I convinced my parents that going back to London in a good idea. I continued with my English studies, and my English improved. Meanwhile, the time passed and the children in the family I served as au pair grew up. The family didn’t need my services anymore, so I had to find another family. The new family provided me with an adjoining apartment, so I could invite a friend to stay with me. The couple had two young children, and they were expecting their third child. I took care of the children in the morning: dressed them, gave them breakfast, and take them to school. After I brought the children to school, I would go to my studies.  

I returned after lunch, and played with the children and helped prepare dinner, bath the children and take them to bed. In the evenings I would go with my friend to discos and parties.

I loved this life style. I was young and independent, and toured England. The ESL school arranged for weekend trips. I used to save up money to go on these trips. They were such fun. Every summer and on Christmas holiday I would go and visit my parents, who by now got accustomed to the idea that their daughter lives and works in England.

Photo by Luke Stackpoole