I am the host mom for Elena from Finland.  I am finally getting around to sending you photos.  After looking over this we need to take more photos of "Life with Elena". 

The Rotary Club has been a nice support.  Bob Roberts and John Aquino are there for us and checking in to make sure all is well.   Patricia Byrnes put together a nice beach bag with all kinds of beach goodies for her.  Frank Lanzana gave her an awesome Hair Care gift bag as another welcome gift.  John Aquino took her to Bobby Rubinos for ribs and introduced her to sweet potatoes!  And as seen in the photo, Marvin and Dyan introduced her to their Finnish friend! 

With all of this Elena has been busy on her own with school and activities.  This week at Gibbons has be Welcome Week and she went roller skating in a rink for the first time Monday night.  Tuesday night was a movie in the gym at school and tomorrow she will attend her first HS football game and dance!    Today she hopes to begin cross country.

She has met several friends of the Botkins that have children her age.  With these "New Girlfriends" she has been to the beach, lying in the sun and borrowing clothes.  She has been to a HS beach party and on numerous shopping excursions.  She is already in a great carpool and hanging with her new friends. 

As a host family, I want to thank all of Rotary for this experience.