Dr. Seuss, Dad and this Blog

The post-Christmas lull has got to be one of my favorite times of the year.  For the 2nd day in a row, I woke up with nothing to do!  (Well, nothing I really HAVE to do.)  While one of our girls was bemoaning the boredom of a day with no plans and road conditions that kept us from venturing out of the house, I jumped into lecture mode.  "Being bored is one of the greatest luxuries on earth.  It is a gift from God."  I can turn anything into an annoying teaching moment.  It's a gift, really!  This lull also comes with an element of melancholy as it gives time for memories and thoughts that are painful to consider.  In one sense, being extremely busy is also gift in that you don't have time to rehearse loss and sadness in your life.  I was surprised to find the Christmas holiday far more painful than Thanksgiving.  Our activities, surroundings and company were nothing but enjoyable.  To look at our pictures and abundant blessings surrounding us, you would think everything was peachy and perfect,  but looks are deceiving.  There was a deep ache in my gut (still is) as everything seemed to remind me of Dad.  Even today, we are left with delicious Honey Baked Ham leftovers.  Yet, my thoughts return to Christmas two years ago when I awoke on the 26th to a "Green Eggs and Ham breakfast" prepared by Dad and the girls.  The table was topped with the Dr. Seuss book, eggs colored with green food coloring and our ham leftovers.  Who does that?  As Kelly dove into her Santa gifts, I longed for Dad to engage in a Nerf Gun War similar to the "World War 3-Water-Gun-Battles" that he is known for during summers in Colorado.  He brought a strange delight and fun to the simplest of things.  Several years ago, when Barbies were the gift of choice, they were known to hang from the light fixtures and to walk in line across the mantle.  Growing up, I thought these things were normal, but as I remember him in almost a dream-like fashion, I realize the blessing it was being raised by someone who was anything but "normal".    As we approach 2013, I wonder about the future of this blog.  It was created to connect and keep in touch with family and friends during my time in Africa.  It has provided an outlet to process unexpected loss and to make sense out of a year that changed me profoundly.  Honestly, I've always thought blogs were a little self-centered and once said that I would NEVER write one myself.  (Now, we can put that comment in the collection of things I didn't have a clue about, including---I would never go into ministry or teach kindergarten or live in Texas!)  Still, part of me hopes that life over the next year will bring uneventful routine with little reason to continue writing.    Either way, thank you for sharing this season of blogging with me and especially for remembering us in your prayers through it all.   I wish you and yours a very Happy New Year!

Lord, Help My Unbelief

A classroom of twenty or so 5 and 6 year old children is a most glorious place on earth.  Some days I sit in my green teacher's chair and just marvel at the beauty on display before my eyes.  Little people love to take ownership of their world and genuinely thrive in surroundings where they are safe and comfortable.  During the fall of 2012, while the circumstances of life gave little reason for joy, I returned each day to my sweet students and found great encouragement.  Innocence, joy, peace, and curiosity filled the room.  The news of a gun man breaking into this world was unbearable to me.  It is a most sacred place. 

Along with the rest of our country, I've ached and cried over the evil of last Friday morning.  It shakes my faith.  While getting ready for church on Sunday morning, I cried out to the Lord.   While I do not understand his ways, I prayed that he will help me to trust him more.  Even when things crumbled around me this fall, the classroom was a place that appeared to be immune to the horror of this world, a place where hopes and dreams were on full display and joy and goodness reigned.  Sadly, I've been reminded that our world is broken in all areas by sin with nothing being spared.  My only response  to this is to humbly return to Christ and to ask him to help my unbelief as I question and grieve what I do not understand.  As we approach the Christmas holiday, I am longing for the return of the Lord Jesus.  Our Sunday service included "O Come, O Come Emmanuel".  The last three verses really struck me.   Christ is our Emmanuel.  Now,  I sing this Christmas hymn with the same expectation as I long for him to return and to bring us to our heavenly home. 

"O come thou Rod of Jesse, free thine own from Satan's tyranny; from the depths of hell thy people save, and give them vict'ry o'er the grave.  O come, thou Dayspring from on high, and cheer us by thy drawing nigh; disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death's dark shadows put to flight.  O come, thou key of David, come and open wide our heavenly home; make safe the way that leads on high and close the path to misery.  Rejoice! Rejoice!  Emmanuel shall come to thee O Israel." 

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Eight years ago, our family moved out of a small and very happy home in Tampa, Florida, said goodbye to dear friends and started the long drive to Ft. Worth, Texas, back to the central time zone for the first time in 10 years.  The drive included lots of tears and much anticipation for what seemed like a crazy decision/move to me.  Two days later, we pulled into the driveway of a large home in north Ft. Worth with a  banner across the front porch welcoming us to Texas and to a new church family.  On January 2nd, 2005, we began worshiping in a strip mall in Watagua, Texas with 40+ people who were committed to having a work of the Presbyterian Church of America in the newly developing area of the city.  Since the first service, many of the original families have gone on to new cities and other churches, but the Lord has seen fit to grow our body with new families and a growing faith and dependence through the years.   At first, we were a group of nomads moving to different facilities consistently, a day school and then elementary school cafeteria.  During the months in the day school, Kyle would vacuum the hallway before worship on Sunday and church members would set up the chairs each week.  In 2007, we moved into a permanent home through the Lord's provision of land and the funds to build a lovely building for worship and education.  This has been our happy home for the last 5 years, and frankly, I'm sad about the thought of not worshiping in our first chapel anymore.    As the pastor's wife, I will admit to a lack of faith and trust from the initial move through seasons of a "revolving door" as a church family.  Why the Lord called ME to be a minister's wife?  I will never know!  I have grown in faith and dependance as I've witnessed the Lord's work in our midst.  It has not been a work of man, most especially, not the pastor.  The Lord is faithful to his church and his people as he uses imperfect souls to do the work of ministry.   Much like the experience of that long drive to Texas, I'm full of anticipation for the next chapter of Grace Community as we move into a larger and stunning worship space this morning.  I expect there will be new and difficult challenges and a continuing revolving door in the years ahead.  Who knows?!  However, I am confident of HIS great faithfulness regardless of the circumstances and I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for his abundant goodness to us!  This morning is sure to be a time of joyous celebration and happy tears as we worship the Lord in our new home. 

The First of Many Firsts

Mom, Walter and Oreo just drove away after a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.  We couldn't ask for a better visit with the cousins as we adjust to the absence of our "12th Man".  (Sorry Aggie fans!  We've always been a group of 12 and several occasions this holiday kept us recounting the number of our immediate family.)  There were many times when I thought, "Dad would LOVE this", including his teenage grandkids up until nearly 2:00 every night having a ball together.  He would have been in the middle of the action for sure.  Still, there were other times when I know Dad would have had a fit.  Our late arrival to a family Thanksgiving gathering gave us a good laugh!  We were responsible for "kid drinks" and we showed up with hot, GENERIC sodas, a cooler and some ice.  This would not have been tolerated!  We had to enjoy the lack of stress surrounding our failure.  While the grandkids loved every minute of their time together, we received several comments from our girls, "This is boring."  When we responded with how relaxing it was, someone came back with, "Way too relaxing!"  Dad kept them moving, sugared up and generally unattached to hand held devices.  We allowed them to be sedentary and we put no limits on time with eyes locked to multiple forms of technology.  I tried very hard to surround the grandkids with "reminders of Grandpa", but found it painfully obvious, while drinking a Bloody Mary, that these fun things and memories don't capture the essence of his strong presence in our midst.  There was a gaping hole.  Dad would be so proud of Mom as she continues her loving role in the family with strength, perseverance and grace.  We are so thankful for the blessing she is to all of us and we are grateful for such an enjoyable and comforting Thanksgiving surrounded by family. 

Missing Zambia

Four months after my return from Lusaka, Zambia, the vivid images are fading and and the ache in my gut is nearly gone.  This kills me!  While being surrounded by so many "1st world problems" (no i-phone, limits on use of make-up, sisters borrowing clothing) I find myself longing for that land and for some interaction with my joyful, content and generous Zambian friends.   I'm praying for an opportunity to return to the schools of Lusaka, but I'm becoming convinced that 2013 is not the time for our family.  Two days ago, I brought home over 100 books from our book fair (purchased with funds raised by students and families from Ridgeview Elementary) to ship on a crate to Africa.  It hit me that I will not be able to see the reaction of the children as they enjoy this blessing and luxury next summer and I will NEVER forget the beautiful faces of the students, who seemed as if they were in a trance, while listening to stories being read aloud.  I'm certain these books will enrich their classrooms for many years and I look forward to reading aloud to them again some day! 

Greatness Points to the Lord

As our family anticipates the upcoming debut of the movie Les Miserables, I'm struck with the anticipation of something wonderful, almost other worldly, like this story coming to film.  So much of life in this world is surrounded by an infatuation or awe with things that amaze and inspire us.  This hits home each day while driving east to work during the splendor of the morning sunrise and then driving west with a display of a glorious sunset.  I'm convinced that greatness directs my eyes to God and beyond this world.  Quite often, life includes endurance and forbearance (grit and humility).   Yet, there are these sign posts each day that remind us that this world is not the "end-all-be-all" and that there is greatness, beauty and peace beyond our imagination in Christ our Lord.



"That you may know.......what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.  And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all."  Ephesians 1: 19-23

Despair, Hope and Heaven

The crystal clear skies and the glorious weather gives more opportunity and motivation for collecting my thoughts and writing about the experience of traveling down the road of deep sadness.  This evening I took a typical walk at sunset, but there was an extra bounce in my step as I was struck by the reality of such incredible beauty in the midst of horrid and incomprehensible sights and experiences.   So much of what I've seen in the recent months has left me completely dumbfounded.  Three months ago, I rode on a bus in Zambia and stared out the window in stunned and profoundly sad silence.  We drove away from a compound where we met hundreds of the most BEAUTIFUL children who go without food, water, warmth, beds and parental care each day.  How do you make sense of that?  Two months ago, I watched my father take his final breaths and leave this world just a few weeks after climbing to the peak of a mountain with him.  As Dad completed his last climb, he cheered on the other hikers and he was at the top of his game.   It didn't seem possible for him to be unconscious and unable to order us around as we tried to grasp the enormity of losing him before our eyes.  As the fog of a "grin and bear it season" clears, writing seems to be a way to make sense of seemingly senseless circumstances.  Since the teen years, my faith has been an anchor and my love affair with this world ended when I became a Christian 25 years ago.  Still, this abiding faith takes on a whole new light as I increasingly despair of the brokenness of the world.  While enjoying the glory of a picture perfect night, I was reminded of the reality and hope of our permanent home in heaven where there is no death, sadness, hunger or destruction.   Such a brief glimpse of eternity lifts my eyes off of present sorrow and encourages my soul greatly!

The Little Engine that Couldn't

While reflecting on the last few months, I'm struck with the body's response  to stress and grief  and the contrast of reaction when finding relief.  It's as if you could walk on water when the weight is removed.  For the first time in decades, I've physically felt anxiety in new ways.  Images of "The Little Engine That Could" come to mind.  I'm not implying an extraordinary ability, just communicating the weight of a heavy load that was unfamiliar to me.  (Come to find out teenagers don't have a pause button as you come to the end of yourself.)  Honestly,  there is no pause button for any of life.  Fast food servers still bark at you.   Families are still disfunctional, even in the saddest of times.  Still, another thought about the Little Engine comes to mind.  While the book leads us to believe in our ability to overcome and challenge ourselves, I can only relate with the part of a burden weighing me down heavily while continuing on the path ahead.  I'm thankful for the overwhelming support, most especially the Lord Jesus, pushing me each day and even carrying the burden for me as I kept going.  Friends and family have cheered my weary spirits and run along with me while my gaze has often been downcast and defeated.  I've felt the weakness of my flesh like never before and have relied on the loving kindness of others in countless ways.  Now we're on the downhill side of things and thankful for the lighter, easier load as we travel around an always uncertain, eventful, yet hopeful, bend.  Thank you, dear friends, for carrying my burden for me.  Here's to another Friday and cooler weather in the forecast.

"If the LORD had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence.  When I thought, "My foot slips," your steadfast love, O LORD, held me up. "  Psalm 94: 17-18

The Lord Provides

One day at a time rings true around here these days.  If you told me last Sunday that I would celebrate my daughter's 13th birthday, complete my 6 hour GT update, go to a math training, work with all reading groups several times, get my classroom organized and overdue laminating finished, complete lesson plans early, be out 2 days with a stomach bug and visit my husband in the hospital all before the next Sunday, I would have laughed at you.  Actually, if you told me on January 1st that the Lord would change my life in Zambia, I would lose my father, speak at his service and that I would miss the first days of school and have the most perfect class of students in the fall, you would have gotten a similar reaction of disbelief.  All I can say in response to the events of 2012,  combined with joy, laughter, tears and deep sorrow, is that the Lord is faithful!  During the few days I was home from Zambia, before vacation and my father's accident, the Lord enabled me to recount my experience in Africa through writing with clarity and passion before the confusion of the fall hit me.  Given a brief window and opening in the schedule, I was given the opportunity to share that experience with my church family during a most stressful and sad time.  This was a welcome occasion due to the providence of already having the talk ready to go.  Also, upon arriving home from vacation, before unexpectedly returning to Colorado, the Lord allowed me to get nearly all my ducks in a row for beginning the school year.  Just this weekend, I am grateful for His perfect timing of my recovery from a stomach bug only 5 hours before Kyle began having intense pain in his abdomen which led to him being admitted to the hospital.   The Lord has never given me more than I could bear and He has provided all the necessary support at just the right moments.  While my gut aches deeply as I remember and long for my Dad and my eyes are quick to fill with tears at the simplest of triggers (yesterday it was a gentleman ordering vodka at the ballet and requesting Grey Goose-Dad's favorite), my heart and soul remain steadfast in the Lord's keeping.  Even as I'm anxious about upcoming classroom evaluations and feel like I'm doing the impossible yet most satisfying job of a teacher, I'm confident in the Lord's provision for each day.  So, I simply step out of bed each morning and do the next thing.  Speaking of that, I must get to the next thing and get back to the hospital. 

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 6-7

Processing, Grieving and Teaching

The last few weeks have been overwhelming to say the least.  A group of 18 five year old children have been a constant source of joy for me!  I'm convinced I have the greatest job on earth...... so much sweetness, eagerness, potential and innocence packed into one classroom.  I'm thankful for this privilege as I grieve the loss of my Dad and consider life without him.  Even this past week, one student commented, "I hope your Dad is feeling better."  I assured her that he is all better now! Teaching has been a comfort, distraction, focus, and worthwhile task as I've reflected on childhood and Dad's influence in my life.  While there have been times when the comment, "You're just like your Dad," hit me in the wrong way, I find it to be the highest praise right now. 

In the recent months, the Lord has opened my eyes to extreme poverty, profound hopelessness and now deep sorrow.  In the midst of it all, he has shown his loving kindness to our family through his people.  My thoughts remain a jumbled/swirling mess and my dreams continue to be a wild ride that don't make sense.  Still, three things have remained constant for me:  the Lord has provided faithfully and abundantly, our family has been knit together stronger than ever and my students have shown up each day ready for the exciting prospect of learning about the world around them.  There has been no profound way to grieve.  The simple task of waking up and starting the day has been a meaningful process of healing for me!  I'm excited to begin another week with my precious students tomorrow. 

A New School Year

As I return to the classroom to meet my new students today, I do so with my head spinning and my heart aching from the very recent loss of my father.  When I arrived on a delayed flight from Tulsa last night, having missed the first two days of school, I was filled with anxiety for all the details of a classroom with new kindergarten students.  However, this morning I awoke with peace, thinking of Dad.  He would greet this challenge with purpose, optimism, strength and depth of character.  He would dazzle the children with his passion for life and his love of people.   The "lesson plans" seem so clear.  We will enjoy our new classroom and our new friends.  We will sing and we will dance.  I will find a little "Carl Young" who is sure to keep the teacher on her toes and who has such great potential and I will smile.  It's going to be a good year!! 

From Africa to Colorado... A Time of Reflection

It's hard to believe just a week ago we entered the United States after several weeks of intense and emotional work in the compounds of Lusaka.  Our surroundings included dirt roads, tropical plants, debris covered landscape, block walls and hundreds of beautiful and impoverished children.  This morning our family awoke to the stunning and majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains.  The contrast of our schedule and surroundings is amazing.  Discretionary/down time was rare during our time in Zambia and it is the theme of our days in Crested Butte.  I'm thankful for much rest with family before starting another school year while I'm constantly mindful of the sights and experiences during our time in Africa.

Before traveling to Zambia, I considered the disconnect of a passage in Nehemiah 8  to my life.  "The joy of the Lord is your strength."  During our time in Zambia, I encountered people who reflected the reality of this in their lives.  Without comfort and material resources, (water, beds, electricity, food) the source of their strength was singularly deep faith and dependence upon the Lord.  Their lives exuded joy and peace in profound and authentic ways.  As the Oliphints enjoy every imagineable comfort and luxury (including glorious beauty) while on vacation, I am aware that these blessings can cloud my vision for true joy and strength.  My life has been characterized by an attention deficit disorder in a spiritual sense, tossed and turned by fickle (and blessed) circumstances and emotions.  The Lord continues using the faith and example of the Zambian people to change my perspective and to direct my heart and thoughts to Him.  I am thankful for such a glorious reminder.... Only the Lord satisfies the soul! 

Zambia Memories

 While preparing to share about my experience with the women in our church, I've made a video of my time in Zambia.

The link for the video is included below:

https://vimeo.com/46364176?action=share

"Good morning" from Texas!

After fighting off "a rise and shine call" from my head at 1:00 am (8:00 in Zambia), I'm wide awake again and ready to begin my first day back in Texas at 4:00 am.  Our travels were uneventful and included an overnight in London with the comfortable luxury of a Hilton hotel (a nice reentry to our spoiled lives!)  We flew over most of Africa, the Sahara Desert, the Mediterranean Sea, the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean.  This extraordinary means of travel was not lost on me as I stared in awe at the massive dunes in the desert and the vast bodies of water from my window seat.  I was reminded that we were a LONG WAY from home during our time in Zambia.

My heart raced as we touched down on the runway, just "minutes" from seeing our families.  Luggage, immigration and customs took 60 minutes and built the anticipation and excitement for all of us!  While being surrounded with hugs from Kyle and the girls, Caroline commented, "You're short" and I noticed the growing height of the girls.  I think Caroline grew during the month of July and it's only a matter of days until I'm the smallest Oliphint in the house.  The comfort of being in each others' presence was combined with a pit in my stomach as I considered hundreds of children (familiar faces burned into my head) who don't have that experience at home.   Our house seems HUGE, immaculately clean and full of stuff.  I'm not being derogatory,  just absorbing the obvious contrast to the lives of my new friends in Zambia.   It appears that Kyle and the girls kept the home in perfect order... I'm impressed!  Katie and I have lots to share with each other after our life changing experiences in different parts of the world.  We're all incredibly grateful to God for bringing our family back together safely.

Here is a music video by Sara Groves that captures some of my thoughts as I return to life in Texas:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lt_WpluguwE

Goodbye Zambia. Oh, How I Love Your People!

It is only 4:15 in the afternoon and it feels like a very long day already. Sadly, this will be my final  post from Zambia.  It has been a most transforming experience that will shape my thoughts and decisions for the rest of my life.  I knew the Lord would open my eyes and heart to His world, but I could never have imagined the incredible beauty, generosity and perserverance of the people in Africa. 

Our morning at Kabanana was beautiful and emotional.  The students welcomed visitors from the US who raised funds for the school with a wonderful "program".  The American teachers "enjoyed" an official goodbye celebration on Thursday due to our special guests today.  Students and teachers showered us with kind and tearful words of appreciation and each teacher received a chitenge with the Zambian flag and colors on it.  It is such a treasure to me!  By some miracle, I was able to hold it together as the children kneeled and presented gifts to us. 

However, this morning was a completely different story.  Before and after spending time with visitors from the states, we had the opportunity to express our appreciation, give gifts and pray for our dear Zambian friends.  I bawled like a baby during these heartfelt prayers and sad goodbyes.  Irene, who is very composed and put together broke down in tears as well.  The Lord's blessing was most certainly upon our time here.  The American and Zambian teachers were perfectly matched with each other and there was mutual respect and appreciation among us.  I could write a blog post on each of them and how much I admire their hearts for the Lord and for the children of Zambia.   I am certain that I gained much more than I gave during our time with them.  They are truly remarkable teachers and servants of God. 

So, the bags are nearly packed.  We will depart for London tomorrow morning and will arrive back in Texas by dinner on Sunday.  I'm guessing there will be another post from home as I reflect on this incredible experience.  Thank you for taking this journey with me.  I am grateful for your prayers and encouraging words of support.  The Lord's goodness and faithfulness has been evident as your prayers have been fully answered in every way.

Our Final Days

With just two more school days before travel, we are wrapping things up, organizing and preparing to travel home.  Packing is so much easier with just clothing and some purchases from the market.  (Come to find out, I am also a good shopper in Africa, so the bags won't be empty!!)  I have mixed feelings about the final days at Kabanana Lifeway Christian Academy.  Of course, I'm overjoyed about the thought of coming home to my family, but the thought of leaving the children and teachers just kills me!  I've grown VERY fond of the Zambian people that we've come to know and love.  Their smiles,  joy, contentment, creativity and determination have made a significant and lasting impression on me.  Friday is sure to be a tearful and hard day as we say our goodbyes and leave the school. 

The American teachers enjoyed a special treat today as several teenage boys gave us a lengthy tour of the school grounds, pointing out every type of plant and tree.  In this group, there is an impressive young man named Jonathan who arrives at school by 6:00a.m. to clean the school grounds and to water the garden.  He would like to be a farmer someday.  (He also bailed us out when our car was stuck on a dirt/pothole covered road last week.)   I am sure he will cross my mind frequently in the years ahead.    There is one special young boy who has stolen my heart named Frances (age 12).  He moved into a new home at Tree of Life on our first weekend in Zambia.  Before coming to Tree of Life, he lived on the streets after his drunk father kicked him out of the house.  His younger sister named Susan (age 8) was prositituted out by his aunt and then kicked out of the house as well.  After talking with his teacher today, I learned that he is very focused and a hard worker.  Frances told me that he would like some books so that he can learn to read.  He LOVES football (soccer) and would like to have his own ball.  (I plan to take some books and a ball with me for our final evening at the Tree of Life on Friday.)  He will surely become a treasure to our family and will be a fixture in my thoughts and prayers in the years ahead.  This will not be the last you hear of him.  Frances and hundreds of precious children will fill my mind and tear at my heart as I return to my charmed life in Texas.  I am hopeful that this will not be my last visit to Zambia.  

Humbling Lessons in Zambia

Our morning began with roadwork and a large construction vehicle blocking our way into the school. The teachers carried multiple bags(each) and walked through the compound to school as people stared in confusion.   By the afternoon, the road was covered in sticky tar, so our walk to the car included climbing hills of dirt by the side of the road with the same load of bags and supplies.  We attracted even more attention during this hike.  A group of men offered us drinks while children laughed at us and called out "muzungu" (white person).

It was a wonderful day in the classroom.  The Zambian teachers started taking back some of the lessons.  This week, we will observe more and offer support as they try new strategies.   While we are here to help them in the classroom, I feel that I'm the one learning and growing the most.  Our lunches include lots of discussion about our different backgrounds, cultures, families and our plans for the future.  As I listen to their stories, I am humbled and in awe of their positive determination in the face of unbelievable challenges.  One of the men we are working with named Morris comes from a family that has suffered great loss from Aids.  He lost 2 of his five sisters to the disease and one of his 2 brothers manages the disease with drugs.  Only one member of his family has been to college.  Morris would like to get a "degree" in education and plans to start in a year.  He commented, "I want to change the story for my family."  He strongly desires his children to be "educated" (only has one child now), so their family planning includes spacing the ages so that they can give the first child a solid foundation before having another.  While describing so much suffering, he said that he can only "trust in God and keep a positive attitude" or he can get overwhelmed and start to worry.   He aches for his students and their circumstances (struggling with hunger, HIV positive, being abused/ neglected) and he gives his heart and service to them.  

Right after this discussion, Dorothy (the head teacher) asked us, "Have you ever experienced a lack of something or having to go without?"  She went on to add, "like sleeping on a concrete floor or having no food".  Through tears, I answered, "I have not."  The American teachers went on to say that we are very blessed.  (This question brings me to tears even as I type this blog.)  Dorothy described that life in Zambia can be very hard and that this is their experience at times.  She added that even if you work very hard, sometimes you end up with very little.  She was not complaining or trying to get our pity.  She is one of the hardest workers and most amazing women I have ever met.  Not to mention, she has a quick wit along with a warm and engaging personality.  She has that school hopping with routine and order.  The students and teachers have taken owership of the place and work hard to care for their surroundings. 

I'm not sure how to process todays conversation.  The irony for me is that this white, spoiled American is over in Africa "serving" while witnessing and learning about the most profound examples of service and dedication from the Zambian teachers.  My thoughts about service don't even scratch the surface of what they exhibit in their lives.  I give out of my abundance while they give out of their limited means.  What a humbling and inspiring lesson for this teacher!!

Animals!!! and Antibiotics??

We thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful scenery, the fresh air and hundreds of animals our our "baby safari" yesterday.  I describe it as a baby safari due to the length of time and number of animals.  We were shocked by our view of two lions making more babies right in front of their cubs.  The giraffes (my favorite) lingered and posed for us for a long time.  We did not get the opportunity to see elephants or zebras due to the duration of the drive.  Our host saw elephants on the same drive just a few weeks ago.   It was especially enjoyable being out in the wide open space of Zambia, considering Lusaka is a city with lots of block walls covered in barbed wire lining the streets.  It feels like a maze as you drive through it.  Believe it or not, I haven't seen ONE sunset since arriving here and I'm missing that.  The sky is hardly visible with trees, buildings and walls blocking the view.  The climate and scenery reminds me of a cross between the Caymans, Texas and Colorado (summer temperatures) with a little Florida greenery mixed in there.   After the game drive, we enjoyed a delicious lunch on the patio. 

The pace of our schedule has caught up with me with a sore throat and less energy.  I'm debating when to take my back-up antibiotic and trying fight the symptoms with Aleve Cold and Sinus.  The blowing dirt of the compounds gets into our noses and mouths and must have an affect on us.  My roommate has the exact symptoms, but she is a little worse.  (already taking an antibiotic)  Allison is still going strong in more ways than one!   I would be tempted to rest this morning and stay home from church, but you know that is not going to happen after the experience last week!  Please continue to pray for health and that I'm not down for the count in the final week of teaching.  It is amazing to me that we are in the homestretch and will be approaching the United States at this time next week.  I'm trying to soak it all in the final days.

The Community School in Zambia

We just finished our first week teaching in Zambia.  I'm feeling the joy of Friday afternoon much like I do in the States.  It is a HUGE bonus that we get the afternoon to rest,  possibly for  the first time since our exhausted arrival over a week ago.   After spending the morning in the classroom, we got the opportunity to visit a "Community School" in the compound where the children go if they do not have money for private education, government schools or have a sponsorship.  This is where all of the students from the Lifeway Christian Academies would be going without being sponsored by an American.  It was both heart breaking and heart warming to be there today.  The one room "school" houses about 250 students with two teachers.  The students range from around 5 years old to nearly 18.  The teachers and students were so welcoming and happy to have visitors.  Once again, children asked for "a snap" of the camera and gave their most charming poses while they were covered in dirt from head to toe. 

During our time there, Allison read aloud two stories.  The children were enthralled with early childhood picture books.   (Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed, and How Do You Make a Rainbow?)  They hung on every word!!!  Even the teenagers were completely engaged the entire time.  Three girls shared a poem titled: Don't Forget About Us.   It describes how their parents have forgotten them.  It was unreal being in a room of hundreds of orphans while listening to their powerful presentation of the poem.  The children sang a song about heaven while I thought to myself how much the Lord loves these little ones, even if they are alone and neglected in this world.  The entire experience will be burned into my memory until I go to the grave.  My desire to send children to the Lifeway Christian Academies has increased 100 fold.  If it is ever on your heart to participate in such a ministry, I will be glad to give you the names of the most beautiful, capable and intelligent children created in the image of God!!  Finally, before we left, we gave them a gift of simple school supplies.  You would think they were shouting for the Super Bowl as they received 3 books, 2 boxes of markers, a bag of crayons and a supply of paper.  (Again, the school  contains hundreds of children.)  I wish my girls could have seen such joy displayed over basic items that are huge luxuries to these children.  It was unbelievable. 

I'm looking forward to a weekend to rest before heading back to the classroom next week.  Tomorrow we will go on a "game drive" and then we have worship and "the market" on Sunday.  What would a trip to Africa be without seeing SOME animals?  I'm thankful for this opportunity!  Thank you for your prayers on our behalf.  The week could not have been more wonderful and we remain safe, healthy and now rested!  There has been a stomach bug in the house where we are staying and so far nobody else has gotten it, so please remember us in your prayers for continued health.  Also, Katie leaves for a mission trip to the border of Mexico tomorrow morning.  I would greatly appreciate your prayer for her health and safety.   I'm uneasy being so far away while she goes off on this mission trip without her parents.  I'm sure Kyle, Caroline and Kelly would appreciate prayers as well while they hold down the homefront as the other girls are serving in different parts of the globe. Happy Friday to all!!

Zambian Culture and Traditions

We are blowing and going in Lusaka from early morning until late in the evening.  There is hardly a moment of the day that is not scheduled with some kind of "project".  With 14 schools right in the heart of the compounds, the workload is overwhelming for the missionaries who are opening and running the schools.  Even today, we left the school after a full day of teaching and went to another compound to set up the new classrooms for the students starting school tomorrow.  It is a bright and newly built facility, unlike the one where we are working.  Everywhere we go in the compounds, children surround us with attention and enthusiasm.   I'm in love with the Zambian children!  We have a crew of little ones living next to the school who greet us each morning and every afternoon.  Just today, two of them came to the "door" of their home completely naked (and clean) waving excitedly.  Believe me, I wanted get a "snap" of them on my camera.    

The last few days in the school have been excellent.  The classroom is organized and a reading program is underway.  Irene copies every strategy I model for her and then she asks for feedback after she tries something new.  She's eager and very open to learning different teaching styles.  The children are thoroughly enjoying new classroom materials, including manipulatives and white boards.  I'm soaking in the respectful customs of the students.  Every morning when I come into the room, they stand and say (in unison), "Good morning, madame.  How are you?"  They will stand until I  instruct them to be seated.  If a child is late to class, he or she bows at the door and asks for forgiveness.  The culture in Zambia is very respectful of authority-- women to men and children to adults.  In some ways, they've got it right compared to the Americans. 

The Zambian teachers are so appreciative of everything we do.   The head teacher even commented to the woman organizing the schools, "These teachers are professionals.  It's like we're at the university."  The Zambian teachers and the American teachers are having so much fun together.  During lunch, we engaged  in a lively discussion about the expectations of women in each country.  Zambian women are expected to do everything in the home-- the cooking, washing (in a tub by hand), caring for the children-- after working full-time jobs.  I admitted to them that I would not survive in Zambia.   There was hearty laughter as we compared our cultures. 

Speaking of culture, my eyes are on overload while absorbing all the new sights and experiences.  As we leave the compound  during "rush hour", I'm in awe of all the unfamiliar traditions of the people.  You will see women carrrying everything from bananas/oranges, baskets to  coolers on their heads.  The pedestrian traffic is massive, even on paved highways.  People drive like they're playing the video game Frogger, weaving in and out of cars at high speeds.  Our American host can hold her own with the best of them.  I don't care for riding in the front seat with her and my usual spot is in the way back with all the teaching bags.  Trash cans are nearly non-existent and rubbish is piled by the side of the road.  Poverty is widespread, but there is a colorful, beauty to even the darkest and most depressing compounds.  Life in the compound is covered in dirt, lacking all modern convenience, but it is refreshing to see a quiet peacefulness to those who know no other life.   One of the teachers we work with leaves his house at 6:00 a.m. so that he can walk and arrive at school by 7:00.  He couldn't be more joyful or excited about  the life he lives as a Zambian.  All of the teachers are equally amazing!!  We are very blessed by this opportunity to work with them.

Zambian People

It was a wonderful day in the classroom with even more new experiences.  The teachers surprised us with an authentic Zambian lunch including Nshima (their staple food) and chicken.  Nshima is a cross between grits and hard mashed potatoes.  You eat it with your hands after rolling it into a ball.  Considering we are covered in classroom germs and dirt with no running water, eating without utensils is a bit shocking and uncomfortable for us.  Of course, we couldn't offend our hosts after going to all the trouble to prepare a lovely lunch.  The head teacher even told us, "In Zambia, you know you're welcome when somebody kills and cooks a chicken for you," and she meant it.  It was surprisingly delicious! I'm very impressed with the Zambian people, teachers and students.
Irene and I are working well together.  While I teach in English, she translates things that are difficult to understand into Nyanja.  We are settling into a good rhythm as we support one another.  Today the classroom ran smoothly as we established classroom rules, procedures and expectations.   We're working on lessons to improve literacy.  The children are eager to read and soak in everything they are given while applying themselves whole-heartedly to their work.  While I'm reading stories to them, they are attentive as if they are in a trance.   It amazes me throughout the day how joyful, hard-working and content these children seem to be.  They are covered in dirt and wearing the same filthy clothes each day.  Additionally, they go without food, beds, comfortable homes (electricity and water) and they give 110% in the classroom like they are your typical students.  I'm telling you they are amazing!!!  I suspect this group would be at the very top of the class given the opportunities Americans enjoy.  

Thank you for the prayers and wonderful messages of encouragement.  I'm missing home, family and many comforts.  As an introvert who craves time alone, it is a stretch for me to be in a house with 10 people 24/7 for 3 weeks.  It is a wonderful group and we are having so much fun!  I've laughed more in the last week than I have in years.   I better get back to work!  The other teachers hard at work and I'm being a slacker.  The rooster will be waking us before you know it.  (I'm not kidding.)

Teaching in Zambia

Our team of teachers (4 of us) traveled to a humble school right in the middle of a compound.  The Zambian teachers greeted us with smiles, warmth and enthusiasm.  Upon our arrival they gave us a tour of the "school" building.  It resembles a construction project in the early stages.  The floors and walls are unfinished concrete covered in dirt.   With dirt roads throughout the community, it is a constant task to sweep the floors.  As you walk the halls, you will find children sweeping them throughout the day.  You nearly choke on gathering clouds of dust as you go from class to class.  There is no running water and only a few hanging light bulbs throughout the building.  On a chilly winter morning, I thought I was going to freeze in my dress.  There is no heat or air throughout the building.  The Zambian teachers meet with us for introductions and goals for the day.   Irene is the teacher I will be working with for a few weeks.  She is a very lovely lady.  All of the teachers seem delighted to have visitors from America. 

After introductions, they took us out back to a courtyard to meet our students.  Again, the "playground" is covered in dirt.  The students  were assembled in lines and greeted us with formal introductions, the Zambia anthem and the Lord's Prayer.   I spent the day observing and making dozens of pages of notes.  The goal is to take over a few lessons each day and to model different strategies for lessons covering the same objectives.  The Zambian classroom is very teacher centered where the students copy off the board for hours.  In a 4th grade classroom, the students do not know all of their letter names or sounds and they can not identify very many words.  They are focused and diligent, but the task of copying sentences all day does not enable them to learn to read what they are writing.  While taking a restoom break, I discovered that there is no running water.  You have to fill a bucket with water from a large trash can located in the bathroom before pouring it into the toilet.  There are no student bathrooms, because they have never seen or used a toilet.  The children go to a latrine behind the school to relieve themselves.  The "homes" in the compounds do not have running water or electricity, so they are unfamiliar with simple things that we take for granted like toilet paper.  Can you imagine?  A Zambian minister was dumbfounded by the concept of toilet papering in America, considering it is a luxury in his country. 

Half way through the afternoon, a student went over to the window to retrieve his shoes from a boy sticking them inside.  He said he wore the wrong size, so they were trading.  Shoes are a luxury as well and are rarely worn.   Near the end of the day with a few hours remaining, the teacher walked up to me and said, "I'm done.  Is there anything you can teach?"  She asked me to teach anything on letters and sounds.  So, I dug deep and jumped into an afternoon of shooting from the hip.  The students were delighted by a VERY different style of teaching and became very engaged.  Once I discovered that my class of 4th graders do not know how to read or write I felt right at home in 4th grade.  It's just like an American kindergarten class at the beginning of the year.

We begin taking over lessons tomorrow.  Our goal is to model student centered and engaging lessons with limited resources. I will be stocking her classroom with all the wonderful supplies provided by many of you.  The children do not even have crayons or markers, so the new materials will be a joy for the children and their  teacher.  My personal goal is to help Irene with classroom management.  She struggles in this area.   Classroom routines would be a huge help!!  Well, it is almost 10:00 p.m. in Zambia and I still have some finishing touches for tomorrow, so "goodnight" for now.  I would appreciate your prayers as this job seems overwhelming to me.  I am here to serve Irene and not to give her all the answers, but I would like to help in the most meaningful way possible.

Worship in Zambia

It was a sunny, beautiful, winter, Sunday morning in Zambia.  We worshiped with 250 Zambian children and around 50 Zambian adults while overlooking a valley in Lusaka.  Children and adults were alternating in the seats.  The worship leaders included around 50 children singing their hearts out in Nyanja and in English.  People danced along with the drums and the joyful singing.  I sat beside a young boy named John (around age 12) who followed along in the Bible readings (1 Peter 2 and Exodus 19) with me while drawing a picture and writing a note for me.  It said, "I love you so, so, much.  God bless you for what you are doing."  He  stared at Oliphint family photos inside my Bible and asked if he could keep one of them.  He taught me to say "I love you very much", "How are you?" "fine"  and "thank you" in Nyanja.  He had the most pleasant and loving way about him like a real gentleman. He will surely be a future leader in Zambia thanks to the grace of God through the ministy of Family Legacy and his home at the Tree of Life Village.  Two children gave testimonies and I shook in my seat in tears.  A 15 year old girl shared a horrific story of being raped by her cousin at age 8.  Her mother fed her beer instead of food and she became a drunk by the age of 9.  When she told her Mom about being raped, she told her not to tell anyone beacuse her cousin would have to go to prison.  She went on to describe going to church with her grandmother and crying out to God to rescue her.   Through the tears, she explained that God is her father, that He has restored her and made her a virgin again.  She finds her strength, hope and joy in Him.  Finally, she told how she hopes her story will minister to other children in the room.  EVERY single child at Tree of Life has an equally dark story.  A little girl next to me sobbed as she listened.  I squeezed her and held on tight.  The service ended with one of the best sermons I have ever heard.  (No offense, Kyle!)   My favorite line was, "When people see you, do they see God?"  He was not very gentle with the state of the church today.  He said when people enter churches, it is trashy, all about the minister, what clothes you wear, how comfortable the pew is and what car you drive.  He said, "What you love and what you are fed is what you are."  "Garbage in garbage out!"  He challenged us to sit under solid preaching of the gospel.  "When you are sick, you lose your appetite.  When you are spiritually sick, you lose your appetite for God."  He pointed out that Americans will spend 3-4 hour watching the Super Bowl, but will get mad if the preacher goes over 30 minutes.  Ouch!!  It was a solid feeding of God's word and a beautiful picture of God's people (all races) joining together to worship the Lord.  I would move to Zambia tomorrow for such a glorious opportunity to do that weekly.  Thankfully, we will worship there next week and will have the same minister.  I will be perfecting my dance moves with the African worship songs.  My feet stumbled awkwardly today as I followed along with the children beside me.  After the service, we enjoyed a delicious meal on the terrace of a cliff.  It was such a lovely and satisfying Lord's Day in Zambia.  Even as I type this, my own family has not even begun to worship in the states.  I hope that it is an equally glorifying and wonderful time of worship.

Light in the Darkness

The past few days have been like reading a book from the ending.  Yesterday 200 orphans and families from America lined the street and welcomed 48 orphans into the Tree of Life Village  with singing, dancing and shouting as 2 buses pulled into the village.  As the new children arrived they looked hopeless, scared and shocked with no understaning of what was before their eyes.  Dozens of families worked together to build 4 new, beautiful homes for these children.  Adults and children from Texas gathered up the new orphans and welomed them to their new homes.  Within hours of their arrival, all of the children were joyfully playing, coloring, running and taking in their new surroundings.  I cried tears of joy like never before. Children in this village are not familiar with things like CD's, lotion and gum.  As Allison showered a child with gifts, she did not understand these simple items.  It would be my greatest desire to raise $100,000 to build another home in this village.  Feel free to quit reading this blog now.  : )

This morning we traveled into several compounds in Lusaka (where the new schools are located) and witnessed horrific conditions.  Hundreds and hundreds of chidlren are filthy, hungry and sick while the community is full of adults who are drunk and hopeless.  One woman greeted me by telling me another woman "likes the beer".  I responded with, "I like beer too!".  Allison quickly responded in shock, "Lizzie, in Zambia, that is not really a good thing.  You shouldn't say that again."  In the same community, children were half scared and half delighted by the presence of white people.  Several jumped back in horror as I tried to shake hands or take a step in their direction.  In another community, children surrounded us and begged to have their pictures taken so they could see the photos.  We visited the "homes" of 2 girls that Allison sponsors for their education.  It was the most beautiful picture of love I have ever seen.  Allison explained to the girls (both in tears of joy) that she is here because God allowed her to visit them again (the 4th time) and that all of the presents were from Him through her.  Both girls shouted praise to the Lord and prayed with thanksgiving.  I was undone by the glorious beauty of both visits.  I now have a list of girls that the Oliphints will consider sending to school.  Education will be the only way they can end the cycle of despair.  Everyone should consider this ministry!!  One family has 12 people sleeping on a concrete/dirt floor in an 8X8 room and that  is a decent scenario in an upperclass compound. I returned to our compound in stunned, thoughtful and sad silence.  Something must be done!
The glory of what I witnessed yesterday is only magnified by today.  It has been a surreal experience seeing the hopeful outcome for the precious orphans before the dark and heartbreaking backdrop of their lives in the slums.

I am not able to post pictures on the blog very easily I  (hundreds of them!), so I will add photos when we return to the states.  Some of you can see a selection of them on Facebook. 
We start teaching on Monday in the communities of today.  I'm looking forward to meeting the beautiful children and the Zambian teachers we will be working with for a few weeks.  I will keep you posted on how that goes.

DFW to Lusaka- OH MY!

Just a quick post after my first overseas trip in 20 years.  After receiving an upgrade on our flight to London, we settled into flaming hot beef tenderloin, elevated foot rests, endless movies and music entertainment.  I was pinching myself!  9 hours later we arrived in London having missed a night of sleep and debated getting a "Yotel" for the day (knowing we need to be rested for this trip).  We decided that we would regret not seeing the sites, so we took the tube into London for a wet and enjoyable day.  For most of the day, we were fumbling and bumbling our way through the streets.  At one point a local commented, "You look lost."  Between the rain on our clothes and hair and the sweat on our bodies, we looked and smelled like drowned rats.  So, we headed back to the airport to board a 10 hour flight to Lusaka..... just what every stinky, tired, filthy person wants to do.  On this flight, we sat beside a kind man from Lusaka who thrilled us with stories of his wonderful country and the warm people of the land.  He irritated us with hours of snoring that sounded like a freight train.  Again, we enjoyed the in flight entertainment, but did not get more than an hour of sleep.  Needless to say, our arrival into Zambia was an exhausted one, but the thrill of walking down the staircase (outside) and stepping into a new continent was incredible.  We stopped and took a picture outside our plane to mark the moment.   Today we spent the day getting organized, oriented and visiting with the missionaries from Family Legacy.  They have stories that are too much for me to process right now.  Of course, the first thing I wanted to do was take a shower and rest.  Immediately after showering and dressing, I looked out the open window of our room (no drapes or blinds) and saw a young man with a shot gun walking by our window, in front of the block wall topped with barbed wire.  I looked at Allison and said, "What just happened?"  She said very matter of factly (like of course), "He's the guard."  I didn't know we had a guard partoling the compound where we are staying.  More for me to process....  Tomorrow we will spend the day at "Tree of Life Village" where Family Legacy is opening 4 new homes for orphans who have been sexually abused, neglected, abandoned.  One very little boy is moving into a new home after living in a shelter made out of trash bags.  I will write more on that later.  Below are a few pictures from our fun day in London.   It's a happening place in the weeks before the Olympics.... I'm so glad we skipped the Yotel at the airport. 

This is My Father's World

In the mid 90's, I taught 2nd grade at Philadelphia Montgomery Christian Academy.  Our classroom would often begin the days with hymn singing.  We didn't have a piano or guitar, just a couple dozen 7 and 8 year old voices, an overhead sheet with the words to the song and an eager teacher.  During those years, I fell in love with the hymn, "This is My Father's World".  To this day, it is my favorite and always a great delight for me when Kyle includes it in a worship service!

As I write my final post before travel, I am certain my vision for His world will grow in many ways over the next several weeks.  Who knows... this could be my last entry.  Internet service may be down during our time in Zambia and this could be the first travel blog with only posts leading up to the trip.  My to-do list on the last day of preparation has nothing to do with travel.  I plan to wash the dog and to take the girls to the make-up counter at the nearest mall.  The girls and I have ongoing battles about make-up and the appropriate use of it, so we're going to consult a professional for tips.  Caroline pitched this idea as a "bonding moment to end on a good note".  How could I resist her persuasive charm?!

On Tuesday, July 3rd, we depart DFW at 5:50 p.m.  (layover in London)  and we arrive in Zambia on July 4th 11:15 p.m. (central standard time)--- (6:15 a.m. July 5th in Lusaka)  After resting up from 30 hours of travel, I hope to report in frequently as the Lord opens my eyes and heart to a whole new part of the world.  During a sermon on Psalm 50 this morning, I was reminded of the One who guides, rules and sustains the entire world.  It is with renewed excitement and joy that I anticipate His work in the schools of Zambia.  Thank you for taking this journey with me!

"For the world is mine and all that is in it."  Psalm 50:12

Verse 3: "This is my Father's world, O let me ne'er forget that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the Ruler yet.  This is my Father's world; The battle is not done; Jesus who died shall be satisfied, And earth and heav'n be one."

"Mom, are you excited about teaching in Africa?"

On a hot, summer Texas evening, Kelly and I find ourselves having a "frozen pizza dinner date".  Kyle and the other girls are off at various activities.  After discussing the upcoming arrival of her best friend from Tampa, she asked me a question in a serious and thoughtful way, "Mom, are you excited about teaching in Africa."  For some reason this question hits me very hard right now and I hear it a lot.  Even a few hours before, my niece asked the same question as we unexpectedly met her at the DFW airport for a short visit.  Excitement is not a good word for how I feel in anticipation of our time in Zambia.  As I look at my curly headed, sweet daughter, I want to respond, "Honey, I'm not excited.  I'm nervous about traveling so far away, anxious about teaching in a different culture, worried that I won't be able to help the Zambian teachers or students, and just plain sad to leave you, Daddy and your sisters."  I figure she is not ready for this answer, so I say, "I'm getting sad about leaving."  With just 6 days until our departure, the bags are packed and the girls' schedule is all set for nearly 3 weeks without Mom.  For a Mom who left a 10 page packet of instructions while leaving the girls with the grandparents for a weekend in 2004, I am oddly relaxed about their schedule in my absence.  Having never been away from them for more than 5 days (in nearly 15 years), I'm not stressed about the details, just anxious about leaving them.  Will the dogs be fed?  Will anyone remember the laundry?  Will the kitchen counters become a home for all neighborhood ants?  Who will remember to water the pots?  And most importantly, who is going to answer the "girl questions" that make Kyle cringe?  After dinner Kelly and I enjoyed some ice cream on the new patio (in 100++++ temperatures).  We listened to Josh Groban's "You Raise Me Up" and kept the conversation going.  She added ANOTHER comment about the upcoming trip.  "You know why you have to go to Africa?  You may never have this opportunity again."  At this point, the Mommy-daughter date is getting tearful!  Honestly, opportunity is a big part of the reason for going.  I've been given the training and opportunity to teach in the US and it is one of the greatest privileges in my life.   Kyle and the girls send me off with full support and confidence.  Friends and family have showered me with support.  The song "You Raise Me Up" hits pretty close to home as the Lord surrounds me with blessings, support and the opportunity to do something completely new and challenging.  If you are reading this blog, I am grateful for your interest in this work and especially thankful for your prayers!

The joy of the Lord is your strength. Is it really?

As I read Nehemiah 8:10, I'm struck by a realization that "the joy of the Lord" does not characterize my life.  The goodness, mercy, faithfulness and majesty of the Lord fills my thoughts and brings me to tears, but my heart and mind remain sober, serious, even downcast much of the time.  As a young mother, I kept my nose to the ground trying to raise obedient girls, but I did not savor the baby/toddler years.  At the time, I considered them mundane and mindless duties (a sad confession).  As a teacher, I can be a workhorse that will do anything to enable my students to read and write, but I don't enJOY the miracle of development in the classroom as I should.  If 21 students are reading fluently for the first time in their lives and one student lacks confidence in using reading strategies, I will obsess over the one struggling student, neglecting to rejoice and consider the many successes.   As the Oliphints enjoy a new outdoor living area, you will find Kyle contentedly listening to music while drinking a beer, but you will find me on my hands and knees digging rock salt from a twice stained and sealed surface.  You've got your glass is half empty people and your glass is half full people.  I'm more of a "Who broke this glass and made this mess?".... kind of a person.  You might wonder: Why in the world is Lizzie rambling on in this way?  Well, after reading the blog of my teacher friend who is going to Zambia with me, it hit me that joy should be considered and a reality in the life of a Christian.  You should follow her blog during our travels.  She will lift your spirits and inspire you by her love for the Lord and the children in Zambia. 
http://myhopeisingodalone.blogspot.com/
The irony for me is that I have been showered with every blessing you can enjoy in this world by God's grace.  I don't long for anything except the hope of heaven.  I'm not implying that believers should stick their heads in the clouds and ignore the dark and devastating realities of life in a fallen world, BUT I am becoming more and more convicted by a lifestyle characterized by a desire for control and affected more by circumstances than by joy as I share in the sufferings of Christ.   As we use our training as teachers in a community of orphans where the circumstances of this world give no reason for joy, I'm praying that the Lord does a transforming work in my heart.   As Allison remembers the joy of the orphans she will be reunited with, I'm humbled to have the opportunity to take this journey with her. "Count it all joy, my brothers when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness."  James 1:2

My first blog

While preparing for a trip to Zambia, I'm considering ways to stay connected to people at home.  A blog seems like a good solution for communicating about this "adventure" across the globe.  Why in the world is a wife and mother of 3 young ladies traveling to Africa for a large part of the summer?  Sometimes it seems like a crazy decision to me!  A teacher friend suggested the possibility of traveling with her to Zambia with a team of teachers to support several new Christian schools serving the orphans of the community.  Kyle and the girls quickly gave full support to this idea, but my gut response was that I would have to be negligent of my family to take such a journey.  I considered the opportunity for weeks and prayed for wisdom about the decision.  Shortly after New Years, I went with my friend to an informational meeting where I listened intently and became convinced that I should go on this trip simply because I love the Lord and want to give of myself for His glory!  Several family members and friends have stunned me with abundant support... both prayers and finances.  In the weeks ahead, I will continue preparing for this journey by collecting/purchasing supplies for classrooms in Lusaka and by coordinating things for the girls while I am away.  I am profoundly grateful for kind offers from friends to help with the girls in many ways.  I am humbled by this entire experience as friends and family have overwhelmingly surrounded me with support!!