In 2007, to celebrate her courageous journey, I had bought this print, “Bon Voyage” by James Rizzi. before Katya came to Japan. I put the print at the entrance of the apartment then to welcome her.
We moved to this apartment in April this year, and the print is located at the entrance, too.
That’s a nice gift… and a good message. No matter whether you’re immigrating to Japan, or just visiting from across the street, it’s nice to wish visitors to the house a good voyage.
Does Katya make it back to Russia regularly?… I guess from where I sit here in Australia, Russia seems on the doorstep of Japan, but the reality is that there’s a world of separation culturally and language-wise… and even physically, I’m sure it’s not as close as think. The print is certainly bright and cheerful enough to bring a smile to those that see it.
Combined with the VW shelf decorations, I really like your decoration decisions. Bright and yet quirky – but most of all, it tells a story of both of you. It’s a narrative of your life.
Still… I think it’s great to have such a positive affirming message as the first thing you see coming into your apartment, and I’m sure it’s appreciated.
It could have been a good message, but Katya did not know it till she read my post
. I thought I told it to Katya, but no doubt it was not clear.
Since Katya came to Japan, she went back home three times: once to take Maya-san to Japan and twice to stay home in Vladivostok. Her family visited her to Japan, too.
Katya says that the geological distance is short, but that the countries are completely different as parallel universes.
The shelves and the decorations were totally Katya’s idea. I think it is a good idea, too.