An Exchange Student, and an Open Home
dbaylissPeople often called us crazy—usually with a laugh—in disbelief at how full our lives already were. Between caring for Erica, managing daily routines, and juggling family life, we somehow still said yes when the opportunity to host an exchange student for the summer arose.
Anaise joined our family through a summer exchange program from Argentina. She spent the summer months with us, acclimating to life in the United States before the start of the school year. It turned out to be a wonderful experience for everyone involved.
Anaise quickly became part of the family—and she formed a special bond with Erica. Connection didn’t require shared language or explanations. It simply happened.
One of our favorite memories from that summer is a sunny afternoon spent playing miniature golf together.
Navigating a wheelchair around a miniature golf course is no small task—but it made for plenty of laughter and teamwork. It was one of those ordinary moments that stayed with us because of the joy wrapped inside it.
Opening our home that summer reminded us that family is often defined less by circumstance and more by willingness—to welcome, to adapt, and to share life as it is.
