Test Driving

Over the past few weeks, besides all of the normal getting-ready-for-baby type things we've been doing (like getting the room ready and starting the shower registry) there have been two others which have kinda trumped the rest: finding a child-care provider and finding a new car.

I'm glad to announce that both issues have since been solved as we have found a full-time nanny for the LAB (no, we didn't hit the lottery, I'll explain) and just last week bought a new car that the principal of Katie's school called a "mommy car"'.

So, because I like lists I'm going to make one here.

"Ways in which looking for day-care and a new car are alike":

1. What kind of options can we afford? Do we just get something basic, or can we afford a few "bells and whistles"?
2. Is is something we're going to be happy with five years down the line?
3. Will it keep the LAB safe?
4. How will people judge us based on our decision?

Our finalized day-care situation is, in fact, a lot like PhillyCarShare. We have "chipped in" on a full-time nanny that we would otherwise not be able to afford on our own with a few other families that attend the same church as we do. The lady is certified, CPR trained, background checked, and was once the manager of a day-care facility who didn't like how the facilites owner wanted to run things. It has all the advantages of private child-care at a fraction of the cost.

And now we have a new car to pick him up in too.

Guess it's time to start painting his room.