ABSTRACT
My helper came from Xuan Truong in Namdinh province. She is older than Hang [the teenage daughter] by one year. My family and I treat her well, trying to fill the gap between the household and the helper. I consider her like Hang and encourage my children to be friendly with her. But, as you know, I am still the best cook in my children’s thinking. . . . It is a lovely time when we have spare time to sit round the table with my daughter and my son.
