Weeks after placing “part-time nanny wanted” ads, I was still getting tons of applications and found myself only lazily skimming through them.

It wasn’t that I didn’t want the help. Rather, I was literally receiving hundreds of applications, most of which I knew to be were from people I wouldn’t trust to prepare my coffee, nevermind watch my precious daughter.

There were also more than a few qualified applicants whom I was having heckuva time emailing, calling, and struggling to set up interviews.

“I wish I could hire someone to help me hire someone,” I complained to my sister. (Yes, I am that lazy.)

“Why don’t I help you?” she volunteered.

I almost slapped myself right then and there. My sister had experience working as a nanny, so she knows what to look for and which warning signs to watch out for. And as soon as I agreed, she helped me edit my ad, set up a new email address which she could access, and promised me to start phoning and interviewing people asap.

And that’s how we found Cindy. Cindy lives in the next town over, has experience working with infants, does not need to work but would like some time away from her house and wouldn’t mind the extra money. Not only does she have great references, she has a charming, bubbly personality which I knew would work great with Claire. Her schedule is flexible enough that we could rely on her three times a week (for 5 hours at a time) but also change the days and times around when needed.

I knew that we had found our nanny after just the first interview. And Cindy’s first day is today.

After spending the first couple of hours with her and Claire, and making sure that Claire seemed comfortable with her, I retreated to my room. I am now writing this post with one ear at the door, and am happy to report that I hear Claire’s giggles emanating from the other room.

Here’s to hoping that Cindy works out, and that our household will be a happier and smoother one with her help!