From Myra Goodwin

[This was originally sent a few days before Vaiva's death—Jim]

Dearest friends,

I did not realize that Vaiva was so ill. I feel as if I have been "kicked in the gut." I sit here thinking—" have I ever told her how much I appreciate the love and energy she gives to LIthuania ( my adopted country)?" Have I ever told her how much I admire her? Of course I have not. Maybe she knows my feelings without me saying it...I pray that she does. I pray that she feels all of the energy from the love and admiration we feel for her during this time.

I remember the early years of APPLE with such fondness. I remember Vaiva, Emilija, Gita....and the list goes on of the wonderful people who guided my life changing journey with Lithuania. It has been so many years of much more than just a summer interest with so many wonderful stories- it has been a significant part of my life- something which has given my life color- something which has given my life meaning as I played a small role in the life of APPLE and Lithuanian children.

In case I never said it to you- Vaiva, Emilija, Gita, Giedre,Ilona ( all of you!), Vida and all of you who guided us during those early years - thank you. Please know that you caused change- not only in Lithuania, but in all of us who followed you, learned from you,and loved you. In case I never communicated it to you- I do it now, with love,

Myra