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Learn English and volunteer at our home on the Tennessee River, USA
Last activity
: 15 Jun 2025
Profile information
Usually responds within 6 days
Min stay requested: at least 2 weeks
Workawayers needed
Possibility that workawayers are needed
No availability
Details
Host ref number: 14327715474c
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Feedback (30)
Left by host for Workawayer (Gele)
Info notice: Workawayer cancelled stay or there was a no show at the last minute
(Workawayer cancelled last minute / no-show )
Left by host for Workawayer (Ialana)
Just thinking about Lana's stay with us makes us smile. What a force of nature this woman is. A powerful presence of warmth, kindness and happiness. We loved having her with us. She helped us immeasurably. I really liked that she was so at home while here, yet respectful of our house. I took her to the weekly lunch at the Senior Center and she
… read more just tore that place up with her outgoing enthusiasm for everything. Playing the piano, helping the nurse, cleaning up, talking to everyone. A perfect house guest, a huge help and a nice friend. We missed her immediately. Good luck. Come back and visit.
Left by Workawayer (Ialana) for host
The experience of staying with Tom and Joan for two weeks was incredible. I felt like I was at home. They are very attentive and kind people. And they are professionals in the kitchen. I loved the experience of trying different and very tasty foods made by both of them. They took me to an art fair in Nashville that only happens twice a year and I
… read more attended lunch at the Senior Center twice where I met wonderful people. The experience of sleeping watching the stars and fireflies and the view of the lake are the best I've had during my workways stays. I recommend this special couple to everyone. Thank you for everything dear Tom and Joan. I hope to see you again someday.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Hao-Ching)
Doris was the most excellent houseguest one could ever ask for. We thoroughly enjoyed her company. We really appreciated all the help she gave us and she was always so willing and cheerful. We enjoyed learning about Taiwan a little bit. I hope she had a good time on the rest of her trip and she's always welcomed back here even just for a visit.
… read more Thank you Doris you are a special person.
Left by Workawayer (Hao-Ching) for host
I stayed there for two weeks. I love the room which has very good river view and I can see the stars on the bed. I worked about 5 hours a day, 1 day off a week. Sometimes work with Tom, sometimes work with Joan, and sometimes by myself. I did cleaning, moving and organizing stuffs most of the time. They explained how to do things clearly. And they
… read more care about what kind of food you like, but just open your mind to try the food they prepared. I enjoyed the movie nights we spent together. This was my first workaway experience. Thank Tom and Joan. Take care.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Photos
The fiberglass and foam KAYAK made by me and volunteers on it's maiden launch. It goes very well.
Nico and Gaelle, a volunteer couple from France, did more outside fun activities in 3 weeks than others in an entire summer. Very well organized.
Sometimes I make pizza from scratch.
Joan, Elliot (a volunteer from France) and me.
Shiina sewing up a tear in a SLIPCOVER. :)
Joan and a volunteer from Japan
A sunrise view from the house.
Joan, me and my daughter.
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Left by host for Workawayer (Gele)
Info notice: Workawayer cancelled stay or there was a no show at the last minute
(Workawayer cancelled last minute / no-show )
Left by host for Workawayer (Ialana)
Just thinking about Lana's stay with us makes us smile. What a force of nature this woman is. A powerful presence of warmth, kindness and happiness. We loved having her with us. She helped us immeasurably. I really liked that she was so at home while here, yet respectful of our house. I took her to the weekly lunch at the Senior Center and she
… read more just tore that place up with her outgoing enthusiasm for everything. Playing the piano, helping the nurse, cleaning up, talking to everyone. A perfect house guest, a huge help and a nice friend. We missed her immediately. Good luck. Come back and visit.
Left by Workawayer (Ialana) for host
The experience of staying with Tom and Joan for two weeks was incredible. I felt like I was at home. They are very attentive and kind people. And they are professionals in the kitchen. I loved the experience of trying different and very tasty foods made by both of them. They took me to an art fair in Nashville that only happens twice a year and I
… read more attended lunch at the Senior Center twice where I met wonderful people. The experience of sleeping watching the stars and fireflies and the view of the lake are the best I've had during my workways stays. I recommend this special couple to everyone. Thank you for everything dear Tom and Joan. I hope to see you again someday.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Hao-Ching)
Doris was the most excellent houseguest one could ever ask for. We thoroughly enjoyed her company. We really appreciated all the help she gave us and she was always so willing and cheerful. We enjoyed learning about Taiwan a little bit. I hope she had a good time on the rest of her trip and she's always welcomed back here even just for a visit.
… read more Thank you Doris you are a special person.
Left by Workawayer (Hao-Ching) for host
I stayed there for two weeks. I love the room which has very good river view and I can see the stars on the bed. I worked about 5 hours a day, 1 day off a week. Sometimes work with Tom, sometimes work with Joan, and sometimes by myself. I did cleaning, moving and organizing stuffs most of the time. They explained how to do things clearly. And they
… read more care about what kind of food you like, but just open your mind to try the food they prepared. I enjoyed the movie nights we spent together. This was my first workaway experience. Thank Tom and Joan. Take care.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Thomas) for host
Tom and Joan are awsome and caring people. I had a wonderful experience with them during 3 weeks and half. I felt comfortable as soon as i arrived. I really enjoyed all theese moments with them. Every project completed was a pleasure for me, they were full of meaning and pleasant to make.
You can discuss about everything with Tom and share good
… read more times with Joan when you work with her. They are both very good chef and i enjoyed every lunch and dinner. It was an amazing first experience thanks to them.
I recommend to any workwayer even more for those who start the Workaway experience.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Thomas)
We just had Thomas here for four weeks to last Friday. It was a special experience. He is foremost good company. A great houseguest full of interest in what is going on with the house and land and also a keen interest in us personally. That was wonderful. Thomas can speak on many many subjects with understanding and depth. His English is decent
… read more but he could use some more hostings to round off the rough edges. He is the perfect candidate.
He also exhibited either a good skill in many areas of DIY with good control of tools both manual and electrical or he picked up quickly. He contributed to every project that we worked on with insight and persistence to complete. I wish he could have stayed another four weeks. We would gladly have Thomas here again. We wish him only the best for both his travels and for his career in his chosen field. If you are considering a volunteer, do not pass Thomas by. You will find him to be a big asset to your house or farm.
Left by host for Workawayer (Aditya)
It was a real pleasure hosting Aditya (Addy) and working with him. We got so much done in the short time he was here. He is either skilled with various tools or picks up competency-plus on even new tools or procedures. And it was not only "doing," he was equally involved in design and the planning. A self starter with ambition to see results. What
… read more a pleasure.
Addy was a good communicator with what he was doing or in following detailed instructions. But also we conversed on so many subjects. Responding to questions about India he would give a detailed and textured response. We learned so much.
A good polite house guest Addy was also a help in the kitchen and a great cook. He made a Chicken Curry which we totally enjoyed. We would love it if Addy ever wanted to come back, he'd be very welcomed. Good luck.
Left by host for Workawayer (Michael & James)
We had an enjoyable visit with James while he was here for a little over two weeks. Upbeat and engaged in everything he did. We did a lot of painting. James proved to be a capable painter. And he was a big help on the travel van's "no-build build." I particularly enjoyed our conversations on all manner of topics. He was also well traveled so we
… read more had that to compare notes on. Plus, he was on a major trip so we were vicariously thrilled about that, if not jealous. I'm glad we got to share our Thanksgiving with him although it was in two parts. We wish James the best and hope we cross paths again. Always welcome.
Left by Workawayer (Michael & James) for host
Tom and Joan were absolutely lovely hosts and made me feel very welcome in their home. Their house is situated in a stunning location with views way down the Tennessee River. Sharing stories, jokes, music and political conversation together was also very entertaining. Together we painted the interior of their lobby and stairway, and Tom and I
… read more worked on a van conversion for his own interstate travels. Both of these were very educational experiences for me. Tom and Joan's cooking was also a highlight, as was the food at the local Seniors center that does a potluck every week. I got to try a huge variety of iconic American food. Thanks again for having me!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Dragana)
We had Dragana (Gaga) with us for two short weeks. We absolutely loved her visit with us. Energetic, optimistic, enterprising with everything she did. We did several things but mostly we painted. Gaga was a really good painter. But mostly we just enjoyed her company. She can speak on many many topics. Her niece came with her for the first four
… read more days, just to give her young niece a taste of traveling by volunteering. Ellena, her niece, was good company and a spirited worker as well. It was so nice to see how doting on her niece Gaga was. It was very sweet. We had to go for medical reasons to Nashville and was happy to bring Gaga along so she could see that city. Joan and Gaga (as well as myself) had a great time bar hopping and sampling all the music in the country joints. I asked Joan what one thing I could say in my reference to Gaga and she said "Come back as soon as possible, we miss you." We hope to meet again.
Left by Workawayer (Dragana) for host
This was great experience! Tom and Joan are friendly people with fantastic sense of humor. A place around is peaceful. A house is full of beautiful picture painted by Joan. We painted walls. I didn't feel any pressure. It was fun. We were listening to good music. The best rock. One day we went together to Nashville, and I had chance to see
… read more Broadway with the best guides. Also, my niece Elena was with us 4 days. I'm really thankful because she had chance to have her first workaway experience. I would fully recommend this people as hosts. Thank you once again. It was pleasure be around you two weeks. I wish you all the best. Love you!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Adrian)
We enjoyed having Adrian here for just over 3 1/2 weeks. Mannerly, polite, even tempered but quiet almost to the point of distraction. Several times we encouraged Adrian to "make more noise." However, that doesn't mean he didn't take part in a conversation. Very intelligent and thoughtful. He had thoughtful additions to suggest whenever we were on
… read more a project.
He did the daily tasks conscientiously and to the best of his ability. I was always satisfied with the quality of his work. He gave good feedback too, as he worked, when needed.
A very polite house guest, Adrian left his area better than when he arrived. He also liked a variety of foods but loved Joan's cole slaw, consuming an unofficial all time record amount of cole slaw. We were sorry to see him leave and I would have preferred he stay another three weeks but he was distracted by bothersome pollen. We tried to encourage him in his travels. But we believe his next excursion will take him farther and to more places over longer periods. An interesting and unique person of good character and ethics. We would welcome him back anytime.
Left by Workawayer (Adrian) for host
I really enjoyed my stay at this beautiful place. Tom and Joan are very nice, relaxed and understanding people. The place was ideal for me as I really like quiet and secluded places. In my free time I was often at the Tennessee River, which you can reach directly from the house via its own access! The scenery in general here is great.
The work
… read more was fine, I was able to do it in peace and without stress. In addition, I worked with new tools that Tom showed me beforehand. I sawed a lot of wooden boards to size and then we used them to build a big shelf for his storage shed. I also trimmed hedges in the garden, mowed the lawn, laid the remaining tiles in the bathroom in the house itself... and much more.
Tom and Joan are both very good cooks! I always enjoyed the food very much, also there was plenty of it every time. So I got to know some new delicious dishes.
I was able to improve my English here and Tom explained new words and proverbs to me (especially in the craft area).
As planned, I was here for over three weeks, although Tom offered me to stay longer (what I had also hoped for). However, things changed for me, so unfortunately I was unable to extend my stay and returned home.
Thanks for the great time here!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Thomas)
We enjoyed the company of Thomas and Adrien for the three weeks they were with us. Affable and generous of their attention. I was happy to have them as we had some tasks that needed to be done. Though never self starters Thomas and Adrien did everything I asked to the best of their ability. You would be glad to host either or both of these fine,
… read more soon to be professional, gentlemen. Good luck in your travels. Tom and Joan
Left by Workawayer (Thomas) for host
We spent 2 weeks at Tom and Joan's house, doing whatever work Tom had for us. From gardening, tiling, building, and every verb that ends in -ing except for cooking.
I remember us looking for a workaway in the US, each of us choosing 5 profiles and Tom's one being the only common choice, we know why now. Tom and Joan are a wonderful couple, both
… read more really funny and very interesting, discussing with them is never boring. Their location is very quiet and relaxing.
As we are writing this, we are eating a $50 meal, the salt in it comes from our tears remembering their cooking.
We will definitely miss you guys and miss Waverly !!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Teofanes & Andresa) for host
It was our first experience as a volunteer and we say we couldn't have chosen a better host. Tom and Joan are lovely people, we feel at home. It was 3 weeks of a lot of learning, We are grateful for the affection and the opportunity, also for the delicious desserts that Joan prepared, which were certainly the best we've ever tasted hahah We had
… read more the opportunity to spend thanksgivin with them and two other volunteers (Charlotte and Abdul) people we love to hang out with. We learned a lot, and it was a great cultural exchange. And everyone was always very patient for us to help with our queries in English. We came back happy and we are sure that Joan and Tom are great role models for us. Thanks for everything!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Teofanes & Andresa)
We had a truly fabulous time with Teofanes (Teo) and Andresa. They were with us for 3 weeks around our Thanksgiving time and were many things. Interesting people with a good sense of humor. We all spoke on a variety of subjects in the world, but bringing a slightly different perspective. We had never had any guests from Paraguay before and I would
… read more be hard pressed to tell you anything I knew about Paraguay. That was then. I learned a lot about their country now. A fascinating history and culture. Teo was talented in so many ways. We appreciated all his effort in everything he put his hand to. Andresa likewise was a huge help. She is so ambitious. We had many volunteers here at this time and sometimes I was a little behind getting with everyone at times and Andresa was so sweet just to find something that needed doing and she just did it. We appreciated that. Perfect houseguests, it was a pleasure having them here. And just the right mix of visiting with us and private time. They had an opportunity to go to Nashville for a couple of days. I also appreciated having a real farming couple with us. We learned much about farming, big time farming. They are a nice couple together and from the calls and photos they have a loving extended family back in Paraguay, very close. We'll miss them. We're richer for their visit. Hope our paths cross again. Thanks Teo and Andresa.
Left by Workawayer (Abdulelah) for host
Oh boy, where do I start from? I had a very good time at Joan and Tom's house. Far enough from the urban areas but not so far. Tom and Joan were very nice and accommodating. We talked about a lot of common interests and world problems. Joan is an artist who also loves music! She's wholesome fun! When she laughs everybody in the house laughs and
… read more she's so funny! She knows a lot about music and you feel it when she talks. She has a lot of amazing paintings all over the house. You can feel that she is a great artist! Tom is passionate about DIY stuff. He has a huge workshop that has almost everything you would need and multiple versions of it. He cares a lot about the quality of work which speaks volumes about his passion. Tom also enjoys meaningful discussions which we had almost every night.
I was also fortunate to have other guests in the house (Charlotte, Teo, and Andresa) which added a lot of fun to the experience. We had the opportunity to explore Nashville at the end of my stay and let me tell you that was FUNNN.
Thank you Joan and Tom for hosting me and I hope we cross paths again in the near future.
P.s. you are always welcome to pay a visit to Saudi esp. when I am there. You know what to do and you have my number already ;pYou can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Abdulelah)
Abdu was here for only 6 days but it was a delightful and meaningful visit. Abdu has tons of stories of travel and time in Saudi Arabia. He makes it sound fantastic. Joan and I cannot wait to Free Climb and Roller Coaster on and around a working Saudi oil rig amusement park. Abdu flew his drone while here and the pictures were interesting to see.
… read more We really enjoyed his company and hope our paths cross again.
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte)
We had the pleasure of Charlotte's company for three weeks. What a delight. I was amazed at how fast she picked up each task we asked her to do. And always with a great attitude. Charlotte was conversant on so many subjects. She's also well traveled. She seemed right at home in our house which was really quite a pleasant experience. So sorry to
… read more see her go but we wish her well on her time in Florida and in her future which we're sure will be successful.
Left by host for Workawayer (Stav)
This was not my usual hosting experience. I normally host for a minimum of 2 weeks. However, I received a request from Stav for an immediate arrival and only a one week stay. I was hesitant at first but decided to make an exception. I was glad I did. Stav was excellent help and contributed 100% effort to everything he did. My only mark was that he
… read more left one day early. But we did some tile work and he cut the tiles perfectly and with my bad knee I had trouble getting up and down. He took over the laying of the tile and did an excellent job laying them. Other tasks such as job prep and landscape work were done equally well. Stav is on a flexible schedule and may very well request another short notice short stay hosting. Do not hesitate to accept you will be very please with his work. You will also be pleased with his company as he converses well on a wide range of topics. We learned so much about his home city and country. Thanks Stav for your help and it was our pleasure to meet you and make your acquaintance.
Left by Workawayer (Stav) for host
My stay with Tom and Joan was amazing.
They are very welcoming and interesting people. The minute I came into their beautiful house by the lake they made me feel at home.
Tom, who was managing our work, was teaching me patiently everything and the work was interesting overall.
I have learned a lot about Tom and Joan's travels and definitely
… read more earned two friends for life.
Thank you for everything.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Aleksey) for host
This is a wonderful and beautiful place. I spent 2 weeks here.Tom and Joan are a wonderful and very friendly couple. I did various work in the garden. Together with Tom, we built a sauna and some small-scale construction projects. The stay here was very comfortable for me, and the work was fun. The food was very tasty and varied. I improved my
… read more English. Thank you for having me!!!
I really recommend this place to other volunteers.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Aleksey)
Aleksey was with us for two weeks. We really enjoyed his company. He is a very hard worker and did well with the outside work. We also tackled a carpentry job in the house and his judgments and standards were excellent. I would have liked it if he arrived to us with more language skills because we sometimes had some difficulty communicating, and
… read more our conversations would have been better. His arrival pickup was messed up by me because our phones did not speak to each other, but it was all my fault and I felt bad about that. Aleksey's (we called him Alex) attitude was always great. He is welcomed here anytime.
Left by host for Workawayer (Paolo)
Paolo was with us a month and we were delighted to have him. His strongest talent is his honest effort toward everything he did. I often called him "Mr. Thorough." A very smart guy we spoke at length on many things scientific, political and social. He explained to me the horrors of Instagram. In our history of volunteers he was very memorable in a
… read more positive way. He loved nature and seeing the animals that can be spotted in and near the woods. He also loved to stand on the deck as a thunderstorm was approaching with wind and thunder and lighting enjoying the display and would only come in when the rain arrived. One time I believe he saved my life. I was about to drink from a gallon plastic jug and he said "STOP! Tom you are about to drink Distilled Water." That was a close one. I have only two criticisms of him, and one.. if it is possible to be too polite then Paolo is too polite to a fault. And two he said several times he would write us a review but never did. Nevertheless Joan and I were THRILLED to have him volunteer with us. He is a first rate guy and he will always be welcomed here with us.
Left by host for Workawayer (Fumi)
Fumi was with us almost 8 weeks. She's a sweet young woman who worked very very hard. If you need your hedges trimmed Fumi is your girl, she is just the best. Extremely slow and not very thorough but she took correction well. Very quiet and kept to herself, did not visit much but was happy to talk as long as I initiated it. It bothered me that
… read more when washing the little car she got on the roof and dented it badly. I okayed it when she asked if she could get on top of the tall van but never asked about the little Corolla and dented the roof when she could have gotten it from a ladder which was right there. Also, she took our charger which we needed for the streamer on the TV. She said "I THINK the one I took is mine." I thought it was disrespectful. You could probably be okay with hosting Fumi but I would not host her again.
Left by Workawayer (Kai) for host
I really enjoyed this place. Everything was new for me and Tom taught me about a job like cutting very clearly and easily. Also, Joan make me very good meals every time. We talked and shared about culture. This was the best part for me to stay there. I really appreciate Tom and Joan. I really recommend this place to other volunteers.
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Kai)
We totally enjoyed Kai's stay with us. He was a good house guest. As a volunteer he was eager to learn new things. He did a great job trimming and cutting down trees for us. He did other things like installing a vinyl tile floor. He did a great job. He taught us a lot about Japanese culture and Osaka. But we bonded most on our love of
… read more exceptionally good music. Kai really likes good music. We welcome him back anytime.
Left by host for Workawayer (Yurie)
Yurie was with us for about 3 weeks. And it's always a joy when you have a volunteer who just makes everything easier and more fun. Yurie was cheerful with a good sense of humor. She spoke intelligently on many subjects and was full of insights about her country and her time in the USA. A real good attitude when she was doing some project or work
… read more around the grounds. She understood the instructions for each task and performed them well and with some cheer. She spent some time with us in her off hours visiting and learning more about the culture. A guest like her is so much more fun than someone who you see only at work and mealtime. I feel she took good advantage of her time here. We missed her when she left and she is welcome anytime if she travels back through here on her fantasy cross-country camping trip. Be well Yurie, your friends Tom and Joan
Left by Workawayer (Yurie) for host
I spent almost 3 weeks with Tom and Joan. They were so welcome. I was very comfortable to stay there because they cared about me so much. I had a great time watching movies with Tom and Joan. I also enjoyed watching tv show with Joan. Tom thought me about my job and he also thought me English. I really loved foods they cooked.
I really enjoyed
… read more this stay and I really miss them and their place! Thank you for having me!!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Info notice: Workawayer cancelled stay or there was a no show at the last minute
(Workawayer cancelled last minute / no-show )
Left by host for Workawayer (Saki & Suzumi)
Saki was with us two weeks. We really enjoyed her time with us. She is such a delight. A perfect house guest. Also, she was a big help to both of us. Saki was a very willing helper. Her English is pretty good as we had long conversations about many things, one of the most interesting was about the Japanese economy and their culture. Joan was very
… read more fond of her. She wanted to go with us when we drove to the bus. She seldom does that. Saki has a real appetite for all things American and has quite a trip planned for herself. I hope she stays in touch and shares her adventures. If Saki applies at your host site you should definitely take her in. She is the best.
Left by Workawayer (Saki & Suzumi) for host
I spent tow weeks with Tom and Joan. I was such a lucky person to choose this lovely couple. They were so welcome that I could feel I am a part of the family. Tom always teach me many things and talk to me. I enjoyed discussing some topics with him. When I worked on organizing the basement, he told me detailed instructions so that I could work
… read more with him easily. Joan makes super delicious foods every day and even candies for me. I also spent time with her watching TV shows and cleaning houses. They alway care about me and ask me if I need anything. I really miss them. I hope we can meet soon in Japan:) Thank you so much for everything!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Phuoc)
John was an excellent house guest. He was also a very good worker. Many times I had mentioned to my wife that I admired the guy and his family's story. I had also shared with her that he often showed good instincts in his work which is unusual for very inexperienced helpers. Our parting was not so good because without notice, meaning I discovered
… read more this news by my double checking on our previously mutually agreed departure, (after a 2 week stay). John I had discovered was planning to cut his stay with us in half. This was news that he sat on for 2 days and came to light only by my inquiry. Often times a volunteer will look at his stay and his plans only from their perspective, not realizing that the host has made plans. Plans both for a project and personal plans. Knowing the length of a stay a host plans work and the purchase of materials and the order in which various activities take place. A volunteer making his plans in a vacuum is inconsiderate to the plans of a host. This was a huge fault of his and I stop short of calling it a character fault only because I honestly believe he did not consider that there were any significant implications.
But I did not think this should earn him a less than excellent review. If you accepted him in a volunteer position I think you would be very pleased. And I believe you would also find him delightful and a very nice person.
Left by host for Workawayer (Dai)
Dai was with us about 6 weeks. I could describe how hard Dai worked and what he was able to accomplish but that would only be part of the story. Dai's real quality is his energy and his dogged willingness to do the job well. In brief, Dai arrived with practically no skills at all and at first I was worried. But he took all advice and instruction
… read more with great willingness and he always gave 100% to every task. Every day he improved. He was such a good worker that I suddenly realized that I was no longer worried about what he could possibly do but instead realizing that we would miss him when he was gone. If Dai was the only volunteer I could ever have, I would choose him. Now the work portion over, as a house guest he was super. Polite, neat clean, helpful to any chores. He was also good company, visited and spoke intelligently. We will miss him and he is someone I admire.
Left by Workawayer (Dai) for host
Staying with Tom and Joan was such a precious time for me! Before I came here, I had never done gardening things, so I was not sure that I can help them. However, they taught me everything gently and finely. Although my English was not good, they talked to me friendly, so I enjoyed being with them. Every time I found some words that I didn't know,
… read more they told me the meaning and correct way of pronounce. One of the projects that I enjoyed is painting sheds and doors. I felt such a sense of accomplishment when I finished covering them with with paint. Their meal was super good everyday. Especially, I can't forget the taste of fried eggplant. That was amazing! They took me to a town, and I enjoyed shopping on a day off. I want to meet them again. They are great host and I was really appreciate them. I reccomend it forpeople who are looking for volunteer experience!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Martin)
Martin was with us for almost 4 weeks and it will be a great memory for years and years to come. Above all the many skills he brings to a task, foremost he is a person of great character, a fantastic house guest, a person who conducts himself with honor.
He has a great sense of humor, is energetic, desires to be helpful always and can speak on a
… read more large variety of subjects.
Skillwise he has so many. Good with small tools and small engines. Landscaping and tree trimming he excelled at. At the same time he could do detail work with great precision. If he had a fault it would be that the mere mention of something you would like would send him into action to accomplish it.
Martin will always be welcomed here either as a volunteer or as a friend.
Left by host for Workawayer (Christian)
Chris was a good house guest. Clean, polite, thoughtful. He was quiet if you didn't talk with him but if you opened up a dialogue he was right there with interesting opinions and a lot of knowledge. He was a hard worker. He would do and could do excellent work. As a bit of constructive criticism there were times that he did a job poorly.
… read more Then when corrected and encouraged he would do it again willingly and well. He was barely 17 when he visited and I think he will grow out of those habits. He had a good understanding of electrical and hand tools and I was pleasantly surprised when he changed bits and saw blades properly without being shown how. That hardly ever happens. We would be happy to have Chris here again. And he would be an asset to your projects or tasks.
Left by Workawayer (Christian) for host
I stayed with Tom and Joan for about 6 weeks. I really enjoyed it. They are very nice and forthcoming. I liked having talks with Tom as he is a interesting man, who comes up with a lot of ideas he wants to do. I think he is inspiring. All in all it was a great experience for me.
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Nacim)
We enjoyed Nacim. Intelligent, thoughtful and willing to the tasks. I did not get to discuss as many "world" issues with him as I would have liked but what discussions we had were very informative. Nacim is a good houseguest. We would be very interested to have him come back anytime. Good travels Nacim. -tom and joan
Left by Workawayer (Nacim) for host
Be straight with the boss and kind to Madame, and you'll get to taste the greatest and most popular american homecooked meals. Had a great time with some great people! Thank you guys!
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Hanyu)
Helen (Hanyu Chen) was an excellent guest. Joan and I both thoroughly enjoyed having her in our home. She would visit with us and we had many discussions on all sorts of subjects. Helen is an intelligent caring person. I really admired her tenacity to complete a task. She had some hard physical jobs (but not strenuous) and she did everything
… read more with a great attitude. We enjoyed her smile. Her english was sufficient but she really needs to work on her vocabulary. Joan was so taken with her that when I had to take Helen to the bus Joan wanted to go along to see her off. We would welcome Helen back here again anytime.
Left by Workawayer (Hanyu) for host
I spent awesome 12 days with Tom and Joan. Before I came, I met a problem with reservation of mid-cumberland service, and Tom helped me contact them, and when I arrived at Nashville, I successfully got that taxi. I was impressed with them that they decorate their house so nice. I worked in Tom's basement and outside. I've never done anything
… read more before I came here, it's a good chance for me to anneal myself. We talked about many funny things after finishing every day's work. They are patient and if I don't understand some words, they will explain to me in a appropriate way. They helped with my English and correct my mistakes in time. I heard a lot of interesting stories from them. Their lovely house are full of memories and each painting have their own story. I enjoying hearing all of the stories. Tom also showed me many beautiful photos that they traveled to other countries. I appreciate all of the delicious foods they made, it's really delicious. Pizza, dumpling, Italian foods, pork. I must mention thatI like eating toast,and they made toast everyday. ^_^ Haha. Tom shared some good movies to me so that I can watch every night.
I had go back on Sunday but taxi are not run on weekends, so Tom and Joan drove me to Nashville. They are so nice and I enjoy my time in Waverly. I appreciate everything. I will keep in touch and share the funny things that I met.
Thank you so much, and I was so happy to stay with you.^^You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Louis)
hahaha LMAO Thanks Louie. Your feedback sounds so much like you with your dry, slightly acerbic tinged wit. Louie was a huge help. Talented, willing, ready to get to it. Louie was a good house guest, great company and a good worker. I feel obliged to clarify that when we have a volunteer who arrives who has been backpacking in hostels and
… read more farms we prefer to do their laundry when they arrive. Louie (and everyone else) showers himself IN PRIVATE and washes his own hair IN PRIVATE, haha.
We would be happy to have Louie back again, and you would do good to host him on his travels. And he is right, don't offer to help Joan.
Left by Workawayer (Louis) for host
A little late in the day, sorry.
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I shared a wholesome ten days of graft with Tom & Joan. On entry my hair was washed, my skin was scrubbed and my clothes made sterile. I was a risk and then i wasnt.
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The work was five hours daily. We felt a roof, painted the block, lost a trailer and dumped a desk. The afternoons were free; for tele, for
… read more walking, for bathing.
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At the end of the gravel is their house. Its decking wraps around and the walls are filled with paint. There are rules galore but its beautiful and they are both good people.
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Ask Tom for a pickle and never offer Joan gentle help. She doesnt want it. You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (XU)
First I want to apologize for the lateness of this feedback. I want to say I've been busy but really, no one is THAT busy.
Charlie was a very interesting and hardworking volunteer. It is true he did not have much experience starting but he did pick up the skills for the various electric hand tools and shop tools to work on several projects
… read more for us. I did like his steadfastness, his attention to detail, his interest in the projects and his helpful suggestions. He was a good house guest, clean and neat and followed our various preferences. I would welcome him back again.
Left by Workawayer (XU) for host
I've had the great opportunity to stay at the beautiful riverside house with Tom and Joan for about a month. Tom and Joan are both really nice and considerate people, without a doubt. They are also awesome cooks as well; I truly enjoyed the food (especially the fries and pizza :)) they had prepared everyday. Workwise, Tom had taught me a lot of
… read more useful skills that I had never imagined I would learn before. He is always patient in instructing and guiding. I very much appreciate his trust in me to let me finish a lot of projects on my own after I have somewhat mastered (maybe) the skills. Learning such skills and doing work independently had absolutely improved my operational ability and confidence in myself. Had there be more time, I would love to finish those banisters. Joan is very wonderful as well, teaching me how to make perfect crispy fries (which I love) that might later come in handy. Moreover, I especially enjoy the room that I had stayed in; it has great views of the rivers and it is gorgeous. I also enjoy watching TV shows at night; and I want to thank Tom and Joan for providing such opportunity. During my stay, Tom was also very flexible and considerate toward my schedule; he allowed my extended visit to Memphis for about 4 days. Tom and Joan are very well-traveled people; they had many fun stories and unique perspective to share with me. Our conversations had definitely widened my horizon in terms of world and cultural knowledge. With that being said, I would highly recommend interested workawayers to go to help at Tom and Joan's house. This was my first ever experience as a workawayer and probably the last one before turning 20 and it had been a blast for me; I hope everything goes well and safe travel to Mexico :)You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Shiina & Shuichi) for host
I spent two weeks in their house and I worked on slip cover project for couch. Honestly I was not good at sawing but I was so glad to see Joen’s face when our project was done :) I hope the cover would keep good looking for a long time. Although I was tend to focus on my work too much and not to talk to them so much, they always paid attention to
… read more me, talked to me, and supported me a lot :) I really appreciate their help! If I have to offer some advice for future volunteers, I would say since they and their food are so nice, you should take care not to eat too much ;)haha Their food was just AMAZING! I could eat delicious deserts as well! I already miss their food… Anyway thank you so much, Tom and Joen! And sorry for my late review.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Shiina & Shuichi)
Shiina was here for almost 2 weeks. She was such a delight. Very pleasant to be around. Thoughtful, considerate, polite, appreciative. Her english was decent enough but always she would manage to have a conversation with you. A perfect house guest. As a volunteer, could not ask for more. She did every task with great enthusiasm. She helped
… read more us slipcover 2 chairs and really delved into it even though she had no previous similar experience. Always asking if she could help. You would be happy if you ever make her acquaintance. Thanks Shiina.
Left by Workawayer (Schmitt) for host
Thanks for this two weeks in your place with you ! It was my first experience as workaway and it was a very good experience. Tom and Joan are excellents hosts, with very good conversation and they are very great cookers. The house, build by Tom, is beautiful, with view on the Tennessee river. A quiet and very beautiful place. Tom and Joan came me
… read more to local event, a great point for discover the USA. They helped me for learning English. Thank you for all of this things and, maybe, see you next time, in USA or in France !You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Schmitt)
Manu just left on the Mid-Cumberland to return to France. We will miss him. He is a bright energetic guy who was so helpful to us. He was taught by me a somewhat skilled job that he did from the start to the finish with constant attention to quality and detail. I appreciate the three raised garden beds he built out of brick and mortar. He was
… read more also the best kayaker to get into my kayak. He took off like a rocket and paddled straight and true and took it on his first trip of ten miles which is astounding. He had the luck and opportunity to go to a couple of local events here and had the open mind to find them as what they were, unique and indicative of this part of the country. Manu has the heart of a traveler. He had a positive effect on both the project portion and guest portion of the volunteer experience. You should host him if he travels your way.
Left by Workawayer (nergui) for host
It was my first experience as a” workawayer” and I stayed for barley four weeks. It's a nice place with very nice people. I had good conversation with Tom and Joan and the food was excellent. The work was diversified and interesting. There was always something to do, it was never boring.
All in all I had an awesome time and I think I will really
… read more miss that place.
Thank you !! Nergui
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (nergui)
We have had so many good volunteers to stay with us but only rarely do we meet an individual like Nergui who stands out so magnificently. First and foremost he was an excellent guest. We had so many good conversations. He was neat and always willing to be helpful around the house. We learned so much about Mongolia, that I was astounded at how
… read more utterly different it is from both Russia and China. I enjoyed hearing about their customs. His profile says he worked in the coal mines which is true, but he did not shovel coal. He was a talented engineer and he brought this talent to our projects. He could fix most things. He was innovative and could pick up various skills in super short time. Nergui arrived as a volunteer and left as a friend. We hope he returns to the USA and that we meet again.
Left by Workawayer (Yan) for host
Staying with Tom & Joan for 2 weeks was such a brilliant time. As I`m writing this I`m giggling at some of the good times we had. It seemed longer than 2 weeks, I wish I had stayed longer now. Toms patience is rewarding and he is always keen to teach you something new. Joan had me stitches a lot of the time, and her cooking was amazing, I put on
… read more a bit of weight while I was there, thats for sure.
I hadn`t really expected the experience to be so rewarding, from a personal level I really did feel like I was at home and could speak to the both of them about anything, and on a learning basis I really felt me and Tom tackled the garden wall and I learnt valauble skills.
Id like to thank them for everything they did. Tom for showing me his activism techniques, taking me to the jam night, teaching me bricklaying, talking politcs and generally being a good friend who I hope to see again. Joan for her great outlook when things are tough, always smiling and making me laugh.
Thank you again guys, it was truly brilliant. I hope you make it to "The Bench".You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Yan)
We had Yan with us for just short of 2 weeks. It was a most excellent experience, Yan soon became more like a friend than a guest. But as a guest he was excellent as well. Being sure to follow house rules and preferences. As a volunteer he was among the best. Taking to brick laying as if he did it as a living. Also, because circumstances
… read more necessitated an early departure, he took on the completion of the brick raised garden beds as his own personal responsibility and had a stick to it attitude. Plus it was nice to see a volunteer taking his own cue to raise the standards of the job. We wish him all the best in the music field, about which he is really excellent, and hope to see him again and to meet Whiskey Mick.
Left by Workawayer (Calvin) for host
I spent about 3 weeks with Tom and Joan and loved it! Both are super friendly, the work was fun and Joan's cooking skills are, at the very least, amazing! (Try her gumbo) The property is beautiful with hundreds of stars every night. Accommodations were comfortable and the other guests were exceptionally cool. I'd go back in a heartbeat and would
… read more highly recommend these two for anybody! Thanks guys!! :)You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Calvin)
Calvin was a super nice guy. We were very happy to have him here for three week in June while he was on his way out west. Calvin had good skills and work habits. He also had good ideas and contributed greatly to whatever he did. He was a caring person. His stay here overlapped with two other volunteers (Nico and Nathan) and they all got along
… read more famously. We enjoyed his sense of humor, his character and integrity. We sincerely hope we see him again.
Left by host for Workawayer (Josh)
We really enjoyed Josh's visit with us. Josh had something special that many times other volunteers fail to bring, and that is interest. Josh took an interest in whatever we did. It was rare I ever had to show him something a second time. Josh also has a great deal of natural ability. Even though he had never used the hand tools or shop tools
… read more I showed him he quickly picked up on how to use them accurately and well.
Josh was also an excellent guest in the house. Pitching in when asked, taking part in meal prep if necessary and giving us some of his time to discuss world events and whatever in general. We would gladly have him back anytime.
Left by Workawayer (Josh) for host
My month long stint at Tom and Joan's has been a blast! I had the opportunity to learn so many practical skills while working in this household.
Tom and Joan are a great couple with a lot of heart. Their sense of humor and candid demeanor made the whole experience go by quicker than it seemed. They were fair in the workload and took time to
… read more prepare hot meals for lunch and dinner. I have much to be thankful for in coming to their neck of the woods.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Jun)
Jun was with us almost 2 weeks. I particularly enjoyed his in depth explanations of his culture. We have had chinese international guests before but I learned many many new things from Jun. He was a good guest in our house and always ready to help when a project or chore would come up. He had never been around power tools and shop tools but
… read more proved to be a very fast learner, and cut a good amount of marble tile very accurately for the stairs. We would be happy to have Jun back with us anytime.
Left by Workawayer (Jun) for host
I had a great time staying there with Tom and Joan. I really appreciate what I have leaned from Tom. Also the food they made for me is good, I got fed very well.Their house is just by the Tennesse river, I like to walk down to the river a lot. The host always have some interesting story to tell also. Anyways, it became a very great experience for
… read more me.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (PENG) for host
Thanks Tom and Joan! I am very happy to stay with them. I enjoy their food, especially the pizza they made. I really learnt a lot from Tom. He constructed their own house.That is really cool.Tom is a very practical man also with many beautiful ideas.He has a lot of wonderful experience of his traveling over the world and different jobs he did. It
… read more is interesting to talk with him. Tom is always willing to understand and help me.He helped me a lot on my English. He brought me to different places,We had a lot good time together.I will miss this beautiful place! You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (PENG)
Yi Peng was with us for one month. We thoroughly enjoyed his company. He really enjoyed Joan's cooking. Peng was a courteous guest. He helped out around the house whenever he could. What we really liked was his thoughtful sharing of the culture of China and we asked him a hundred+ questions. Also, we walked for exercise every morning and
… read more everyday he treated us to a chinese song. He was a willing worker on many projects we undertook and he had a real enthusiasm to complete them. Peng is welcome back with us anytime.
Left by Workawayer (gaelle_nico) for host
We were with tom et joan 3 weeks et 3 weekend to visit the tennessee. We are very happy with our trip.
Tom et Joan are two persons very nice. they are good cooks. Joan is very funny, tom loves talking about everything.
It was our first woofing and it was very cool. I made paint and nico made maintenance and gardenning. It's not just us who work.
… read more Tom and Joan help us with the work.
We appreciated too their help for improve our english. They are are very helpfull. Tom came twice to pick us up in Clarksville. They wanted to learning us a lots of thing.
Our life with them was very easy. The house is very far of everything but there was a public service of car and it was not very expensive. You can go to nashville for 15$ per person and it's 1h30 of trip. Tom and Joan want people feel like home. He know everything about woofing and couchsurfing. For a first experience, it was perfect. Thank you tom and joan for these 3 weeks. It was something we don't forget.
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (gaelle_nico)
Nico and Gaelle were with us for 3 weeks. I was very impressed with them. They were good houseguests, clean, polite, helpful. It was fun and educational to speak with them of their lives in France and of their opinion of the current times of France and the EU. We enjoyed helping them practise their English.
They were also excellent
… read more volunteers. Always ready to help. We achieved several important projects while they were here.
I was also impressed with how they organized their free time with us. I will say that they utilized their time to the max and visited and saw more of the surrounding area and cities than any other volunteer we have had here. As a matter of fact I learned alot of what is actually possible to see and do and the time it takes by their adventures. I wish them the best with their lives and invite them back anytime.
Left by Workawayer (Joey) for host
I spent 2 weeks with Tom and Joan, doing mostly painting. The amount of work was very realistic, and always interesting to see what new color of paint Joan would come up with. I really enjoyed my first workaway experience with them.
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Joey)
Joey was with us for about 2 weeks. We enjoyed having him in our home and he was a willing helper with various projects. Though inexperienced in many maintenance and building type skills, he was willing to tackle and learn anything before him. I would recommend him as both a good volunteer and good company in your home or farmstay. He is
… read more welcomed back here anytime.
Left by host for Workawayer (Melissa & Todd)
Left by host for Workawayer (Jack)
We have had Jack and Emily at our place for about a month. They are real nice people, very respectful to you property and things and courteous to you. They are real good workers, self starters. They take an interest in what they do. We had a good time exchanging with these guys and would gladly do it again.
Discover the magic of our mountain top as part of our progressive community in Vermont, USA
Rewarding experience at a non-profit animal sanctuary in Kealakekua, Hawaii, USA
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