Upcoming AP Meetings

We have a great start to our 2009 Activity Calendar!

2009:
January 11 - AP's Choice - Ice Skating! 1p - NEW DATE!!! Meet at the Bellevue Square ice rink!
February ?? - Lion King
March 15 - Underground Tour
April 19 - Trip to the Tulip Fields - all day event (10a until about 4p)
May 17 - Trip to the Ocean (Westport) + CEP Spring Program -- all day event! Meet at 9:30am
June 21 - Baseball Game (date may be changed, depending upon tickets...)
July - Annual CCAP White Water Rafting Trip
August - Trip to Mt. Rainier - all day event
September tbd - UW Football Game

I'll keep working on the other ideas that came up! Here is the list of the other ideas that we are looking into:

• Going out to eat
• Space Needle
• Eating at the Space Needle
• Cabins, or camping
• Gallery Walk
• Mt. Rainier
• Skiing
• Going out to eat
• Festivals around town
• Music
• Boat Trip - Argosy - around the sound
• Karaoke
• Guitar Hero competition
• Picnic & BBQ
• Rock Climbing
• Balloon Flight
• Trip to Portland
• Going out to eat
• Trip to Bellingham & Leavenworth

Talking to You: Holiday Focus

People often ask for my advice for appropriate gift-giving for families and au pairs during the holidays. While gift cards, photo albums, an extra vacation day, or a picture frame are all great gifts, one of the best gifts a host family can give their au pair during the holiday season is the gift of clarity.

With all of the school vacation time, travel, family engagements, and holiday traditions, it can oftentimes be difficult for the au pairs to understand when their work day begins and ends. It’s so important for families and au pairs to sit down before the official holiday games begin and make very clear what the “holiday hours” will be.

In addition to clarifying hours, it’s also important for families to clarify what activities or events the au pair is asked to be a part of as part of her role as the au pair and what activities or events she is invited to be a part of as a member of the family. Without this clarity, there can often be misunderstandings and hurt feelings. The holidays are a wonderful time of the year and can be the highlight of an au pair’s experience. Taking this important step can help to keep the season bright!

Note: for new families, Nat is one of the VP's from Cultural Care, and often will send out her thoughts on different topics. I try to post as often as they make sense for the HF's and AP's

Thanksgiving

We had a great Thanksgiving dinner with the au pairs as a "warm up" and belly expander, to get ready for family Thanksgiving dinners on Thursday. We had a great time, and almost everyone was able to make it. Each au pair received a very special note from their host families about why they are thankful for their au pair.

I'm thankful to all of my au pairs - including Kristin, my very own au pair. Thanks to all of you who help make our life more interesting:

Ryan, Majo, Sine, Juliana, Ivona, Helena, Anika, Kate, Anna Maria, & Angie

Ivona & Kate; Majo & Helena

Ryan, Lara, Anika & Anna Maria; My kitchen has never looked so good

Ivona, Kate, Majo, Helena, Anna, Lara & Ryan

Monthly AP Meetings

We have a bunch of events coming in the next few months, and lots coming in the future as well... I keep this updated on the blog site, and it is your responsibility to keep track of the meetings from the blog and be sure that you are going to attend. Here are the dates for our upcoming events:

December 14 - Christmas cookie exchange! - 1p

2009:
January 18 - AP's Choice - Ice Skating! 1p
February 19 - TBD + CEP Winter Program
March 15 - TBD
April 19 - Trip to the Tulip Fields - all day event (10a until about 4p)
May 17 - TBD + CEP Spring Program
June 21 - TBD

That Baby DVD

Wanted to share this great video/CD with everyone! This is a favorite at our house, and if you watch the DVD closely, you will see a cameo by three of my favorite girls! You can learn more by visiting their website as well...

November AP Meeting / Future Meetings

This coming Friday night is Salsa Dancing at the Century Ballroom in Seattle. The lesson starts at 9:00p, and dancing is from 9:30p until midnight. The cost is $10, plus whatever you want for drinks. This is all ages, so everyone is welcome to join in the fun!

I'll have the sign-in log for November with me as well. WE WILL MEET OUTSIDE AT 8:45P if you are driving on your own!

I need to know who can drive and who needs a ride. If you are riding with someone else, please plan on giving them $5 towards gas.

The map and directions to the ballroom can be found here: http://www.centuryballroom.com/

Directions from the Bellevue/Mercer Island:

• Take I-90 West
• Take I-5 North
• Exit at Madison Street (Exit #164 A)
• Turn Right (east) onto Madison until Broadway Ave E
• Turn Left (north) onto Broadway until E Pine Street
• Turn Right (east) onto E Pine Street
• The Century Ballroom is on the first block, on the right hand side

Continuing Education Meeting
In addition, our Fall Continuing Education program will be at my house on November 16th. We'll have a thanksgiving dinner to share - and if everyone would bring one dish to share we'll have a great meal while we do our educational bit.

You should be at my house by 1p (note the time change) - and we'll be done by 3p. Please let me know if you are planning on attending - and if you are bringing anyone else along.

Upcoming Events
Just a reminder to all that we have a bunch of events coming in the next two months, and lots coming in the future as well... I keep this updated on the blog site, and it is your responsibility to keep track of the meetings from the blog and be sure that you are going to attend.

Here are the dates for our upcoming events:

• November 7 - Salsa Dancing at the Century Ballroom (Optional fun event) - 7p -11p
• November 16 - Thanksgiving at Lara's + CEP Fall Program - 1p NOTE TIME CHANGE
• December 14 - Christmas cookie exchange! - 1p

2009:

• January 18 - AP's Choice - Ice Skating! 1p
• February 19 - TBD + CEP Winter Program
• March 15 - TBDApril 19 - Trip to the Tulip Fields - all day event (10a until about 4p)
• May 17 - TBD + CEP Spring Program
• June 21 - TBD

Candy linked to melamine scare in China

A recall was issued for chocolate coins manufactured by Sherwood brand.
The Pirate's Gold Milk Chocolate coins are being recalled due to the fact that they contain Melamine, the ingredient in milk product that has caused many infant deaths in China.

These candies are sold at Costco, as well as many bulk and dollar stores. Please make sure to check your childrens halloween candy and DO NOT LET THEM EAT THE PIRATE COINS (you know the ones wrapped in the shiny gold foil) and please let other parents know about this!

I have received many emails, and did confirm this on Snopes myself... Check out the chocolate purchased at Costco or other places, and be sure to remove any suspect coins. The melamine scare is not at all funny, and should be treated seriously...

Cell Phone Predators

NBC Today show had a great report yesterday on the rise of cell phone predators who aim at young children with cell phones (stat reported: 50% of kids 8-12 have cell phones..)

The watchdog/RADAR software reported about on the site can be found at the site listed below... www.mymobilewatchdog.com

Check this out! Great AP Video from Chicago...

This is pretty darn cool - how many AP's could we get together if we wanted to do something like this? I've done these for work before.. it could be fun!

A vote that everyone gets to participate in!

So - a friend of mine (Mark) has been nominated by a local TV show, the King 5 Evening Magazine as ‘best Western Washington Wedding DJ company’. They are having voting on this now... I'd love it if everyone would go to the link (below) and vote for Mark (Seattle Parties)! Thanks!

Link: http://best.king5.com/contests/best-of-western-washington/2336/weddings/dj (vote for ‘Seattle Parties’ ;-) >> takes only a minute! <<

Car Accidents

There have been so many stories recently about car accidents, from fender benders, to parking lot scratches, to all out accidents, that I wanted to be sure to talk about car accidents and what to do.

So, first off if an accident occurs, if at all possible, drive the car out of the road and pull it to the side. If the car can't be driven, then just leave it where it is.

Second - if there is more than very minor damage, call the police. In many countries they do not get involved with minor accidents, but just about any accident will now involve damage over $1000, so it's necessary to get a police report.

Third - call your host family at this point if the children are with you. Be sure to stay calm, let them know if the car is able to be driven, and whether or not you need to have them come to you to help with details, children, or both.

Once you are in a safe place you can start to talk with the driver of the other car. Most times, you can exchange information quite easily - however, if the other driver is aggresive or you do not feel safe for any reason, wait in the car and call the police.

When you speak with the other driver, the first rule is DO NOT ADMIT IT'S YOUR FAULT (even if it is...). That is really up to the insurance companies and police to figure out - but you don't need to share too.

Things to give to the driver of the other car (and they should give you the same information):

• Your WA State Drivers License Number and expiration
• Your insurance company name and policy number
• Make, model and year of the car that you are driving
• License plate number of your car

If you think anyone is hurt, or you are concerned if the kids are there, you need to ask for an ambulance. It is better to be safe than sorry - for both yourself and your kids.

If you were using the car on your own, now is the time to phone your host family to let them know. Be sure to tell them where you are, and whether or not you want them to come.

Once that is done, be sure to take pictures of the accident - of both your car and the other car. Include all of the other car, including parts that were not impacted by the accident. The worst that can happen (but it does) is that you start with a small accident, and afterwards hear about replacing parts of another car that were not part of the accident...

If you do not have a camera on your cell phone, ask your host family to buy disposable cameras for each of the family cars.

LAST... if the police are there, you can leave when they tell you that you can leave. If they did not come, do not leave until you have all of the information that you need from the other driver. If the other driver won't give you the information do easy things - like write down their license plate number, and information about their car... then call the police, and tell them you had an accident that was serious and the other driver is not cooperating and you need help. Trust me, they will come to help you.

So - if you have any questions talk with me or your host family. This is very important for everyone to know about, and to understand so there are no questions if the unthinkable occurs...

The myth of the 4 hour break...

I've heard from so many au pairs about a mythical "4 hour break" that is supposed to be worked into work days for AP's who work a "split shift", so I decided to investigate. It was a short investigation as I found out - when the myth was debunked.

Unfortunately, it didn't take snopes.com but a call to the head office to confirm what is already in the au pair and family handbooks... there is no rule at all about how long of a break should be given to an au pair. As long as au pairs are not working more than 10 hours per day, and no more than 45 hours per week, and getting the required weekends - the day can have a break put into it that is only one or two hours long.

So - for au pairs, track your hours - and if you get a break during the day - revel in that time. Be sure to use it for yourself and not do additional work if the family is not counting it towards your hours. And, if they have scheduled time in for things like laundry, picking up, when kids aren't around - you have a great chance to get efficient - and maybe get some extra time to yourself!

For the host families - use the ability to "split shift" with some common sense. 20 minute breaks aren't really breaks - and it can just tick off an au pair. Be sure that if you require additional work such as kids laundry, dishes, etc - that those kid-related chores can be done in the course of the scheduled work time, and should not be completed when the au pair is off duty.

And for everyone, remember to phone your LCC if you have questions. But for now, please note and share within the rumor chain, that the 4 hour break is a myth and nothing more...

ESL Community Classes

One of the favorite courses for AP's to take locally are the community courses offered through Bellevue Community College, such as their English Conversation I and II classes. The costs vary from $150-350 on average, and can fulfill up to half of the yearly requirements.

The course catalog is here...

You can apply online, or by Please contact the International Student Programs (ISP) office in B-233 or call us at 425-564-3185. Our staff can assist you with admission, registration, and payments. The ISP office hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Working out on the Eastside...

There are some great places to join for clubs around here if you want to work out. I haven't been paid any promotional fee's, although it's not a bad idea... :-)

They have differing costs, and will have membership fee's at some places, and definately monthly fees at others. Don't sign anything with a required term (like - you must join for a year).


Curves - women only

Bellevue, WA - Kelsey Creek 15015 Main St., Ste. 105 Bellevue, WA 98007 (425) 644-1042
Mercer Island, WA 8435 SE 68th Street, Ste. 100 Mercer Island, WA 98040 (206) 275-2223
Redmond, WA 8052 - 161st Ave. NE Redmond, WA 98052 (425) 556-1364
Kirkland, WA 10633 NE 68th St. Kirkland, WA 98033 (425) 739-0303

24 Hour Fitness

Bellevue 1505 140th Avenue Ne Bellevue, WA 98005 Phone: (425) 641-1111
Kirkland 529 Parkplace Center Kirkland, WA 98033 Phone: (425) 889-2582

Gold's Gym

Kirkland 11133 120th Ave. NE 425-827-0777
Issaquah 1025 NW Gilman Blvd Suite E-8 425-369-8585

YMCA

Bellevue 14230 Bel-Red Road 425-746-9900

The Cadillac's of Clubs:
ProClub
Bellevue Club

Education Options

There are so many options when considering how to fulfill the educational component of

One of the newest options offered by Cultural Care Au Pair is a new program called "Au Pair Education" - and offers three-day programs in major US cities, and slams out half of the education requirement in one long weekend! Not only do you get the courses, but you also get to hang out with other au pairs, and get to tour around some very cool cities.

There are other options as well:
Bellevue Community College, Bellevue
http://bellevuecollege.edu/
ESL classes at affordable prices, other credits might cost more
Favorite classes: French, TOEFL Preparation, English Conversation

Cascadia Communinty College, Bothell
http://www.cascadia.ctc.edu/
ESL classes for international students
Favorite class: ESL level 4

Lake Washington Technical College, Kirkland
http://www.lwtc.edu/

Seattle Central Community College, Seattle
http://www.seattlecentral.edu/
ESL, affordable prices
Favorite classes: English, Salsa Dance

Time to think

Updated Program Rules: HF Eligibility

Through recent communication with the U.S. Department of State, we have received clarification that both host parents must be U.S. citizens or green card holders in order to host an au pair in their home. Some families may apply to the program and one of the two parents may be in the process of becoming a citizen or obtaining their green card, but unless both parents are citizens or they have their green card in hand, they cannot become a host family on the program. In the case of a single parent home, that parent must be a U.S. citizen or have their green card.

This rule clarification will apply to any families looking to repeat the program or any new families looking to join the program. The online host family application has been updated to require this information and families will be unable to submit a new or repeat application should they not meet this eligibility requirement moving forward. All Cultural Care forms, applications, and materials have also been updated accordingly.

Craigs List Ad from NYC...

Live in Nanny Needed for 4 kids (Pls don't call them "Precious Ones") (Upper East Side)
Reply to: (hidden)
Date: 2008-08-19, 9:04PM EDT

My kids are a pain in the a**. Just in the past hour, i have had to tell each one to do something more than once. oldest: can i have soda? it's just a sprite? please? can i? no, no and no.the next one...don't even get me started. seriously.the twin six year olds: one wanted dessert before her dinner was over, one kept wanting to know why I wouldn't let nine year olds swing her around by her limbs. (the fear of a dislocated shoulder did nothing.)Please help me.I can be a tad difficult to work for. I'm loud, pushy and while I used to think we paid well, i am no longer sure. i work from home, so you get the pleasure of being hounded by me all day long. and, you get to pretend to like me, because i am deeply sensative. (but well dressed and a know it all, a winning combination I assure you.)If you cannot multi task, or communicate without being passive aggressive, don't even bother replying.If you are the type who doesn't notice crumbs on the table, skip to the next post, because crumbs are a deal breaker. they put me over the edge.i have all sorts of theories on how to stack my dishwasher, and if you are judgemental about ritalin for adhd, or think such things are caused by too much sugar, again, deal break city.You do get a separate entrance excellent studio on the ues. you do get air conditioner and internet connection and cable. even hbo. and showtime. you can bring your spouse, roommate or partner, but sorry no kids. If you ask, can i bring my kid, the answer will be...anyone? anyone? No.If you can cook, all the better. otherwise, i'll teach you all sorts of things about pasta. (Here's a freebie, butter and parmesean, mmmmmm)If you know anything about chess and violin i will be impressed.We are not snobs, which is good. but then again, my kid sometimes swears to make a point. (We're working on it, but halfheartedly, because, well the apple doesn't fall far from the f***ing tree.)Although I am told they are all very bright, they have not mastered the use of the oh so complicated napkin. This is a napkin Junior, say it after me...Nap Kin. Good boy.i am not looking for Super nanny, or anyone who wants this job because they will love my kids as if they are their own. you won't. really. they are infinitely lovable, but trust me, they're mine and you will move on when your journey with us is over, and save for some funny stories and a delightful email every now and again, you won't grieve. Nor will we. (okay, we did all grieve a few of our past sitters, oddly they were all named Sarah or Kate, or Nikki. And Leah. Leah was delightful, even if she did drop my twin babies off our couch during a family gathering. Good times.I don't want someone who has a lot of theories on the right way to raise kids, because in the end, I'm just a woman doing my best. I'm willing to learn from you, or anyone, but not so much about how i should parent my spawn. teach me to knit. introduce me to yoga, the white stripes, russian literature or the best place to get a burger in the village at 2Am, but do not tell me to put star stickers on a good boy chart. stickers irritate me.If you are fundamentally unhappy with your life, you will be more unhappy if you take this job, so do us all a favor and get some treatment or move to the Rockies, but do not apply for employment with us. Also, if you suspect all wealthy women are frivilous, we are not for you. I do not want to hide my occasional bergdorf shopping bag.If you smoke, please quit. don't apply either, but please quit. i have known too many people diagnosed with cancer this year. Even if you are a judgemental nanny 911 wannabe, no one should have to endure some of the things I have wittnessed.You gotta be able to drive with a valid license, but if you've ever hit a human,move to the next post. You won't have to drive in the city, but if we go to our weekend place together, or if you make it to the summer and still work for us, we need you to run into town to get some pink milk, so be able to drive a mini van.Can you swim? Swimming is good.If you do drugs or drink enough so that you are grumpy in the morning and grumpier at night prior to that next cocktail, call AA, and peruse craigslist childcare positions when you have a year sober. I'll probably be looking again, and now is the time for you to focus on yourself anyway.I need a team player. I need someone to back me up when it comes to remembering when the library books are due, and whether i have rsvped to that birthday party yet.Help me dear G-d keep track of our skim milk supply and also, also, also, what should I make for dinner tomorrow night?

the hours are 7 in the morning to 8:30 in the morning. We'd be in it together, getting the kids out with clean faces, brushed teeth and some food in their bellies. Doesn't that sound easy? Doesn't that sound doable?Then come on back for a fun filled afternoon 2:15-8:15 of activities and playdates and snacks and dinners and homework and riveting conversations about global warming, hannah montana and guitar hero.When you do get to go home (to that swanky studio and possibly a significant other or buddy) your time off will be respected. If I would like you to give extra hours, i'll ask. if you say yes, you get paid 15/ hour. if you say no, I will not fire you or hate you. Except if it is a school holiday or if i have a sick kid, then i might ask, and unless you have a final exam worth 2/3 of your grade or tix The Lion King, you may need to help out.Okay, if you're still reading this ad, it means:a) i am a halfway decent writer and maybe i really will get that book deal i'm yearning forb) you need a job desparatelyc) you think this just might be destiny, and that you could be one of the few, the proud, the potential babysitter of our dreams.D) you want all the information about job requirements, so that you can write me emails about how I should stay home with my kids otherwise they are going to grow up to be sociopaths. (If my pen pal is out there, wassup? Found love yet? No? How 'bout that.)best of luck to all of you in your search for a job. Seriously. Job searching sucks. No two ways about it.RLS

Doctor recommendation

Well, I tried the instructions below and it doesn't work quite like it's laid out. Just fill out the general search area with the info listed below and hit search - it's actually more straight-forward than they tell you.

But good news. I searched, and a great doc is on the plan. Here is the information:

Teresa Girolami, MD
Address:Bel Red Internal Medicine
2677 151st Place Northeast
Redmond, WA 98052-5563
(425) 558-3800

She is great and you can almost always get in the same day if you are sick and within 1-2 days if you are not sick. (I have not been paid for this endorsement...)

Overview of Erika Insurance

Okay. So CCAP has a partnership with Aetna, and that is who our insurance is through. The best doctors for you to see are ones who take Aetna insurance. To find doctors in your area, to go: http://www.aetna.com/docfind

Once you get there, do this:

1. Go to the "Not Yet enrolled in an Aetna Plan"
2. click on DocFind
3. Select search by zip code and enter state
4. Select a type of provider by chosing "People and Places" and select either primary doctor, specialist, or hosptial
5. Select a Plan type - under "Aetna Standard Plan" select "Open Choice PPO"
6. Select "Search Criteria" and click on "view search results now" and then click "continue"

They make it so easy.

Of course, this is an American health plan (for refernce, watch the documentary Sicko...) so there are exclusions to the plan:

• Routine check-ups, physicals, or immunizaitons
• Pre-existing conditions
• Risky sports (anything my old AP tried, apparently....)
• Alcohol and narcotics
• Injuries sustained in a criminal act (although, that will be the least of the worries is not having insurance coverage if you are caught robbing a bank...)

And there are also some limitations, which actually aren't all that bad compared to most plans:

• Mental health disorders ($1000 max)
• Non-accidental dental treatments ($200 max, only with those who have extended insurance)

Claim Forms were in your welcome packet that your host family has. They are also on your intranet that you have access to. If you need to be reimbursed for something, the claim form must be filled out and sent to Chickering. In addition, the AP must send all receipts, itemized bills, police reports (if they exist) and any other relevant information. If you have questions regarding your policy or a claim, call Chickering at 800-783-7447.

Soccer Clubs in Seattle and Eastside

• Greater Seattle Soccer League - http://www.gssl.org/new_players.htm


• Co-Rec Soccer Association - http://www.co-recsoccer.com/


• Washington State Women's Soccer Association - http://www.wswsa.org/


• ** Arena Sports Adult Soccer - http://www.arenasports.net/adult-soccer


• ** City of Redmond Adult Sports Leagues (inc. soccer) - http://www.ci.redmond.wa.us/insidecityhall/parksrec/recreation/sportsleagues2.asp


• My Parks and Recreation - http://www.myparksandrecreation.com/ - for all eastside cities - I think they have soccer as well


• ** Bellevue Community College - http://www.bellevuecollege.edu/athletics/womenssoccer/

August AP Meeting

The monthly meeting will be at my home on Sunday, 8/17 at 1p. Check your email for the address and directions!

September AP/HF Meeting!

Each year Cultural Care Au Pair hosts a great family day/picnic. This year it will be on September 21st, at Marymoor Park. All host families, au pairs, kids and friends are welcome to attend this fun event.

This year, we are hoping to do something extra special - and collect food for Food Lifeline. They are a great local charity that focuses on helping families in need. Please bring along your donations of canned food, dried food, non-perishable foods or monetary donations.

Be sure to have this day on your calendar, and I can't wait to see you there!

What Hunger Looks Like in Western Washington

• Many of the people served by Food Lifeline are among the working poor. 62% of the households Food Lifeline serves count a job, social security, SSI, unemployment or disability as a main source of income.
• The profile for a hungry person in Western Washington continues to defy society's expectations. Nearly 45% of the individuals using a food bank, meal program or shelter in Western Washington have some form of post-secondary education. Only 15% are actually homeless.
• 37% of the hungry people Food Lifeline serves are children.
• 13% of the hungry people Food Lifeline serves are seniors.
• Hunger causes many families to have to make difficult choices.
• 51% of the hungry people Food Lifeline serves must choose between food and paying for heat.
• 40% of the hungry people Food Lifeline serves must choose between food and paying for medicine or medical care.
• 40% of the hungry people Food Lifeline serves must choose between food and rent.
• 88% of Food Lifeline's member food banks say that if they couldn't get food from a distribution agency such as Food Lifeline, it would have a significant or devastating impact on their program.
• Nearly 43% of the people who are emergency food recipients in Western Washington are food insecure with hunger. This means that these individuals do not know when they will eat again and often times go to bed hungry.

SeaFair 2008

Go back and check out the posting on SeaFair from May - there are tons of activities going on right now that are just fantastic! Here are some of the highlights:

July 12-13: Mercer Island Summer Celebration!12th - at Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island from 10a - 7p, with fireworks at dark
12th - Parade, Downtown Mercer Island at 10a
13th - downtown Mercer Island from 10a - 5p
July 12: Redmond Derby Days, Redmond City Hall, 10a - 10p
July 12-13: Seattle's Chinatown-International District Festival 2008, Hing Hay Park, 10a - 6p
July 12: Wallingford Seafair Kiddie Parade & Street Fair, Wallingford Avenue between 43rd and 45th, from 10a - 6p, Parade at 11a
July 17-20: Kla Ha Ya Days, Downtown Snohomish; Parade on the 19th at 11a
July 18-20: 23rd Annual Seafair Indian Days Pow Wow, Daybreak Indian Culture Center at Discovery Park
July 18-20: Kirkland Uncorked, Marina Park in Kirkland
July 20: Chinatown Seafair Parade, International District in Seattle, 7p (come and cheer on the families with children from China!!)
July 23: Greenwood Seafair Parade, Parade at 6p
July 23, 25-27: IKEA Renton River Days, Liberty Park in Renton
July 25-27: Covington Days Festival, Covington Multicare Clinic
July 26, 2008: Southwest Airlines Torchlight Parade at Seafair, Downtown on 4th Avenue, 7:30p
July 26-27: Ballard SeafoodFest, eat your way to happiness in downtown Ballard
July 30 - August 3 - Fleet Arrival and Tours, Pier 90
August 1-3, 2008: Chevrolet Cup at Seafair, South Lake Washington (see website for times)August 1-3, 2008: KeyBank Air Show at Seafair presented by Boeing, South Lake Washington (see website for times)

Bite of Seattle

Next weekend, July 18-20th, is the Bite of Seattle. Held at the Seattle Center, this is YOUR opportunity to spend the day trying out food from all the Seattle area restaurants that you haven't gone out to yet.

If you think you saw a lot of food at Folklife, this is nothing - this is all food, everywhere. Of course, there will be some entertainment and music, but the main attraction is fantastic food. Prepare to pace yourselves, and eat yourselves silly. (Look for more information on the late summer festival, Bumbershoot, if you are interested in great music from the whole world..)

Admission is FREE, and the food is usually $3-6 per sample.

Monthly AP Meetings

I wanted to reiterate to everyone that the monthly meetings are required for au pairs to attend - as well as the quarterly CEP (continuing education programs) that are offered at four of the meetings each year. If more than two meetings are missed, an au pair is not eligible to receive their deposit back at the end of the year.

If you have any questions about what we are or are not doing, times, places to be, etc - please let me know...

Check out what we are doing:
July 13 - Potluck Picnic at Phantom Lake Pool + CEP Summer Program - 3p
August 17 - Lara's House - 1p
September 21 - All CCAP AP/Host Family Picnic at Marymoor Park
October 19 - Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze - 1p
November 16 - Thanksgiving at Lara's + CEP Fall Program - 3p
December 14 - Christmas cookie exchange! (note: date change) - 1p
2009:
January 18 - AP's to choose and plan event!!!
February 19 - TBD + CEP Winter Program
March 15 - TBD
April 19 - Trip to the Tulip Fields
May 17 - TBD + CEP Spring Program
June 21 - TBD

Talking to You: Summer sun protection

As the weather gets warmer and summertime activities take all of us outside more and more, it’s a great time to remind ourselves as well as our au pairs of the importance of sun protection. Some au pairs may be used to a very different climate and may underestimate the power of the sun in their host family’s location. Also, the au pairs are setting an example for their host children so an au pair who shows responsible sun protection habits encourages their host children to follow suit.

We all have those bottles of sunscreen we’ve been keeping for a long time, but did you know that most sunscreen products expire within two to three years? As soon as a bottle of sunscreen is opened, the molecules that act as protection against UV rays begin to be exposed and over time they break down and lose their effectiveness. Always check the expiration date on the container for the date it becomes ineffective. Sunscreen can be expensive, but it’s better to pay that price than to pay the price of a day at the beach without sun protection!

Stipend Increase

Effective July 24th, the weekly stipend for au pairs will increase to $176.85. Since this falls in the middle of the week it is recommended that all au pairs will be paid at the new rate for the entire week of July 20th.

As a reminder, no money should be taken out of an au pairs weekly stipend to "pay back" the host family for expenses. Those should be paid by the au pair back to the HF, preferably with a check. Au pairs should not be paying host families for food, gas for the job, or the first $500 of their education requirement. If you have questions about what the au pair can pay for, and what a host family should pay for, please let me know!

Too much luggage going home?

Another LCC raised the question of what to do when an AP has acquired a LOT of stuff during their year in the US. Not just a bunch - we are talking about a LOT of stuff. What is the easiest way to get the luggage home? Do you ship through the post office? Through DHL? Through UPS?

My answer: bring it with you

I know that it seems like the airlines are nickel and diming everywhere trying to make up for lost revenue as they overspend on fuel. However, paying for one or two extra bags is still currently the cheapest way out there to bring home your stuff. Buy the extra duffel bags or suitcases, and bring it with you. A month ago I had a girl who brought 2 extra suitcases home. Each weighed in under 20 kilo's (barely) - but was charged only $50 per suitcase to bring them home to Germany. That is a fantastic deal.

Once you have your ticket, call your airline and find out what their rule is. Even if the cost is $75 or even $100, it's still a great deal. Shipping the same weight through USPS could cost you over $400! And, it's not trackable and it's not guaranteed. At least on the plane, it is trackable and arrives when you do.

Monthly AP Meetings

Hi All,

I'm trying to get us organized for the rest of the year, and wanted to remind you about the monthly au pair meetings. These are mandatory meetings for the AP's to attend and you should make sure that you and your HF have them scheduled. In some cases, I am able to work something out for your sign-in.

Our events are usually on the 3rd Sunday of each month. Here is what we have coming:

Check out what we are doing:
July 13 - Potluck Picnic (note: date change)
August 17 - TBD - have an idea? Let me know!
September 21 - All CCAP AP/Host Family Picnic at Marymoor Park
October 19 - Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze
November 16 - Thanksgiving
December 14 - Christmas cookie exchange! (note: date change)
January 18 - AP's to choose and plan event!!!
February 19 -
March 15 -
April 19 -

Everyone - please note! The AP's will choose and plan our January event! Let me know what you need, and I can help!

King County Libary System

We are lucky to have such a great library system here in King County. One of the first things I tell my AP's to do is to get themselves a Libary Card.



The library is a great activity for older kids - they can play on the computers, check out books that the school doesn't have, join the summer reading programs and just hang out. For younger kids, they offer great story times and other programs.


So - how to get started? Go to the King County Libary website and you can apply online for a libary card, or go to any library and apply. You must have some way to show your proof of address - either your drivers license, checks or something else with your address.


Once you have that, you can reserve books, movies, CD's, books on CD or tape - whatever you want. Why pay for Netflix when the library has hundreds of movies for you?

What else can you do at the library?

• Enroll your HF kids in the Summer Reading Program
• Computer time
• Classes (ESL, etc)
• Meet the authors of favorite books
• Story time
• Writing classes
• Get research help for college papers (or high school) from the librarian

Free ESL and Talk time offered

King County Libaries are offering ESL classes, talk time, literacy and citizenship classes. This may be a great, FREE opportunity for those AP's who want additional talk practice! Learn more about this at the KCLS website...

Check it out - and if you are interested, make sure you note if you need to register or not for the class.

Safety Tattoos for Kids

OK all, - I have found the coolest company on the web. One that makes you think: "Wow, I wish I had come up with this one!"

These guys create customized temporary tattoos for kids. They have over 20 different forms, and the examples below are just some of the ones they have (slightly larger than real life). I ordered mine, and in less than a week, had my shipment arrive. They work great - and look fantastic.

Dentist recommendation

Viivi swears by these guys. While they are a bit out of the way, they offer very good, and inexpensive, dental care.

Southeast Family Dental Clinic
3800 South Myrtle
Seattle, WA 98118

phone: 206-461-6981
fax: 206-461-8581

You have to show up 15 minutes early - or else your appointment may be given away. And if you can't make it, call one day ahead. However, with a letter from your HF stating your job role, and pay (weekly) with a copy of a weekly check, you qualify for the cheapest dental care available. Most weeks the co-pay is $25, but other times it is $0. Either way, it's great dental care. They do everything except for root canals. Still working on a source for that.

Directions from the Eastside:
I-90 Westbound to Rainier Avenue South
Follow Rainier South to the MLK Way split and follow MLK Way
South to Myrtle, and turn Right
Clinic 1 block down on the right side
Park in the lot

Underground

It was dark, dang and dingy. And it was tons of fun! The story of the Seattle underground is one of greed, loose women, and toilets with attitudes. Luckily, it is also a lot of fun... We learned a lot about Seattle history, toilets, and why Seattle is the way it is. For those who couldn't make it - you missed out!

River Rafting Rocks!

I've heard from a few of you, but will everyone please let me know a yes or no as to whether you will be attending? Host families are welcome to join in this fun day, and children over the age of 12 are welcome as well!

We will be on June 21, 2008. You may have heard what a great meeting this is. Many say it's the best meeting of the year - but I need to hear from you NOW if you want to attend! Checks will be due to me on May 15th.

Here are the details:The meeting is open to au pairs and any member of their host families. Children 12 and over are allowed to attend. We will need several drivers/cars to get everyone over to Leavenworth, so if you are a host parent and would like to go, please let me know.

This meeting includes the Eastside and all Seattle groups.

Schedule:
9:45a Meet at the Bothell Park and ride
10:00a We will leave promptly at 10a for Leavenworth
1:00p - 5:30p Lunch and river rafting
6:00p - 8:00p Dinner in Leavenworth
10:00p Return (to the Bothell Park and Ride)

Cost is $60.00 per person (includes the cost of life jacket, wetsuit, booties, etc.) In addition, everyone not driving will be asked to give $8.00 towards gas to the driver of their car to offset gas prices.

The website can be found at: http://www.riverrider.com/ - check it out and let me know if you would like to attend!

Doctor

So, finding a decent doctor is hard. Finding a decent doctor who takes Erika Insurance is another. There is a great doctor in Bellevue who sees a lot of au pairs. Dr. Hanson is pretty good, easy to get into, and easy to speak with. Consider giving her a call when you need a doc.

Dr. Gwen Hanson
Rockwood Office Park
1409 140th Place NE, Suite 106
Bellevue, 98007
425-614-1205

Urgent Care - for Au Pair:

When you don't have time for the doctor, you may need to go to urgent care. The best clinics that I like are in Issaquah. There are two off of I-90 in Issaquah - one off of Front Street, and one off of the Costco exit (#15 - that is the Swedish urgent care). Neither take Erika (I've tried) - but they are fast and easy to deal with.

Emergency Room - for Au Pair:

I recommend Evergreen in Kirkland (#1) and then Overlake in Bellevue. Yes - Overlake is closer, but I have a preference for Evergreen since they have such a great ER team of physicians... and yes, my dad being an ED doc does influence this.

Seafair 2008

For over 50 years, Seattlites have been celebrating Seafair in the Northwest. A month-long celebration that includes parades, lots to eat, fireworks, and more is capped with a weekend of hyroplane races and performances by the Blue Angels. And, no matter where you are in the area, this is THE celebration of summer.

A not so complete list of events (my picks in BOLD):
June 29, 2008: VM Team Medicine Seafair Marathon
July 4 - 6: 32nd Annual Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival, at the South end of Lake Union
July 5, 2008: Allstate Milk Carton Derby at Seafair at Greenlake, 10a - 4p
July 5, 2008: Seafair Pirate Landing, Alki Beach in West Seattle (http://seafairpirates.org/)
July 6: Hispanic Seafair Organization, Seattle Center, 11a - 6p
July 10-13: Kent Cornucopia Days, Downtown Kent
July 12-13: Mercer Island Summer Celebration!
12th - at Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island from 10a - 7p, with fireworks at dark
12th - Parade, Downtown Mercer Island at 10a
13th - downtown Mercer Island from 10a - 5p
July 12: Redmond Derby Days, Redmond City Hall, 10a - 10p
July 12-13: Seattle's Chinatown-International District Festival 2008, Hing Hay Park, 10a - 6p
July 12: Wallingford Seafair Kiddie Parade & Street Fair, Wallingford Avenue between 43rd and 45th, from 10a - 6p, Parade at 11a
July 17-20: Kla Ha Ya Days, Downtown Snohomish; Parade on the 19th at 11a
July 18-20: 23rd Annual Seafair Indian Days Pow Wow, Daybreak Indian Culture Center at Discovery Park
July 18-20: Kirkland Uncorked, Marina Park in Kirkland
July 19-20: Seattle Bon Odori, Seattle Buddhist Church, 1427 S Main Street, Seattle
July 19: The Crown of Queen Anne Fun Run, Walk & Children's Parade, Parade at 11a
July 19: West Seattle Hi-Yu Parade, California Avenue (at Lander) in West Seattle, Kid Parade at 10:30a and Parade at 11a
July 20, 2008: Benaroya Research Institute Triathlon at Seafair, at Seward Park, 7a (register here if you want to participate)
July 20: Chinatown Seafair Parade, International District in Seattle, 7p (come and cheer on the families with children from China!!)
July 23: Greenwood Seafair Parade, Parade at 6p
July 23, 25-27: IKEA Renton River Days, Liberty Park in Renton
July 24-27: Tour de Terrace, Mountlake Terrace, 4p - 6p
July 25-27: Covington Days Festival, Covington Multicare Clinic
July 26, 2008: Wells Fargo Torchlight Run at Seafair, at Qwest Field, 6:30p (register here if you want to participate)
July 26, 2008: Southwest Airlines Torchlight Parade at Seafair, Downtown on 4th Avenue, 7:30p
July 26-27: Ballard SeafoodFest, eat your way to happiness in downtown Ballard
July 27: McDonald's presents Pista Sa Nayon, celebrate Filipino Americans at Seward Park Amphitheater, 9a - 8p
July 30 - August 3 - Fleet Arrival and Tours, Pier 90
August 1-3, 2008: Chevrolet Cup at Seafair, South Lake Washington (see website for times)
August 1-3, 2008: KeyBank Air Show at Seafair presented by Boeing, South Lake Washington (see website for times)
August 2: Concert and Fireworks Show, South Lake Washington
August 16-17: Central Area Community Festival & Parade

English Classes

Redmond Public Library is offering FREE ESL classes on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3p. The class is coordinated by Cascadia College, which is accredited, so if you take the class, the hours will count. Just be sure to get a certificate with the hours!

Monthly AP Meetings

Hi All,

I'm trying to get us organized for the rest of the year, and wanted to remind you about the monthly au pair meetings. These are mandatory meetings for attendance, however, if you cannot make it for some reason, please contact me and we'll work something out for your sign-in.

For the most part, you can plan on having our events on the 3rd Sunday of each month, unless I list otherwise.

We have some great events coming up. Check out what we are doing:
May 18 - Underground Tour
June 15 - River Rafting
July 13 - Potluck Picnic (note: date change)
August 17 - TBD - have an idea? Let me know!
September 21 - All CCAP AP/Host Family Picnic at Marymoor Park
October 19 - Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze
November 16 - Thanksgiving
December 14 - Christmas cookie exchange! (note: date change)

Underground Tour

Well, it's official. Our next AP gathering is going to be on Sunday, May 18th. We will meet at 12p at my home in Seattle, and at 12:45p outside the Underground Tour in Pioneer Square in Seattle.

We will take the 1p tour, and be done by 2p. Bring any friends who want to come along. However - I need a final count no later than Friday, the 16th! So let me know if you want to come on this fun tour! Cost is $14 for an adult, or $12 if you have a college ID (BCC, student ID from your home country, etc).

Pools

While we are more known for clouds and rain, we have some great pools around. Here is a list for Eastsiders to know about:

Bellevue City Municipal Pool - indoor, heated, lessons
Phantom Lake Club (Bellevue) - outdoor, not heated, lessons
Samena Club (Bellevue) - indoor, heated, lessons
Kirkland City Municipal Pool - outdoor, not heated, lessons
Issaquah City Municipal Pool - indoor, not heated, lessons
Northwest Center runs multiple indoor pools - Juanita (Kirkland), Redmond, Bothell and Mercer Island

Kirkland, Phantom Lake and other outdoor pools are only open in the summer. Everyone else has public swimming time and lessons year round. My personal favorite for indoor is the Bellevue pool, since you can hang out in the theraputic pool which is toasty warm. Favorite outdoor is the Kirkland City pool.

And, if you are looking for an adventure, I would not count out the Great Wolf Lodge!

Maps

Where to find great online maps:
Mapquest
Microsoft
Google
Yahoo

There are also great maps locally available, if you like a printed out version. Hit up your local grocery store, and you should find them near the check out lanes. While printed maps may be passe, they give you a lay of the land, and let you get to know where it is that you are now living.

The Bus

It seems that in the US, it is all about cars. Well, Americans do seem to have a love affair with the car, but the Bellevue/Seattle area is a great place to get around by bus.

Rates are low, there are often close stops or transit stations, and it is much easier to get around - and frankly, cheap compared to the current cost of gas. King County offers a great online trip planner for using the buses. It allows you to in put your current location, and where you are going to - and decide if you want to get there through less walking, shortest trip, or fewest transfers. Check it out!

Question: Who is responsible to get the AP to school?

So, there is so much information - that sometimes it is hard to get through it all. One of the main things that au pairs get to do is to go to school while they are here in the US. Each au pair is required to take 6 credits - or 72 classroom hours - during the year they are here.

It is the responsibility of a host family to pay for up to $500 of tuition, books and supplies towards the educational requirement. A host family is also responsible to get the au pair to and from their classes during the year. That can be by driving them to and from class, or letting them use the car to get to class. Giving bus fare doesn't count - they have to provide the transportation to get to and from the class (as well as their monthly meetings).

The other transportation responsibility of the host family is to get the au pair to the monthly au pair meetings (sign in meetings).

Tulips

We had a great trip to the tulips with Juliana, Peter, Ivona and Angie - and Lucy from Seattle! It was a ton of fun, very pretty day - and not too much rain. We met up with Ryan and Maugi for just a few minutes - and they were off. I'll post the pretty pictures later....

CCAP featured on front page of local paper

Guess who made the front page just a week ago? One of the local LCC's, talking about au pairs as a great way to have childcare and an international experience!

Talking to You: Happy Mothers Day

On Sunday, May 11th, mothers across the country will be honored with special breakfasts, flowers, cards, and other treats as families say thank you for the special love that only a mom can provide to her family. While moms play a major role in their own family, they also play an important role in our Cultural Care Au Pair family as well.

Mother’s Day is celebrated at different times throughout the world and in different ways, so sending out this kind of message can be a great way to share an aspect of American culture and tradition with them. The history of Mother’s Day can be found on the following Wikipedia link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mother.

Here are some great websites for the au pairs to check out to help them come up with some crafty ways to help their host children honor their mommy in celebration of Mother’s Day:

• http://www.mothersdayideas.org/


• http://www.amazingmoms.com/htm/holiday_mothersday.htmhttp://www.dltk-holidays.com/mom/index.htmlhttp://www.dltk-holidays.com/mom/index.html


• http://familyfun.go.com/parties/holiday/minisite/mothers-day-main-ms/


• http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/mothers-day/index.html

To Skype or not to Skype

Well - first off, I have to make the note that I love Microsoft. And because of that love, I fall on the side of "not to Skype". Why pay hard earned money for credits to call international, when all it takes is instant messenger (pick your flavor) and a webcam with a microphone?

And - it's cheap. For $20-40 of initial investment for each PC, you have what ever you need to talk overseas with no additional charges!

Cell Phones

Ok. So - cell phones may just be what the the world revolves around. Or maybe, at least the center of the universe for anyone over 14. However, the rules of cell phone engagement are different in the US compared to the rest of the world. So - according to Viivi, here they are - in no particular order:

Texting - you can't do unlimited texting - it actually can cost alot in the US. You actually have to pay (use minutes) if someone is texting you here. Some cell plans can add unlimited texting - talk to your HF about adding a text plan if you need it.

Calls - you pay for both incoming and outgoing calls. Back at home, it was only the outgoing calls that we paid for. This can cost a lot of minutes if you aren't careful.

Calls from home - they should call the home phone, not your cell phone. The home phone is free (basically) and won't cost anything for an incoming call...

Home phone - if you are home, use the your HF phone for calls - it doesn't cost like your cell phone will. They pay a flat rate for having the phone, and local calls are free. Some plans make US long distance pretty cheap, so check with your HF about that too.

Voice mail - Set up your voice mail box and leave a message "Hi, this is Viivi.." and know how to pick up your voice mail. In the US, everyone leaves messages for you, so know how to access the VM on your phone.

Contact List - many HF's just pass down a cell phone from AP to AP. Be sure they have helped to program in all of the most important numbers into the phone. Doctor, dentist, school office, all parent contact numbers, and more...

If you have to get your own phone, think about what you need. There are two ways to get phones in the US. You can sign up with a major carrier, and get a phone and a plan. If you do a lot of calling, this may be the way to go. You'll have to sign a one-year contract, but since you are here for a year, it may work out.



There are also pre-paid phones that you can get. Get the phone, and then purchase pre-paid cards from retailers to restock the phone with minutes. Convenient, and pay as you go, but it usually winds up being a lot more expensive than other plans.



And, once you have a phone, remember to let your LCC know your number, along with your family - so they can get ahold of you!

Calling Cards

There are lots of calling cards to use. We've had great luck with Union Telecard. They have a Europe Blue card that has worked well - try it out...

CCAP Marketing Video

Starbucks

Well, one of the first things to learn about is that everyone around here loves their coffee. And they love their hometown coffee company Starbucks -- and if you are a local au pair, you love Starbucks on Tuesday night.

Every Tuesday, sometime after 8p au pair's from all different agencies gather at the local Starbucks in downtown Bellevue. It's a great time to meet new folks, find other AP's from your own country, or from CCAP, or just someone new to meet. Chances are, if they are under 25, they are AP's.


The address is located at:


3 Bellevue Cntr, 601 108th Avenue NE, Bellevue, WA 98004

Social Security Cards

Well, we have gotten by just fine without getting a social card for any of my au pairs yet. However, there are situations that would making having the number easier: registering for school, going to urgent care or the doctor, etc.

We are lucky - the closest SSA office is located in downtown Bellevue. Again, get there early for fast processing. The local office is located at:

Ste 301, 505 106th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004(800) 772-1213
Get directions

Here is a quick fact sheet from SSA on social security cards, how to apply, etc.

Drivers License

Usually the first thing that folks ask about is how to get their WA state license. About half of the insurance companies seem to require a WA state license in order to insure a driver.

The WA State Department of Licensing oversee's the issuing of a license. If you are lucky driver, with an international license from the countries listed below - all you need to do is walk in and get a license.

• Germany

If you are not included in my not neccesarily comprehensive list above, you will have to take both a written test and pass a driving test in order to get your license. Luckily the state has a great website with information.

If you are not going to drive, I recommend a WA State ID - which you can use in place of your passport.

There are also online tests to practice before you head over to one of the local test locations. I'd recommend passing at 90% or greater, since the actual tests are a bit harder.

You can pick up a Drivers Guide at the different Eastside test locations. While you can pick up your guide anywhere, when you go to take the test, we have had a lot of issues with the Kirkland location. Just skip them. I've had good luck with Bellevue, and North Bend.

Here is the list of local offices:

• Bellevue
• Bothell
• Kirkland
• North Bend
• Renton

This website rocks - it shows the local offices, has directions on how to get to them, and even shows the wait times in the lobby. My recommendation: be at the front door waiting in line when they open.

New to the AP Blog world

I'm a new LCC for an AP agency. For those who don't know what an AP is, an AP is an Au Pair - usually a student from another country who comes and lives with a host family, becomes one of the family, goes to school - and does up to 45 hours a week of childcare for a family.

I'm hoping to make things easier for my AP's by offering information on things to do in the Seattle/Bellevue area, how get get around - and how to get things done. Comment if you want some information - and I'll get it covered!