Michelle Heerey says:

Dear Joann

We have so enjoyed reading your blog here in our Little Canada office. The stories of how you connected with these precious children - and your own growth are such a reward for those of us who work behind the scenes. Thank you for all you have brought to these children’s lives and sharing the stories with others.

Michelle
Director of International Operations, Global Volunteers

02/11/2008 4:43PM PST

(in response to: Thank you. Please come again.)

Tina Bachetti says:

Looks like some great yoga instruction, Joann! Love those camels! Welcome back!

01/23/2008 10:20AM PST

(in response to: A Final Day of Photos)

Shana says:

Are you wishing you could tuck a little someone whose name begins with A into your suitcase? I’ve loved reading all about your trip and look forward to hearing more upon your return.

01/23/2008 9:09AM PST

(in response to: Thank you. Please come again.)

Joe says:

Joanne,
I finally carved out a block of time to read all your posts from the beginning, and I can’t tell you how amazed I am. What a joy to read. I was up until 2 last night, and had to get back to it soon as I could today. That’s what good modern-day journalism is all about, and you have the whole package. The parallels to my sister’s experiences jump out. You clearly convey the multi-dimensional reality of it all, and how we are all so inter-connected. Wonderful!

01/19/2008 9:40PM PST

(in response to: So Long, India)

loretta waldman says:

wow! Sounds like you’re never going to be the same. I think I would have been a little overwhelmed too. How great that you did this Jo. Those kids are never going to forget you. And you’re never going to foget them.

01/18/2008 2:26PM PST

(in response to: Thank you. Please come again.)

Mama says:

Asi I am so happy that you are having such an amazing and awesome experience.

It must be very rewarding to see little Augustine warming up to you and making progress.

Can’t wait to see you, hug you and hear all about your trip.

Love you,

Mama

01/17/2008 10:09PM PST

(in response to: The Clock Is Ticking…)

Cindy says:

just wait til you see what susan and bill have done to your desk! (kathy tried to stop them)

01/17/2008 7:11PM PST

(in response to: A Quick Note)

Cindy says:

Joann,
You are breaking my heart and filling me with joy with your tales of Augustine. His smile must make it all so meaningful.

01/17/2008 7:06PM PST

(in response to: The Clock Is Ticking…)

Susan says:

Our Joann is coming home soon! And BOY will we all be boring, by comparison!

01/17/2008 1:18PM PST

(in response to: Wrapping up at St. Joseph’s)

Kathy Megan says:

Joann,

just caught up on your blog .. it is wonderful!! maybe you should have a new career as travel/adventurer writer ! so interesting with so much great detail and great photos ! your agency ought to send the blog out to potential volunteers ! that little boy, augustine, by the way almost sounds like he has some autistic traits …? can’t wait to read you next entry ! kathy

01/17/2008 12:30PM PST

(in response to: The Clock Is Ticking…)

Denis says:

Aunti: You just enjoy the experience and don’t lose a second to unanswered mail. Have fun.
denis

01/17/2008 7:56AM PST

(in response to: A Quick Note)

Flannery says:

I’ve finally been able to catch up on your adventure. What an incredible read. I’m so proud of you for doing this! What a journey.

01/16/2008 10:54PM PST

(in response to: A Quick Note)

Aunt Vicki says:

Hey Joann: The pictures and your writing is so awesome. We love seeing them. I forwarded your site to some friends and they think it is so neat that you’re doing this. We’re praying for you and Uncle Ted said “Stay safe”.

Love, Your family from Readington

01/16/2008 3:08PM PST

(in response to: A Quick Note)

donna says:

Geez - how easy it is to get addicted to a blog. I’m going through withdrawal! Missing your daily stories and can’t wait to hear more…

01/16/2008 9:06AM PST

(in response to: More Pongal!)

Karen Klimkiewicz says:

Dear Joann,

We miss you and we love you!

good luck

Love your sister in law karen

01/15/2008 5:28PM PST

(in response to: More Pongal!)

Tina Bachetti says:

Hey Joann, No one commented on this entry and it looked lonely. Once a bird in Central Park pooped on my head. Soon after, I landed a job at The Hartford Courant. Coincidence?!?!?!?!

Sounds like you’re having a great if tiring time over there. Love the blog and your photos! Tina

01/15/2008 2:37PM PST

(in response to: Poop and Good Luck)

Denis says:

Joann: We’ve just had the most beautiful snowfall: great, soft cottonball flakes that are clinging to every branch and twig, making trees look like Italian pastries and whitening the bushes so that you’d think you’re looking at the wigs in the checkroom at the Constitutional Convention of something. It is so lovely. The kids outside have made snowmen on so many lawns, one across the way looking a little tipsy but so expressive a face, perfect carrot nose and all with a striped scarf and sticks for arms under a tree branch that looks like a snake in pajamas. The temprature’s nice, in the low 30’s which follows what you will agree is simply preposterous temperatures in the 40s and even a day in the 50s — in January! But it was bitter cold before that, though, down in the single digits. Much like there, I’d guess. The sun is coming up to shine on all this and it is all so clean and bright and sparkly. Dazzling and magical.
We so hope you’re well.
denis

01/15/2008 8:18AM PST

(in response to: More Pongal!)

Chris Klimkiewicz says:

Hi aunt joann. Hope you are having fun on your trip. I am having so much fun loking at you pictures and imagining what is going on.

-Love Chris

01/14/2008 10:15PM PST

(in response to: More Pongal!)

Denis says:

Man, great pictures, great writing, great experiences. How on earth will we keep this woman happy in Hartford? Pongals here, I guess.

Good job by you, Ms K

01/14/2008 7:13PM PST

(in response to: More Pongal!)

Uncle Joe & Aunt Joyce says:

We are enjoying your stories and pictures that you send and Uncle Joe appreciates how far you have gone no one in the family has gone that far and happy you have chosen to do this and help others, the family as you know is very proud of you. Love Aunt Joyce and Uncle Joe

01/14/2008 6:16PM PST

(in response to: Elephants, Silks and Monkeys)

Uncle Doug says:

Wow, I admire what you are doing. Listening to what all the politicians say they’ll do contrasted to you actually doing something. God Bless & Good Luck

01/14/2008 5:52PM PST

(in response to: Elephants, Silks and Monkeys)

Susan Campbell says:

Rock ON with your bad self, Joann! Your (much) older sister is impressed that you’re giving your Nabob t-shirt a tour of India.

01/14/2008 5:17PM PST

(in response to: This One’s For Carl…)

Aunt Zofia says:

Asi missed you for those few days. But reading and seeing today, made up for those days. Keep the good work going and showing.

love ciocia zosia

01/14/2008 4:37PM PST

(in response to: Elephants, Silks and Monkeys)

Malgosia and Miron says:

Dear Joann,

We wanted you to know how much we admire all your hard work and the diary with pictures provided on the trip to India. May we congratulate you on your volunteer work and we hope that your accomplishment will bring you a lot of experience which will benefit you in your life.

01/13/2008 11:38AM PST

(in response to: Painting and Painting…)

Marysia says:

Wiatj Asiu. Jaki ten swiat jest maly znalazlam Cie w Indiach. Jestesmy pelni podziwu,ze wyjechalas na tak daleka i trudna misje. Indie to biedny kraj. Ogladalam zdjecia na stronie internetowej co dala mi Twoja mama.Mysle ze nastepna Twoja podroz to bedzie do Poski. Pozdrawiam Cie Marysia

01/12/2008 9:43AM PST

(in response to: Oh, Happy Day!)

donna says:

I’ve never seen you look so glowing and lovely after a sweaty run! Guess the miracle greens are working?

01/11/2008 4:31PM PST

(in response to: Run, Abishek, Run!)

Denis says:

JoannJoannJoann. Do you think India survived the eons and developed such a culture by running around when there was absolutely no need to run? If a cobra puffs up, OK run. Otherwise, naps is what makes a great nation and people. Mad dogs and Englishmen, remmeber?
I’m tired imagining it all. nap time

denis

01/11/2008 3:50PM PST

(in response to: Run, Abishek, Run!)

Denis says:

I think I’m with Carl on that one. I positively remember that being the back door to Aljabab Honkee Tonk where I was briefly employed as a pole dancer. Very briefly and I have distinctly unpleasant recollections of the rather low quality of the insults flung at my efforts!
and they were tipsy on carrot juice, for cryeye!
Great job by you, JK

denis

01/11/2008 3:47PM PST

(in response to: This One’s For Carl…)

Kate says:

JK,

What a cool thing you’re doing. Your blog is really entertaining/

Kate

01/11/2008 3:38PM PST

(in response to: Painting and Painting…)

gina says:

now we feel so out of the loop if we haven’t read your blog. what cute kids!

01/11/2008 2:36PM PST

(in response to: A Day in the life of Painting at St. Joseph’s….)

Nancy says:

Hi Joann — I finally had some free time to check out your blog ~ wow! ~ what a great trip, what a great thing you’re doing, I’ve just loved reading/seeing and hearing it ALL (including the preamble on your garage sales ~ you should have asked me for stuff! ~ and your adorable birthday video!) I can’t wait to read and hear more about your experiences ~ happy travels!

Nancy S.

01/11/2008 12:50PM PST

(in response to: Run, Abishek, Run!)

maryellen says:

sweetie i could read your stories forever! you know how to make the most out of life..that is for sure. You are a remarkable woman. Stay safe and keep the wonderful stories coming. You are missed. ME

01/11/2008 12:24PM PST

(in response to: Happiness is…)

Bus says:

Really, what’s a morning without a good long run?

Hi JK! Terrific to read about all these things you are learning and seeing.
May I ask what you are learning and seeing about yourself?

01/11/2008 12:23PM PST

(in response to: Run, Abishek, Run!)

carl says:

Joann - Appreciate the photo - but how can we be sure that it’s not the after-hours gate at the Ramada Inn ??? Guess we’ll just have to accept your explanation. Seriously, I can’t get over how beautiful the children are - their eyes are so expressive.

01/11/2008 12:02PM PST

(in response to: This One’s For Carl…)

Joann says:

Local pub scene, Carl? In a place where drinking is frowned upon, the pub scene is apparently called the Ramada Inn, about 20 minutes away. We’re having our first official toast tonight!

01/11/2008 6:17AM PST

(in response to: Nallai Pakkalam!)

Joann says:

Denis!

What a treat to hear from you. Saw your other comment, too! Thanks for reading! Can’t wait to tell you even more in person.

01/11/2008 6:16AM PST

(in response to: Painting and Painting…)

Joann says:

Janice!

I’m so glad you’re reading. I’ve been thinking of you as I’ve been steadily taking my Primal Defense and Miracle Greens!

A hug and kiss back!

J

01/11/2008 6:15AM PST

(in response to: Street Scenes)

Joann says:

I’m so glad you all are reading! It makes it fun to come back on my break and write. I’m having an amazing time!

01/11/2008 6:14AM PST

(in response to: A Day in the life of Painting at St. Joseph’s….)

Aunt Zofia says:

Asi

When I get to work at 5 am about 8 am I get on your sight to see of what you have acomplished for the day. I am very proud of you

01/10/2008 8:26PM PST

(in response to: A Day in the life of Painting at St. Joseph’s….)

janice Zwail says:

i’m blown away by your commitment to helping yourself and others. i feel the impact and i’m so grateful, joann.
kisses and hugs,
janice

01/10/2008 8:16PM PST

(in response to: Street Scenes)

naedine says:

hmmm, pink and brown. very chic! your blog is part of my morning ritual now. we’re all thinking of you!

01/10/2008 11:33AM PST

(in response to: A Day in the life of Painting at St. Joseph’s….)

Denis says:

This is all so wonderful. A truly great blog from a truly great lady. More, a truly great contribution. attagirl.

01/10/2008 8:21AM PST

(in response to: Painting and Painting…)

Tata says:

I love the picture the one that you are kissing the suit case, it’s like the Pope when he was going to different country and upon arrival he would kiss the ground. We enjoy reading your blog, Asi. Great job!

01/09/2008 10:35PM PST

(in response to: Nallai Pakkalam!)

Denis says:

Yes, that Lincoln’s a good man. And Joann’s a great blogger. Attagirl. Please have fun and enjoy this wonderful moment– we’re enjoying it from afar.

denis

01/09/2008 7:12PM PST

(in response to: Nallai Pakkalam!)

donna says:

Ha! That’s how I would greet clean underwear, too!

01/09/2008 9:44AM PST

(in response to: Oh, Happy Day!)

carl says:

What a treat - reading of your exploits a half a world away. However, haven’t seen any reference to the local pub scene. Can’t believe the English could have vacated the country without leaving their mark !!

01/09/2008 8:52AM PST

(in response to: Nallai Pakkalam!)

Joann says:

Hi Kathy! I’m so glad you and the pod are reading. I’m getting a hang of this blogging thing from this tiny internet cafe, and think I can managed video soon enough. (And yes, I was thinking that head nod was something that can only be seen, not described.)

See you all soon! And thanks for writing!

01/09/2008 5:55AM PST

(in response to: Happiness is…)

Kathy Megan says:

Hi Joann, great blog!… but we want a video of you leading the kids in Simon Says! … and a video of that head nod ! … hope your luggage turns up soon ! ..We miss you in the pod ! take care & hope the delhi belly avoids you ! kathy

01/08/2008 11:25AM PST

(in response to: Happiness is…)

Joann says:

Thanks, Katie! I’m glad you’re enjoying reading. It’s fun to post and it helps me process the day, too.

Still no luggage, but I’ve got a few items to cover me from other volunteers, so I’m managing. Can’t wait to see you and tell you all the stories in person!

01/08/2008 5:55AM PST

(in response to: Yes, No, Maybe So?)

Katie says:

Your writing reminds me of Elizabeth Gilbert’s! So good.

Have fun! I know what it’s like to lose luggage. I think I’ve lost 5 or 6 times. I spent four days in France in the same pair of shorts, a t-shirt and running sneakers. My friend lent me some undies. But it stunk!

Sounds like this is going to be amazing, Joann. I’m very impressed with all that you’ve done.

01/07/2008 10:29AM PST

(in response to: Yes, No, Maybe So?)

donna says:

HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!

11/30/2007 9:42AM PST

(in response to: Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are)

donna says:

this looks like it was so much fun!! yay for all the fundraising. can you bring all your friends to NJ when we do our sale? where’s oh-really-eric-danton?

07/16/2007 11:38AM PDT

(in response to: Adventures in Tagging)