Our Journey

Marie Claire was in my youth group her 7th and 8th grade years (2003 – 2005) and our families are close friends.  Last spring I mentioned – half jokingly – in a Sunday School presentation about our mission that we would love to have someone join us to help watch the kids.  Little did I know that she took it seriously… Now, in her senior year, she is spending her fall semester with us in Blantyre, attending an international school, becoming big sister to Claire Marin and Carter, and joining in our mission.

Several times in the past several days as I round a corner and see her, catch a glimpse of her sitting on her bed, or coming down the steps to the car I realize that I have this goofy grin on my face.  She has caught me as well.  I’m just so happy she’s here.  And Steve too.

When everything here is “almost” like home, but not quite, it’s wonderful to have friends who are home to us.  They call a flashlight a flashlight and not a torch.  They can understand every word that I say.  They know and love us well and we can pick up with a history and relationship that goes back longer than 6 weeks.

Marie Claire comes with an easy manner, a genuine interest and a spirit of adventure.  She sees opportunities where others might fear the unknown.  She respects what others may judge.  She asks good questions and has wise insights.

It’s just been three days, but her room looks like she has been here for weeks.  Claire Marin has not left her side; she is so grateful for a new and friendly face.  And we move together easily in the house, making meals, reading on the couch, and playing with the kids.  Marie Claire has offered to make us enchildadas and even to cook once a week.  wow!

We have visited her school, bought school uniforms and school supplies for her and Claire Marin, and taken care of details like a shower curtain and extra towels.  We have covenanted that we will blog honestly about the good and bad times.  And we hope to take yoga classes together on Wednesday night.

Here comes the goofy grin again.  Even writing about her presence and our plans makes me happy.

Please add Marie Claire as you pray for the Oliver family.  And Steve has he helps her get settled and then returns to Nashville.  And for her mom, Marcie, who has graciously supported Marie Claire in this adventure.