An extra hand

Being a mother to four awesome kids is not an easy feat. People might say I choose to have more children. I beg to defer that they chose me to be their mother. It's not that hubster and me did not plan. We did and this is what happen. Each of them had taught us different things in life and has brought out the best and the worst in both of us. People has asked us how we manage in Singapore with four children. I don't really know how we do it but we do #atleastwetry. With baby Arrian's arrival, I had to engage a helper. She has been nothing but great. However, there were times where I wanted to scream at her for her lapse of judgement. But all I can see is someone who simply love my children. I know that it was not easy to manage four children all on her own with me being away at work. I am thankful that my mum is staying with me. She will be able to help my helper out and at the same time keep an eye on her. Picking a good helper is like finding a life partner. I am actually happy with her so far. She has been more of a family than a helper. There is a few things that I need to point out when picking a helper.

A few things to take note

• A good agency - we went for labour express@jurong east due to a recommendation from hubster friend. We went there and has a good impression based on what we see. The person that attended to us was also friendly and accommodating. You can also google for reviews #thatswatidid
• Expectation - we listed down what are the things we expect her to do and also how many children she needs to take care. I took my current helper due to the fact she indicated that she only need one day off each month #ifuwanttotakemoreimnotinterested.
• Be clear and realistic of what you want - my helper starts her day at 630am and goes to sleep at 930pm, latest is 12 midnight. I know how some people say that its too early for her to go to sleep but be realistic, she's also human not a robot. 
• Treat them like a family not your slave: my helper eat whatever we eat. Go out with us. I also allow her to cook her myanmar food when she feels homesick. I remember her birthday and also husband birthday.

My journey with my helper was not a smooth one. She cried when we told her off because she wanted to hang on to her handphone during workdays which i don't agree on. She was also quite rude sometimes due to her limited english vocabulary. However, we talk things out and tell her that anytime she is not happy or comfortable, she may choose to leave. I rather have her telling me that she wants to leave than she doing monkey business just to get out of my house. I guess communication is very important. I survived being a mother of 4 not just on my own. I had my mum, helper and my hubster. We worked together to make things smooth and easy and ensure the children were well taken care of. Overall, I am a happy mum.