Most westerners in China have an ayi(i-E). An ayi is essentially a maid who does tasks like cleaning and laundry. Her most valuable contribution is usually taking care of the details, like paying the phone bill or getting something fixed - tasks which are near impossible to do unless you speak Chinese. So you could say an ayi is an indispensable part of life in China.
My ayi came to my apartment today for the first time. I wasn't sure what to expect since I have never had a maid before. When I walked in I almost turned around - I couldn't believe it was the same place. It was immaculate. She not only had mopped the wood floor, but she had done all the laundry and I'm pretty sure she ironed every piece of clothing I own - even my socks and undies.
In the process of cleaning she came upon a yellow towel that she must of thought would be handy for drying dishes. In her mind - why else would anyone else own a yellow towel? Towels are for cleaning - and so that is what she did with it. I found my damp and slightly dirty towel neatly hanging in the kitchen. Either she doesn't understand sacred American football traditions...or she is a Browns fan.
2 comments:
I wonder what she would have done if she saw your Chicago condo with the Steelers memorabilia in the china cabinet. Well, perhaps she would have fainted by the appearance of your bathrooms...
What! You mean to tell me she tarnished your TERRIBLE TOWEL! Wonder what she thought it said? I guess you'll just have to explain football to her.Good Luck with that.
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