Life before our Au Pair (Lena) could described as exhausting, hectic and full on!  We were constantly juggling  busy jobs, two kids, regular exercise, social events, chores, cooking etc.

Our Au Pair has changed our lives from manic to manageable, from chaotic to calm, from stormy to sorted! 

Through Lena, we have learnt new things about ourselves and each other. We think of Lena as part of our family, and she has helped us realise the real strength of our family. Like all busy families with two young kids, we work hard to keep everyone happy and healthy.  With limited family in Auckland we did not get out much.  Sometimes to the detriment of time as a couple, we end up feeling tired and frustrated because all our energy goes into the kids and work, and the occasional blat at the gym! Lena taught us that we can spend time together as a couple, and trust her to look after our kids. Lena even  suggested that we go away and visit Waiheke island as a couple in the weekend, while she took the kids to the zoo. 

Lena lightened the mood after busy days at work by sharing funny stories of the kids adventures . She made us feel part of the kids day by e-mailing us photos of the kids throughout the day. She even taught our daughter some German  words and helped her become a more confident baker, swimmer and biker. She has got the kids involved in doing chores and cleaning up after themselves. Miracles do happen!

Over the past few months, she's swapped out sugary snacks for nutritious ones and created healthy eating habits amongst both of my children - something they will thank her for whenever they make a visit to the dentist!  She has encouraged our kids to get outside and play more, and make new friends with other kids in the community or through her friendships with other Au Pairs. Having an Au Pair like Lena has definitely changed our lives for the better and it is hard to imagine our lives without her.

The Flack Family