07/15/2023
In the Spring of 2016, I started my extensive “checklist” of items to start my journey as a Licensed Home Childcare Provider. Obtaining a Town permit, licensing, training and transforming of our home began.
Fences, gates, a new Giving Garden, SOOOOO MANY yards of playground woodchips and several outdoor play structures were constructed.
An inside fire proof door and additional fire/carbon monoxide alarms were mounted (which I always seem to set off with my cooking!) Down came our family pictures and up went fun posters, a play wall, shelves and calming colors. Out came our living room and a new “reading room” was made to help create a cozy environment for play, learning and relaxation.
Next the most precious and important part of our journey began. As each new child and family joined our circle, the love truly grew. We celebrated family milestones and came together for the hardships. Every day feelings of happiness, anger, excitement, sadness and frustration were shared. From our similarities to our differences, to always having inclusion>>>.
We laughed so hard at the simplest of things and were in awe of the most magical creations. Countless hours of singing and dancing to Motown and kidsbop!
Visiting and giving high-5's to our favorite neighbor, my Dad, Mr. B! Being blessed by Ms. Anya’s visits (our Music Teacher) several wonderful Therapists and other special guests.
Becoming Independent (often going home with shoes on the wrong feet, clothes on inside out or backwards!), as a group cleaning up from lunch, play and helping each other.
Lots of outside play, running around all year long. During cold, Wintery days, being wet and happily muddy, Summer sun and the cooler Fall days of jumping in leaves.
Hearing the daily squeals of joys and laughter. There were also the quiet times as everyone was searching for “gems or diamonds” amongst the crushed rock near the driveway or in the garden. Or perhaps friends were having a chat in the Lookout, or going for a “flight” on the airplane. Or soaring above my home on the swings and circle swing (kiddos often asked me, Ms. Robbin can you please push me on the swing high…over your house?!) Trying to catch the first snowflakes of the season on their tongues.
Endless hours of heart and work poured into the outside and inside of our home. That has been a continued process that Rich, Dylan and Rylei have been an AMAZING support of. The Treehouse was never a “job”, it was truly part of our family. Everywhere we go, places and items are pointed out, “hay, The Treehouse kids would love that”. Without them, the Treehouse would not have been possible.
I can’t express how much the children have given me. The good and challenging days. The days I struggled in my own personal life and felt I wasn’t enough. The days the children truly lifted my spirits and boosted me in ways I am forever grateful for. There are times when this “adult world” tends to knock you around a bit and it feels impossible to see the “road” in front of you. Without a doubt, the children have always “cleared a path” for me. Gave me unconditional love and reminded me how much the smaller things in life are what matters. To stop, look around and enjoy the moment. To laugh, love, cry if you need to and dance…. everyday!
As my own children are getting older and life seems to zing by so fast, the heartbreaking choice to close the Treehouse was made. So much thought has been put into this decision. My heart will never be ready, but it’s for the best.
Every child’s time with me has been the most beloved gift that I will ALWAYS carry with me. Please know, the children or parents can contact me at anytime and I look forward to having “playdates”!!
As I type this, I miss the children SOOOOOOOOO much.
“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard” – Winnie the Pooh
As always, wherever you go….NO MATTER how old you are…ALWAYS bring your IMAGINATION and KINDNESS with you.
With so much love and gratitude.
Ms. Robbin
