I always learn the hard way. I started with a friend's baby 2 months ago. I already had a 3 yr old dcg. Anyway, I told her it was $125 a week. She said okay $500 a month I get paid on the 15th and 30th. I said no, It's $125 a week, some months have 5 weeks! She also gets reimbursed from her work for half. So the first time she paid cash on time. Of course, stupid me, nothing in cotract about late fees. The next time she says I'll pay on Wed I get paid. Okay. This week its now Thursday. She asked me to watch him 2 extra hours last night. I agreed because she is my friend. Dch was not happy with me! He said something in front of her "did you get paid overtime tonight?" I almost died but it was good for her to hear it b/c I am never going to say that. She said later on the phone, Sorry I didn't mean to cause a problem. Today is Thurs, she picks up to take him to his well visit and no pay! I finally said "Did you need to pay me tomorrow or what?" She said, "oh yea, did you need me to bring it back over tonght?" Really?? I bet these parents pay their cable bill and their light bill with no problem. They also don't "forget" to bring their child!!!! I will always have a late fee and strict payment clause in the future! Live and learn. I guess that is part of the problem with having a friend as a client. I mean really, do I seem like I just use the money as casual income?? Really? Thanks for letting me vent!
