I share this simply to show that despite our travails, life can and must go on. Even in the face of adversity, each of us can make a positive impression on another.<p>Today, Father's Day, our au pair left to return to her home in Canberra. This is the text of a letter she left for us:<p> <blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><hr>Dear Dave, Today being Father's Day, I feel it is a perfect opportunity for me to thank you and <son> for your love and hospitality this past year. From the first day I arrived in Maryland you welcomed me into your home as part of your family and made me feel comfortable straight away. Through out all of our rough times, good times, laughs and tears, I have really grown to love both you and <son> like my own family. The experience I have been so lucky to share with you has been amazing and I owe it all to you because without <you and son> my experience here in the United States would have been not nearly as interseting, educating and fun. I will always remember the dramas at the dinner table, long car trips, and the bits and pieces of wisdom and knowledge I have gained from you along the way. I'll always remember that jalapeno pepper (I still owe you one for that). Both you and <son> have touched me in so many ways that I could never forget. You will difinitely be invited to my wedding. Although I think you'll have a while to wait before you receive that invite.<p>You and <son> are always welcome in Australia and you'll always have a plece to stay......<p>Thanks again for a great year.<p>Happy Father's Day!!!<p>Taz
XOXOXOXO<hr></blockquote><p>Yep, she still owes me for the phone bill. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img]

Dave,<p>Now that is one letter of recommendation. Funny I did not see 1 mention of XW???!?!? <p>See others will provide validation of what we are really like so we don't have to be sucked into lowering ourselves to the Ws warped version of how 'bad' we are. <p>I am glad. Of course we knew you and your son were that great and we only know you via the posting from here. LOL!! [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] <p>Like remember the time you told us about the dogs and the car chase? How about when you were watering your front lawn and almost sprayed the OM? Was that your story?

Well we are not surprised Taz enjoyed herself here. That is what hospitality is all about. <p>Aloha,
L.

Knew you were a good guy. Know ya'll will miss Taz. How did you get son for Father's Day thought he was going to be with the X?

Very nice.....

Yep, she's right. Lots of wisdom and hospitality, and I've never even been there.<p>By the way, may I add that if you do come to Australia and don't visit me there will also be bodily harm involved! [img]images/icons/wink.gif" border="0[/img] <p>And I've got some very toothy friends these days...<p>Just kidding!! [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img]

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