Ramona Kimmig, Waikato

I would like to nominate Ramona Kimmig. She looks after Tom who is now 4 and William who is 6. We returned to NZ just over twelve months ago from living overseas for many years and sadly my husband and I decided not to live together any longer. When Ramona arrived our life was going through lots of changes and it was a very unsettling time for the kids. I have returned to work also. Ramona is a quiet but confident young woman. Something that stands out about Ramona is her calm exterior and maturity beyond her years. She is firm and fair with the kids they respect her and feel secure with her. I walk out the door in the morning knowing that all is safe and well at home. I never worry while I am away. As we have got to know Ramona she has become an integral part of the family. She made our Christmas by buying gifts when I had no time, making great gifts for grandparents. She decorated our house and convinced me that a real xmas tree was a good idea! It smelt great. She made lots of German cakes and cookies. She has made birthday cakes for the kids and helped organise the party and host the parents. I recently went swimming with kids and found that Tom is swimming! He is also counting and reciting the alphabet. Ramona is also teaching them some German. Ramona goes between Steve and I and has a great relationship with both of us she is a constant in the kids’ lives. I am rebuilding a career and life here in NZ and could not have had the brilliant year that I have had without Ramona. She is a special girl and we love her very much.

Ramona Kimmig