I Love Martha

Danny and I don't get out too much.

With four kids ranging in age from five years to 20 months, it's pretty tough for us to convince a babysitter to take on that much responsibility and chaos. I can always see babysitters' eyes kind of glaze over when I start to describe our family. Then I anxiously observe their look of shock and horror when the kids start filing into the room, carrying their various complaints, cries, and needs.

I have, however, been lucky enough to regularly borrow my sister's babysitter, Martha. She raised five girls and one boy, and one of her daughters has three year old twins. Needless to say, she totally gets it. She doesn't get stressed, she doesn't get harried, she doesn't get mad. She does get tired, so we never try to stay out too late. She is an answer to prayer. She is steady, kind, loving, and patient. She is wonderful, and we love her. She has a picture of the Virgin Mary on the back of her van. She does my laundry (well, back when I had a washer and dryer...ah those were the days). Remember that card Cubby was writing to our babysitter that read, "I love you, you are a great babysitter"? That was to Martha. We all understand and acknowledge that she saves my mental and emotional well-being from spiraling into madness.

Last night Martha came over, and Danny and I emerged from the dirty laundry and messy rooms wearing elegant evening attire. I don't think Martha recognized me at first. She knows my pajamas, sweat pants, and workout clothes quite well. When I walked out, she must have been wondering what the HECK was going on! Jewelry? Make up? Dress? Hair combed....AND done? Heels? I'm surprised she didn't keel over. Danny did.

Here's a picture of us after he recovered. Check out my handsome husband.



Yes, that's a black feathered headband in my hair. I don't know what I was thinking. The lady at Nordstrom convinced me it was all the rage, and since I didn't have my fashion coordinator (Ayron!!!) with me, to advise me, I trusted this woman, and wore feathers in my hair. Oh well, life goes on. Even for people with feathers in their hair.

Actually, I take all that back. Feathers are fun. I like the feathers.

We attended a beautiful, elegant, romantic wedding reception last night. It was a bit chilly, but that really didn't matter. We were absolutely thrilled to be out. We got totally caught up in the romance and magic of the night, which is something I think all couples with young kids need to do every once in a while. Or more, if they have a Martha in their lives.