The Wagstaff family (Auckland) - February 2016

"Home is not where you are from, it is where you belong. Some of us travel the whole world to find it. Others, find it in a person."

Dear Amy and Ivan,

I found my home in 4 wonderful Kiwis. It may sound cheesy, but straight after 5 minutes I've seen you, I felt like a part of your family. Honestly, I was afraid of being an au pair before, of not being a part of the family and just there to work, but you showed me the difference: Jack giving me a huge hug when we first met, let me feel home shortly and even my birthday was so special because of you, even that I've been there just half a week. You although got a special german cake for me, so that I felt home and you made me feel home at Christmas too. I still don't know how you did it, but you managed to get cookies from Germany. This Christmas was so special to me and you involved me so much in it!

I was impressed how much you involved me into the family even that I was a complete stranger to you and the kids.  You welcomed me with open arms and showed me all your love you spread in your family. I really like the way you treat each other with respect and love and not yell at each other. I loved playing with Jack and Izy and I know, it wasn't easy for them switching the au pair, but they did their best to explain and show me everything. I especially enjoyed the times of cuddling which was really often! I thank you for your trust giving me your children and I hope they enjoyed it too. But what I am really thankful for, is that you've been always on my side, never mind what it was. You've been always supporting me with the kids and with my love to travel.

And I will thank you for this awesome week to Noosa, Australia. You took me with you, like I would have been a member of your family and I am sure that's what I am by now;)

There are so many things I am thankful for, like taking care of me when I was sick or showing so much interest in my travel, but I will just make it short: Thank you so much that you gave me the opportunity to come to the most beautiful place on earth and for being the best hostfamily of the world! I enjoyed every second with you: cuddling with Izy and Jack, playing with them, baking and cooking for you or just talking and exploring new places with you. I am so glad I met you and the kids.

You may be gone from my sight, but you are never gone from my heart. I'll always remember you and your cheekiness and sweetness (Izy and Jack) and you always see someone twice, that is what I am sure of. Thank you for everything and stay how you are: THE BEST!!

Lots of love,    Anna:*