*sigh* It looks like yet another mother's helper has blown us off

[melissel]

She was a no-show yesterday, a no-show today, no one is answering calls at her house, and she's not answering her cell. I've left two messages, but haven't gotten a call back. I'm so frustrated! The last one we had (last year) did the same exact thing--she strung us along for a week, leaving me without childcare, until finally I called repeatedly and she e-mailed me to say she wasn't coming anymore. Is this a teenager thing? I'm so discouraged over this. I need the help badly, because I work 30 hours a week from home, but how many times do we have to go through this? Gah! :(

[j.griff]

I would just consider her "fired" and try to find someone else. How long has she been "working" for you? I guess I'd try to guesstimate a "turnaround" time, and plan to find someone else periodically. I'd be very upfront about this with the next person though- tell them that you know the job can burn them out, and that when they are finding themselves not wanting to come any more that you NEED them to let you know so you can find someone else ASAP. Hugs, that must be terribly frustrating to deal with unexpectedly- especially more than once.

[melissel]

I would just consider her "fired" and try to find someone else. How long has she been "working" for you? I guess I'd try to guesstimate a "turnaround" time, and plan to find someone else periodically. I'd be very upfront about this with the next person though- tell them that you know the job can burn them out, and that when they are finding themselves not wanting to come any more that you NEED them to let you know so you can find someone else ASAP. Hugs, that must be terribly frustrating to deal with unexpectedly- especially more than once.

Thanks, that's really very good advice. I will definitely do that the next time.

Hey, OT, but I've been meaning to ask, how are you doing with the whole thing with your mom and your moods? I hope it's working itself out, even if just in some small way.

[Sparkle]

What a bummer! I'm sorry :( Maybe a college student would be more reliable? And maybe need the money more than a teen? Hope you find a good helper soon.

[PraiseHimMom]

Well, I guess you could look at it this way: at least she showed her irresponsibility while your children were *not* in her care. :confused:

Sorry your having a hard time finding someone reliable.

[j.griff]

Thanks for asking :o
My moods are more stable now, and I have successfully been able to limit the amount of time I am on the phone with her. If I am busy or just don't want to talk, I just don't answer. I had a talk with her again about "me" needing to stop being on the phone so much so I can be a better mother (thus avoiding the "you're driving me absolutely crazy" conversation and drama) and so now she doesn't call incessantly :D
I also was snappy/grouchy when I finally caved and answered before when she was callling incessantly, so I think she got that hint too and is "scared" of making me mad enough to not talk on the phone at all.