a day in the life of a latvian mom

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 11 years ago. A month ago, his wife called my mom and mentioned that Juris had left something for me—an old photo camera. My brother happened to be nearby, so he picked it up. Seeing it packed so carefully, with his handwriting on the bag, made everything feel so real again.

Juris was a true photo enthusiast. He didn’t just take pictures—he once even made his own camera! Photography wasn’t just a hobby for him; it was a passion that he carried throughout his life. Holding this camera will feel like holding a piece of his world, a connection to his creativity and the moments he captured.

I don’t have the camera with me yet—I’ll be getting it on February 22. But even now, just knowing it’s waiting for me brings a wave of emotions. I’m not sure what I will do with it yet, but one thing is certain—this camera holds memories worth remembering.

Ilze