Living with a Japanese family was surely a very interesting start of my longer stay in Japan, and the purpose for me, learning different aspects about the Japanese culture, was indeed fulfilled at this home stay family. Summarized, I can therefore recommend anybody to try home stay when you are coming to Japan, and not being able to compare this host to other ones my guess is Kumi san is at least as good as any other host. Staying for a slightly longer period myself at her place (2 months) I kind of had to get used to the idea that living with Kumi san is really like living with a family, not unlike back at my parents place. I think I was unconsciously expecting somewhat more privacy and distance like in a hostel, so heads up for that. (Some other guest staying at the same time as me had more trouble coping with this, and was sort of counting the days until the end). After I got used to this 'Japanese culture shock' (with the for westerners peculiar house rules) it turned out to be quite nice. The host is definitely very helpful and friendly, cooks something new every night, and whenever you and her both have the time takes you around town. Best of luck to her and her daughter, and to all of you who wish to stay in Japan: enjoy!