a day in the life of a latvian mom

So… we had a decision to make. Stay home and watch every little detail, or go and live a little — carefully.

We chose to go!

It was Niks’ birthday (Helmī cousin) — he turned 7 — and it was one of those parties you don’t want to miss. The kind that happens outside, with space to run, laugh, and just be a child.

The practical part of me did the math: the hospital is 15 minutes from home, and also about 15 minutes from the party place. So staying home wouldn’t really make us any safer. We packed antihistamines, stayed alert, and agreed — if anything changes, we leave immediately. But let me say this again: Helmī felt completely normal. No difference. No complaints. Just herself.

So we went.

And honestly — we had a blast. They had rented laser tag, which instantly made everything more exciting. They have three sons, we have three daughters. We are not use to kids driving around with motorcycle, quad bike, scooter and cycle… so my girls went all in!

The only thing we were mindful about was food and drinks. We kept it simple for Helmī — no citrus, no soda, more water, less of the usual party snacks. Nothing complicated, just paying attention and checking in.

Their house is right next to a lake. The whole island of birds had gathered there. The sounds, the movement, the life… I loved it. Those little moments where nature quietly becomes part of the celebration.

We stayed until around 10 PM.

Before leaving, we helped clean up a bit — so Paula (Jānis’ sister) wouldn’t be left alone with a pile of dishes at the end of the night. It felt right, closing the evening together like that.

It really was a lovely night. beutiful sunset and the moon… just a bit of it!

Although, if I’m honest, it still didn’t quite beat Irko. He had found his perfect spot, posing proudly in the flower bed like he owned the place.

And maybe, in that moment, he did.

All good with Helmī,

Ilze