Welcome to your Host Forum, proudly administered by Canada Homestay International! http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/index.php Sun, 20 May 2012 12:23:06 -0400 Phorum 5.2.14 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,251#msg-251 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,251#msg-251
Ingredients

5 jalapeno peppers, stems removed
3 fresh tomatillos, husks removed - stemmed and halved
1/2 yellow onion
2 cloves garlic
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
water, or as needed to cover

1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cubes chicken bouillon
1 sprig fresh cilantro

vegetable oil
20 (6 inch) corn tortillas
1 (12 ounce) package queso fresco (Mexican fresh cheese), shredded
1/2 head lettuce, shredded
1 small red onion, chopped
5 tablespoons sour cream, or to taste (optional)
Directions

Place jalapeno peppers, tomatillos, yellow onion, garlic, and cumin in a blender; pour in enough water to cover the vegetables. Blend until liquified, about 1 minute.
Heat 1/3 cup vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat just until oil has begun to warm, about 30 seconds; pour the blended jalapeno mixture into the oil. Stir in chicken bouillon cubes and cilantro. Reduce heat to medium and cook sauce for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove green sauce from heat and allow to stand while you complete remaining steps.
Heat 1 cup vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Using a tongs, place each tortilla into the hot oil and fry for a few seconds on each side. Tortillas will be pliable; do not overcook.
Immerse the fried tortilla into the green sauce to coat; place tortilla on a serving plate. Sprinkle tortilla with about 2 teaspoons shredded queso fresco cheese and roll into a thin enchilada. It's easiest if one person is frying tortillas while another person dips in sauce, fills with cheese, and rolls the tortillas.
Place enchiladas onto serving plates; spoon with remaining green sauce and sprinkle with remaining queso fresco cheese. Spread shredded lettuce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with chopped red onion. Top servings with a tablespoon of sour cream.

]]> nathan Food & Meals Tue, 15 May 2012 17:55:09 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,250#msg-250 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,250#msg-250

Korean Spicy Chicken and Potato

8-10 chicken drumsticks (I remove the skin)
3-4 large yukon gold potatoes, cut into large chunks
3-4 large carrots, cut into 2 inch pieces
1 large onion cut into 8 pieces

4 cloves garlic, crushed
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons white sugar
3 tablespoons hot pepper sauce (Hot Chili Sauce)

In a large pot over medium heat, put the chicken, potatoes, carrots and onion. Mix together the crushed garlic, water (I use a little more than 1/4 cup), soy sauce, sugar, and hot pepper sauce and pour over vegetables. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer covered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken juices run clear and vegetables are tender. Traditionally served with white rice. Serves 4]]> nathan Food & Meals Tue, 15 May 2012 17:49:09 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,226#msg-226 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,226#msg-226

Quick Beef Bulgogi

Bulgogi, a Korean marinated beef dish, is traditionally served with white rice and kimchi, a spicy Korean condiment. If you can't find Asian pears, use any firm pear. (Note.....none of my Korean students have ever liked (and will not even eat!) the kimchi that can be purchased here....apparently it is nothing like the kimchi that they get at home!)

3 Tbsp sodium reduced soy sauce
2 tbsp mirin or white wine
1 tbsp each granulated sugar and sesame seeds
1 tbsp sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp minced fresh ginger
4 green onions, thinly sliced
Half of an asian pear, peeled and grated (about 1/3 cup)
1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin grilling steak, thinly sliced
1 tsp vegetable oil

In bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sesame seeds, sesame oil, garlic, ginger and all but 2 tbsp of the onions until sugar dissolves.

Stir in pear and beef; cover and let stand for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to two hours. Drain off marinade.

In wok or skillet, heat vegetable oil over high heat; stir-fry beef mixture until beef is browned, about 3 minutes. Garnish with remaining green onions. Serve with white rice.

Serves 4. Per serving about 204 cal, 24 g pro, 9g total fat (3g sat. fat) 6g carb (1g dietary fibre, 3g sugar), 53 mg chol, 293 mg sodium, 361 mg potassium.



-Thanks for sharing Bonnie!]]> nathan Food & Meals Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:41:44 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,95,225#msg-225 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,95,225#msg-225
[justgoabroad.wordpress.com]

Have you noticed other trends that precede homesickness? Please share!]]> nathan Challenges & Solutions Thu, 12 Apr 2012 12:38:26 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,221,224#msg-224 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,221,224#msg-224
For all those hosts out there who are not in Ottawa, would you like to see this kind of event in your home towns as well? If so, please let us know by replying to this thread, or emailing us at hostcommunity [at] canadahomestayinternational.com.]]> nathan Food & Meals Thu, 12 Apr 2012 12:35:12 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,223,223#msg-223 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,223,223#msg-223
The short answer is: maybe.

Canada Homestay International advises all hosts to give their insurer a call and explain their hosting activities. We have been unable to give a concrete response to this question because different insurers have different interpretations of the hosting relationship. Some will consider, as we do, the student to be a member of the family, and recognize that the hosting stipend is only there to defray expenses and ensure that cost doesn't prohibit anyone from participating in this program. Other companies see the hosting stipend as payment for service, which they feel is outside the realm of typical guest visits.

So please check with your provider and make sure that hosting isn't affecting your policy!]]> nathan General Discussion Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:31:32 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,222#msg-222 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,222#msg-222 Throw the following into a food processor (or blender)
1 can rinsed and drained beans (black or small white beans work well),
3 eggs,
3 tbs oil,
4 tbs cocoa powder,
pinch of salt,
1 tsp vanilla,
I also throw in a handful of fresh greens- usually spinach
mix ingredients together in a blender/food processor until pureed.
Pour into a greased 8 x 8 cake pan. Stir in 1/2- 1bag chocolate chips,
Bake 350 approx 30 mins - enjoy!]]> jmackie Food & Meals Wed, 28 Mar 2012 17:44:55 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,221,221#msg-221 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,221,221#msg-221 Where: The Real Canadian Superstore in Westboro 190 Richmond Rd., Ottawa. It will be held in the cooking school on the second floor.
When: Saturday, April 14, 2012
10am-12pm (Chinese Cuisine)
- OR -
2pm-4pm (South American / Brazilian Cuisine)
Cost: $20 per attendee, per session

Please contact Jennifer (613) 686-6764 ext 2042 to sign up! Limited placements!

Are you interested in a class like this in YOUR locality? Please contact me! Use your local phone number, and dial extension 2042.]]> jmackie Food & Meals Wed, 28 Mar 2012 17:38:27 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?11,219,219#msg-219 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?11,219,219#msg-219 team page to put faces to names and learn a little about who your local Relationship Managers and Interviewers are. You can also see photos of us an many of our hosts and students on our Facebook page. Check 'em out!]]> nathan Introductions Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:52:57 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?2,218,218#msg-218 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?2,218,218#msg-218
In an effort to build a lasting reference section for our hosts, we have been building up two online resources where hosts can go for things like commonly requested documents such as our Travel Permission Form, cultural tips, hosting policies, and the tools to update your profiles.

For most of our hosts, our Host Portal is the main online resource. Each host has a unique username and password to access our portal, which requires registering to use it before you'll be able to log in. Once you have logged in, you will be able to:

[*] Update your host profile family or home photo
[*] update your banking information or sign up for direct deposit
[*] access our cultural resources pages
[*] see an archive of our "Canadian Hosts" newsletter
[*] download many hosting forms
[*] and more!

You can see why we keep this area secure! Our host wikis are online community hubs that are specific to individual cities. Presently we have host wikis in Ottawa, ON; Coquitlam, BC; and Victoria, BC. Our host wikis are less secure, some being open to the public while some use shared log-in information for all users. Another important feature of the wiki is that the content is editable by anyone. We use wikis for community-specific or group-specific information, so that hosts can comment or ask questions about the information posted in a way that lets other hosts see the conversation.

If you have trouble using, or any questions about either system, please don't hesitate to contact us!]]> nathan Tech Support Forum Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:12:20 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,216,216#msg-216 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,216,216#msg-216
One of our hosts recently shared her experience with a student from China, who around mid January began to feel a little down. Our host was very perceptive, and was able to pick up on this quickly. Though the student couldn't initially put her finger on what was bringing her down either, the host's intuition lead her to dig a little deeper. Eventually they together realized that the student missing Chinese New Year was at least a part of her malaise. This lead to an interesting cultural discussion, in which the host learned a lot about Chinese culture. The student was able to express herself and in the process of sharing about the customs in China at this time of year, was able to shake off some of her blues. This is the kind of experience that makes homestay such a wonderful exchange for the student and host!

We encourage hosts to take seasonal celebrations as opportunities for exchange with their students. There are lots of places online to learn about holidays around the world, including Canada Homestay International's Facebook page, where we often highlight important international dates. That said, the very best place to learn about the holidays in your student's home country is from your student. Take a few minutes and ask them to tell you about any festivities back home they'll be missing while staying with you. It may help your student avoid some homesick blues, and you may learn a lot!]]> nathan General Discussion Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:05:42 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,214#msg-214 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,214#msg-214
Hash Brown Casserole:

Combine a bag of hash browns with a 500 ml. container of sour cream, 2 cans of cream soup (can use mushroom, celery, cream of chicken, any cream soup), chopped onions and 1/2 Cup of melted butter. Place mixture in casserole dish or 9x13 cake pan. top with shredded cheddar and bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees.

I have also made it more cheesy by adding a can of cream of cheddar soup and have made the topping more crunchy by adding crumbled corn flakes. You can play around with this recipe and it is always a favourite!]]> Joanne Food & Meals Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:02:49 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,213#msg-213 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,213#msg-213

A butter tart is a type of small pastry tart highly regarded in Canadian cuisine and considered one of Canada's quintessential desserts. The tart consists of butter, sugar, syrup, and egg filled into a flaky pastry and baked until the filling is semi-solid with a crunchy top.

This is my mother's recipe but there are many variations of these popular tarts.
This will make a dozen tarts.

1 Cup white sugar
1 cup raisins
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1/3 Cup butter
4 TBSP cream
1/2 Cup broken walnuts (optional)

Beat eggs. Combine with remaining ingredients except nuts and boil at medium heat for 3 minutes. Add nuts if desired. Fill unbaked tart shells and bake for 15 minutes at 375 degrees. My son does not like raisins so I have substituted raisins for coconut and the new coconut tart has been a big hit also!]]> Joanne Food & Meals Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:57:16 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,212#msg-212 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,212#msg-212

Nanaimo Bars
it all began when a Nanaimo housewife entered a recipe for chocolate squares in a magazine contest some 35 years ago. She called her recipe 'Nanaimo Bars' and when she won the contest, not only did her dessert become popular throughout Canada, so did the town they were named after. These no-bake, three layered bars are famous for a reason, they are delicious. They start with a crumb base, followed by a layer of light custard buttercream, and the crowning glory is a smooth and glossy layer of semi sweet chocolate.

Nanaimo Bars: Butter or spray a 9 x 9 inch (23 x 23 cm) pan with a non stick vegetable spray.

Bottom Layer: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar and cocoa powder and then gradually whisk in the beaten egg. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (1 - 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and chopped nuts. Press the mixture evenly onto the bottom of the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm (about an hour).

Middle Layer: In your electric mixer, or with a hand mixer, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Add the remaining ingredients and beat until the mixture is smooth. If the mixture is too thick to spread, add a little more milk. Spread the filling over the bottom layer, cover, and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes).

Top Layer: Chop the chocolate into small pieces. Then, in a heatproof bowl, over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the filling and refrigerate for about 10 minutes or just until the chocolate has set. Using a sharp knife, cut into squares.

Yield: Makes about 25 squares. Preparation time 45 minutes.



Bottom Layer:

1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature

1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated white sugar

1/3 cup (30 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder (regular or Dutch-processed)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups (200 grams) graham cracker crumbs or crushed Digestive Biscuits

1 cup (65 grams) sweetened or unsweetened coconut (shredded or flaked)

1/2 cup (50 grams) walnuts or pecans, coarsely chopped

Middle Layer:

1/4 cup (56 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature

2 - 3 tablespoons milk or cream

2 tablespoons (20 grams) vanilla custard powder (Bird's) or vanilla pudding powder

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups (230 grams) powdered sugar (confectioners or icing) sugar

Top Layer:

4 ounces (120 grams) semisweet chocolate

1 tablespoon (14 grams) unsalted butter]]> Joanne Food & Meals Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:48:33 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,211#msg-211 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,211#msg-211
For Sun her favourite Canadian meal is eggs and bacon.

I will ask Sun about a Korean meal to share.

Lynn Thygesen
Host mom for Korean Student named Sun]]> Joanne Food & Meals Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:41:43 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,209,210#msg-210 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,209,210#msg-210
Please keep in mind that you will not be the first person to suggest a responsible lifestyle is expected of each and every student: all students are bound by the Student Participation Agreement they signed before coming, and the guidelines and obligations of their student programs. Together these documents outline the expectations imposed upon students with respect to academic performance, as well as behaviour and conduct. Each of these documents also supports the homestay family as an authority for the students, stating that compliance with the rules of their homestay home is expected.


Have you had challenges or success in enforcing curfews or getting the full story about where your students are going in the evening? Please share your experiences here!]]> nathan Challenges & Solutions Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:24:20 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,209,209#msg-209 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,209,209#msg-209
1 - Your student should discuss with you their plan for a day or an evening out, in advance, providing all details.
2 - These details should include where they are going, whom they will be with and their cell numbers, when they will be home (curfew for that event), and how they will be travelling to and from their excursion. You should evaluate together whether it sounds like "a good plan."

As you discuss these social opportunities with them, you will want to take a number of factors into account, as you would if they were your own children:
a) are they in good health and have they been at school all week;
b) is there anything you have planned for the family that would be compromised by their absence;
c) do you know their companions and are you comfortable with their character and judgment;
d) has your student been briefed on what you expect them to do if plans change;
e) do they know how to keep themselves safe (dress, behavior, choices);
f) is their cell phone charged and will it be on;
g) do they have your numbers and a taxi company number in their cell phones;
h) do they have $30 on them at all times to take a taxi if they find themselves in an uncomfortable situation, or their bus has unaccountably stopped running.]]> nathan Challenges & Solutions Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:23:16 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,207,208#msg-208 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,207,208#msg-208
I have had to ask around among our CHI team for the answer to this question. The following response comes to us from Toronto Relationship Manager Jacqueline:

We have seen this kind of problem before with differing information required by different banks. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a universal answer. We have found success in the past by having the bank abroad contact the Canadian bank directly themselves, so that they may sort it out.

I hope that's helpful!]]> nathan Challenges & Solutions Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:29:41 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,207,207#msg-207 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,207,207#msg-207 lisa j Challenges & Solutions Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:58:03 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,205,206#msg-206 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,205,206#msg-206
Students: 70%
Hosts: 20%
Homestay: 10%]]> Tom & Kathy General Discussion Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:31:46 -0500 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,205,205#msg-205 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,205,205#msg-205
We would love to get your perspective. If there were 100 points of responsibility to disperse among the following parties, how would your estimation of the distribution of responsibility go?

[*] students
[*] host families
[*] homestay coordinators
[*] natural parents
[*] the student's agent or representative
[*] the school board
[*] others?

There is no correct answer to this question, so we would love to hear your opinion!]]> nathan General Discussion Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:47:50 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,10,204#msg-204 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,10,204#msg-204
Between a well-coordinated schedule, frank discussion, clock in the washroom, and an efficient shower head, we are sure to curtail this behaviour. Thank you all for your input!]]> nathan Challenges & Solutions Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:36:53 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,10,203#msg-203 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,10,203#msg-203
Installed low flow shower headson all showers and low flow faucet adapters..from this company. Really works well.]]> Neil Challenges & Solutions Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:09:23 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,200,202#msg-202 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,200,202#msg-202
Thank you for your questions!

You've outlined some sticky situations that need to be addressed. It sounds like you have taken the correct approach by starting with a conversation with your student. It might sound obvious, but so often we assume that everyone understands our expectations. By communicating your household rules and policies clearly, you are taking that very common assumption away.

Not listed in your post here is what you did as step number two: you contacted your local CHI Relationship Manager. The grievances you're voicing are serious concerns, and need to be addressed quickly. In situations like this, it's definitely recommended to bring our staff into the conversation. For the benefit of our readers who were not close to this situation, our support came in the form of a conversation with the hosts, followed by a conversation with the student. Once we've made sure that we understand where everyone is coming from and have been able to close any gaps or clear up any misunderstandings in the conversations, we can then address the behaviour.

Our students sign a contract, either with Canada Homestay International or with their school or school board. In these contracts, we outline our expectations of students, which includes respecting the rules of their homestay, among other things. The students' participation in our homestay program, and often in the schools' academic programs is contingent upon their compliance with the terms of these contracts. This is a powerful tool for CHI staff to use in order to keep expectations of the program clear, and to curtail any behaviour that is not consistent with our program standards.]]> nathan Challenges & Solutions Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:05:17 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,200,200#msg-200 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,200,200#msg-200
1. bedroom cleanliness: couple of times, I caught a glimpse of her room when she left the door open while in the washroom. Her stuff was all over the place. it was extremely messy to the point where I can't even see the floor or let alone unsure if it is safe or not to walk around in the room. I have asked her to vacuum the floor, and she took everything off the floor and put everything back again.

2. boyfriend visit: I laid down the rule that we do not allow overnight stay for any friend of the opposite sex. but what do we do if they stay in the bedroom and engage in sexual activity while we're not home?

3. grocery shopping: I brought her to the supermarket the first time so I know what kind of food she likes. since then, she has asked us to bring her to supermarket few times and one time she ended up buying a whole bunch of snacks and costs us $50. We've told her that anything above/beyond what we provide, like snacks and food that she wants to buy only for her own/her friend's consumption while at our house is her own responsibility. even after that, it didn't seem to sink in to her mind. Yesterday, she asked us to bring her to supermarket so she can buy snacks for her friend when they come over and celebrate her birthday at home. But, she doesn't want to pay for it herself and wants us to pay. So we told her again about the rule and she ended up just buying a bag of doritos :s.

We are very confused on what to do or how to approach her differently. Any input will be highly appreciated.

Thanks
Maria & Alex]]> maria.santoso Challenges & Solutions Thu, 13 Oct 2011 13:21:01 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,199,199#msg-199 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?13,199,199#msg-199 Brrr!

While some winters are better than others, it goes without saying that Canada is often colder than a lot of other countries (even in the spring and fall). This year, forecasters are calling for an even chillier winter than normal in Alberta and BC. See the story here: [www.cbc.ca]

Acclimatizing to the Climate

We often hear about students who have trouble adjusting to the cold winters (though they also want to see snow!).

[*] I know of one host whose student left his bedroom window open at night in September and October, to help his body adjust to the cool air.
[*] Other students simply invest in winter outerwear, though may need to be encouraged to wear more than just a t-shirt under their parka!

What do you do to help your students get used to the weather, if they arrive in the fall?

Heated Debate

We also hear about students who find our homes are kept uncomfortably cold. I have a programmable thermostat that drops the daytime temperature to 18C (65F). In the evening it goes to 20C (68F) but overnight we lower it to 16.7 (62F).

[*] We dress more warmly in the winter, with long underwear and other layers. I work from home, and sometimes I bundle up with a blanket if I'm sitting for long periods.
[*]Some hosts allow their students to use a space heater in their rooms, though this can become costly if they forget to turn it off.
[*]If you don't have one already, I would strongly encourage everyone to invest in a programmable thermostat. Not only will they reduce your annual heating costs...(As a general rule, you will save 2 percent on your heating bill for every 1°C you turn down the thermostat overnight. Reference: [oee.nrcan.gc.ca])... but you can also satisfy your student's need for warmth by turning it up only when your student is home in the evenings, say from 5:00-9:00 pm.

I explain to my students that my thermostat settings are mainly motivated by a desire to reduce energy consumption. This is a great opportunity to talk about Canadian views on energy use and climate change, and can segue into conversations about recycling, transportation and so on!

If you start to talk about the rising cost of fuel (electricity, gas, etc.) - you risk treading on very thin ice (pun intended). Some students believe that the money they are paying for homestay should cover all costs related to their comfort, heat included. We advise hosts to steer clear of any conversations about the cost of hosting, whether or not your students have asked for an explanation. Keep your relationship focused on hospitality, and you won't regret it!

Do you think it's fair to keep your house cool, or should hosts increase their thermostat settings?

Share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a comment on this thread!]]> Jennifer Challenges & Solutions Wed, 12 Oct 2011 16:44:30 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,20,198#msg-198 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?14,20,198#msg-198
Many are probably already familiar with Groupon, but for those who aren't, it is well worth adding mail@e.groupon.com to your address book or safe sender list. There are some excellent deals to be had for both hosts and students in the Ottawa area.]]> hilary General Discussion Wed, 12 Oct 2011 15:05:24 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,197#msg-197 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,21,197#msg-197
Half the fun of living abroad is enjoying the food and tasting new things, but when you are young, this is rarely the case - you just want those familiar things you enjoy at home. Are the older students more open to trying new things, I wonder?]]> hilary Food & Meals Fri, 23 Sep 2011 10:13:20 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,185,196#msg-196 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,185,196#msg-196
If there are any Ottawa gardeners out there who could give me some tips on what I might grow, they would be gratefully received! Vegetables specifically. I have planted some poppies and delphiniums, so hopefully they will be happy and do well in their new home!]]> hilary Food & Meals Fri, 23 Sep 2011 10:02:59 -0400 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,195,195#msg-195 http://www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca/phorum/read.php?21,195,195#msg-195 I'm a new Relationship Manager in the Ottawa area, and also have a food/nutrition related educational background. I'm wondering:

What has your biggest food challenge been (maybe one student in particular, or a regular challenge) and how have you, as host parents, overcome it?

Also: Do you have a favourite recipe that you and your student(s) have developed together, and how did this further/strengthen your communication and relationship with them?

I look forward to seeing your responses, and can't wait to participate in these forums!
Have a great weekend!
~JenniferM]]> jmackie Food & Meals Fri, 16 Sep 2011 16:48:34 -0400