a day in the life of a latvian mom

There is something about this time of the year that makes me slow down. The mornings are darker, the evenings arrive earlier, and nature seems to be withdrawing into itself.

In Latvian tradition, the period from Miķeļi (September 29) to Mārtiņi (November 10) is known as Veļu laiks – the Time of the Souls.

Traditionally, people believed that during this time the souls of deceased ancestors, the veļi, could return to visit their old homes and families. People would remember their departed relatives, prepare food for them and sometimes leave a meal for the souls. It was a quiet time, connected with remembrance, ancestors and the changing of the seasons.

And honestly, I am so into this time of the year.

There is something comforting about the thought that remembering someone is also a way of keeping them close.

This is the time of year when lighting a candle comes naturally to me.

I become melancholic in autumn, but not necessarily in a sad way. It is more like a gentle longing for things that have passed – childhood memories, people I miss, old family stories and moments I wish I could experience just one more time.

I find myself slowing down, looking through old photographs, remembering voices, little habits and people who are no longer with us.

Perhaps that is why Veļu laiks feels so natural to me. It gives me permission to be quieter, to cherish memories and to think about the people who came before us.

While the modern world is already rushing towards Christmas, I would rather stay here for a little longer – in the golden-brown days, chilly mornings and gentle melancholy of autumn.

There will be time for celebrations later.

For now, I want to remember.

Ilze