Tatyana and the DePhillips Family

The past two summers for nine-year-old Tatyana Gonzalez of New York City have been very special - not because she was out of school, but because of her summer vacations with the DePhillips family of Wilmington, Delaware. She looks forward to seeing her host parents Catherine and Henry, and host siblings, Olivia and Peter, while getting excited for new experiences!

The DePhillips family and Tatyana took time to reflect on their experiences together.

Tatyana Gonzalez, 9

What are your favorite activities in Friendly Town?

Swimming and painting!

What is the biggest difference between Friendly Town and home?

It's very peaceful and quiet in Delaware and very noisy in New York City.

What is something you can do here, but not in NYC?                                         

I can see lots and lots of nature!               

Why do you like your host family?

They are nice, kind and sweet.

Why should other children go to Friendly Town?

They will have a blast!

Olivia, 10

Why do you like it when Tatyana visits?

She is so much fun to play with and I like talking to her!

What is your favorite activity to do with Tatyana?

We like to swim together.

How are you and Tatyana alike?

We both have a great sense of style.

How does being a part of The Fresh Air Fund make you feel?

I feel very happy to be with Tatyana.

Catherine Behl DePhillips

What sort of activities do you plan with Tatyana?

We try to travel a little, such as a trip to Hershey Park.  We always swim a lot!

What was something that surprised you most about Tatyana during her first visit?

I was surprised how easily she fit in and how quickly we all became comfortable with each other.

What is something you look forward to when Tatyana visits?

I like just seeing her smiling face and spending time with her.  She has such a hearty laugh.

What has the Fresh Air experience meant to you and your family?

It has given my children a new part-time sister, and my husband and I a new daughter.