I want to say a huge thank you to this amazing family!

I found what every au pair is looking and hoping for the dream family so far away from home but I have a second home and whanau here in New Zealand now. Words can't even describe how great these guys are…

Seven months ago you welcomed me with open arms. I can just imagine how hard it has to be for parents to trust somebody you just meet with the most important treasure in life, your own children. I really appreciate and feel honored that you put your trust in me straight away from the very beginning.

Ed, Liz, Fraser, Lauren and Hannah you are the epitome of how a family has to be for me. Ed and Liz try to spend as much time with the kids as they can. Ed for example uses the time when he comes from the farm in the morning to have morning tea together with Hannah the youngest, or they read the newspaper together what with a three year old means to look at all the cows and count them or they just have a little nap together. Hannah's favorite day of the week is Thursday not just because of her swimming lesson but also because on Thursdays she has her mum completely for herself to spend some quality time together, until the big kids are coming from school. But Liz doesn't want Lauren and Fraser to miss out on quality time with their mum that's why Liz is doing things like a Mum and Lauren day or Mum and Fraser day during school holidays. What I think is super cute and the kids love it! Ed tries to look like a more strict dad but that's just show when the kids are using him again as jungle gym and not to forget when Ed and the kids turn the lounge into a dance party.

My favorite time of the day is dinner not just Liz cooking skills but also because all are sitting together on the table and telling from their day with lots of jokes, pans and lots of laugh.

Time did pass way too fast and in already two months my time in this fantastic family is going to end but before I leave I'm excited to experience a real Kiwi Christmas with my Kiwi family. You guys supported me with everything I've done if it was with the kids or in my free time. And because of all that I want you to get Host Family of the month and wouldn't that be a great pre-Christmas present!

Anna Wagner