May 22 was a lovely warm evening in Riga. I was over the moon seeing all my Latvian friends and relatives congratulate me with wonderful bouquets. To my left is my husband, George Butlers, then it’s me saying a few words, across from me is Vivita Znotina, a relative from my husband’s side, then our own fb friend and journalist, Juris Kaza. Next, Egija Selga who figures in the book — a special loyal friend who saw me through many difficult moments in Riga. Then our good friend Egils Spuris who donated one of his images for the cover and finally Mikus Caverts who formatted the book in his own excellent fashion. My thanks to them all!