Wife Swap

Yesterday, in an email from our local ICPA, this came to my attention:


https://wifeswap.castasugar.com/users/new

And in case you didn't click on the link, it's not going to take you to a page for 'swingers'... It's actually a link to an application page for the television show 'wife swap'.

You may have seen the American version on television before. Two very different families in two very different locations. The wives 'swap' for a week. At first they must abide by the 'new' family's rules. After a few days, the wife can implement 'new' rules, and the new family has to abide by them.

 I think I want to apply. And not just because I am a reality tv junkie.

This isn't me. Even if it's how CP thinks I see myself...

Here's what the Producers of 'Wife Swap' have to say:

"A new Australian TV series for the Lifestyle Channel is looking for families who live in rural and remote locations to take part in a fun social experiment.

"Wife Swap" is based on a British format of the same name but this series will have a uniquely Australian flavour. The producers are looking for families from all walks of life who have a good sense of humour, love their families and are up for new experiences.

In the show, two families "swap" their wife/mother for one week during which time the "new wife" experiences the life of her new family before making suggestions/new rules about the day-to-day running of the household and family could be improved. It is important that participants feel that they could have something positive to contribute to another family, whilst also being open to learning from the other family.

Since the producers are looking to represent a range of lifestyles and values, they would like to feature an Australian family who live in a rural or remote location. It would provide the audience with a unique insight into both the advantages and challenges of living in rural Australia (juggling work, parenting, hometutoring, house/farm duties), especially when seen through the eyes of the "new wife".

It's a side of Australian life that is not often seen on television and an opportunity to make Australian television more inclusive and diverse. For the families who take part, it will be both an adventure and a learning experience.

There will also be a fee paid to families for participating. "

And here's what the ICPA has to say:

"Calling all ICPA Families,

Federal Council has received a request from the Lifestyle Channel asking if any of our members would be interested in participating in a new TV series - "Wife Swap".  Well, some husbands I know would say "It must be my lucky day!"

Now, before you delete this email please take the time to read it  and consider the implications it could have for our organisation.  Federal Council believe it could be a great opportunity to give insight into what a Home Tutor's duties entail and this could be seen as a help in our lobby cause."

Here's what hubby had to say:

"No."

Here's what I have to say:

"CP - did you not get the memo about the bit where a 'fee' is paid to participating families??? And did you not read the bit about bringing awareness to the plight of rural and remote families? I'm all for it."

 Admittedly, I don't home school here. But I feel for families who do. When we had the flooding earlier this year, I was stuck at home for two weeks with my eldest (in year 1). I'm a trained teacher, so I should have no problem with this. Except that I also have two younger children at home. And... HOW THE HECK DO PEOPLE DO IT !!??? It was such a difficult two weeks. I found it easier to invite the neighbour's children over and run our house like a 'school', with official lunch breaks etc. But to do that with your own children is SO HARD! I take my hat off to all you mums who managed that!

I think that if I was to apply, I would bring awareness to the concepts of distance, and lack of child care. I would raise awareness of how hard it is to be a working Mum, a farmer's wife and a cleaner, friend, cook and then find time for yourself on top of all that!

So the verdict on how this rests at our place for now...

1. CP wants to know what the fee is.

2. I am going to apply. I'll keep you posted. Even though my chances of being selected are slim to none. You've got to be in it to win it. Even if I am petrified that they'll make me out to be the crazy extremist. 

Also not me, but also how CP probably thinks I see myself...

3. The real winner on the day is reality television.

If this all appeals to you. Here are the contact details:

For more information, interested parents can call the toll free office number on 1300 885 165 or email Gemma.Gibbs@shineaustralia.com.
Alternatively, they can apply directly at https://wifeswap.castasugar.com
(where you can also find more information about the show).

Applications close August 12, 2011.

Watch this space!