Tag Archives: cross cultural

Lake Talks and Pride Parades – June 2018

A smaller group of au pairs headed to the lake to have brunch and soak our toes just talking and another crew headed to show their support and experience the Pride Parade in Seattle.  The lake crew discussed some highlights and lowlights of their experience so far on program and what they have learned, experiencing all of them.  We shared cross-cultural frustrations, memories of travel adventures, and personal growth moments.  I personally appreciate the small group setting for getting to better know one another, but also loved there being a group experiencing the zeitgeist of Seattle.

Au Pairs Tour Century Link Stadium

Getting an insider view on the Seahawk’s home turf, these au pairs got to see the press room, media center, locker room, jersey wall, and special box seats during our day at the field.  We learned more about the #12 fans ability to create seismic earthquakes with their enthusiasm and see the city from the gorgeous views of the stadium’s upper decks.  A beautiful day together being 12s from around the world.

Au Pairs Fall for the Falls – Snoqualmie, that is – April 2018

What was more gorgeous – these falls or the new found strength of these globally-minded women?  Au pairs headed to see the famous Snoqualmie Falls this past sunny Sunday.  We “hiked” down the hill, allowing the strong water to mist our faces as we talked about the impact of the program and the confidence and voices gained when challenged by differing languages, cultures and styles.  We bid a fond farewell to three special friends from Poland, Germany and China who had great advice for the group.   To paraphrase, “Put yourself out there and don’t be afraid.  This year will be what you make it!”

Hairnets on their Heads and Sunshine in their Hearts – March 2018

Below is a gorgeous group of giving girls.  This past weekend was beautiful outside and here in Seattle, we wait for those sunny, winter days.  But this crew went inside and for their precious time off, helped pack thousands of pounds of peas for those hungry around WA state at NW Harvest.  It is not the most popular of our cluster events, but it is a favorite for those who feel its true meaning and impact on the community this global village shares together for one or two years. 

 

US Government Cluster Event – February 2018

How many branches does the US government have?  How often are Senators elected?  What date is the President sworn in every 4 years?  These and many other questions were answered in our video presentation and trivia game last weekend in Redmond.  Au pairs walked away with more knowledge, but were admittedly impressively wise from the start!  Then we ate pizza…

 

UW Huskies and Nearly 100 Au Pair In America Au Pair Fans – January 2018

Nothing better than the power of a strong woman!  We were 90 au pairs strong from 30 countries watching these young UW college basketball athletes.  Our joint cluster event was an inspirational success this January.  Go Huskies!  http://gohuskies.com/index.aspx?path=wbball

Holiday Sharing – December 2017

Our crew came together to dine, draw, describe celebrations of home and dream of new adventures to have here in the US during the holiday season.  The au pairs cooked their hearts out and we shared goodies and stories from Thailand, Austria, Netherlands, Brazil, Sweden, France, China, Germany and Canada.  Stories of the beaches of Brazil, Chinese New Year, Austrian music and wreaths, French foie gras, German Krampus and Thai lanterns were a part of the evenings activities as was drawing on our heads, a white elephant gift exchange and packing up plates of cookies to savor later.  It was a special night with a special class of au pairs.

 

Homesickness and Scavenger Hunting in a New Home State – October 2017

Over 60 au pairs on a program representing over 60 countries made some time this past Sunday to focus on self care, while they carry out the important work of childcare, culture sharing and adapting to life here in the US.  The Au Pair In America community took a ferry over to Bainbridge as a multi-cluster event.  Starting the day getting to know one another, talking about coping strategies for homesickness, scavenger hunting to know this beautiful island better and ending the day with an ice cream before ferrying home again.  It was perfect and everyone is just where they are meant to be.  #beingthechangetheywishtosee

The Rite of Passage – Au Pairs Meet Rainier – Sept 2017

It was a long way around to get ourselves safely into the park area, but dodging fires and smoke, nearly 80 au pairs made it to their destination.  Mt. Rainier.  This multi-cluster event has become a wonderful kick off to a new year with many au pairs arriving in summer.

The weather was gorgeous and this new cluster did a great job making new friends, sharing stories and having fun!  The marmots even came out in droves to welcome them to town.

If only we had more time…always..

Host Family Community Day – August 2017

Over 150 kids, au pairs and host parents gathered in West Seattle to share stories, pot luck dishes from around the globe, donate shoes for J-1 day and partake in an international scavenger hunt and water balloon toss.  Our Au Pair In America programs are all about trust between peoples and nations and this year’s water balloon toss was symbolic of the gentle communication and actions required to make a strong match and a connection based in trust.  This group of young women and the families who welcome them into their homes to share in their family life is simple inspiring.