About John

About Erica

Teresina, Piaui, N.E. Brazil

My parents were missionaries in Northeast Brazil, and I was born there in the city of Teresina. Teresina is the capital of the state of Piaui and sits on the Parnaiba River. The city is known for being one of the hottest in Brazil, yet it is very green, as it sits between two rivers. I lived there for nine years. 

Fortaleza, Ceara, N.E. Brazil

After living in another city for three years, I moved yet again, this time to Fortaleza, in the state of Ceara, which is just one state east of Piaui. Fortaleza is the also the capital of its state and sits on the coast. I was there for five years...attending a Baptist boarding school for missionary children. Those were some of the best years of my life, even though I had to live ten hours away by car or bus from my parents. 

I am a big fan of World Cup soccer and, as most of you know, Brazil is huge on soccer.  If you would like, you can go straight to FIFA's site to find out more about next year's COPA classifications. 

A friend and former roommate of John's, Doug Olson, went on a trip with John and Erica to Africa and South America for 8 months in 1996.  For the African portion of the trip, Erica (before she was Mrs. Clark) and Joel, her brother, were with us.  Erica and Joel grew up in West Africa.  As you might imagine, it was quite an experience.  We prepared for the trip for several months, and also set up a trip site.  Check it out!