I have been living in America for eight months. I seldom have had the chance to visit an American family. I wanted to see the American house style and life style. Yesterday, our school members were invited by American families to visit their homes.

Wayne Scott, who was a math teacher, came to our school. He is retired and spends lot of his time volunteering. He drove for us and talked very slowly. He seemed to like to help people. We arrived at a very charming, white house. The house was located in Birchwood and the hostess’ last name is Burchfield. When I entered the house, I felt like I was in my parents’ home. The house was not big and fancy but very clean and organized. The hostess showed her home and her family. The first room was her husband’s study. There were many architecture books, certificates on the wall and stuff like stick rulers and compasses. I could guess that her husband’s job is in building construction.

I could see a very big picture in which all the members of her family are sitting on the grass. She has three children, seven grandchildren and one great-grand child. While we went down the hallway, I could see many of her beautiful paintings. She has been painting for thirty years. She said that she has painted with watercolors and oils, but nowadays she is interested in Chinese brush paintings. She had her own room for painting. I hope that when I am in old age, I can spend my free time drawing and painting. I wish I could have a cozy corner for my hobbies. When we went down the basement, I could find some of her works above the washing machine and drier. Usually people don’t decorate basements that well. I thought it is good idea.

After we looked around the house, we sat around together in her living room. We introduced each other and talked about different cultures. While we were talking about ourselves, I could feel that we were close friends. I really appreciate my host family’s hospitality and warm-heartedness.