BACKGROUND



This Blog is meant to journal the combined experiences of the persons involved in the Sasha Project. Its objective is to strengthen the ties between families, students (several of us teach), friends, and the growing number of persons who want to be part of the JOY which this Sasha Journey is spreading.

In 2004, I (Tina) traveled to Russia to assist with the adoption of my two nephews. Alexander (Sasha) was our interpreter, driver, and so much more. I have kept in touch with him and it has been my dream to let him experience first-hand the typical U.S. life (versus merely his impressions from American TV, movies and music). My initially modest idea blossomed to include eleven other adoptive families who also want to host Sasha and thank him for helping to make their dreams come true.

It will be fun as well as educational for all of us to share Sasha's observations and impressions of his daily travels as this Journey unfolds. There is an intricately choreographed daily itinerary which will take us to visit the Space Shuttle, Golden Gate bridge, Route 66, a Home Depot and other American icons through Sasha's eyes. The flight to L.A. is scheduled to leave Moscow on Saturday, June 15th to begin his six week visit.
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It seems incredible, but the interviewing U.S. Immigrations officer denied Sasha a Tourist visa. He did not see the value in Sasha's trip or understand the desire for the adopting families and children to reunite with Sasha. The officer decided that Sasha was too poor to be allowed even a brief visit to the U.S.

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Thursday, May 2, 2013

Playbook Shipped


Our "Playbook"

I was having fun with Sasha this morning and teasing him: “Do you realize there were 32 hits on your blogsite before you even knew it existed?  (29 from U.S., 2 from Germany, 1 from S. Korea?)"



“The Best Defense is a Strong Offense.”  Thus, today our “Playbook” was shipped to Sasha.  He should have it in his hands within 2 weeks.  Thanks to the persons who rushed photos and letters so those could be included.  I put plenty of additional blank sleeves for the remaining documents which can be electronically sent after we receive or edit them accordingly.

The Angels are at work on this project.  On a “typical day”, the local post office has two or three tellers and a line of 8-12 customers.  Today there was only one teller and I was the only customer!  “COINcidence”?  She had plenty of time to explain the shipping options and assist with the Customs documentation (lengthy process).  Her name: JOY!

The next stop was Congressman Miller’s office.  Last week I spoke with Heather and expected merely to hand her Sasha’s and my Request Form.  She was not in, so another person assisted me.  I explained the story (I guess a bit loudly) and Patricia emerged saying she could not help overhearing my story.  J  She said sometimes an official letter can be helpful and they would be sure to FAX a letter of support for me.
Yipeee!

…. And the traffic signals were almost all green and I made all my other appointments on time … and I found myself asking: “What else can go RIGHT?”


Ira Reading New Blogsite

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Email and photo from Sasha tonight:
"My student Ira is reading the blog in my kitchen..".
(you'll recall Ira is the one who wrote to me yesterday and provided the impetus to finally 'birth' this Blog).

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1 comment:

  1. Chaz DeSimoneMay 3, 2013 at 12:04 AM

    Tina, I doubt any of your readers would not want to hear every word about every COINcidence and adventure that happens in your world. They are too inspiring, too amazing and sometimes just too entertaining. Besides, one doesn't have to eat all the food at a buffet.

    I went to JOY Gardens for the party last weekend, and completed a logo for JOYOLOGY today. Joyful!

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Thanks for being part of this Adventure.

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