Hosting / Life in the U.S.

14 Years Later, the Gift of Hosting Lives On

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In 2012, Sherri and Brian welcomed Thomas from Norway into their family as an exchange student. Fourteen years later, they were together again in Texas, this time with Thomas’s wife, Lilja, and their son, Gabriel. Their reunion was a sweet reminder that the relationships formed through hosting can last for years and become a forever part of the family.

Thomas from Norway (left) smiling with his host parents, Sherri (center) and Brian (right) in Texas, 2012

My husband, Brian, and I hosted Thomas from Norway in 2012. Over the years, Thomas has kept in touch with us and has visited us before. He brought Lilja to meet us before they got married. On the day of their wedding, they called Brian and me during the wedding speeches, and we were able to congratulate them and be a little part of their special day. It was super special.

Thomas from Norway with Sherri’s adorable granddaughter, Aneilya, during a family outing to the Texas State Railroad, 2012

He recently visited Texas, and we were able to spend some wonderful time with him, his wife, Lilja, and their son, Gabriel, our host grandson! It’s so funny that after all these years, he still loves Dr Pepper and ranch dressing! When Gabriel was born, we sent them some Texas outfits for Gabriel to wear. Thomas said he wore one of the outfits when they flew here. Spending time with them was wonderful.

Thomas from Norway (left), his wife Lilja (second from left), Sherri with her host grandson, Gabriel (second from right), and Brian (right) during a special reunion in Texas

We are super proud of Thomas and the life he has built. He and Lilja, with the help of their family, have remodeled a beautiful home that Brian and I hope to see someday! He is a nurse and has always been a caring person. Seeing what a good dad he is was really special.

A forever family is an amazing benefit of hosting an exchange student.

Are you interested in making a student like Thomas a part of your family? We are looking for American host families to welcome a student for the 2027 spring semester and the upcoming 2027-28 school year. Submit an inquiry, and you’ll be the first to hear when profiles of our students go online!