My Maid Quit!

Just like that! No warning signs at all. One day she seemed fine and then yesterday she just coolly informed me that she would like to leave and go back to India after 1 or 2 months. No reason given. My head reeled thinking of the consequences and I actually held on to the sofa for support while she was talking. I quit my job because I could rely on her to look after baby Kiara and now this after not even a year. She joined us when baby was 3 months old and took great care of her, but lately she just didn't seem to be there, housework was neglected etc. We were the kindest maid employers...no honestly we would score number one in terms of kindness is there was a survey of maid employers conducted. We threw in a lot of presents, bonuses, free time, entertainment, took her out to restaurants with us, shopping ...what did I do wrong? "It's because we were too nice" said my husband matter of factly. Now this may be hard to believe but never did I tell her what to do, not one day did I give her chores, I just told her see what needs to be done and do it. And she was good and I didn't bother to interfere. But what worries me most is that is is impossible to live on one salary where we live. Which is why I left my brilliant career but still took on some part time work. Now no more part time work as I can't afford to spend on the procedure to bring another maid. "Make her pay all the visa expenses" said a friend. I knew that just wasn't in my heart though, if she wants to leave let her. We will find a way to get through the financial consequences. I am happy that we had her when my baby was small and we needed her more. Now she is a bigger girl and we can manage, we must. I woke up this morning promising myself to face the world with courage. A career woman converted into a housewife. I have to learn to pull it off with a smile!