After going through 3 'mainstream' domestic helpers, (there was one who was a downright nightmare, while the other two were mediocre at best) we took a plunge and decided to hire one from Myanmar for helper no. 4 after the contract expired for no. 3.
It is common knowledge that helpers from Myanmar speak very little english so there's always the factor of language barrier to consider. Plus they were known to be slow in their work. But to be starkly honest, Indonesian and Filippino helpers were getting waaay expensive. So although we were really apprehensive, we went ahead and hired one from Myanmar.
No. 4 arrived with a really pleasant disposition! While I understand hiring a domestic helper is all about an additional pair of hands and nothing about how she looks, I'm sure most would agree that having a pleasant helper would be a bonus. Plus, (suprise!) she could speak a smattering of Malay!
Anyway, when no. 4 was here, my home was in its neatest, cleanest state ever! Granted that she could be pretty slow completing the chores, she was thorough and learnt fast. And she was always ready to help around. Some helpers adopt a 'do minimal & pretend never see dirt' attitude, but no. 4 was ever ready to lend a helping hand - and with a smile. She was clean and neat in her chores and courteous and well, she was Perfect. We thought we hit jackpot.
And just when we were starting to be getting used to having her around and I was beginning to allow her more kid-involving chores, a phonecall relaying news of her mom being admitted to the hospital came out of a sudden, and 'POOF!' Her attitude, emotions and standard of chores dwindled faster than I could say 'wa lao eh!' Not that we blame her though. Some things just cannot be controlled and the hiring of a good helper is really about heng-sway, right?
Well, to cut the long story short, we sent her back to the agent for arrangements to 'balik kampong'. She left with several ang pows, new t-shirts, stationary sets and biscuits for her son as a small token of appreciation from us for the help she gave us in the short but good 2 weeks.
I know all good things must come to an end, but seriously? Two weeks is pretty darn short. In meantime, our house is in a messier state while we wait for the replacement to arrive. Delays were to be expected due to the festive period and our patience stretched thin as we battle household chores and mountains of cleaning.
I'm convinced no. 4 was my best helper yet, although I truly hope that no. 5 would prove me pleasantly wrong. In meantime, we'd just hope for the best! If not, I'll just re-read my post and remember the best helper I had for all of 14 days.
Happy CNY y'all.
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