Madeline

United States
Login to see last activity

Badges (2)

Give the gift of Workaway

Profile information

Travel information
I am currently
At home
Description
I was an exchange student 40 years ago as a teenager and deeply believe in citizen diplomacy and people-to-people experiences that go far deeper than traditional tourism. My professional work as an educator and administrator in the non-profit sector is about improving community life and creating more just, equitable, and sustainable communities. Now I am traveling with my young (7) daughter and want to help her grow in understanding about how people live, and to give back to the communities of which we are a part. We live simply and are happy to share a single bed. We would love to learn from you!! We both love animals and the natural world. My father and grandfather were farmers, so we are happy to help out on a farm or whatever project you have.
Interests
DIY & crafts
Carpentry
Beach
Art & design
Architecture
Camping
Charity work
Culture
Farming
Self development
Sailing / Boating
Sustainability
Writing
Nature
Languages
Hiking
Plant care
Pets
Outdoor activities
Music

show more
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
German: Beginner
French: Beginner
More details about my language interests
I am a native English speaker and have previously taught English both in the USA to immigrants, ESOL students, and adult language learners. I also taught English as a foreign language overseas (Japan). I am fluent in Spanish, but my grammar needs improvement because I learned it though immersion and conversations, not through formal study. My daughter speaks Spanish (mostly) fluently. Years ago I both studied and used French and German as an exchange student.
Find a language buddy
Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Eco Projects
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
Some knowledge of:
Art Projects
Being an elderly companion
Gardening
Life at a Farmstay
Babysitting and creative play
Hospitality/Tourism
Able to teach about:
Charity Work
Languages
Teaching
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Helping around the house
More details about your skills
- teaching English
- staring and developing a non-profit organization
- international exchanges and partnership development
- community development and service-learning
- working with animals: dogs, cats, horses, cattle, etc.
- gardening, helping with fencing
- cooking, cleaning, organizing
- Willing to try anything a late-50’s woman (and 7 year old) can physically do!
Age
59
What else ...
I’m traveling in Spain and Portugal with my 7year old daughter. We like reading, playing all sorts of games, and we love animals. I have travelled extensively throughout my life, usually staying with host families and I also have welcomed many, many guests and travelers to our home in the Eastern United States. We are quiet people and enjoy conversations and connecting!
Some more information
- Smoker
- Driver's licence
- Allergies
- Special dietary requirements

Feedback

15 Apr 2024

Left by host (Help with starting remote off ...) for Workawayer (Madeline)

RICH KIND SOUL WITH A MIRACLE DAUGHTER

This was a very short stay exception that rendered incredibly positive in every way.

This mum has brought forth an amazing project herself and was willed to share all her wisdom and does and don´ts even after her stay, feeding so the friendship which was created.

They both came from a more huzzle buzzle… read more environment and realised very quickly how they could tap into this silence and get its enourmous gift. Their huge humbleness and intelligence allowed it and it was such a pleasure to experience them both in that tranquility, connectedness with themselves, and presence.

Young Julia made an immense shift in the few days here and she herself became a huge joyful help! She had declared upon coming that she did not know how to look after a child and that she did not want to help in general... well, to our beautiful surprise there she was the last days offering to proudly lable or carry bottles of olive oil from the harvest, or looking after the boy informing us what he was doing, like "he just ate a bee" (ha ha!! yes, she told us after he had eaten it! so sweet : ) ... all was ok, we removed the sting from his tongue alright : ) This girl was shining in kindness, so loving, respectful and it was such a priviledge to enjoy her in her connectedness with herself and us all : )

Ah! the hights... with their visit we did learn to warn for those who are afraid of driving in the hights... we had to rescue them half way the dirt road to here so they could make it home to us! : ) And we are very happy that we went and put all they needed in our car and brought them up... we would have missed a great experience had we not done so : )

Madelaine was beautifully doing the tons of dishes that the family visits required even with the "off grid no running water" method. always with a smile and a wisdom in seeing what was needed and how it was needed and when it was needed, helping also preserve olives, help Cris carry and organise the big olive crates into the car, and so so thankful and generous for everything.

Hosts, you will never regret having this mom and daughter (and any other new family member of theirs? ; ) in your project, even if for just a few days. Such a package of joyful responsibility, disposition and real help in such a little time is rare to find.

You deserve it all, Magdalena, each and every tiny and big wish your heart may yearn for ; ) Come surely any time and let´s make more of it happen! ; )

(Excellent )