with these kind folks, and the idea of leaving for... for another... Well, the idea of leaving is flat out inconceivable!
Who knows what the future holds... However, the family in Vancouver (as mentioned before) will not be part of my future. I spoke with them today and felt a strain in connection. As the kind mother told me about her family and their day-to-day lifestyle, I couldn't picture myself fitting in. I had to decline her fair offer. I imagined myself in Vancouver, feeling alone and feeling like an employee again, which is NOT what I'm looking for. Instead, I'm looking to be part of something more. And the current family in NYC has been able to provide me with more than more!
(They hired a babysitter tonight so that we could all three go out together... They're incredible.)
So, I'm gonna stay put, right here. Let's just hope The Misses meant what she said about me sticking around here for a while longer than planned!
Who knows what the future holds... However, the family in Vancouver (as mentioned before) will not be part of my future. I spoke with them today and felt a strain in connection. As the kind mother told me about her family and their day-to-day lifestyle, I couldn't picture myself fitting in. I had to decline her fair offer. I imagined myself in Vancouver, feeling alone and feeling like an employee again, which is NOT what I'm looking for. Instead, I'm looking to be part of something more. And the current family in NYC has been able to provide me with more than more!
(They hired a babysitter tonight so that we could all three go out together... They're incredible.)
So, I'm gonna stay put, right here. Let's just hope The Misses meant what she said about me sticking around here for a while longer than planned!
Friday, July 11, 2008
The Night I Finally Fell For Brooklyn
I was impatient. I was worried this moment would never come. I wondered if I had made a mistake, if I would be miserable for eight long weeks. (Though... I do realize how overdramatic I tend to be.) But tonight was the night I was waiting for! On this lovely Friday night in Brooklyn, I managed to feel at home. I fell in love with eleven or twelve people, at least. I had a movie moment. I smiled for hours and my cheeks began to hurt as a result. I let loose.
However, let me take you back two days, to Wednesday. I was having dinner with my new employer-turned-friend #2 (the father) ... (I'll call him "D" to represent his first-name initial, as well as the obvious - Dad) and the two little darlings. (I stole "darlings" from their mother's blog, where she refers to them as Darling 1 and Darling 2.) The Misses was bearing through her first trip away from home (though she was never very far) and wouldn't be joining us for pizza at joint around the corner. "D" and I caught up on small talk while the girls shoveled pasta down their mouths. (The way these girls eat, you'd think they were starved for weeks.)
"So the girls were great today.... yadda yadda yadda..."
"Thanks a lot for helping out so much while (The Misses) is away... yadda yadda yadda..."
"Oh no worries! They make work seem like a walk in the park... yadda yadda yadda..."
"Megan! Megan! Watch me slurp the worm!"
"Hey, would you be interested in going to Feist's concert tonight in Prospect Park? I think I could get you on the guest list."
Wait... Go back... Are you kidding me?! "YES! I would love that!"
But as small talk continues, my doubts begin to calm my nerves, as I realize the offer sounds too good to be true. For those of you that have never heard of Feist (i.e. Grandma, Mom, etc.) - to be on this woman's guest list would be like being on Carly Simon's guest list. Not that they sound alike, but the influence on underground/alternative listeners is comparable. This woman is amazing! So, as you can imagine, I didn't want to hold my breath. Nevertheless, "D" makes a quick phone call, spells out my name, and then tells me it's all taken care of. I dropped the jaw again and said, "Wow, thanks!"
...Perhaps I even let a small squeal sneak out...
Once we got back to the house, I grabbed my bike, said my good-nights to "D" and the girls, and flew like the wind towards Prospect Park. I arrived early and stood in line at "Will-Call". I decided it would be best to choose my words wisely once getting to the front. I practiced a very humble, sweet way to ask for my freebie, for my once-in-a-lifetime guest pass. Once I reached the front where volunteers sat behind fold-out tables, I was well rehearsed.
"Hi, um... I think I might maybe be on the Arts and Crafts guest list...? It would be under McLeod... um, strange spelling... M-C-L-E-O-D... Sounds like Mc-LEE-OD."
I watched nervously as she thumbed through a shoebox full of envelopes, which I assumed were all filled with tickets.
"Um, sorry... I actually shouldn't have a ticket... um, I think my name would have been added to the list within an hour... um, the guest list?"
"Who's guest list?"
"Arts and Crafts...?"
"Who is Arts and Crafts?"
"Oh, sorry, it's Feist's record label. I was told to ask for the label list."
"Well there isn't a list for Arts and Crafts, and there isn't even a list for Feist. I'm sorry, you'll have to call your connections. NEXT!"
Now, I could go on and on, telling you about how pathetic I looked over the next 45 minutes as I stood near these fold-out tables, waiting for a phone call from "D", but I'm sure you can imagine. After nearly an hour of hoping so hard that I nearly drenched my cell phone with sweat from the palms of my hands, I decided it was time to give up. "D" meant well... As did his connections... In fact, I'll be receiving a gift-package from the Arts and Crafts record label, including all recent CD releases, because the lady behind the curtain felt so bad for her mix-up. (Too many middle-men.) No problem. I simply went on about my previous plans. I took a friend's advice to attend a BYOB-type function called "Lecture Series". Good times were had and I met nice people.
But man... I was THIS close to having my first great night in New York! I couldn't help but feel a little disappointed.
HOWEVER! I joined an old friend from San Antonio tonight at a free event (also in Prospect Park). The super-hip, super-sexy, experimental, electronica band, Brazilian Girls put on an excellent show. But that's not what made my heart grow fond of my new home. It was actually everything that happened as I sat on my blanket, in the grass, sipping on cold beer, before the show began.
I made small-talk with a small group of early-30-something fun-lovers sitting behind me, but as I waited for the old friend from home to show, I grew weary and wondered if I might be sitting on that blanket alone all night. I had time to finish a full beer before the first opening band went on, and went up for another. A tall bearded man, passing out wristbands in exchange for a one-time ID check, gave me a warm smile. For a moment, I felt visible, which in NYC, is nice, no matter who it is that notices you. I went back to my blanket with the fresh beer in hand and made myself comfortable with a book. I was hoping to kill time, but the sun was beginning to disappear and I had to put the book away after a few pages. My eyes looked around at the people filling the park. Suddenly, eye-contact! The man with the wristbands was looking right at me. I kept up with the eye-contact, as I thought he must be looking at something just over my shoulder. I was impressed with his ability to maintain distant eye-contact, with a complete stranger, for as long as it went on. (Seemed to be a long time!) I quickly reopened my book and hid behind its pages. But he knew I couldn't be reading... and I knew he knew I couldn't be reading... and I knew he knew I was just being... shy? Yep. Me - shy? I guess that's the effect this city has had on me so far. Anyway, I put the book down and looked up again. He was busy slapping wristbands on consumers and the moment was gone. I suppose I was relieved... but flattered, nonetheless. A handsome stranger noticed little 'ol me and I couldn't help but smile to myself as a result.
As I watched children run around the grass, waving glow-sticks and squirting each other with water bottles, I decided to send The Misses a text message. I invited them out to the show. I was actually missing their company, despite the fact that the girls are my "job" and the folks, my employers. But I don't relate these people with work. So, they said they'd come and I got excited. I stretched out my blanket to make room for more and watched the crowd for familiar faces. The old friend showed up, and shortly after, my nanny-family popped out of the crowd and we all settled in for the second opener. Little Darling entertained the group of fun-lovers behind me while Big Darling and I ate red beans and rice. The Misses, "D", my old friend from home, and I shot the proverbial shit with beers to chase the work-week away.
This alone, was perfect. I was happy with my surroundings, with a social situation outside of the nanny-home (albeit only slightly outside the nanny-home...) and I felt elated to be there.
The nanny-family only stayed a short while due to Little Darling's restlessness, and the old friend had to run home, but I joined the folks behind me for a game of Apples to Apples (best card game for large groups - highly recommended). Then, another stranger, like myself, joined the group, and another, and another. At the end of the game, we had twelve people - some strangers, some friends - who all came together to share gut-wrenching laughter before turning attention to the main attraction.
The show was coming to an end and I was getting tired. I packed up my things, shook several hands, and said my goodbyes. It was time for bed! But I was happy...
As I headed straight to the front of a long line (a very long line) for the port-a-potties, just to reach my bike on the other side, I decided to "pull a funny". Instead of passing the young man at the front of the line and continuing on to the fence where my bike was locked up, I stopped and turned my back to him. I stood there, hiding the insistent smile on my face, for what seemed like too long (15 seconds). Then, he politely tapped my shoulder and asked, "Um, are you serious?" I turned around, released a laugh, and said, "No." I then went on to my bike and began to deactivate it's highly effective security system (1 U-Lock: $38 and 1 long chain: $14).
This is where I got my movie moment...
Sort of...
"Um, excuse me?"
I looked up to find the young man I played the joke on was standing there with his hands in his pockets. He had obviously just lost his place at the front of the line and I thought, 'Uh oh... I must've really ticked him off!'
"That was really cute. I like your sense of humor, and I just thought I'd come and let you know..."
Awwwwwwwwww!!!!!!
He walked away in a rush.
I thought I'd be anonymous and invisible in this city for quite some time, but I somehow got noticed twice in one night by two fairly handsome, young men, as well as getting noticed by those eleven amazing people who played Apples to Apples! Now - I realize it may be taboo to actually admit how much you enjoy being noticed - or maybe not, on second thought - but it felt damn good. Maybe it sounds silly, but I needed that. I needed good old fashioned social interaction of the warm-hearted and personal kind.
On the short bike ride home, I felt like I was flying.
However, let me take you back two days, to Wednesday. I was having dinner with my new employer-turned-friend #2 (the father) ... (I'll call him "D" to represent his first-name initial, as well as the obvious - Dad) and the two little darlings. (I stole "darlings" from their mother's blog, where she refers to them as Darling 1 and Darling 2.) The Misses was bearing through her first trip away from home (though she was never very far) and wouldn't be joining us for pizza at joint around the corner. "D" and I caught up on small talk while the girls shoveled pasta down their mouths. (The way these girls eat, you'd think they were starved for weeks.)
"So the girls were great today.... yadda yadda yadda..."
"Thanks a lot for helping out so much while (The Misses) is away... yadda yadda yadda..."
"Oh no worries! They make work seem like a walk in the park... yadda yadda yadda..."
"Megan! Megan! Watch me slurp the worm!"
"Hey, would you be interested in going to Feist's concert tonight in Prospect Park? I think I could get you on the guest list."
Wait... Go back... Are you kidding me?! "YES! I would love that!"
But as small talk continues, my doubts begin to calm my nerves, as I realize the offer sounds too good to be true. For those of you that have never heard of Feist (i.e. Grandma, Mom, etc.) - to be on this woman's guest list would be like being on Carly Simon's guest list. Not that they sound alike, but the influence on underground/alternative listeners is comparable. This woman is amazing! So, as you can imagine, I didn't want to hold my breath. Nevertheless, "D" makes a quick phone call, spells out my name, and then tells me it's all taken care of. I dropped the jaw again and said, "Wow, thanks!"
...Perhaps I even let a small squeal sneak out...
Once we got back to the house, I grabbed my bike, said my good-nights to "D" and the girls, and flew like the wind towards Prospect Park. I arrived early and stood in line at "Will-Call". I decided it would be best to choose my words wisely once getting to the front. I practiced a very humble, sweet way to ask for my freebie, for my once-in-a-lifetime guest pass. Once I reached the front where volunteers sat behind fold-out tables, I was well rehearsed.
"Hi, um... I think I might maybe be on the Arts and Crafts guest list...? It would be under McLeod... um, strange spelling... M-C-L-E-O-D... Sounds like Mc-LEE-OD."
I watched nervously as she thumbed through a shoebox full of envelopes, which I assumed were all filled with tickets.
"Um, sorry... I actually shouldn't have a ticket... um, I think my name would have been added to the list within an hour... um, the guest list?"
"Who's guest list?"
"Arts and Crafts...?"
"Who is Arts and Crafts?"
"Oh, sorry, it's Feist's record label. I was told to ask for the label list."
"Well there isn't a list for Arts and Crafts, and there isn't even a list for Feist. I'm sorry, you'll have to call your connections. NEXT!"
Now, I could go on and on, telling you about how pathetic I looked over the next 45 minutes as I stood near these fold-out tables, waiting for a phone call from "D", but I'm sure you can imagine. After nearly an hour of hoping so hard that I nearly drenched my cell phone with sweat from the palms of my hands, I decided it was time to give up. "D" meant well... As did his connections... In fact, I'll be receiving a gift-package from the Arts and Crafts record label, including all recent CD releases, because the lady behind the curtain felt so bad for her mix-up. (Too many middle-men.) No problem. I simply went on about my previous plans. I took a friend's advice to attend a BYOB-type function called "Lecture Series". Good times were had and I met nice people.
But man... I was THIS close to having my first great night in New York! I couldn't help but feel a little disappointed.
HOWEVER! I joined an old friend from San Antonio tonight at a free event (also in Prospect Park). The super-hip, super-sexy, experimental, electronica band, Brazilian Girls put on an excellent show. But that's not what made my heart grow fond of my new home. It was actually everything that happened as I sat on my blanket, in the grass, sipping on cold beer, before the show began.
I made small-talk with a small group of early-30-something fun-lovers sitting behind me, but as I waited for the old friend from home to show, I grew weary and wondered if I might be sitting on that blanket alone all night. I had time to finish a full beer before the first opening band went on, and went up for another. A tall bearded man, passing out wristbands in exchange for a one-time ID check, gave me a warm smile. For a moment, I felt visible, which in NYC, is nice, no matter who it is that notices you. I went back to my blanket with the fresh beer in hand and made myself comfortable with a book. I was hoping to kill time, but the sun was beginning to disappear and I had to put the book away after a few pages. My eyes looked around at the people filling the park. Suddenly, eye-contact! The man with the wristbands was looking right at me. I kept up with the eye-contact, as I thought he must be looking at something just over my shoulder. I was impressed with his ability to maintain distant eye-contact, with a complete stranger, for as long as it went on. (Seemed to be a long time!) I quickly reopened my book and hid behind its pages. But he knew I couldn't be reading... and I knew he knew I couldn't be reading... and I knew he knew I was just being... shy? Yep. Me - shy? I guess that's the effect this city has had on me so far. Anyway, I put the book down and looked up again. He was busy slapping wristbands on consumers and the moment was gone. I suppose I was relieved... but flattered, nonetheless. A handsome stranger noticed little 'ol me and I couldn't help but smile to myself as a result.
As I watched children run around the grass, waving glow-sticks and squirting each other with water bottles, I decided to send The Misses a text message. I invited them out to the show. I was actually missing their company, despite the fact that the girls are my "job" and the folks, my employers. But I don't relate these people with work. So, they said they'd come and I got excited. I stretched out my blanket to make room for more and watched the crowd for familiar faces. The old friend showed up, and shortly after, my nanny-family popped out of the crowd and we all settled in for the second opener. Little Darling entertained the group of fun-lovers behind me while Big Darling and I ate red beans and rice. The Misses, "D", my old friend from home, and I shot the proverbial shit with beers to chase the work-week away.
This alone, was perfect. I was happy with my surroundings, with a social situation outside of the nanny-home (albeit only slightly outside the nanny-home...) and I felt elated to be there.
The nanny-family only stayed a short while due to Little Darling's restlessness, and the old friend had to run home, but I joined the folks behind me for a game of Apples to Apples (best card game for large groups - highly recommended). Then, another stranger, like myself, joined the group, and another, and another. At the end of the game, we had twelve people - some strangers, some friends - who all came together to share gut-wrenching laughter before turning attention to the main attraction.
The show was coming to an end and I was getting tired. I packed up my things, shook several hands, and said my goodbyes. It was time for bed! But I was happy...
As I headed straight to the front of a long line (a very long line) for the port-a-potties, just to reach my bike on the other side, I decided to "pull a funny". Instead of passing the young man at the front of the line and continuing on to the fence where my bike was locked up, I stopped and turned my back to him. I stood there, hiding the insistent smile on my face, for what seemed like too long (15 seconds). Then, he politely tapped my shoulder and asked, "Um, are you serious?" I turned around, released a laugh, and said, "No." I then went on to my bike and began to deactivate it's highly effective security system (1 U-Lock: $38 and 1 long chain: $14).
This is where I got my movie moment...
Sort of...
"Um, excuse me?"
I looked up to find the young man I played the joke on was standing there with his hands in his pockets. He had obviously just lost his place at the front of the line and I thought, 'Uh oh... I must've really ticked him off!'
"That was really cute. I like your sense of humor, and I just thought I'd come and let you know..."
Awwwwwwwwww!!!!!!
He walked away in a rush.
I thought I'd be anonymous and invisible in this city for quite some time, but I somehow got noticed twice in one night by two fairly handsome, young men, as well as getting noticed by those eleven amazing people who played Apples to Apples! Now - I realize it may be taboo to actually admit how much you enjoy being noticed - or maybe not, on second thought - but it felt damn good. Maybe it sounds silly, but I needed that. I needed good old fashioned social interaction of the warm-hearted and personal kind.
On the short bike ride home, I felt like I was flying.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Meh...
I've gone out for drinks with my new employer-turned-friend, I've gone to an over-populated rooftop party where I watched the world's largest fireworks display, I've gone shopping in places a poor girl should never shop, I've discovered Hasidic Jews aren't friendly - or maybe they want to be, but aren't allowed to be...? Anyway, I've had a rich week in NY, full of encounters and events, yet I can only conjure up one word to express my thoughts and opinions - (quick shrug) 'Meh...' But let me remain concrete about one thing; I adore this family and hate the thought of leaving for a new one. However, I received that call from Canada, and the match looks promising. It seems we're excited about each other. I'll know by the 15th!
Now. Back to that party. I want to elaborate a bit. You see, the host's girlfriend was an old friend from back home. I couldn't wait to see her, along with the rooftop, the bands, the DJ, the fireworks, the food! Oh, it sounded so... so... so New York City! And it was, I can assure you, but I let something so insignificant spoil my mood, which therefore spoiled my night. This girl. Ugh!
My dear, old friend introduced me to said girl minutes after my arrival. Based on first impressions, she was friendly, and quite possibly the life of the party. I found out we were both nannies and both from Texas. I also found out we had met before, back home. (Small world.) But these commonalities became a hazard when she took it as an opening to say some terrible things about someone very close to me, someone she's never even met. The girl realized the tension she created and made jokes about how she loves to say inappropriate things. She didn't bother apologizing. Instead, she made it worse by going further.
Like I said above, this minor encounter was really insignificant. This girl was insignificant. But for some reason, I let her get me down. I left almost immediately after the fireworks went off, despite the fact that it was early and the party would be going on for hours longer. I went as far as to play melancholy music on my mp3 player while walking home. Ridiculous! Absolutely ridiculous! It's so unlike me. Here I am in NYC at my first rooftop party, there are hundreds of interesting people around, good music is pouring out of the speakers, fresh food covers the tables, and the view alone is enough to keep anyone in their right-mind there, at least for a while... Yet, I leave it all because of one silly girl? It was as if that one encounter made everything feel dirty. I just couldn't clean up after the mess she made.
I'm trying to like this place. I really am. But it's just... it's just... It's just 'Meh...'
Now. Back to that party. I want to elaborate a bit. You see, the host's girlfriend was an old friend from back home. I couldn't wait to see her, along with the rooftop, the bands, the DJ, the fireworks, the food! Oh, it sounded so... so... so New York City! And it was, I can assure you, but I let something so insignificant spoil my mood, which therefore spoiled my night. This girl. Ugh!
My dear, old friend introduced me to said girl minutes after my arrival. Based on first impressions, she was friendly, and quite possibly the life of the party. I found out we were both nannies and both from Texas. I also found out we had met before, back home. (Small world.) But these commonalities became a hazard when she took it as an opening to say some terrible things about someone very close to me, someone she's never even met. The girl realized the tension she created and made jokes about how she loves to say inappropriate things. She didn't bother apologizing. Instead, she made it worse by going further.
Like I said above, this minor encounter was really insignificant. This girl was insignificant. But for some reason, I let her get me down. I left almost immediately after the fireworks went off, despite the fact that it was early and the party would be going on for hours longer. I went as far as to play melancholy music on my mp3 player while walking home. Ridiculous! Absolutely ridiculous! It's so unlike me. Here I am in NYC at my first rooftop party, there are hundreds of interesting people around, good music is pouring out of the speakers, fresh food covers the tables, and the view alone is enough to keep anyone in their right-mind there, at least for a while... Yet, I leave it all because of one silly girl? It was as if that one encounter made everything feel dirty. I just couldn't clean up after the mess she made.
I'm trying to like this place. I really am. But it's just... it's just... It's just 'Meh...'
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Williamsburg
The girls and I ventured off to the park yesterday. We had plans to meet with their best friends, two little Korean sisters. JJ Byrne Park is only a few short blocks away, so when the girls asked if they could bring their bikes along, it seemed reasonable to say yes. I'd seen their parents allow this, as long as the girls walked the bicycles, instead of riding them. Once inside the safe perimeters of the park, the girls would be allowed to ride. Perfect logic.
Before their mother left for work, she suggested I take the stroller. The youngest was recovering from a small fever from the day before and it made sense to have a stroller on hand in case of fatigue. I also packed a large bag full of snacks, water bottles, and towels. (The park comes equipped with an incredible sprinkler device made just for kids.)
Now with two bicycles, one large bag, one purse, one stroller, and two hands to hold, I was ready to go! (For those of you with children and/or nanny experience, you can already see what a terrible mistake I've just made... And now that the girls are tickled pink with the promise of their beloved bicycle-cargo, I worry that a change of plans might cause our first falling-out. The first falling-out with a child is always the hardest...)
While attempting to disguise the hesitation in my voice, I said, "How about leaving the bikes behind today? You'll be too busy playing with your friends to ride bikes."
Good grief! You'd like to think I just announced the end of the world! So, that was that. Going without bikes would be out of the question, as was leaving the stroller behind. However, I managed to get by at the end of the day, and I couldn't help but burn with pride. My innovative techniques were a success! I used one shoulder to drape the front wheel of the smaller bike and the handle bars of the stroller sufficiently hung the bags. One hand steered the stroller with the youngest safely snuggled in and the other hand held on to the other child as we crossed the streets. Now, I know what most of you may be thinking... 'Been there, done that!' Right? But just this once, I felt the need to toot my own horn. My first overload in the city went better than I could have hoped it would! And after all was said and done, my second day on duty ended with a big boost to the ego, as well as the heart. The girls seemed quite happy with me and they couldn't wait to tell Mom and Dad how "awesome" I was. This one simple word and their sweet smiles made the whole struggle worth while.
Needless to say, I was thoroughly pooped-out by the time our day came to an end, which may explain the disappointment and frustration that came over me later on in the evening. You see, I had plans to embark on my first solo-exploration of Brooklyn. The employers kindly bought an old roadbike for me to use and I thought I'd break it in and go for a cruise. I set out for Williamsburg, a "neighborhood" in Brooklyn. (The neighborhoods within these boroughs are big enough to be their own small town!) I found the streets easy to handle and every encounter I made along the way was friendly. I paid $81.00 for my 1-month metro pass (despite my thinking they were free!) and then I hopped on the subway. I dared to people-watch as folks went about their typical commutes home from work. Everyone had a style. Even those I assume were going for the bag-lady look wore name brands. Some spent an exceptional amount of time on their hair while others seemed to be more concerned with accessories. Either way, everyone had a conscious "look" they were aiming for and most were succeeding, in my humble opinion. Everyone had books to pass the time, which made them look more like locals. After making eye-contact with a young girl in a feathered trilby hat and tall boots, I realized my wandering eyes made me the obvious tourist.
An old friend of mine from San Antonio wanted to show me his new home and grab a bite to eat at a trendy Moroccan-themed joint called Black Betty. The drinks were too expensive for me to even consider, the service was limited, and the food was bland! I've had much better falafels in San Antonio... But just before I could remind myself that it was too early to pass judgment on NY, my friend introduced me to a couple from his building. The young lovers took it upon themselves to tell me just how out of my league I was. At first sight, I was sized up. Just after my first words were spoken, they exchanged glances. It was obvious they thought I was hysterical. Unfortunately, their laughter did not include me. It remained between them. For a moment, I thought the girl might want to make friends as she began telling me about her favorite hotspots. But as she went into detail, mouthing off the lingo she knew I didn't know and spitting out prices she knew I couldn't afford, I realized I was nothing more than entertainment. So, I indulged her!
"Sounds great!" I said, "Thanks for the tips, but there's no way I could afford the cover to get in those places, let alone the drinks... I make $150 bucks a week as a live-in nanny."
I watched as she raised her brows and dropped her jaw in shock.
"But you're job-hunting, right?" she asked.
"No, I've fallen head over heals in love with this family. I think I'll stay put for the remainder of my time in New York."
"Well if you thought you'd be able to afford a life on that kind of income, you're mistaken. I can hook you up with a temp agency if you like. A friend of mine works with them and she says they never work with struggling families. They're all loaded, so I'm sure you'd be better off! Here sweetie, let me get you the number. Do you have a cell phone?"
"Oh, no thanks. I'm sure I'll be fine. I can always pack a paper-bag lunch if I go out for the day, instead of hitting the restaurants. And of course I won't be taking taxi cabs anywhere. I'm ok on the subway. I've also heard there are tons of free things to do in the city every summer. But thanks anyway!"
I gave the spoiled brat a wink, just to make sure she knew I was being condescending. Then again, I doubt she caught on.
On my ride home, I looked around the city and compared it to the only other two cities I've lived in during my adult years; San Antonio, of course, and albeit a short stay, Denver. I began to wonder if NYC would ever compare to Denver, and I even realized just how much I appreciate the low-standards in SA. So I immediately checked my email once getting back home, hoping someone from the Pacific NW had answered my Craigslist ad.
"NOMADIC NANNY SEEKING TEMP LIVE-IN POSITION STARTING SEPTEMBER" - The details inside the ad were honest and I included links to my nanny-page, as well as this blog.
My inbox was empty...
But this morning, I woke to find my dreams of visiting the Redwoods could very well come true!
Of course I should wait to post this blog until I've spoken with the family in Surrey, Canada, but I'm too excited! I thought my chances of finding host-families for this nomadic notion of mine would be slim-to-none. But there's hope after all!
I'm knocking on wood...
This simple girl needs a simple world. Just one problem... How the hell am I going to deal with getting attatched to a new family every two to four months, just to leave them at the end? Will these little ladies still think me "awesome" when I say goodbye? It almost feels treacherous to even think about leaving now, and I'm only on day five. I've got two more months of bonding ahead of me, at least!
Contemplation overload! My brain... is shutting... down.
Before their mother left for work, she suggested I take the stroller. The youngest was recovering from a small fever from the day before and it made sense to have a stroller on hand in case of fatigue. I also packed a large bag full of snacks, water bottles, and towels. (The park comes equipped with an incredible sprinkler device made just for kids.)
Now with two bicycles, one large bag, one purse, one stroller, and two hands to hold, I was ready to go! (For those of you with children and/or nanny experience, you can already see what a terrible mistake I've just made... And now that the girls are tickled pink with the promise of their beloved bicycle-cargo, I worry that a change of plans might cause our first falling-out. The first falling-out with a child is always the hardest...)
While attempting to disguise the hesitation in my voice, I said, "How about leaving the bikes behind today? You'll be too busy playing with your friends to ride bikes."
Good grief! You'd like to think I just announced the end of the world! So, that was that. Going without bikes would be out of the question, as was leaving the stroller behind. However, I managed to get by at the end of the day, and I couldn't help but burn with pride. My innovative techniques were a success! I used one shoulder to drape the front wheel of the smaller bike and the handle bars of the stroller sufficiently hung the bags. One hand steered the stroller with the youngest safely snuggled in and the other hand held on to the other child as we crossed the streets. Now, I know what most of you may be thinking... 'Been there, done that!' Right? But just this once, I felt the need to toot my own horn. My first overload in the city went better than I could have hoped it would! And after all was said and done, my second day on duty ended with a big boost to the ego, as well as the heart. The girls seemed quite happy with me and they couldn't wait to tell Mom and Dad how "awesome" I was. This one simple word and their sweet smiles made the whole struggle worth while.
Needless to say, I was thoroughly pooped-out by the time our day came to an end, which may explain the disappointment and frustration that came over me later on in the evening. You see, I had plans to embark on my first solo-exploration of Brooklyn. The employers kindly bought an old roadbike for me to use and I thought I'd break it in and go for a cruise. I set out for Williamsburg, a "neighborhood" in Brooklyn. (The neighborhoods within these boroughs are big enough to be their own small town!) I found the streets easy to handle and every encounter I made along the way was friendly. I paid $81.00 for my 1-month metro pass (despite my thinking they were free!) and then I hopped on the subway. I dared to people-watch as folks went about their typical commutes home from work. Everyone had a style. Even those I assume were going for the bag-lady look wore name brands. Some spent an exceptional amount of time on their hair while others seemed to be more concerned with accessories. Either way, everyone had a conscious "look" they were aiming for and most were succeeding, in my humble opinion. Everyone had books to pass the time, which made them look more like locals. After making eye-contact with a young girl in a feathered trilby hat and tall boots, I realized my wandering eyes made me the obvious tourist.
An old friend of mine from San Antonio wanted to show me his new home and grab a bite to eat at a trendy Moroccan-themed joint called Black Betty. The drinks were too expensive for me to even consider, the service was limited, and the food was bland! I've had much better falafels in San Antonio... But just before I could remind myself that it was too early to pass judgment on NY, my friend introduced me to a couple from his building. The young lovers took it upon themselves to tell me just how out of my league I was. At first sight, I was sized up. Just after my first words were spoken, they exchanged glances. It was obvious they thought I was hysterical. Unfortunately, their laughter did not include me. It remained between them. For a moment, I thought the girl might want to make friends as she began telling me about her favorite hotspots. But as she went into detail, mouthing off the lingo she knew I didn't know and spitting out prices she knew I couldn't afford, I realized I was nothing more than entertainment. So, I indulged her!
"Sounds great!" I said, "Thanks for the tips, but there's no way I could afford the cover to get in those places, let alone the drinks... I make $150 bucks a week as a live-in nanny."
I watched as she raised her brows and dropped her jaw in shock.
"But you're job-hunting, right?" she asked.
"No, I've fallen head over heals in love with this family. I think I'll stay put for the remainder of my time in New York."
"Well if you thought you'd be able to afford a life on that kind of income, you're mistaken. I can hook you up with a temp agency if you like. A friend of mine works with them and she says they never work with struggling families. They're all loaded, so I'm sure you'd be better off! Here sweetie, let me get you the number. Do you have a cell phone?"
"Oh, no thanks. I'm sure I'll be fine. I can always pack a paper-bag lunch if I go out for the day, instead of hitting the restaurants. And of course I won't be taking taxi cabs anywhere. I'm ok on the subway. I've also heard there are tons of free things to do in the city every summer. But thanks anyway!"
I gave the spoiled brat a wink, just to make sure she knew I was being condescending. Then again, I doubt she caught on.
On my ride home, I looked around the city and compared it to the only other two cities I've lived in during my adult years; San Antonio, of course, and albeit a short stay, Denver. I began to wonder if NYC would ever compare to Denver, and I even realized just how much I appreciate the low-standards in SA. So I immediately checked my email once getting back home, hoping someone from the Pacific NW had answered my Craigslist ad.
"NOMADIC NANNY SEEKING TEMP LIVE-IN POSITION STARTING SEPTEMBER" - The details inside the ad were honest and I included links to my nanny-page, as well as this blog.
My inbox was empty...
But this morning, I woke to find my dreams of visiting the Redwoods could very well come true!
Hi Megan, Don't know if anyone has snapped you up yet or
not but, if you are still in the market and want to see the west coast, we have
a great place in Surrey with a sweetheart of a little girl... We'd welcome a
chat w/ you to see if the want/need thing works out but, we fluked upon your
site and, I am sure it must be serendipity. I have given you my office
number so, give a call when you have a chance and we can take it from there.
Cheers!
I'm knocking on wood...
This simple girl needs a simple world. Just one problem... How the hell am I going to deal with getting attatched to a new family every two to four months, just to leave them at the end? Will these little ladies still think me "awesome" when I say goodbye? It almost feels treacherous to even think about leaving now, and I'm only on day five. I've got two more months of bonding ahead of me, at least!
Contemplation overload! My brain... is shutting... down.
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