Tempe Sister Cities: Bringing the World Together, One Friendship at a Time

I think this might be a good time to introduce you to the organization I am representing. Visiting New Zealand is in and of itself amazing, but being a Tempe Sister Cities Educator Exchange delegate is opening doors to opportunities and conversations unique to this travel experience. So, please meet Tempe Sister Cities:

Tempe Sister Cities: Bringing the World Together, One Friendship at a Time...
Our student exchange, educator exchange, and professional exchange programs help promote international good will and cultural understanding. Tempe Sister Cities’ encourages cross-cultural cooperation and collaboration by building friendships between people and partnerships between communities.

Now I'd like to introduce you to who I am staying with on this exchange. Kathy is a principal at Boulcott School in Lower Hutt. Her husband, Tony, is an IT expert in nearby Wellington. They immediately welcomed me with open arms and traditional New Zealand hospitality and within 24 hours, I felt like part of their family. I love how living with a family as I visit New Zealand is providing me with the opportunity to be immersed in the culture of the country while experiencing it's unique charm and beauty. Along with Kathy and Tony, I am closely connected with the other Tempe teacher, Crissi, who was selected for this experience and her host family - Anne-Marie and husband, Kerry. Together, we are in for a keen (very popular New Zealander word) adventure!

 

Kathy and I both love the power of words... All around the Wellington waterfront are quotes. This one says, "It's true you can't live here by chance. You have to do and be, not simply watch or even describe. This is the city of action. The world headquarters of the verb."  : )

Kathy & Tony with a traditional New Zealand cake called Pavlova. 

Tempe/Lower Hutt Sister Cities Delegates: Kathy, Janice, Crissi, & Anne-Marie