January 19

Written by neilencio

Before we continue with this week’s post, let me first get something out of the way.

I. AM. A. GIRL.

I was born a female; my birth certificate says so too. Many have mistaken me for a guy – not that I’m offended – it is probably partly my fault as well. The avatars I’ve chosen and used for the past 2 years are not exactly flowing with feminine aura. It may be ironic that while I am a girl, I’m not inclined to girly things. I don’t like ribbons, butterflies, flowers and practically anything pink.

So to clear the air of this confusion, I’ve changed my profile pic. Not that I’m crazy about this idea because most of my acquaintances are petrified of my face – for reasons still unknown to me. However, no amount of confusion or bribery will make me change my avatar to Hello Kitty or something of the like.

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Many are confused why I have chosen to be yayaless for nearly two years. So let me tell you about Michelle.

Michelle was my eldest son’s first official nanny. I was skeptical to look for one because we had all sorts of nasty experiences with house help – getting robbed being the most constant. She was referred by the family driver and assured us that he will vouch for his granddaughter. So we accepted.

She was barely 18 when she came to our home. We knew that adjustments had to be made and strict instructions for childcare had to be imposed. She’s a fast learner and I gave her less credit than what she was worth during the time. A few weeks of observation led us to the comforting conclusion that we can have peace of mind while our then only son was with her.

Her schedule was flexible. She had her own room and she was entitled to whatever it was inside the refrigerator she fancied. She had TV, DVD, radio and phone privileges. She received gifts and bonuses during special days and holidays where she could also take vacations that can last for a month. Every week, she was entitled to two days off. When my husband and I are home, she was free to do whatever it was she wanted.

Our son Angelo never had a single bruise. He was always clean and fresh even during physical activities. I never had any complaints with Michelle… well, maybe one.

Immediately after she receives her salary during payday, she would ask permission to go out – which we would happily grant until she comes home. She practically spends half (occasionally more) of her own money to buy toys, treats and other goodies for our son. That was a major no-no. She’d receive her share of reprimands while my eyes are blaring. She’d accept every word with an innocent smile saying it was a gift. Even after she was given extra cash to buy our son’s wants/needs, she would still spend from her own pocket.

She stayed with us for 4 years, until she confessed that she met someone and would want to start a family of her own. As much as it broke our hearts, we gave her our blessing.

We went through one nanny after the other. None of them compared to Michelle. She set the standard really high. Some were workable but we encountered the evil ones as well. I nearly mangled one of them when I caught her hurting my son in the bathroom. One day, something really, really bad happened and that was where I drew the line. No more. If I can’t find another Michelle, no one will touch my kids ever again.

Saying goodbye to Michelle was sad. She left our home in tears, half-hearted to go especially after my son sang her a song before hugging her goodbye. Every time we would hear “Always Remember You” by Michele Luppi, she becomes an automatic thought.

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Speaking of standards, I only have one request to our dear EPH writers. Please do mind your format. Follow the AD to the dot. The guidelines are all in the manual, all you need to do is read and remember. ;)