Bringing Joy to the children of Russia

Bringing Joy to Russia!! This was taken at JFK airport.

My annual trip to Russia, more specifically Beslan, was coming up. My cousin Joy emailed me a few months before the trip and asked if she could join me. My immediate reaction was "Duh" and "Yeah!". This trip is good for anyone, but certain people are made for the trip. Joy is one of those people, and not just because her name is literally Joy! She has never clowned, but that doesn't really matter on this trip. Anyone and everyone are welcome. Besides, you will learn to clown on this trip no matter who you are. At least a little bit anyway. Joy learned, with some natural talent for sure. The people of Russia, especially the children, just loved her. This is for good reason. She is a happy, positive, energetic force of nature. She knows how to love. She knows how to laugh and play. All of these are important qualities when traveling on this trip. Anyone else interested in this trip, just contact me :0). 

Joy helping at Maria's art studio

Before we traveled to Beslan, we spent a few days in Moscow at Maria's dacha. We went to Maria's art studio in the center of Moscow a couple of days. Joy jumped right in to help. She definitely added to the color of the studio. For those of you who don't know the story of Maria, check out her website for a refresher. Basically she is an amazing woman who runs an NGO called Maria's Children. It is an arts center for orphans and all people with disabilities. Which essentially means it is for ALL people. 

                                                                 www.mariaschildren.ru

Joy got a crash course on juggling scarves from our friend Pluk

In Beslan we spent part of our time at the school and part of our time in the community. We walked to the school everyday, which allowed for meeting people on the streets. We also had organized excursions to a few orphanages and a cerebral palsy clinic. Again, Joy jumped right in and fit right in wherever we went. I believe she made a few friends along the way, but I don't want to speak for her exactly :0). All and all it was a trip filled with Joy for me and all the people of Russia!

Joy with a sweet child at the CP clinic

                  Now Go Out and Hug Someone Joyfully!!!