Babysitter Poker

It's a tricky thing knowing when you need help with the kids and when you can juggle it all on your own.  J and I were at a "come and go" wedding shower recently and brought Z with us. While chatting with some of the other mom's I said how glad I was that I wasn't the only one daring enough to bring my child. They totally related, and we talked about how we try to save up baby sitter time for emergencies or really special occasions. 

Whether you have a nanny, a friend, or family member watching your children you want to make sure you play your cards just right, like in Poker. 

"You've got to know when to hold 'em"- These are the times when only mama will do. For example when your babysitter calls to say your little one is sick all bets are off. You are going to be there to pick them up right away. 

"Know when to fold 'em"- This is when you don't get a babysitter because you feel like you can handle it on your own. See example of wedding shower  above.

"Know when to walk away"- These are the times that you need a babysitter even if you wish you didn't, like when you have a doctors appointment. 

"Know when to run"- If you are burnt out or need some alone time with your spouse and someone close to you offers to watch your kids, take the opportunity and run! 

So that is how you play babysitter poker. Who knew Kenny Rogers was singing about the dynamics of child care this whole time.