Helles is back and America is still standing!

It's official, America is strong enough to take the full impact of Helles Belles! Must try harder next time! I had an absolutely FANTASTIC time in Virginia with The Jonkers Family! It was probably the hardest work I've ever done, along with the longest hours (average 12hrs a day minimum) but at the same time, it was incredibly rewarding and a great deal of fun!
Settling into the house and unpacking took a couple of weeks and that time went the slowest. After that a sense of normality was found and everyone was able to settle into the new life. The family had lived in Richmond before, which was a real bonus... no getting lost or having to find places! I enjoyed being able to explore various Malls and also large stores including Walmart and Target (fantastic places! Very cheap! hehehe) during my time off. As you can imagine... I often came back with at least couple of bags and a big smile on my face LOL!
One of the best things about the trip was being getting to know the family a lot better, especially my boss, Anne. We really built up a strong and fun friendship, and were a fabulous, united force against the 'orribles! Lol! As you can imagine, one of the most important elements in my job as a Nanny, is to have a strong relationship with the mother. It makes everyone's life so much better when you can trust, support and have fun with each other. Most important is to have a consistent code of conduct with the children and to always support the other in what they say and do. Otherwise you have a situation where one carer says one thing and the other says the opposite! Realisation of the achievement of growth in this relationship always encourages me no end! A real confidence booster!
Anne and I looked after the children together mostly - apart from the occasional day when I would look after them all or she would. It meant we all had a lot of fun together and because there were 2 of us... the stress was so much less!
Many aspects of everyday life seemed easier over there. People were very friendly and couldn't do enough to help you. Driving was easier, food shopping was blissful! They pack your bags and bring them to the car and put them in the car for you!!! The food stores have so many choices on everything that everyone's needs are met! This could be seen as a bad thing I guess but it was good for us!!! The way of life was very laid back I have to say, which was really great when you needed to relieve stress!
I was/am very sad to be saying goodbye to the family. It seems strange that I won't be seeing them, even in passing as they are on another continent! I am however, very grateful for the experience they offered me and how they made me feel very much at home and an extremely valued part of the family. I will miss them all very, very much! Thank you Team Jonkers!