Today my grandmother, Agāfija — lovingly called Gāfiņš — would have turned 103. She was a remarkable woman. A gifted chef who, even under Soviet rule when private businesses were forbidden, organized a cooking school in 1985 and worked in the local prestigious café. She never owned a restaurant, because she couldn’t — but she … More She Would Have Been 103 Today
A single picture can stir up so many emotions, and this time, it was one from my brother. In the photo is a bag with an old camera inside. Handwritten note triggered me: “Ilzei piemiņai no Jura.” (For Ilze, in remembrance of Juris.) This camera once belonged to my mom’s brother, Juris, who passed away … More More Than Just a Camera
On the 11th of November, Latvia celebrates Lāčplēšu Diena, a day to honor the bravery of the Latvian soldiers who fought for the country’s independence during the Latvian War of Independence in 1919. The day is named after Lāčplēsis, the legendary hero known for his strength and courage in battle. For many, Lāčplēšu Diena is … More Lāčplēšu Diena: Honoring Latvia’s Heroes