Christmas Firsts

Here is a little bit about the history of Christmas traditions in America, from Christmas trees to greeting cards, that we all know and love today. Christmas Trees The first American Christmas tree can be credited to a Hessian soldier by the name of Henrick Roddmore, who was captured at the Battle Read More

Holiday Survival

The Holidays should be a time of joy and excitement.  From our experience, we have noticed they can also be a time of stress and disappointment for Host Families and Au Pairs.  We would like to offer some ideas and insights that we hope can broaden everyone’s understanding. Homesickness First, let’s face the issue of Read More

HAPPY HANUKKAH

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most joyous times of the Jewish year. The reason for the celebration is twofold (both dating back to c. 165 BC and the miraculous military victory of the small, ill-equipped Jewish army over the ruling Greek Syrians, who had banned the Jewish religion and Read More

THANKSGIVING

Time for Family & Friends In The United States Thanksgiving tradition began in 1621 after the first harvest by the Pilgrims who came from England.  New York was the first state to celebrate Thanksgiving in 1817 and in 1863 it became an official holiday. Thanksgiving is generally seen as a time to get together with Read More

HALLOWEEN IS COMING OCTOBER 31st !

HALLOWEEN FUN AND SAFETY! History –    Halloween, celebrated each year on October 31, is a mix of ancient Celtic practices, Catholic  and Roman religious rituals and European folk traditions that blended together over time to create the holiday we know today. Straddling the line between fall and winter, plenty and paucity and life and death, Halloween is Read More

First Day of Fall – September 22nd

Fall is a magical time of year! The leaves change colors, the air is crisp and cool and Halloween and Thanksgiving are just around the corner.   Try it to get in the mood for fall! When the crisp fall air invites you outside for a walk gather some brightly colored leaves.  Press them in Read More

EARTH DAY

Mobilize the Earth. Earth Day. 4.22.15 On April 22, more than one billion people around the globe will participate in Earth Day 2012 and help Mobilize the Earth™. People of all nationalities and backgrounds will voice their appreciation for the planet and demand its protection. Together we will stand united for a sustainable future and Read More