Host Family of the Month, October 2011

October’s Host Family of the Month was nominated by 17-year-old Linda from the Netherlands. She describes why she loves her host family:

My host family is simply amazing. From the very first minute I arrived here in August, they have been such great and warm people. I still can’t believe how fast they integrated me into their family, treating me like one of them. I feel so blessed being around them. My host family consists of a mom and a dad, with 2 daughters (and me!). The oldest daughter Whitney, who has Down syndrome, is so much fun! She loves to play Wii Dance with me, and even though she always beats me, I love to play it with her too. One time, we were Skyping with my sister in Holland, and when Whitney had to leave, my sister and I said “I wish Whitney was still here to talk, she makes the conversation so much less awkward’.” And that was the truth! She’s the real talker in this family, and that can cause some pretty fun moments.

My host family’s youngest daughter Peyton became my first friend here in Florida, and so far, my best friend. She is the best host sister I could ever wish for. Showing me around and introducing me to her friends made me feel so welcome! I’ve always been scared sitting in cars, but she makes it a lot more fun rapping Eminem or singing Disney songs to me. My host parents are the kindest people I’ve ever met. Even though the dad can be tough at times – “If you don’t make me a Dutch apple pie, I’m kicking you out!” (just for the record, afterwards, he said it’s the best apple pie he’s ever had!) – I’m having a great time staying with them. I’ve only been here for 2 months, but they’ve already given me so many memories I will never forget.

Dear Hess family, thank you so much for everything. I used to feel like the luckiest person having such an amazing family in Holland, but who would’ve thought I would ever get a second family making me feel just as comfortable!