Join us, Mary Chan and Erin Eastman Paulson, as we serve up stories of being a homestay family - the ups and downs of making a connection with international homestay students. We’ll bring a plateful of stories, ideas, interviews, and hopefully, dish up some anecdotes to share with our community.
Erin Eastman Paulson & Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
Helllllloooooo! Long time no chat! We were scheduled to come back in early March and then the pandemic struck. Now we are all physically distancing and staying at home, so the Homestay Kitchen had to re-work our podcasting schedule to fit our new routine. In the meantime, we thought we'd check in with you. How are you doing? Erin is now the multi-tasker extraordinaire working from home while maneuvering all five of her kids which includes two students. Mary is also navigating working from home while everyone else is also home, so finding a new routine has been challenging. In this episode, Erin is home with our emergency microphone and we recorded this conversation over the internet to make sure we are still social distancing. We wanted to pass along how we are doing, what the homestay situation has been like for us and people we know and finally what to do if you do still have students with you in this ever-evolving situation. All our families are healthy and safe and we hope yours are too. Please let us know how you are and if you do have a student with you, how you are all holding up. You can email us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com or leave us a voice note over on Instagram. Stay strong and we hope this episode can be a bit of light for you during this unprecedented time in our lives. Key Points From This Episode: How Mary's plans have changed. Erin gives an update on her students.#itsafluidsituation We talk about family bonding during COVID. Activities to do with your students. How are you coping? Let us know. #virtualhugs Check in on your students. Stay safe and take care. Links: Disney+ Join our conversation! Email: homestaykitchen@gmail.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen Facebook: www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen
It's coming to the end of the year and some students may be leaving or some students may be heading home just for the winter break. Either way, when it's time to drag the luggage out and dust off that passport, we need to start thinking about our pre-departure rituals. What is it like when your student finally leaves? What strategies are you going to put into place when it comes to saying goodbye? In this episode, we tackle the end of the student homestay experience. And since we are talking about goodbyes, the podcast is going to go on a little vacation too. We, Erin and Mary, will be taking the rest of the year and early 2020 to be with family and celebrate all the winter holidays. In the meantime, take a listen to some of our past 40 plus episodes and catch up if you're new to our show. We'd also love to hear from you about any topic from our episodes or... if you have ideas for future episodes, please let us know! Leave us a voice note and email us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com. Enjoy the rest of the year and have a wicked 2020! Key Points From This Episode: #wearenotonabreak Erin goes through the steps of how she says goodbye to her students. #wailandcryandrefusetogettheirsuitcasesout When do you start to say goodbye? #weliveindenial Erin opens up about her hardest goodbye. We talk about the things students leave behind. Mary shares her tradition of goodbye gifts. #mybagisfull Connecting over good food. We chat about our special nights out with students. In what way are Mary and Erin completely different? When airport goodbyes could use some boundaries. #wrongtonewrongzone Erin talks about the turmoil of saying goodbye to your student at the airport. When your student's luggage is overweight. Mary says sweep! How did Erin shock Mary? Links: Episode 45: Boundaries and Rules During Homestay Experiences Google Translate Air Canada Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Boundaries. We've all got them or we should all have some in place. There are limits and rules to all sorts of things during a homestay experience. Boundaries around the house, food, laundry, safety issues, and even personal boundaries. What are they and how can we enforce them? In this episode, we share our own set of boundaries and how we communicate these rules to our students. What are your boundaries around the house? What challenges do you face when applying these rules? Let us know by emailing us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com. We'd love to share your feedback on an upcoming episode and answer your questions! In the meantime, listen in to hear what boundaries we've set up for our households. Key Points From This Episode: Mary and her bubble and how it relates to personal boundaries. Confessions from Mary: we chat about the student info sheet/welcome letters Bathroom boundaries. Mary shares a story about a miscommunication she had with a student around bathroom usage. We talk about food and curfews. Erin's rules around communication when her students are out socializing. #peaceofmind We discuss our process of setting out boundaries, rules and expectations. Mel's experience with a student who invaded her personal boundaries. When you need to set up boundaries around food. We dive into the boundaries we've set up around hosting with our kids. What caused drama in Erin's house? Which household rule does Erin's husband refuse to follow? How we show that we need personal boundaries. We check in about internet usage. Talking about boundaries… do you peek in your student's room when they're not home? The secret relationship of sisters. What goes on in Erin's house? Mary relates one story about a student who felt her boundaries were invaded. The competition between Mary and Erin continues as we compare student lock box scenarios. #whowouldwin Links: Line App Episode 38: Masterhost Tatiana Robertson Episode 17: Your Student Arrival Guide with a Homework Assignment Episode 8: Building Your Network of People in the World with Veteran Host Parent Mel Kilpatrick Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
At one point or another, whether you as the host knows it or not, your student will get homesick. Sometimes it'll show through their emotions or difference in actions. Or sometimes, it only happens when they are hidden away in their rooms, when the lights are out trying to fall asleep. When do you intervene and what do you do to alleviate homesickness? In this episode, we go through some of the stories we've had dealing with homesickness. Situations where students feel a longing or connection to someone they are missing back home. In small doses, this is healthy and shows signs of attachments to loved ones; and this can happen to you too when you are homesick for your past students! In larger cases, this is when we need to lean in and even ask for help. So listen in on how homesickness affects those that study abroad and how we approach these situations that can also create a tighter bond between you and your student. Key Points From This Episode: Erin exudes positivity and Mary is uber practical. #potentialtriggerscomingyourway We coin a new phrase! Erin's update on how her family celebrated Halloween and the reverse homesickness they dealt with. Speaking of reverse homesickness… how did Erin's youngest daughter embarrass her recently? #thebookofquotes We give suggestions for how to connect with students who are struggling with homesickness. Mary reads a message from one of Masterhost mom Tatiana Robertson's students who struggled with homesickness. We chat about the signs of homesickness. #leanin The importance of looping in your homestay support system. #loopin Comfort food from our kitchens when our students are struggling with homesickness. Links: Erin's Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe Episode 38: Masterhost Tatiana Robertson Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
So what defines a short term student and a long term student? Mary defined a short term student as being anywhere less than 6 months, but after she said that (and even after we finished recording this episode), we were still debating what differentiated a long term student from a short term student. Any way you look at it, hosting short term students and long term students can be very different experiences. In this episode, Mary and Erin go toe to toe on the pros and cons of hosting long term students versus short term students. Have you hosted both? What's your take on this battle? Let us know why you choose longer or shorter stay students. Email us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com or drop us a comment on Instagram! Key Points From This Episode: Why does Mary mock Erin? Bonjour France! Erin assumes the battle position as we go toe to toe on the pros and cons of hosting #longtermvs.shortterm students. #wearesocompetitive How do you know when to take a break? We talk about the times we've hit the pause button on hosting students. Who ended up winning the battle? #doyouwanttohugitout Links: Episode 39: featuring Erin in a suitcase Episode 11: featuring the doggy beds Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In today's episode, Erin had work to do, so Mary got to chat with Jennifer Longworth from Lexington, Kentucky. A new host parent who's only hosted a total of 3 times for very short periods and all from Japan. We talk through what it's like to be a very new host and what were some of the most surprising aspects of hosting. And it wouldn't be right to talk to our fellow neighbours to the south without pointing out a couple of differences from our countries, like hockey for us and southern food for her. Our family has worked with the Lexington Sister Cities program to host a high school student and adult delegate from Japan. We also hosted a college student from Japan through another program. We've hosted a total of 3 times. Each visit was a week or less. My daughter takes Japanese at school and has been able to visit Japan twice! It's only been over the past few years that we've been involved. Key Points From This Episode: Jennifer talks about how she came to host. #wecareabouthorses Gifts as an ice breaker. What do you give? First day rituals when hosting. Connecting through food. Communicating through language barriers. Before hosting, Jennifer touches on her expectations of the challenges she'd face… and if they ever came to be. Jennifer and Mary chat about culture shock. Jennifer shares part of her daughter's experience in Japan. Jennifer reminisces about her most memorable experiences hosting. Mary and Jennifer bond over hockey. Which one of Jennifer's favourite dishes to serve international students convinced Mary that she needs to come stay for a visit? Links: Lexington Sister Cities Shinhidaka, Hokkaido Japanese American Society of Kentucky Cracker Barrel Restaurant Google Translate Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
How do you meal prep for your students? What do you incorporate into your meal plans for them? Food is a big factor when it comes to homestay experiences. Not only the culture of different foods to eat and explore, but also how we eat and when. In today's episode, we talk about navigating all the meals of the day including snacks and dessert. We also touch on preventing food waste and figuring out what your students like or don't like to eat. Hopefully, this episode won't make you hungry, but if it does, you can make that hummus recipe Mary loves and snack on that; just like we did while we recorded this episode. You can find the link in our show notes. Let us know if you try it! Key Points From This Episode: How did Mary make Erin happy? And then Erin reciprocates… by making Mary feel uncomfortable. #shesblushing We discuss our personal values around food and hosting. What meal did Erin skip? Mary says it's the most important one! Mary lets us in on her scheme. Erin talks about weekday mornings at her house. #everybodywantssomethingdifferent We discuss our weekend routines. Mary shares a situation she found frustrating with a student around food. Erin and Mary's tips for school lunches. What meal do Erin's students have to eat in secret? #dontletthechildrensee #waittilthechildrenareinbed Erin has an “aha!” moment about Mary & Jon's relationship. Erin teases Mary. #plantobespontaneous Mary worries about what Erin is going to eat tonight. We chat about going to a restaurant as a family. Who pays? Special events… do you bring your student? Cooking together with students. Links: Mary's hummus recipe Episode 27: Homestay Family Mindset with Jodi Johl Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
One of the major challenges of hosting international students is to navigate the language barrier. Communication is key to any relationship, so how do you have the confidence to speak your mind when your student doesn't speak your language? At times you need to be fearless and in today's episode we chat with Heather Thompson who shares this grit with a side of humour. Heather and her family of four has hosted 13 students over 5 years. She discusses her experience as an international student when she was young, being a host to students, and even being hosted by a former student in Belgium. Hear what she and her family learned while hosting and how these experiences created a lot of laughter in their lives. Key Points From This Episode: Heather tells us about her hosting history and her own travel adventures. #talkingoveradictionary Heather chats about her expectations on the level of English students will have when they arrive. We talk about communication and comprehension... and the challenge with “yes” and “no” answers. #youdontunderstandanythingijustsaid Heather shares about a time there was a miscommunication with a student. We talk about communicating with students pre-arrival. Filling out forms for students. #mamabearsontheothersideoftheworld What part of hosting do you find the most challenging? Heather wasn't expecting this attack on her senses. Heather reminisces on some of her most memorable moments hosting students. Heather shares her experience being hosted by a former student in Belgium. Mary talks about her plans for visiting students in Japan. Will Heather send her kids on an exchange in the future? Heather's tips to bond with students. Heather instructs Erin on how to make an ice cream cake. Erin gives a rice intervention update. What topping has her Japanese student introduced? Mary, her bubble and how it applies to her plate. Heather chats about her attempts to cook versions of her student's favourite dishes. Links: Chicoutimi, Quebec Goldstream Park Salmon Run Google Maps Google Translate Furikake Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Culture shock can come in many different forms, not just language for international students. From food, to hygiene, and even the way people dress. It's not about what each culture is doing right or wrong, but about how things are done and are acceptable in different countries. Culture shock can be entertaining and fascinating to new students at first, but then it could also lead to confusion, feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and disoriented, which could induce homesickness. So what is this cycle and what signs are we looking for? In today's episode, we go through the 10 steps of culture shock and how it's all part of being a homestay host to international students studying abroad. Key Points From This Episode: Erin gives an update on how her students are settling into her family. We dive into the 10 steps of Culture Shock and the roller coaster of emotions it can bring. Erin speaks about some of the student situations/experiences in her home. Mary shares some of the specific culture shocks her students have struggled with. Erin chats about what her house looks like and sounds like with her girls. #mamabear We discuss what happens when long-term students go home to visit family during school breaks. #resettingthecycle Pre-returns ups and downs. Erin's update on a possible student visit… just in time for Christmas. In a surprising twist, what did Erin get Mary to promise to try? It's a reverse culture shock! Links: Our conversation with Jennifer Wilson from the Canada Homestay Network Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
When you decide to host international students in your home, it's not an easy decision, especially if this is your first time. And even if you have hosted before, sometimes you've got to weigh the pros and cons. There are so many details that could be overlooked and really, you don't know what you don't know. So we tapped into the knowledge of Tatiana Robertson, who has hosted short and long term students from all over the globe for over seven years. In today's episode, we chat with Tatiana, whom Erin crowned the Master Host Mom, not once, but twice in our conversation. Hear her tips on what to do when your student first arrives at your home. She dives deep into responsibilities and obligations as a host and how cultural expectations play a major role in the success of your homestay experience. We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did. Key Points From This Episode: Tatiana tells us about her hosting history. We lift the lid on what hosting is like with young children of your own. Hosting boys vs. girls. What are some of the differences? Looking back… why does Mary feel sorry for one student she hosted? We talk about trying to get boys to open up and communicate. #hostingshorttermvslongterm Find out why Erin crowned Tatiana Master Host Mom! Tatiana's tips on how to set up your home (and relationship) for success. We talk about the difficulties students experience when trying to understand how young children speak. We discuss homestay hosts' general responsibilities - the fine line between being a parent and being a host parent. #clearlydefineyourexpectations Tatiana dives deep into the importance of managing cultural expectations and how they play a major role in the success of your homestay experience. Why it's important to work with a good agency. Tatiana shines a light on the warning signs to look out for if your student is suffering from mental health issues. #itsoktonotbeok Tatiana shares her experience of being on the ‘other' side of hosting… as a natural parent. Life lessons… the one rule Tatiana broke, and why she will never do it again. The crazy way one student ruined Tatiana's microwave. Creating family traditions with students. Get ready Japan! Mary is coming and she's ready to hug (almost). Tatiana's tips for up and coming homestay hosts. Links: Oak Bay Recreation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tea.robber/ Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
What are some of your favourite things? Things to indulge in, to keep you calm, or things that you love and won't give up. What can't you live without? In this episode, we go through some of our favourite things. Whether they are student-related or personally loved by us, we share what keeps our hearts-a-flutter. Full disclosure, there's a lot of food-related items. So get to know us and then let us know if you love the same things. Or if you have something that we need to know about. Maybe one of our future favourite things is actually one of yours that we don't know about yet. So please let us know what you love to keep your life buzzing. Email us or find us on Instagram! We'd love to know. Thanks! Key Points From This Episode: What's the one thing Erin can't live without? A devastating loss mourned. Erin reflects on parenting with patience. Erin's absolute favourite household item. Mary reveals her favourite beverage. Which leads Erin to ask… what drink does Mary miss most? Our next item is both economical and a breeze to clean up in the kitchen. Mary on her love for small appliances. #howmanydoesshehave The rice intervention continues! Mary educates Erin about cooking with a rice cooker. When will Erin learn? What item can Mary not live without? (Hint: it has a catchphrase!) We talk tech. Get ready to download some apps! Speaking of food… how has Erin “corrupted” her students? What's on our screens? We chat about our favourite shows to watch with students. The must have item for every girl. Getting to the end of the day… we discuss relaxation. What idea of Mary's has Erin stolen? It's our favourite thing! Links: Tazo Chai Via Venezia Green Lake Kispiox Valley IKEA Cheese Grater Martin Yan Google Translator Google Maps Grammarly Instagram WhatsApp Line Blue Cheese Dressing Game of Thrones The Walking Dead Alias New Girl Gilmore Girls The Vampire Diaries Bones Insight Timer App The Cognitive Shuffle Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
This is part two of our conversation with Jennifer Wilson, the Managing Director of the Canada Homestay Network. As relationship experts, they are not only working with you as a homestay host, but also juggling relationships with agencies, student's parents, and of course, the students themselves. However, in this episode, we hear how Jennifer's role reverses by sharing her experience of being a parent sending her daughter to study abroad. Plus, we discuss the future of the homestay industry, and dive more into common issues that hosts might navigate through during their homestay hosting journey. Jennifer Wilson is the Managing Director for the Canada Homestay Network. After retiring from practice as a Registered Midwife in 2005, Jennifer joined the family business. She holds an MBA with a specialization in Leadership and is always looking for new opportunities to learn and grow. As a second-generation leader of CHN, Jennifer is passionate about creating opportunities for building relationships, and believes that homestay offers a unique opportunity for all of us to break down cultural barriers and make the world a smaller place. Key Points From This Episode: We chat about some of the common challenges homestay families have. We talk about bathrooms and Jennifer shares one shocking story. We discuss cultural personal hygiene habits. Jennifer talks about her first exchange trip abroad as a teenager. #billeting Jennifer remembers the first student her family hosted. #lifechangingimpressions Jennifer shares her experience of being a natural parent sending her daughter to study abroad. Wondering how to make your short-term student's experience fun and successful? Jennifer gives us some tricks. Jennifer talks about trends in the homestay industry. We wouldn't be The Homestay Kitchen if we didn't talk about food. Erin gets hungry hearing about all of Jennifer's favourite foods to serve her students. Links: The Canada Homestay Network Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
How do you build a successful relationship with homestay students? You ask the experts. In this episode, we chat with Jennifer Wilson, the Managing Director of the Canada Homestay Network. As a second-generation leader of the Canada Homestay Network, Jennifer is passionate about creating opportunities for building relationships, and believes that homestay offers a unique opportunity for all of us to break down cultural barriers and make the world a smaller place. In part one of this two-part interview, we learn about this non-profit society, discuss common issues hosts go through, and how the process for matching students with hosts works. We learned a lot during this conversation and we hope you do too! So grab something to take notes with and maybe a good cuppa tea or coffee and let's settle in with Jennifer Wilson. Jennifer Wilson is the Managing Director for the Canada Homestay Network. After retiring from practice as a Registered Midwife in 2005, Jennifer joined the family business. She holds an MBA with a specialization in Leadership and is always looking for new opportunities to learn and grow. As a second-generation leader of CHN, Jennifer is passionate about creating opportunities for building relationships, and believes that homestay offers a unique opportunity for all of us to break down cultural barriers and make the world a smaller place. Key Points From This Episode: Jennifer tells us how the Canada Homestay Network, a family organization, began. How the Canada Homestay Network differs from a homestay coordinator at a school. Jennifer speaks about their organizational values and why the Canada Homestay Network is a non-profit society. The qualities Jennifer looks for in host families. Jennifer touches on some great values and reasons to host. We chat about how to support host families. #pleasecall #askforsupport Jennifer dishes on some common issues homestay families face. Jennifer's tips to bond with your new student. Side note: Jennifer shares her own experience travelling #comfortfood Jennifer's tips for homestay hosts at the beginning. We discuss emergency procedures… they are important to go over. Curfews, homework help and a social life. Managing academic issues when you're not the parent. Jennifer drills down on what it means to be a custodian, guardian and/or a parent. What are the responsibilities? #nosurprises Jennifer reveals some of the reasons why a student may no longer be suitable for homestay. What is homestay about? Jennifer talks about relocation rates with homestay. We talk about the student and host matching process. Jennifer shares her perspective on some of the challenges that they face as an organization. Jennifer opens up about the variables at play when students need to relocate homestay families. Links: The Canada Homestay Network Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
So with summer here in the Northern Hemisphere fading away, it signals the time for back to school. Which means previous students have left and new students are arriving. What does that mean for your family? Students arrive all throughout the year, but summer and September are the high seasons for student arrivals. In this episode, we talk through what has happened in our homestay lives since our last episode, what is to come for the new school year, and how nerve-wracking it can be for students who navigate airports all on their own. What has your experience been during the summer or this new school year? We'd love to hear about it, so please email or message us! Now, let's get to the stories. We share a summer worth of travel through Erin's family getaway and Mary's solo travel experience. Key Points From This Episode: We're back! We talk about the reasons for our extended break. #maryleftnotes Has Erin told you about Fat Baby? She went on an adventure. #happyfionasbirthday Erin's family road trip to Manitoba. #theviewfromtheroad #beatgooglemapstime We talk Twister. How many Gulf Islands are there? Erin's Saturna Island family getaway. Ear piercing vs. wasp stings. Which hurts more? Erin shares how meaningful it was to meet (and host) their German student's family. #areallystrongbond How do you prepare your young children to welcome a new student? Erin gets ready to host again. Erin chats about the ways she celebrated her brand new student's birthday. We talk about navigating an airport on your own. Mary's first solo travelling experience. #airporttravelisstressful Mary gives an update on her business, family and recovery. Is Mary hosting now? Mary gives an update on her sister's student. Erin's update on the new students she is hosting. #feelslikefamily Links: About Berenguer Dolls Jane the Virgin Twister Gulf Islands Google Translate The Terminal Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
We are taking a couple weeks off to be out in the sunshine, experience a little bit of travelling, and visiting family, so no new episodes this week. In the meantime, I just wanted to pop in quickly and say thank you for subscribing to the show and we will be back in time for the upcoming school year - before August is finished. Time to already think about your upcoming students arriving for the new school year... Or perhaps you are doing a quick short stay placement in August. Or enjoying a student free summer... Whatever it is you are doing this time of year, we hope you enjoy it and just keep going! Have fun! Talk soon! For full show notes and to learn more about the show, please visit www.homestaykitchen.com Join our conversation! Email: homestaykitchen@gmail.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen Facebook: www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen
What if we had a day to celebrate our world's diversity by bringing the world to your doorstep? Well you're in luck. World Student Day is on July 26th, 2019. This free public event is happening across Canada brought to you by Languages Canada, the voice of the Canadian language education sector. On today's episode, we bring you Felicity Borgal and Linda Auzins from Languages Canada. Felicity has been with Languages Canada for over six years and she is now the Officer for Research and Special Projects. This is the sixth year that Felicity has coordinated the World Student Day event in Canada. Linda was the first employee of Languages Canada and she's been involved with the evolution of standards for language programs, especially those around homestay. Linda is often consulted when there are issues with homestay hosts. So listen in on how World Student Day impacts the students you host and how you can join in on the free fun if it's hosted in your city. Then listen in on how Languages Canada believes the safety of students is paramount and how that pertains to host families, just like you. Felicity Borgal has been with Languages Canada for over six years, starting as an administrative assistant. She is now the Officer for Research and Special Projects. This is the sixth year that Felicity has coordinated the World Student Day event in Canada. Linda Auzins, based in Aldergrove (British Columbia), was the first employee of Languages Canada and previously worked for 10 years for Canadian Association of Private Language Schools which merged with another association to form Languages Canada in March of 2008. For the past eleven years as the Director of Member Services for Languages Canada, Linda has managed member services, and provides board and committee support for the Membership / Conference Committee, Quality Assurance Committee, and the BC Chapter. She's been involved with the evolution of standards for language programs, especially those around homestay. Linda is the initial point of contact for most general and member inquiries and often consulted when there are issues with homestay hosts. Key Points From This Episode: We chat about how World Student Day started. Felicity gives us the scoop on all the (free) fun we can expect at #wsd2019. We discuss some of the biggest misunderstandings and myths of the industry. Linda and Felicity share their perspectives about the benefits and value international students bring to our country. How did Languages Canada come to be? Linda has been there since the beginning. Linda outlines how Languages Canada supports students by setting standards for homestay and providing quality assurance. We talk about some of the issues reported to Linda regarding homestay placements. Felicity shares her homestay/exchange experience. Linda reminisces about her first interactions with international homestay students. Is hosting international students in your future? #thestarshavetoalign Linda enlightens us on how homestay is changing. We talk food! Links: Languages Canada Twitter Languages Canada Instagram Languages Canada Facebook Languages Canada World Student Day World Student Day 2018 Video How to start hosting international students today Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Homestay families can be any structure you can think of. Older couples with room in their home, singles, parents with or without kids; as long as you have a spare room and are welcoming to people into your home, you can host! However, if you have kids, hosting students can really be a way to include teachable moments for your own children. There's a whole world that opens up for your kids. Whether it's the global community or the little world within a child's mind, people grow more fully with an expanded mindset when the world is at your doorstep. In this episode, we take a look at how students have impacted our own children and the benefits that come along the way. Key Points From This Episode: Kira makes an appearance on the show. Homestay Kitchen update: Find out what Mary and Erin had for lunch. Erin was a gullible child. What did Blake (almost) get in trouble for at the supermarket? Erin mentions sibling/student relationships in her home. Mary talks about how Kira bonds with students. Stuffed animals as a window into the secret world of children. We discuss empathy and the opportunity to use the student as a vehicle for teachable moments for our own children. Erin shares a story of how one of her students took on a big sister role. How has hosting students impacted Erin's children? She shares one sweet way they've helped students. What is one reason Mary loves hosting students? Erin talks about the importance of helping others. We chat about the negative impacts of hosting on our children. Erin offers suggestions and strategies for Mary. Erin's daughter Fiona and her ‘takeaway' from hosting and what it means for Fiona and her teenage years. We make predictions about what our children will be like in the future and reflect on how hosting impacts and shapes them. Links: Canada Day episode Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Hot town, summer in the city! This time of year is perfect for heading outside, exploring our natural playground, and taking in all the great summer events that are ideal to be a tourist in your own hometown with your international student. If you've been wanting to get your feet wet with becoming a homestay host, this is the ideal time. It's when students are travelling during the school break or have summer holidays with their school groups. International programs are usually in high demand for great host families. So take the plunge and get started hosting. Listen in and we'll show you how! Key Points From This Episode: Mary gave Erin a new toy. #hearherjoy Erin gives an update on her busy, emotional week. We chat about our summer plans. Wondering how to get started hosting today? We give tips. First up - the criminal record check. Doing your due diligence: how to choose your student provider. Our advice for filling out the application form. Erin's spirited plea about the one area you should not skimp on when filling out your application form. Where to find your students. How to prepare your home and family for a student. We discuss the financial reality of hosting students and the importance of treating students like a member of your family. We share our personal age preferences for hosting. We talk about the reasons why summer is the perfect time to start hosting. Links: Canada Homestay Network Victoria International Education Financial Reality of Hosting Students Our conversation with Greg Demmons Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
There is a very famous "I am Canadian" rant that went along with a beer commercial back in the late '90's. In the same vein, in this episode we talk about how we love all things Canadian. It's Canada Day and we are proud Canadians who will share with you some of our favourite or well-known Canadian musicians, inventions, and of course, we wouldn't be the Homestay Kitchen without talking about food. We also shed light on why we are so apologetic, friendly, and full of multiculturalism. So sit back and enjoy this, our reason of why we are Canadian; as the rant goes, "I believe in peacekeeping, not policing. Diversity, not assimilation. And that the beaver is a truly proud and noble animal!" Happy Canada Day! Key Points From This Episode: What happened yesterday? It's our Groundhog Day. We have summer colds. #justkeepgoing We chat about Canada Day. Mary's family emigrated from China. She shares what being Canadian means to them. We talk about Canada being a country of immigrants. #weareamosaic #shinebright All the reasons we are so apologetic. #imsorry We talk about the reasons international students choose Canada. We share stories about how our neighbours have helped us in times of need. How Canada is seen internationally. Do you know all the Canadian inventions? #erinisjonsnow Erin gets really excited about butter tarts! Side note: Erin shares the story about why Blake hates raisins. Mary tries to convince Erin to eat poutine. Erin's rant: she tries to convince Mary to watch Gilmore Girls. We chat about some of the most memorable Canadians. Erin gets Mary to sing! Mary fesses up about the very Canadian habit of her childhood. Erin shares a small town story of community and connection. “Oh I know some people in Canada!” Mary shares a serendipitous story. What's on Mary's BBQ this Canada Day? #wegettherecipe The benefits of talking to strangers. Links: I am Canadian Rant Butter tarts Poutine Justin Bieber Drake Celine Dion Gord Downie Tessa Virtue Scott Moir Kiefer Sutherland Tommy Douglas Designated Survivor Sandra Oh Killing Eve Bob and Doug McKenzie Gilmore Girls Mary's Maple Pork Tenderloin Recipe The Benefits of Talking to Strangers Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Each student has separate, distinct connections with every member of your family. These connections build bonds to strengthen those networks, especially in a crisis. Or perhaps those connections could never be linked. Some relationships are not meant to be and having an awareness of these friendships, or lack thereof, are key to successful placements of international students. Today, we chat with Dean Fox, a veteran homestay host with his wife and two kids. Dean shares with us his perspective of being a homestay Dad with a very practical and matter of fact frame of mind. He describes how miscommunication can happen even when no words are being used and how his family even vacationed to Disneyland with another student. We hope you enjoy his insight into making a connection with students and how providing a good foundation of boundaries leads to success. Enjoy! Key Points From This Episode: We reminisce about cake and skittles. Dean tells us how he got into hosting students. Miscommunication happens a lot when hosting. Dean shares a story about hosting his first student… and the long ride she went on! We discuss cultural differences. Dean opens up about how he puts students at ease in the beginning. On the topic of boundaries and being strict, Dean shares a story about catching a student breaking the rules. Wondering how to manage kids of your own, all their activities AND hosting? #justdoit The challenges of hosting and the need for boundaries... and a dog with a bone. We talk about how student meals are prepared in each of our homes. Dean describes the interesting lunch his student prepared day after day. Dean fesses up on which student was his favourite. We talk about eating disorders in students. Dean shares his experience on building bonds with students during moments of crisis. Dean chats more about his favourite student and the family adventures they went on. Preparing for a new student… after the bar has been set high. When student placements don't work out. We chat about building student connections. Dean talks about his toughest student and how he navigated the placement. Dean's advice before committing to hosting. Dean reflects on his favourite moments from hosting. Dean describes the most mouthwatering favourite meals he would eat with his students. Finally, Dean reveals his secret to building trust and getting to know students. Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
With new students coming into your home, it's always tough for them to adjust to a new culture. One way we believe that will help support your students in having better success at achieving a great experience, is to make friends. Getting students to make friends is hard, especially when they are here for a short term or with a group from their own school. Coming into a new culture, having the time to settle in, and then on top of that, having to make friends can be daunting, but don't you worry. We've got tips to make your student's life a little easier because these new friendships can define their and your experience in hosting an international student. Key Points From This Episode: Why is Erin in denial? Erin's update on her students and her combo party plan. Mary gives an update on her hosting plans. We chat about encouraging students to make friends. Mary's tips for local event info. Mary has even more tips for homestay parents. #showwhatyouknow Erin messes up her words. #shesblushing International clubs and athletic teams. How to deal with shyness. #tellmemore Sidenote: Erin's Blake story. We discuss the importance of friendship. Links: Camp Victoria VIHSP Victoria Buzz Google Earth Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Being a homestay parent comes with many challenges and rewards. If you are new to hosting or considering taking on this gratifying experience, you'll want to listen to our chat with seasoned host parent, Jodi Johl. Jodi has great tips for new homestay families about not overthinking it and how a joke can go a long way in settling in with your new student. She also shares how hosting students can have different choices based on your lifestyle, as she reminisces about her past students when she had little kids... to the present, transitioning to hosting while living on her own. It was such a joy to talk to Jodi as she shared her know-how of hosting students since the early 2000's. Key Points From This Episode: Jodi talks to us about life and mothering with a full house. What it's like to parent alongside another parent (in a homestay situation). How it all began… Jodi chats about how she got into hosting. Jodi shares one of her most memorable (annual) hosting experiences. We start talking food! #asuitcasefulloffoods Jodi opens up about some of the challenges of hosting. #ilikethosepants We chat about some of Jodi's past students. The time Jodi was called upon to deal with problem parents and advocate for students. Jodi describes a strange situation and how her most memorable students came to be placed in her home. #mamabear We pore over Jodi's memory album and reminisce about some of her past students. Hosting during the holidays - ways to make the event special. On kids and family bonding… hosting with small children. Jodi gives advice for people just starting out with hosting. Jodi's tips for lunches. We reflect upon dinnertime. Even more talk about food! Jodi's favourite dishes to make for students. Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
This episode about what not to do as a homestay parent has a lot of laughter. Not because the subject matter isn't serious, but because humour boots creativity and problem-solving. Laughter encourages risk-taking and develops thinking skills that we use to analyze situations to create more positive outcomes for you as a host and your student's experience. These tips are for all host families and cultures to help integrate your student into their new surroundings. So listen in on what you should not be doing as a homestay parent and flip that around, so that you understand what you should actually be doing instead. Key Points From This Episode: Erin teases Mary. We discuss the reasons why you shouldn't go into a student's room. And then count down the Top 5 Things to Not Do as a Homestay Parent. Mary shares a story about why a student's friend wants to transfer homestays. We give tips for homestay parents on how to break the ice and create a warm, welcoming home. Erin reminisces about a story a coworker shared with her where there was confusion/a big miscommunication about toilet paper usage. Erin's fun tip for showing students how to use the shower. We talk about taking the bus. Mary thinks back to her over anxious bus riding student. What wakes Erin up at night? @22:17 Why was Mary giving Erin ‘the look'? We talk about connection and gratitude. #anemotionalhug Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Food brings people together, but what if food becomes a barrier? Eating disorders are mental health issues and some students arrive with a negative dependency on food, without you even noticing. So what are the clues? Today, we chat with Carla Beer-Carpenter, a registered dietitian for almost 30 years with a passion for helping people improve their relationship with food while working towards their health and nutrition goals. In this episode, she shares tips and signs to look out for with students who may have food-related issues. She's also been a homestay parent since 2008 and has hosted dozens of students from many countries over the last decade. She reveals how hosting is an impactful experience, more than on us as hosts, but with the students. Finally, she uncovers how her own 3-week exchange as a young teenager changed her entire life. So listen in on this truly wonderful conversation with Carla Beer-Carpenter that we hope inspires you as it did for us. Bio: Carla Beer-Carpenter has worked as a registered dietitian for almost thirty years, with a focus on renal nutrition and obesity management. She is passionate about helping people improve their relationship with food while working towards their health and nutrition goals. She has been a homestay parent since 2008 and has hosted dozens of students from many countries over the last decade, first girls while her two daughters were teenagers, then boys once her stepson started high school. She lives with her fiancé Richard and their blended family in Oak Bay. Carla Beer-Carpenter, RD Good Sense Nutrition www.goodsensenutrition.ca (250) 661-0394 Key Points From This Episode: We chat about Carla's background, her business and how she came to host students. What is food culture? We talk about house rules. #thoushallnoteatinthebedroom Carla's tips for meal time and getting students (and picky eaters) to try new things. What are some of the signs that someone may be struggling with an eating disorder? Carla gives tips for how to deal with concerning behaviour around eating issues. We discuss body image. #dontcommentonlooks Carla shares the importance of not making a fuss over how much/how little children eat. #braceyourselftothrowfoodaway Carla gives Erin advice for the picky eater in her home. Healthy relationship with food vs. context of culture? We discuss different student scenarios. Carla talks about cooking for students and the difference between cooking for girls and boys. Carla opens up about the challenges of hosting and lets us in on a little secret. Carla reminisces about some of her positive hosting experiences. Carla uncovers how her own 3-week exchange as a young teenager changed her entire life. Carla shares her reasons for hosting. Links: Good Sense Nutrition Instagram: @goodsensefoody Facebook: goodsensenutritionservices Twitter: @beer_carpenter How to deal with eating issues in all ages Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Okay let's get real. One of the top or main reasons families participate in a homestay program is so that they can make some money or at least they think they can. Heck, it's why we both started looking into the opportunity for our own families. However, over time it becomes more than that. We've made real connections with people all around the world. But yes, in an exchange, there is a remuneration. But what does it actually cost to host a student? Have a listen to where our money goes into hosting international students and why we think it's not always about the money. Key Points From This Episode: Why does Erin think Mary is a bad girl? Erin breaks down the length of her marriage in terms of teenagers/young adults. #marydoesntdomath Erin is schlepping the fam jam up to Parksville. Mary gives an update on her student. We discuss the Victoria Day Parade (and why Erin has a love/hate relationship with them). We get into the financial realities of hosting. First up… housing! Mary explains why she doesn't like math. We talk about the importance of treating students like your own kids. We talk environmental awareness, energy efficiency and being frugal. Where does our money go? How do you do your laundry? Everything together or do you separate all the colours? We share a story about one of our friends… We talk about Wifi and cable tv and the differences between Erin and Mary's houses are vast. Mary's Sunday night ritual with her student. Mary talks about the meal her student prepared. Side note - Mary prances to the fridge for sour cream. Listen to Erin's rousing play by play. Homestay Kitchen News - Erin has an update! We talk about how the time spent with a student is a factor. Links: Victoria Day Parade Victoria Buzz Parade Coverage Sour cream Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
How do your intentions bring out the best in your family to have a successful homestay experience? What differences do the big city of Toronto and the west coast of Canada provide to an international student? In this episode, we chat with Rosalyn Benatar, a recent transplant from Toronto to Victoria, BC. She shares her hosting experience from her perspective of living in the biggest city in Canada. She also reveals why you need to keep a positive attitude and an open heart when hosting international students and why your home is your sacred space, so students should respect your rules. Each homestay situation is so unique and has its own distinctive challenges, so let's listen in on Rosalyn's approach. **Rosalyn Benatar** is the Owner Operator of Spa Birthday Parties for Kids & Owner Operator of De-stress Express. She is a holistic practitioner, holistic nutritionist, healing arts therapist, intuitive and event planner. You can connect with her through her website at [www.spabirthdaypartiesforkids.com](http://www.spabirthdaypartiesforkids.com) or find her on Facebook at [@spabirthdaypartiesforkids](https://www.facebook.com/spabirthdaypartiesforkids). Key Points From This Episode: Where is the “Best Place in Canada”? Rosalyn chats about her history of hosting students. We discuss ‘boy energy' and why Rosalyn chose to host females. Is there a difference in the way people parent in Toronto? Find out why Erin's student Jenny is moving to Montreal. Rosalyn answers Jenny's questions about Canadian winters and what she needs to pack. Authentic Canadian winter activities her students experienced. We talk about Montreal's reputation and Rosalyn makes recommendations for Jenny for her time there. We chat about students study habits and messy bedrooms. Rosalyn shares a story about one of her students who had to get a job. Rosalyn talks about positive parenting with an open heart. Rosalyn's tips to get to know your students better. Food is so important to the homestay experience. Rosalyn shares how she made holidays special for her students. T&T store - the “Asian Superstore” - and Erin's entrepreneurial idea! Rosalyn shares her favourite dish to make for students. Links: T&T Fairway Markets Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Mother's Day, in North America where we are and in a large portion of the world, is May 12th. To mark this occasion, we give examples of how we mother our international students... or not. It really depends on the situation, the student's needs, and your own parenting views. Whether you actually have your own kids or not, you are still a homestay parent and this comes with some responsibility. In this episode, we share our stories of Erin's way vs. Mary's way, of being a homestay Mom and the unexpected journeys it can take us on. Key Points From This Episode: #maryspartytrick #shehasabendyelbow Do we mother international students differently than our own children? We talk about space and student bedrooms. Mary has a student! She shares her mothering strategy. Erin does a ton of mothering. Erin shares a story about decoding language between boys and girls. The time Erin taught a student about ovulation. We talk about cherry pick parenting. Erin admires the way Mary handled the time Kira left her stuffie on the bus. Mary shares how the voice of Erin saved her from her stubborn child. Links: Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler Island Sexual Health Beyond The Talk Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
How do you say something in North American English versus British English? Throw in an accent and you can very well have an extremely funny scenario. In this episode, we get into the difficulties of learning English and how you need to see the humour in embarrassing situations. When your student enunciates a word differently, this could result in miscommunication. We provide plenty of examples of how saying a word slightly different can lead to some very awkward situations. But we do it all in stride with plenty of self-deprecating humour. What are some of your favourite regional English words? In Canada, one of our favourites is a toque. If you need a winter hat, you'll know who's the Canadian when they ask for a toque. Share your words with us over email at homestaykitchen@gmail.com. We can't wait to learn some new ones! Thanks for sharing! Key Points From This Episode: We talk about being afraid to make mistakes when using English. Pronunciation errors and how we mishear. Mary tells her favourite story about her Dad. Erin shares some of the words her students are scared to say. #remembertosmile The time one of Erin's students had a bad cold. #itsrudetosniffle What is the plural of platypus? More pronunciation errors - meanings in multiple languages. We talk about how to handle compliments. Erin's Italian student's most embarrassing story. #thatonetimeinmathclass #ownyourmistakes The time Mary's cousin got mad at her. What is a spanner? Mary gives us a new name for “hoodies”. It's super cute! We discuss prairie terms for mealtimes. Erin gets super confused and doesn't know when to eat. Teeter totter or seesaw? What do you call it? Erin reenacts why they both make sense. Find out why Erin's Italian student wants to put a GoPro in Erin's car. *#morelaughingaterin* * If you have tips that will help Erin roll her r's… send them our way! [homestaykitchen@gmail.com](mailto:homestaykitchen@gmail.com) Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we share our top 5 reasons for hosting an international student. There are so many points, but these 5 things are the core of what we do and love. They encompass our own personal values and how those desires play a significant role in our everyday lives. Living and sharing our day to day with our students has definitely changed our outlook on a few things. What are your top 5 reasons? Or have you got a reason similar to ours? We'd love to hear about it! Email us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com or email us a voice message from your phone and we'd love to include it in our show! Key Points From This Episode: We compare outfits. #ourpreschoolmoment #weareyoungatheart Mary gives an update on her sister's students. We talk about the financial stability of hosting students. And start counting down our Top 5 Reasons for Hosting International Students. Erin gives tips on what to do if you encounter a cougar. And explains the difference between a female and feline cougar. #tranquilizedcougar We talk about all the sayings/ways to cheer at sporting events. Mary shares her love of berry picking. Big news! Mary announces her big goal for next year. #shewroteitdown #eringetsthegoosies Mary's great idea for Erin's goal. Mary's student who loved katsu. Diverson #1: We try to pronounce “worcestershire”. #isthereanecho Erin talks about her Italian student and the balsamic vinegar incident. Erin talks about the cookbook she is putting together (see links below for a recipe!). Diversion #2: Erin goes to the cupboard for balsamic vinegar. #willmomanddadgetupset #isitsubstandard Erin and Mary try rolling their ‘r's like Italian's. #erinandmaryaresocompetitive What is the region known as Modena? When in doubt ask Siri! Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Recipe - Balsamic Vinegar Pork Cutlets Ingredients for 2: 2 pork cutlets 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon of butter 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar Salt Parsley (optional) Bread the pork cutlets with flour on both sides and set them apart. Heat the butter in a medium pan and add the cutlets. Sprinkle the top with a small pinch of salt, wait a minute or so, and flip them on the other side. Sprinkle them again with a tiny pinch of salt. Add the balsamic vinegar, stir and mix one more minute. Serve immediately and hot, sprinkled with finely chopped parsley, if you please. Thrifty Foods Compliments Balsamic Vinegar Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
What happens when you open up your curiosity as a student or as a homestay parent? Education is essentially curiosity. We love this perspective from our guest on the show today. We really enjoyed our chat with Greg Demmons, who currently serves as the Vice-President of the Co-op Board and the original founder of Real English Victoria. He's learned a lot of lessons through teaching English since 2003, with 10 of those years in Japan and South Korea. He's passing on this unique perception to you and sharing his way of thinking has really opened up our frame of mind when it comes to how we approach students and where the students are coming from. It's this open dialogue and acceptance of our differences that make these experiences of hosting international students a two-way street for learning; for both the student and the host family. You're going to love Greg's attitude and love for learning, along with his strategies on how creativity enriches your homestay experience. **Key Points From This Episode:** * Erin is a picky parker _#myvanisabiggirl_ * Greg tells us what is unique about Real English Victoria (REV). * REV operates like a family. _#wecanfeelthewarmth_ * We talk about homestays becoming business conscious. _#treatstudentslikeyourownkids_ * Encourage creativity! (There is lego on the walls!) * Greg's tips for homestay families to combat shyness. * Greg's tactics to get students to use/speak English. * We talk about the main fear students have before arriving in Canada. * Canada as superior homestay experiences. _#wejustwanttohearyourstory_ * We talk about the importance of being yourself, open and confident. * Greg's advice for homestay dads. * Greg shares a story about a past student. _#canadiansarekind_ * How can we best help our students? We talk about making mistakes as a vehicle. _#killche-myun_ * Greg's Top 5 Activities for Homestay Parents. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Real English Victoria Instagram: @realenglishvictoria Facebook YouTube Twitter: @realenglishvic Greg's Blog Che-myun Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
And we're back! Thanks for listening to the show and being so patient waiting for new episodes. In this episode, we go through what happened and why we (mostly Mary) needed this unexpected break. In these moments, Mary realized how important rest is and wanted to share how this impacted the arrival of her sister's student. Mary gives tips on watching out for signs of burnout and what you can do for yourself to get some self care and rest. Key Points From This Episode: Rainbow Brite! _#sharethecartoons #itscalledasprite_ * Erin always appreciates Mary's handknits. _#matchtheglasses_ * We talk about knitting as a brain break. * Mary gives an update on her sister's student and the reason for our break. * We talk about acknowledging when you need help. * Mary explains why our brains lie to us all the time. * We discuss resting tips. * Erin shares her experience with a student who would not rest. * What are the signs of burnout? * Mary gives sleep ritual tips. * We play a game! Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Insight Timer App The Cognitive Shuffle Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Oh why hello there! Mary here dropping in for a quick hello! We had an unexpected break with family emergencies for me and then I forgot about spring break for Erin, so we're just getting back into the recording and planning mode. We've got a great interview lined up for you on April 15th, but a week before THAT is when we'll be back with new episodes and we'll get into more details about what I was going through and how it pertains to hosting students or life in general! Thanks for subscribing to the show and we'll see you on April 8th. In the meantime, you can catch up on past episodes or chat with us on Instagram @homestaykitchen. Talk to you soon! For full show notes and to learn more about the show, please visit www.homestaykitchen.com Join our conversation! Email: homestaykitchen@gmail.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen Facebook: www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen
In this episode, we take you through the process of getting ready for the arrival of your student. Is the student bedroom made up? Got that extra house key ready? Those are just two main things you should have set up, but yes, of course, there's always more. We've got lots of tips for welcoming your student into your home, culture, and a whole new country. Plus, Erin's got some homework for you and your new student. Don't worry, there won't be a pop quiz. Key Points From This Episode: Erin is undercaffeinated. We revisit the “happenings” in Erin's household over the last few days. #justkeepgoing Erin shares what she puts in her welcome baskets for new students. Welcome sign for greeting your student at the airport. House rules/Welcome letter - #practicalMary's rundown of info to include. Erin has homework for you and your new student. We cover the first few days with your student. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Bob Ross Quotes Jenny's recommendations for restaurants in Victoria Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we are celebrating Chinese New Year. This year for 2019, CNY lands on February 5th and it's the Year of the Pig. In Mary's family, her big thing is her family's New Year's Eve dinner and since Erin has a Chinese student, we celebrated a pre-New Year's dinner at her house. We brought our recording equipment, but there was a recording malfunction, so there were only a couple of clips we could use. So we lost some thoughts from the two students we cooked with. However, we did have a rice intervention with Erin as we go through how to properly prepare rice in the Chinese tradition. If you're looking for a way to celebrate with your Chinese international student, this is an episode for you! Or if you just like food, this one is good too. We also share what it's like to introduce a different food culture to young kids and how cake is not really your traditional "cake" in its Asian form. Gung Hay Fat Choy; wishing you prosperity and luck for the coming year! Key Points From This Episode: Gung Hay Fat Choy. It's the Year of the Pig. When is Chinese New Year? Ask your Chinese friend! It all started with grocery shopping. How does Mary rate Erin's driving skills? Mary gives tips on how to pick fresh fish. #isitmooshy The Rice Debate. Mary defends white rice. A few confessions and several interventions. Erin fesses up. On the topic of confessions… What happened to the audio equipment? #igavesuchgoodaudio #mybuttruinedeverything Descaling the fish. We talk about the dishes and all the ingredients. We discuss ground rules for next year's dinner. Mary tries to make Erin cry, but Erin turns the table on Mary! We go over red envelope etiquette. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Chinese New Year food symbolism Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, Erin gets ready to say goodbye to one of her long-term students. To Mary's surprise, Erin didn't cry during the episode, but trust that this is an emotional experience for Erin who bonded so deeply with her homestay daughter. Before we get to that experience and what Erin has planned for her goodbye, we take a look at Mary's more practical and level headed approach. She's not a hugger, but she may be turning to the dark side. We've got a bonus for you in this episode too! If you need a rundown of what to check before a student leaves your home, we've got one for you! Just head over to the show notes for this episode on our website and you can download a mini-roadmap for your student's departure. Key Points From This Episode: It is known that Mary has a bubble. Today Mary reveals herself to be practical and level headed. All good things to be sure. But can Mary hug? #didnotgrowupwithhugging Mary shares a story about the one thing she forgot when dropping a student off at the airport. We share some of our goodbye stories. Erin shares the rituals and traditions they have lined up in the week leading up to Yoko's departure. We talk about goodbye gifts for students… and Mary goes on a sidenote tangent! (Erin thinks it could be Mary's first ever tangent… how exciting!) #keepthegiftssmall Erin shares one of the favourite gifts she likes to give students… and how you can learn from her mistakes. Airport drop offs. We talk about the options and Erin shares her plans for Yoko. Practical Mary shares her tips and checklist for before a student leaves your home. Erin goes on a tangent about the time a coworker forgot an important item before taking a trip together. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Schleich figurines Student Departure Checklist Supernatural - Carry on My Wayward Son Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we steer you through the journey of applying to become a homestay host to an international student. It's quite the process as you do need to be vetted to host students, especially underage students, but don't let that scare you. Every school will have a different protocol, but there is an application process you should go through. Once that is done, the rest of your homestay adventure will be less stressful. So grab a pen and get ready to jot some notes down on becoming a homestay host! Key Points From This Episode: We take you through the application process on becoming a homestay host. We discuss different schools and hosting opportunities and how to find them. #googleisyourfriend Mary shares how she navigates household rules (like smoking). Erin shares her experience with home visits… and the reason she didn't “mesh” with one of the coordinators. We talk about the student matching process. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Scaredy Squirrel books Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we are refreshed from our break and ready to tackle the fear of having a student in your home for the very first time. If one of your goals for the year is to become a homestay host, we help you dive into the unknown. What is it really like to have a stranger in your house? How do you get around that fear? Should you really be hosting a student then? We share our thoughts to help you navigate that fear. Whether you are a family with or without kids or you only have a short amount of time to host vs a year-round student, we give you the basics to help you decide if this is the cultural experience that's right for you. And we hope it is! Let us know what your fears are and if we've helped in any way by emailing us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com or find us on Instagram! First, let's talk resolutions and how we were never built for this kind of commitment. Key Points From This Episode: Mary does not like to match. She values sleep above all. #twinningisnotherthing Erin's girls get mistaken for twins. We reminisce about the break. New Year's resolutions - they're not really for us! Erin talks about the one resolution she was successful in keeping. #itannoysherfamilytonoend The following year broke Erin. Mary talks about how she's not a good goal setter. Which activity does Mary struggle most to complete? #nopatience #wouldratherbeknitting Erin's new resolution is to find a solution for Mary. We answer Katharine's question (from Instagram) about how to get rid of the fear of having a stranger in your home for the first time. Mary talks about what helped ease her mind before hosting her first student. Erin shares how hosting students has benefitted her children. There are homestay situations for every walk of life. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Yarn Harlot books Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
Thanks for being a subscriber to our show! Sorry, no new episode this week, but we'll be back on January 14th, 2019. Just a quick update about us from Mary to you! For full show notes and to learn more about the show, please visit www.homestaykitchen.com Join our conversation! Email: homestaykitchen@gmail.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen Facebook: www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen
It's the end of 2018... and like everyone else, Erin and Mary reflect on new beginnings, growth, health, and some soul-satisfying decisions that were made in the past year. We also awaken our appreciation for our relationships... to our family, each other, and of course, our students. We get tuned-in on how these partnerships are ever-expanding our lives for the better. So thank you. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show, and hopefully laughing along with us. We've got some ideas for next year already, but remember, if you have any show ideas, questions or stories to share, email us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com. That's also a great way to connect if you want to be on the show! We'd love to have you! So Happy New Year to you, whether you are a homestay parent or student! Here's to an adventurous, fearless, and nurturing 2019! Key Points From This Episode: We reflect on 2018. Mary's eczema #shehasntscratchedtoday Saying goodbye to students is hard… especially for kids. #hugagiraffe #weareaninternationalfamily Do you have pets? Erin doesn't. She shares the story about the time “Candy the cat” got stuck up a tree. #isshecrying Erin's family getaway to the beach in Parksville. #goatonaroofincoombs Erin's youngest daughter donated her hair and fundraised money for Wigs for Kids BC. #neverhadahaircut #itsnotwhatyouhaveitswhatyougive #wigsforkidsbc Mary was downsized from her job in radio. The reasons we launched the podcast. #storiesthatwetelleachother Mary is coming up on an anniversary. What will next year bring? Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Wigs for Kids BC Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we reveal our Christmas past, present and future with our international students. Mary shares her non-Christmas household, but reveals the little things she likes to do for the holidays. While Erin knows something will come together at the last minute for her family's Christmas dinner. Listen for tips on what to do with students while keeping to a budget and a list of all our favourite holiday movies. Plus, how do the holidays differ in their student's home countries? We find out about a Japanese tradition that is finger lickin' good! Whatever holiday you celebrate this time of year, or even no holiday, we hope you get a break either way. It's really all about the good food coming out of the kitchen and enjoying it with people that you love. Key Points From This Episode: Windsock microphone coverings make Erin happy. Why are Mary's pants wet? Who is Mary most excited to visit this holiday season? And will she schlepp the doggy beds? We talk about visiting local seniors to spread holiday cheer. Budget friendly activities to celebrate the season with family and students. What's on Erin's baking list? Erin's tangent about raisins. A crib Christmas. #coffeeon The time Erin's family stole Grandma. Conky the Christmas Angel. #conkyusurped #conkythechristmasangel *#theelflovesconky* - The time Mary's Mom brought home a tree… but forgot about the rest of Christmas. - A Japanese tradition that is finger lickin' good! - We discuss our favourite holiday movies. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Smurfs - “Gnap!” Butchart Gardens Festival of Trees Butter tarts (very Canadian) Trailer Park Boys Conky Character Elf Home Alone A Christmas Story Olaf's Frozen Adventure KFC in Japan Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we chat with Yoko, a Japanese student living with Erin. We examine some serious topics such as diversity and discrimination that she faces here in Canada and how it can be beneficial back home in Japan. We also touch on how she was able to participate in WE Day, a celebration of young leaders in Vancouver, and the balance of Japanese versus Canadian student culture. Plus, we learn how much Yoko is really a child of Erin's and how she's integrated so closely with Erin's family and being a part of Canada. Key Points From This Episode: Yoko is a 17 year old Japanese student attending grade 12. She lives with Erin. She's been here for almost one year and is leaving in January. Yoko shares her motivation for studying abroad. #englishisatool What are her plans for the future? Yoko talks about the differences between her Japanese and Canadian high school education experiences. Yoko answers Mary's burning question about Japanese culture. Talent Show Performance: Boys Like You (Anna Clendening) #justaproudmama Who “took” Yoko's place as the baby of the family? Yoko talks about life with a little brother and sisters. #butterflykisses The most difficult and shocking experience of Yoko's life in Canada is the discrimination she faces. What advice does she have for other international students? Yoko talks about her WE Day experience. Yoko shares her favourite holidays and food. #asparaguscrisp Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Bones Global Village Store Glee WE Day Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we get into some of our favourite games to play with our students. It's getting to that time of the year here in Canada where the nights are cold and long. Time to bundle up and play board games, video games, and #allthethings to keep one occupied when the family is over for the holidays. Or perhaps you're getting a new student soon... what are your favourite games to play to help break the ice? Here are some ideas for easy games to play with young kids, games that require very little English, and even one that will make a mess. Key Points From This Episode: Erin's update: her (shy) daughter's upcoming poster presentation about culture #wearemulticultural Mary's family doesn't celebrate Christmas. Erin offers up an alternate celebration… one that is an evil game and an ice breaker! Erin breaks out into song talking about the go to game her family likes to play together. #jazzhands Erin pulled out her psychic powers for Mary's game (and then made up a jingle). We play a boredom buster requiring no language or skill. It feels like gambling! Mary throws the rules out for her go to game for improving English. #offthecuff Erin introduces a math fluency game that at first displeases Mary. Will the big blue whale win Mary over? Erin comes from a farming family and grew up playing a very Canadian game. #buttcheeksdown Ching! Chang! Push! You may not recognize this game's name… but chances are you've played it. Puzzles are a great way to spend time together. But have you heard of WASGIJ? What game would Erin be remiss in not telling Mary about? Apparently it's the most fun EVER! (Mary did not look impressed) Which game makes Erin feel stupid? Mary comes to Erin's rescue. A super cute game that requires no language and (bonus!) got Erin's kids to eat sushi. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Just Dance Dixit Telestrations LCR (dice game) Bananagrams Mobi Uno Crokinole Lee Valley Tools Crib Rock Paper Scissors / Ching Chang Push WASJIG Puzzle Pie Face Kanoodle Sushigo Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we chat with our dear friend Mel Kilpatrick. Mel was one of Mary's first inspirations to become a homestay parent. We scratch the surface on some of the amazing stories with her past students and explore how these experiences enhance our network of people in the world... not just for us as hosts, but for the students as well. These experiences are what makes your household grow and learn from each other to extend our connection to the world. Key Points From This Episode: Mel inspired Mary to host students. She is a veteran host with 16 years experience. (That's a grade 11 student! Erin thinks of age in terms of teenagers.) Mel does short term placements. Enjoys flexibility of short term for her family. Find out how Mel gets her teenagers to talk to her. (Hostages are taken). There's a map of students Mel wishes she could visit. What did Mel wish she knew before she began hosting? The student that put Mel on a break from hosting students for two years. #itwasterrifying Which student posting/profile convinced Mel it was safe to host again? Mel loves to be a tour guide for her students. The time her student had a weird welcome. Do you host students? How has hosting benefited your family? Mel shares how hosting has enriched her family and opened their minds to different cultures. Update from Mary from last week's episode re: we discussed her student's romantic relationship. Mary announces the gender of their now born baby! We discuss our (global) network of humans. Which leads to a story about how a clown wronged a woman. #EriniswithVania Mel shares her favourite dish to cook for students. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Mt. Doug Oak Bay Marina (seals) East Sooke Park (hiking) Thetis Lake (summer) Government House Grounds Butchart Gardens Saanichton Christmas Tree Ostrich Farm Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, Mary challenged Erin to talk about her being a Mama Bear; tender claws out and ready to advocate for her students. Listen for the way Erin handles challenging situations including when she rescues Christmas for her student's friend and dealing with high school teachers, which can be challenging all on their own. Then we take a little side track as Mary gets a delivery at the door... all before Mary shares her stories about how she saved a student's romantic relationship, which causes Erin to feel like throwing up because of the suspense. How have you helped your students? We'd love to know, so please share your stories with us through email, Instagram or Facebook. Key Points From This Episode: ♫ Mama knows best ♫ Mary tries to pull one over on Erin. What did she do?? Update from Mary: will she take her sister's student? Erin shares about the first time her students saw her in Mama Bear mode… in defence of one of their best friends. Home Alone (not the movie) at Christmas. Erin gets stressed out talking about summer school / Erin's rant about email etiquette. (26:10) A fun diversion! Mary gets a home delivery. Find out what's in the box! Mary shares her story about how she saved her student's romantic relationship. Important things to note about this story: You'll want popcorn and a tissue box. The suspense made Erin's stomach go in knots. Upon reflection… Erin thinks this story would make a fantastic movie. Mary has ‘next level' skills - Erin thinks she's a Jedi Knight. How do you push your students to take risks and make mistakes when learning English? Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Tangled South Island Distance Education School Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we share our experiences of how we select international students to become a part of our homestay family. We chat about how one student in Mary's short-term homestay experience got her to change her number one request on a student profile. We walk through what you should consider when matching a student profile to your family, and ultimately, how we decide to host a student in our home. Then we explore Erin's detailed student profile applications, while she goes on one of her tangents to provide some very insightful tips for what to do with your kids when travelling with your students. Key Points From This Episode: Proud host mama update from Erin. Find out what's driving Mary nuts - and will it keep her from hosting? Who makes the hosting decisions in your family? Mary shares the lack of info she received about a student… and how that worked out for her family. Going away overnight on long weekends presents a challenge for Mary's family when hosting students. Erin has a “creative solution” for Mary. Erin gets the giggles! Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Butchart Gardens Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we dive in with Erin's student from China, Jenny. She's here on a high school program for a couple years and at the time of the recording, is one of two students in Erin's home. Jenny has a love of music that we explore and hear samples of during the show. She truly is talented and has a passion for life, which we'll hear about as she describes her student lifestyle in Canada, the pressures of studying abroad away from her parents, and what her dreams are for the future after completing her Canadian high school education. Key Points From This Episode: Jenny is a 17 year old Chinese international high school student currently living with Erin. This is her second year living with Erin's family. Was placed with a different homestay family for one semester before joining Erin's family. Jenny loves to sing (mostly at night) and enjoys K-pop music. Favourite food experience so far - when we all celebrated Chinese New Year together. Jenny and her friends are food experts in Victoria. Jenny shares her love for ASMR cake videos with her littlest host sister. Jenny talks about the pressures of schoolwork and her plans for university. Conversations with her parents can be difficult because of the distance and the gap. Jenny shares everything with her best friend, another Chinese international high school student who understands what she is going through. Jenny loves to travel. What's next on her “must see” list? Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Baking the cake Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/
In this episode, we dive into birthdays! Jon and Blake's birthdays are one day apart, so we talk birthday plans and what Erin's students have up their sleeves for Blake... while Mary reveals her one big mistake in communication about birthdays with her first ever student. Key Points From This Episode: We're recording in Mary's empty student room. (Her living room is too noisy because there's lots of construction sounds next door… like hammering and sawing!) Note the beautifully handcrafted desk, made by Jon. Feel free to overlook the unmade bed. Also, what you can't see in the picture below, are Mary's elbows which are quite sharp and pointy! Erin has decided that Jon is of a “gentlemanly age” For Blake's upcoming birthday, Erin will be cooking her 70% approval rating lasagna with garlic toast and Caesar salad. Blake loves cookies! The girls (Erin's students) will bake him tinfuls of cookies. Update: Cookie making occurred at 2 a.m. in secret the night before his birthday. You may note that there are no potatoes pictured on the cupcakes. Initially there was a potato cupcake, however it was deemed “not pretty enough” and was consequently consumed by the baker. Blake loves practical gifts. Last year, Erin's Thai student bought Blake a light bulb for his birthday. It turned into a three store excursion. Erin's family always makes homemade cards for birthdays and other holiday events. Her students are included in this, and they make the most amazing, artistic, heartfelt cards… and have such beautiful penmanship! When Erin's family sings “Happy Birthday” they incorporate all of the languages of the household (and relight the candles each time). So they'll sing it first in English, then Chinese, or Japanese, or Thai and sometimes Korean (they host a K-pop fan) - it all depends on the nationality of the students they're hosting at the time. Mary's family doesn't make a big deal out of birthdays. Erin agrees it's a cultural thing. Mary's family has a traditional way of doing things. Mary usually knits something for Jon. Traditionally she gifts him an “unfinished” item. This year, he'll receive a sweater that has been on her knitting needles for 4 years! On the day we recorded this episode… we were 3 days away from Jon's birthday and Mary still had to seam the sleeves, attach the sleeves onto the body, knit the neckline and the cuffs. For the non-knitters… fingering weight = love. For Jon's birthday: Mary will gift him an unfinished sweater. He will choose something for dinner. Instead of cake, he's requested Mary's green onion pancakes. The first year Jenny celebrated her birthday with Erin's family, she chose a waffle cake for her birthday. The first time Mary had a student, she didn't tell the student it was Jon's birthday because Mary and Jon don't make a big deal about birthdays. The next day the student went out and bought flowers and a card for Jon. From now on, Mary tells all her students about birthdays and all festivities and events. Mary hosts short-term students and rarely gets to celebrate their birthdays with them. In the first year after they've left her home, she will mail them a card. Erin will find her students on social media to wish them a Happy Birthday. If Mary's students are with her on their birthday, she has them pick their dinner meal and cake which she'll make (from scratch). Erin's first short-term student always brought home balloons to the birthday person in the family. “Just Dance” is a very popular video game played at Erin's house on birthdays. Blake is the creme brûlee master when it comes to birthdays. Talking about creme brûlee reminded Erin about the time they accidentally ruined a student's lunch - on the student's birthday - with the “birthday burrito incident”. Blake had to make reparations in the form of creme brûlee. Mary's favourite birthday meal is always weather dependent. Jon's has yet to pick his birthday dinner! This is stressing Erin out. Update: Jon was sick on his birthday, so Mary is planning to re-do Jon's birthday on another weekend. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Jon's Sweater - Redford Pattern Just Dance Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/ Quotes “But sometimes communication is everything” - Erin (19:20) “See this is where I learn from my mistakes. If you are a family who does not make a big deal out of birthdays, one should still communicate with the student that it is somebody's birthday in the house because that particular student might want to do something nice for said birthday person.” - Mary (19:24)
In this episode, we're talking Halloween! We explore what each of our families does for Halloween and how you can incorporate your homestay student into the festivities. We reminisce about our past Halloween experiences to reveal how sometimes these student situations make us feel old. Key Points From This Episode: Mary is prepared for Halloween - her daughter is dressing up as a buzzy bee. Erin is a reluctant Halloween mother and is need of a Halloween miracle! She's hoping Pinterest can save her. Her daughters have Halloween costumes, but her son and students do not. Her teenage students will pitch in and do amazing makeup for her children. The backup costume for Erin's Japanese student is a Carebear costume Erin made when she was a high school student. Last year, Erin and her student successfully sewed four kimonos in 24 hours. Erin's children don't eat all their Halloween candy. This news upset Mary deeply. Mary didn't get Halloween costumes growing up and trick or treating was hard. She hoarded the hard earned candy she did get - it was her pay! Pumpkin carving is a team event at Erin's house. Together they are carving 8+ pumpkins! This will be the first pumpkin for Mary's daughter - it's bigger than her! Erin's students will go trick or treating with her children. It's good for them (they get candy too!) and for her, there's more chaperones for the kids on a dark night. Plus it's fun for the whole family and part of the homestay experience. Erin introduced Mary to the concept of “Mom and Dad tax” when it comes to trick or treating (or life in general). Mary thinks Erin should Mom and Dad tax students and kids equally. Mary's QR Code Costume - Check out her Halloween Flickr photo album here and click here to see her virtual QR code costume. Mary's past costumes have been revolutionary and shocking! One year she was “Fifty Shades of Grey”. Gilmore Girls - Jon & Mary as "Lane & Zach" Mary has hosted two students before during Halloween and introduced one of her students to the classic 80's movie “Ghostbusters”. After hearing about how her student reacted to one of the scenes in the “Ghostbusters” movie, Erin & Mary launched into a “back in my day” reminiscence. Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/ Quotes “I just need to know what rating? When you say, ‘Fifty Shades of Grey' what rating?” - Erin (23:36) “Always family friendly.” - Mary (23:40) “Thank you. We're always family friendly on The Homestay Kitchen.” - Erin (23:42)
In this episode, Mary interviews Erin. We talk about how we first met, reminiscing about Erin's high school experience of being a homestay sister, and we dissect a day in her family's crazy life to reveal how her students are the best part of her day. Key Points From This Episode: Mary has a bubble. Always ask permission before touching her. Also, poking the bubble (or attempting to poke the bubble) makes her nervous. Things Erin has learned from many years of friendship! And yes, Mary's nostrils really did flare. We met when we worked in radio and have known each other for 15 years. When Erin does math she thinks in terms of teenagers - we've known each other a whole grade 10 (high school) student! Erin's family decided to start hosting students after they moved to a bigger house. They've been hosting students for a little over a year now. With the exception of a couple of short-term summer placements, they've primarily hosted long-term high school students. Erin grew up with a homestay sister, Harumi; they went to high school and one year of college together before Harumi went back to Japan. Erin doesn't remember Harumi ever going home for breaks. Since recording this episode, Erin has checked with her mother and Harumi did go home to Japan for Christmas and summer holidays, but Erin's mother said Harumi was always so thankful to come back because she felt like their house was her home. Erin & Harumi enjoyed a close sisterly relationship: fighting over the thermostat, makeovers, shopping, talking about boys and cooking together. Harumi also listened to/sang a lot of Celine Dion repetitively when the Titanic movie first came out. They grew up together before the internet and social media. It's much easier now to keep in touch with students. Erin's family = Erin + husband + 3 kids (10 and under) + 2 high school students (17 years). Mary thinks Erin's family is chaotic. Wednesday's are Erin's most hated days because she has to lace up (and unlace) three sets of ice skates for her kids skating lessons. Maybe she should stop binge watching New Girl the night before. Those half hour comedy shows get her every time. Erin's students are not hard - they are amazing, independent and wonderful. They are also the best part of her day. Everyday Erin looks forward to her “me time” when she hangs out at Starbucks and plays crib with her really great friends - older mostly retired men. They've been playing together for four years and keep statistics on their games. They also play with jokers (and lately four extra 5's which Erin is really excited about because lately she's been getting a lot of 28's). Erin's first student was a short-term placement; she was not confident speaking English. Her student immediately bonded with the family and immersed herself in the daily activities. Feeding a family of 7 involves a lot of grocery shopping. Erin has her students write down what they do and don't like (in addition to joining in on some grocery shopping trips). Mary liked this idea. Erin's husband Blake does most of the cooking. He is the master of putting something on the table that is nutritious and delicious in 20-30 minutes that everybody likes. When Erin cooks she makes food that takes too long to prepare that 70% of the family will eat. They end up with freezer meals (2-3 lasagnas, 5 lbs. scalloped potatoes). On nights when a home cooked meal can't happen because of after school activities (baseball season), Erin recommends Thrifty Foods Tourtiere meat pies, and Shepherd's pie. Dinner time is the most joyous and challenging time. Lots of drama (children falling out of chairs), eyebrow raising, stories and sharing about everyone's day. Patience in a cup! Erin loves her chai. Extra hot no water please. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Lemony Snicket - The Hostile Hospital episode (butterflies in tummy) Thrifty Foods - tourtiere pie Robert Munsch "I Have To Go" - I have to go pee! Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/ Quotes “My students are not the hardest part of my morning… students are not hard. High school long-term students are not hard, they're wonderful.” - Erin (12:44) “Our coordinator in placing students in our home really, really looks at our interests of our family and of our kids and of our students and each other and we have had such success with students being placed in our home. So if you're asking about the hated day, it has nothing to do with my students is what I'm getting to. My students are my best part about my day, always." - Erin (17:27)
In this episode, Erin interviews Mary. We talk about how Mary got started hosting international homestay students. Mary shares some of her experiences with hosting, her love of cooking, crafting, and how she includes her students in her home life. Key Points From This Episode: Chai is patience in a cup Previous homestay parents scared Mary with their stories. Mary hosts short-term students. Average age is 21. Mary really enjoys cooking “Mix mash” is our new made up word for the ultimate recipe cookbook She's a crafter! Mary is excellent at charades Google translate is an excellent application for communicating with students in different languages Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: https://translate.google.ca/ Follow Us: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homestaykitchen/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homestaykitchen/ Web – http://homestaykitchen.com/ Quotes “I have to just keep reminding myself that every student is a different person and I can't expect them to be a certain way, or act a certain way in front of us or our daughter. Always just going in with an open frame of mind because if I do have those expectations, then I get disappointed.” - Mary (23:40)
Coming soon is The Homestay Kitchen. Join us, Mary Chan and Erin Eastman Paulson, as we serve up stories of being a homestay family - the ups and downs of making a connection with international homestay students. We'll bring a plateful of stories, ideas, interviews, and hopefully, dish up some anecdotes to share with our community. Have you ever wanted to be a homestay host? Are you one already? Or perhaps you're an international student that wants to share your story… If you have any questions, ideas for future episodes, or want to be on our show, email us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com. For more info about our show, please visit http://www.homestaykitchen.com/. Thanks for listening and our first episode will be released in October!
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