06/24/2026
Twenty Years of Little Footprints
Twenty years ago, I opened my door to a handful of children and a dream. I had no idea that what started as a childcare program would become such a meaningful part of my life.
One of the greatest gifts this journey has given me is the opportunity to be home with my own children while they were growing up. Instead of missing their milestones, I was there for them. They spent their childhood surrounded by other children, forming friendships, making memories, and sharing experiences that helped shape who they are today.
Over the years, the children in my program became more than daycare children. Some became like built-in siblings for my own kids. Others became like built-in grandchildren to me. They arrived as babies and toddlers, and before I knew it, they were heading off to kindergarten, middle school, high school, and beyond.
Together we have shared countless stories, songs, crafts, adventures, and everyday moments. We celebrated birthdays, learned new skills, wiped tears, shared laughter, and watched one another grow.
What I never expected was that some of my closest friendships would begin with a simple daycare interview. Parents who once dropped their children off at my door became trusted friends, and many remain part of my life long after their children have outgrown my program.
The toys have changed over the years. The faces have changed too. But the impact each child has left behind remains. Every family, every child, every memory has become part of the story.
Childcare has kept me busy. The days have often been long, loud, messy, and exhausting. Yet they have also been filled with joy, purpose, laughter, and love.
Looking back on these twenty years, I wouldn’t change a thing.
I am grateful for every child who has walked through my door, every family who trusted me, every friendship that grew, and every memory that was made.
What began as a way to care for children while raising my own became so much more. It became a community. It became a second family. It became a life filled with little footprints that have left lasting marks on my heart.
And after twenty years, I can honestly say that I still love what I do, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
