There is a tradition I grew up with — Latvian, I think (though I wouldn’t be surprised if it exists in other countries too): on New Year’s Eve, the table should hold twelve dishes. I clearly remember my grandmother telling me that even salt and pepper count. Back then, Latvia was poor. Under Soviet rule, … More Twelve Dishes on the New Year’s Table
Do you remember this blog post? I started this little practice almost without expectations. One message a day — not read, just burned and sent out to the universe. No analysing, no overthinking. Just trust, intention, and letting go. Today is January 2nd, and I opened the very last one.This time, I am supposed to … More The Last One – The Real One
Everyone seems to be making New Year’s resolutions today. Lists, goals, promises to become someone faster, better, more disciplined. That has never really been for me. If anything, I feel ready to do the opposite — to slip deeper into winter. To rest. To unwind. To let life move slowly for a while. Outside, the … More First of January
I’m not sure I want to dive into how this year went… and you know what? It doesn’t matter. Some years are meant to be understood; others simply survived. What matters is this: we’re looking forward. Lessons taken, weight put down, hearts a little tougher, a little wiser. Onwards we go — heads held high, … More Year 2025
I didn’t plan to make three desserts over the holidays… I planned to make one. It all started innocently enough with crème brûlée. The kind that feels festive but calm. Nothing extravagant — just a proper, classic dessert for the holidays. And then I counted the eggs. Sixteen egg yolks. Which meant sixteen egg whites … More How One Dessert Turned Into Three (or: The Holiday Egg Math)
I started without a plan… as usual. Around the winter solstice, I took small pieces of paper and wrote sentences — not wishes in a fairytale sense, but states of being. Simple, honest things. Health. Calm. Steadiness. Warmth. Written in the present tense, as if they already existed, or at least as if they were … More Interesting thought…
Girls are feeling much better. We went out together, and it felt so good to mark the day with a little outing. Helmī was glowing, of course—birthdays always bring that special sparkle. And what did she order to drink? Not juice, not soda, not even a milkshake… but water. With an umbrella. Yes, with an … More Girls Are Feeling Much Better, and Helmī’s Birthday Celebration
Our youngest turned ten today! 🎉 Helmī has always been full of surprises — she’s the kind of kid who won’t just do or say what you expect, and that makes her truly extraordinary. She’s fun, clever, and has her own way of looking at the world. Right now, she dreams about being a clothing … More Today is Helmī’s 10th Birthday!
Yesterday I had what felt like a brilliant idea: bake a meringue lemon pie (First day of school). 🍋🥧 I’d made one before, and it was just the right balance of tart and sweet. But, of course, that recipe was written down somewhere on paper, and since I didn’t post it online (like I usually … More The Meringue Lemon Pie… Sugar Coma!
Busy with celebration 🙂 Then. Now. Have a lovely weekend Ilze
This past weekend was meant to be all about Gulbene’s birthday celebrations – the plan was simple: my brother and his family would come over, we’d all head out to enjoy the city festivities, and end the evening with a concert under the stars. But as life tends to do, plans shifted, and honestly… I’m … More Change of Plans, Loads of Fun: A Weekend to Remember
You know how some people say “put a cherry on top”?We say, put some dill on it. Because if you’re Latvian, you know:Dill isn’t a garnish.It’s a way of life. Potatoes? With dill.Cucumbers? With dill.Eggs, fish, cottage cheese, rye bread spread with something mysterious and creamy? Yup—dill. Dill is comfort. It’s summer in a handful. … More I’m Latvian—Of Course There’s Dill
Right now, the streets of Riga are alive with the heartbeat of Latvia — voices raised in harmony, feet moving in intricate steps, and a palpable sense of unity in the air. The 2025 Latvian Song and Dance Festival, known in Latvian as “Dziesmu un deju svētki”, is in full swing. Held from July 5th … More Celebrating Heritage: Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Riga
There are many traditions tied to the Līgo flower crown. Some say it protects you from misfortune, others believe it brings good luck, love, or even helps you dream of your future. Some wear it just for beauty — to feel a part of nature, even if only for a night. But the one I … More The Crown That Stays
While in Salacgrīva this weekend, we stopped by to visit my mom. The wind outside howled, but inside her home, it was quiet and familiar. The kids, as always, started poking around and asked if they could look at the old photo albums. They love doing that — seeing strange clothes, funny haircuts, and guessing … More Flipping Through Time
This weekend, we went to Salacgrīva to celebrate Ilona’s birthday — my brother’s wife. She threw an 80s-themed party, and it was such a fun throwback! It’s always a bit funny dressing up for the 80s in Latvia, because unlike the flashy Western pop-culture vibe most people think of, our 80s were different. Latvia wasn’t … More Ilona’s 80s Party!
When it comes to making a ziedu vainags (flower crown), you don’t need wire, thread, string, or tape. Nature gives us everything we need. With just wildflowers and smilgas (bentgrass or other strong wild grass), you can make a crown that stays firm, holds its shape beautifully, and brings joy both in midsummer and long … More Make your own Flower Crown!
There’s something magical about the first chanterelles. They always catch me by surprise — that golden pop in the moss, that earthy smell that says, yes, summer has truly arrived. It’s a small joy, but one I wait for every year. This time, I didn’t go to the forest; these beauties came to me thanks … More The First Chanterelles of the Season!
After the summer solstice celebrations, our home always feels a bit enchanted, filled with lingering scents of wilting birch trees – meijas (in Latvian), drying flower crowns, and wildflowers & grasses slowly fading in every vase. This year, my bouquet of Jāņu zāles brought a little extra magic I hadn’t expected. I had carefully gathered … More The Magic Dust of Līgo!
What a magical celebration we had! 🌿☀️ Let’s start with Linna’s Rhubarb pie, it was delicious. You can find the recipe here: Perfect Rhubarb custard pie. Yesterday we welcomed Līgo night with what might have been the biggest bonfire we’ve ever made – seriously, it was huge! Flames reaching high into the sky, sparks dancing in … More Our Līgo and Jāņi – Bonfire, Tradition, and Trout!
The June solstice is almost here. On Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at 05:42 in the morning, the sun will reach its highest point over Gulbene—and we’ll be living our longest day of the year. It’s hard to ignore. The light stretches forever. Evening feels like afternoon, and morning arrives so early that the birds start … More The Longest Day – Summer Solstice in Latvia
Today was Nelle’s art school graduation. It was a big milestone for her, and I’m so proud. After the ceremony, we invited everyone over to our place for cake. Now the house smells like coffee and cake, and there are flowers everywhere. Seriously—everywhere. Nelle was glowing the whole time. She was so happy, and rightfully … More A Big Day for Nelle 🎨
Today is my best friend Džeina’s birthday. She’s not the type to make a big fuss about it. Most years, her birthday quietly slips by—no parties, no loud gatherings, no spotlight. That’s just who she is: modest, thoughtful, grounded. But this year, I didn’t want it to go by unnoticed. So we celebrated in her … More A Quiet Celebration for a Beautiful Soul
Working remotely has its perks, but sometimes it feels like I’m on a tiny island far away from the heart of everything. While most of my colleagues live close to Riga and occasionally gather in cafes for Tuesday work-togethers, I stay in Gulbene full-time. That means I miss out on casual chats, spontaneous coffee breaks, … More When a Colleague Cycles 108km/67miles to Visit You
Oh boy, waking up this morning was rough. After Nelle’s birthday celebration, I felt like I’d barely closed my eyes when the alarm rang. Normally, I’m up by 7:00, but Monday? I somehow dragged myself out of bed at 9:15—and even that felt like a miracle. My eyes refused to stay open, and all I … More The Morning After Nelle’s Birthday
Nelle turned a year older, and we celebrated quietly but sweetly. I baked the birthday cake with help from Linna. She was so proud to help, and the cake turned out lovely. We lit the candles, sang the birthday song, and smiled at how quickly these little ones grow. It was one of those rare … More Nelle’s 13th Birthday
Today was the last day of school – May 30th! No more early mornings, school emails, or homework. The kids came home smiling, ready for summer and finally free. We will celebrate with ice cream and some well-earned laziness. And we’re not slowing down — tomorrow is Nelle’s birthday party, so the fun rolls right … More Summer Break! One day till Nelle’s Party!
The excitement is building up—only two days left until Nelle’s birthday party! We are busy preparing and can hardly wait to celebrate together. Also, the weather is terrible! SO, party will be inside! Yesterday, we had a lovely potato planting “party” in the garden. In Latvian, we call such a gathering a talka — it’s … More Till Nelle’s Birthday Party Only 2 Days!
Today, my sweet Nelle is turning 13. Thirteen. A teenager. I can barely believe I’m writing this. Not because she’s not ready for it—she absolutely is—but because somehow, the time flew. And that’s something I never thought I’d say. People always told me “Enjoy it while it lasts, they grow up so fast!” And honestly? … More Nelle is 13! 3 Days Until the Party
It’s been raining non-stop lately, and of course, we’re trying to get the yard ready for Nelle’s party. Not ideal timing, right? The grass has been growing wild, and the ground is still bumpy since this is our first year mowing it. Today, though, we got lucky — no rain! It’s a bit cloudy, but … More Prepping for Nelle’s Party: 4 days to go
Today we celebrated Jānis’ sister’s 35th birthday – and what a celebration it was! Despite the cold and constant drizzle (just 10°C!), the outdoor party had a truly magical atmosphere. Everything was soaked – the grass, the benches, the sleeves of our jackets – but somehow, it all felt perfect in its own wild, wonderful … More Dancing in the Rain – Paulas’ 35th Birthday 🌧🌿
Last weekend, we visited Salacgrīva—my hometown and a place that always brings back memories. This time, our trip had a special purpose: we were there to celebrate the grand opening of Ilona’s new nail salon! Ilona, my brother’s wife, has been working hard to bring her vision to life, and seeing the finished salon was … More A Weekend in Salacgrīva: Celebrating New Beginnings
What a night! The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 has wrapped up, and I’m still buzzing from all the glitter, drama, and powerful performances. Latvia made it to 12th place this year—and honestly, I think that’s something to be proud of. Latvia’s Eurovision journey hasn’t exactly been filled with trophies—25 years in the contest and just … More Eurovision 2025: Tautumeitas – Bur Man Laimi – 12th Place
I just realized I forgot to share a little glimpse into our Mother’s Day this year—and it was too lovely to skip. I want to remember it forever. Kids grow fast! Sunday started with a surprise: breakfast in bed, lovingly made by my girls. It was the sweetest gesture, and a quiet moment just for … More A Quiet, Lovely Mother’s Day 💛
Today is a celebration of the women who nurture, guide, and hold everything together with love, strength, and more patience than seems humanly possible. To all the mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers – this day is for you. It’s easy to get caught up in the everyday chaos—school runs, work deadlines, meal planning, laundry piles, renovation dust … More Happy Mother’s Day!
Every year on 4th May, Latvia celebrates the restoration of its independence — a peaceful yet powerful moment in our history. On this day in 1990, we chose freedom, reclaiming our voice after decades of Soviet occupation. Unlike louder national holidays, this one feels more personal. We raise the flag, have a white tablecloth, and … More 4th May – Latvia’s Quiet Celebration of Freedom
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
This year, I celebrated my first Walpurgisnacht—despite the rain, it turned into a beautiful evening of herbal tea, blooming fields, and a small but meaningful bonfire. A quiet ritual to welcome light and let go of winter … More Walpurgisnacht: A Night Between Seasons
Today I opened WordPress and saw this lovely surprise:🎉 12 Year Anniversary Achievement! Apparently, it’s been twelve years since I first signed up. Twelve! Back then, I had no idea where blogging would take me. I just wanted a space to share, create, and connect. Since then, it’s been dinner ideas, handmade cards, photo shoots, … More 12 Years of Blogging Magic ✨
This Easter weekend was just what I needed—family, fresh air, and a little bit of progress in the garden. My mom and my brother came over with his family, and we had a lovely time together. The kids were so excited for the Easter egg hunt, running around the yard, finding little surprises hidden among … More Easter Egg Hunt and Garden Plans
My mom and brother & his family are here, and it’s just so nice to be together. These kinds of moments—when the house is full of chatter, kids running around, and laughter in every corner—remind me how important it is to slow down and soak it all in. We’ve been enjoying the little things: good … More Easter together
Birthdays in our family are usually quite traditional—but not when it comes to Linna! Here’s how it all went: First, we greeted each girl with a welcome pack filled with essentials—slippers (since half of the house still lacks flooring), a sleep mask and earplugs, a toothbrush and toothpaste set, and, of course, a lollipop. They … More Linna’s Unforgettable Birthday: Laughter, Games, and a Meowing Surprise
Yesterday was Linna’s big slumber party! 🎉 I knew it would be a lot, but I didn’t realize just how much until I found myself setting up six beds. Yes, SIX. First, I laid out six flat sheets. Then came the pillows, followed by six duvets with covers. Let me tell you, getting duvet covers … More Linna’s 11th Birthday Slumber Party
Today is a special day—it’s Jānis’ birthday! 🎂🥳 Through all the ups and downs, from house renovations to everyday life, he has been my partner in everything. Whether it’s working on our home, planning for the future, or just sharing quiet moments together, I’m grateful to have him by my side. This year, his birthday … More March 20th – Jānis’ Birthday! 🎉
Today, Linna turns 11! She’s growing into such a thoughtful, clever, and determined young girl. She excels at school, always focused and eager to learn. Her love for programming makes me smile (daddy’s girl) — I see her logic and patience in every project she takes on. Linna isn’t one to chase big adventures or … More Linna is turning 11 today!
In the spirit of celebrating exceptional Latvian talent, it’s time to continue the story we started earlier this year with the incredible Flow by Gints Zilbalodis. The film has now earned one of the most prestigious honors in the film industry—the Oscar! Can you believe that!? The Flow is made using only Blender! Blender is … More Celebrating Latvian Excellence: Flow Wins an Oscar!
The time has come to start clearing out our rental flat. It feels surreal to finally be at this stage—packing up, moving things out, and making space for the next chapter. Our living room in the house isn’t finished yet, but we’re getting closer. Today was a big step forward: we moved the furniture. Jānis’ … More Moving Out: One Step Closer to Home
I unlocked a special badge: “You’ve posted 200 days in a row on A Day in the Life of a Latvian Mom! Keep up the good work.” Two hundred days of showing up, writing, and sharing life’s moments—big and small. Some days were easy, others a struggle, but I kept going. Along the way, I … More 200 Days of Blogging – Thank You for Being Here!
Yesterday was my birthday, and instead of making a big fuss, we kept it simple—a quiet evening at the local pub, good food, and a few virgin cocktails. And honestly, it was just what I needed. The pub had that familiar, warm atmosphere—dim lighting, soft chatter, the clinking of glasses. We settled into a cozy … More A Cozy Birthday Celebration at the Local Pub
oday is my birthday! Another year older, another year wiser—at least, that’s what I tell myself. Birthdays are always a mix of emotions for me. On one hand, I don’t like too much attention, but on the other hand, it’s a good moment to reflect on how far I’ve come. Being a Pisces, I naturally … More It’s My Birthday Today! 🎉
We don’t really celebrate Valentine’s Day, but I won’t say no to flowers from my husband! It’s always nice to receive a little surprise, even on a day we don’t officially mark. But every year, I find myself wondering—why is Valentine’s Day so focused on men giving gifts to women? Flowers, chocolates, small surprises… it … More Valentine’s Day – A One-Sided Tradition?
Today is my name day—a special day in Latvia and many other European countries where names hold as much meaning as birthdays. Unlike birthdays, which are personal and unique, name days are communal celebrations, with others who share your name also marking the occasion. It’s a lovely tradition that brings a sense of connection and … More Celebrating My Name Day!
Today, I learned something new thanks to a colleague’s amusing comment. They mentioned it’s National Nothing Day in the U.S. and joked that we might see fewer emails because of it. At first, I thought they were pulling my leg, but curiosity got the better of me. Apparently, this day has been around since 1973! … More National Nothing Day: A Day for Nothing… Really?
Some flavors are more than just food—they’re time machines, carrying us back to warm kitchens (warmed by wood-burning stoves), carefree days, and the embrace of those we love. For me, that taste is kissel and cottage cheese pie. As a child, kissel was a staple, especially during colder months. This velvety fruit juice drink, thickened … More Kissel and Cottage Cheese Pie – A Taste of Childhood
As a proud Latvian, my heart swells with joy to see our creative spirit shining on a global stage. At the 2025 Golden Globes, Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis’ Flow triumphed against industry giants like Disney’s Inside Out 2 and Moana 2, as well as the latest Wallace & Gromit and The Wild Robot. Winning Best … More Celebrating Latvian Excellence: Gints Zilbalodis and “Flow” at the Golden Globes
We’re back from Riga, returning from my work party, and the house greets us with a chilly 15°C. It’s not freezing, but it’s far from cozy. Still, I’m impressed—the house without heating dropped only 6°C in two days, even with the outside temperature at 5°C. The compressor has been fixed, which is a relief, but … More Back Home: Cold but Hopeful
Christmas this year was a wonderful blend of family time, traditions, and cozy moments. My brother and his family arrived on the 23rd of December, setting the festive tone with laughter and catching up. One of the highlights was puzzling with my mom. She had never tried it before, so she wasn’t entirely at ease … More Our Christmas Celebration 2024: Family, Traditions, and Cozy Moments
Advent Sunday marks the beginning of a beautiful season, and this year, it’s falling on December 1, 2024. As we gather to celebrate, I can feel the anticipation in the air. For me, this time of year means blasting Christmas music throughout the house, filling every corner with festive melodies that bring warmth and joy. … More Embracing Advent Sunday: A Warm Start to December
It’s 9:30PM! Where did the day go? With my family deciding to come over for Christmas this year, I thought it would be fun to find the perfect dinner set to make our meal extra special. Never mind that the house is still unfinished—there’s heat, water, and a functioning bathroom, and honestly, that’s enough for … More Searching for the Perfect Christmas Dinner Set
I’ve been on sick leave since last Monday, and it’s been a rollercoaster. Just when I think I’m improving, the symptoms come back. It all started with an itchy throat, nose, and ear canals, like everything was irritated from the inside. Then, a stubborn cough joined in, along with this mucus that just won’t budge, … More Sick Leave Struggles and Missing Lāčplēsis Day Traditions
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
For the past six years, I’ve been drawn to living in tune with nature’s rhythms, especially through the changing seasons—each with its own energy, beauty, and lessons. The Wheel of the Year, based on life’s natural cycles of life, death, and rebirth, has become a way for me to reconnect with nature and ground myself … More My Personal Connection to Nature’s Cycles
As autumn sweeps across Latvia, the country celebrates Miķeļdiena, this year it’s on the 29th of September 2024. Held around late September, Miķeļdiena marks the end of the harvest work and is a time to give thanks for the year’s bounty. Celebrating the Harvest Latvia’s Miķeļdiena is a joyful conclusion to the harvest season. Communities … More Why Latvian Miķeļdiena Might Outshine Commercial Thanksgiving?
Yesterday, we celebrated Helmī’s 9th birthday, and today the festivities continue! It’s a milestone for more than just our smallest girl—it’s the first party we’ve ever hosted in our unfinished house! And honestly, it was magical. The space is spacious and open, just what we envisioned for these kinds of gatherings. The kids loved the … More Celebrating Helmi’s 9th Birthday in Our Unfinished House
Every autumn, our family gathers for the potato harvest, a beloved Latvian tradition. This year, after a half day of hard work, we enjoyed dinner, a sauna, and a relaxing soak in the hot tub and cold pond. The girls worked hard and had fun, but the day took a bittersweet turn when we discovered … More Autumn Potato Harvest Tradition and a Tiny Surprise
I’ve always been a forager at heart, and living in Latvia—a country rich in sprawling forests—is a true blessing. Foraging is more than a hobby; it’s a way of life passed down through my family. My mom and grandmother taught me everything I know about the forest, guiding me on what to pick and what … More Forest Treasures and Family Traditions in Latvia
Day 3 in Salacgriva was a special one – we celebrated my brother’s 43rd birthday! It was a lovely, intimate gathering, a contrast to the unforgettable party we threw back in 2016 that everyone still talks about. That year, I organized a camouflage-themed outdoor bash, complete with a DJ and a lively atmosphere. The weather … More Day 3: Celebrating My Brother’s Birthday in Salacgriva
Today marks our 14th wedding anniversary, a milestone that feels especially meaningful this year. It’s no secret that we’ve faced some tough times recently—life has thrown us more than a few challenges, and there have been moments when the road ahead seemed uncertain. But as I reflect on our journey, I’m reminded that anniversaries aren’t … More 14th Wedding Anniversary
First of September is the first day at school here in LV. Summer blew my mind, but I hope this school year will stay COVID free and happy! Busy day for me at the studio as well! Ilze
Greetings from us! I realy wanted a perfect family picture… And I got it! 🙂 Ilze
A lot has happened and it feels that I hadn’t been in the blog for a while. Not counting days because they were so busy I can’t even remember all the things that have happened! Second crop – radishes! Linna sow them and was so excited to taste one! Also to get out of … More The second crop, wedding, friends, family, etc.
Today is the last day of May and the first day of summer! We started this day with butter coffee and walk to the manor to open the greenhouse. It was hot in there – like a sauna! I really enjoy the morning walk with girls (I ask if they want to come and if … More The last day of May and the first day of Summer!
Is Saturday for work or for fun!? We had fun before work. Finally, after I don’t know how many months… I think almost 2 years we visited our neighbour and actually Nelles classmate! They hadn’t seen each other since March 16! We celebrated the end of the school year and since we didn’t go to … More Saturday fun!
Can’t believe my Friday was so intense! I manage to deal with a lot of house chores and also spend time with girls while Janis was helping to build a playground for Helmī kindergarten group. This isn’t the first time he is helping and I’m proud of having such a nice hearted man in my … More Fully packed Friday
Yesterday was a lovely day with my biggest girl Nelle, who turned 8! EIGHT! Can’t believe! The day started as planned – with a crown for Nelle and balloons in closet! After that, I and Linna did a photoshoot for the family :). That means Linna took picture of us, and then I took of … More Nelles Birthday
We all know what is Covid19 and also we all know what to do #stayhome! We had an interesting talk with all three girls this January (2020) about what they want for birthdays. We never gave a big present if we made a party. So we talked and we voted, that this year none of … More Nelle is turning 8!
We had a very cold night -6C, all the plum trees and cherries already were in blossom! No good! Today is our restoration of Independence Day (from the Soviet Union). We went outside to see if the plums and cherries are ok, but I doubt, cause all the petals were falling… Made a photoshoot with … More May 4, Restoration of Independence Day
Yesterday I sat down with my girls and asked to make a menu for the Easter celebration. Well, I thought we will have a discussion and they will argue over ice cream or candy, but no, after 5 minutes we had THE menu for the Easter 2019. That will be something new we will do … More Easter 2019
—NO INSPIRATION HERE— As I promised to myself – a blog post about Linnas 5th birthday party! It wasn’t fancy, all the girls were ill and we had to change the date. That is something I never did before. We celebrated on the 31st of March and it was a mess and I was tired, … More Linnas 5th Birthday Party
It’s always hard for me to “break the ice” and start to write. I want to. I promise myself to share Linnas birthday, cause I didn’t share here 4th one… Didn’t happened! Well, a lot was happening… A lot! Loses, illnesses, financial problems, etc. Just name it! I’m glad everyone in my family is fine … More New page
I don’t celebrate Valentines Day, it’s relatively new in our country… From now on this day will be special cause Nelles Godmothers wedding is today! Congratulations Vī! If you don’t mind can you tell me what you do on Valentines Day and what it means to you!? Ilze P.S. I spent my day in the … More Happy Valentines Day
The Latvian saying is, that the best visitors are those who came unexpected! Sometimes I don’t agree with this… but today we all screamed when saw Jānis friend Aivars, his puppy Belis and Helmī God Father Ronalds walk through the doors! Happy girls and happy little puppy! Ilze
As you know I do this blog for myself to remember and that is the reason why blog post titles sometimes are weird… Like today! This is lovely Monday already! Sipping coffee and puzzling my jigsaw puzzle! Girls are in kindergarten and I can have a quite & easy morning. Yesterday was a lovely time … More Monday (a day after my name day)
The blog post “Up till 5am” posted on January 9, 2017, was a point where I realize I’m not afraid to be less than perfect, miserable, confused, different and powerless! It was like a self-discovery without jugging. Two years ago I’ve started to “be myself”, to love myself and to write freely to keep my … More Another year!? 2nd Anniversary.
Happy New Year to you all! Well, it’s almost 10pm but I’m sitting on the sofa and thinking about New Year’s resolutions. Well, I’m not the resolution fun but this year it feels like I will lose myself if I don’t have any “resolution”, “rules”, “dreams” or “guides”. I will have time to think about … More Happy New Year!
This year I wondered about what is going on in senior homes and care centers. How those old people (and not only old but also 50-year-olds that can’t move) are celebrating? Do they have families? Do they come over!? I decide to make them believe in magic and bring presents for Christmas. There are 33 … More Christmas and A Good Job
And once again it’s been a while since I wrote something in my blog! Have no excuse… if only I’ve been busy with a lot of Christmas photoshoots at my studio, listening to online photography courses, dealing with viruses and household. Everything is nice! I’m having few days off… spending under a blanket and with … More Almost Christmas!
Today my country celebrating 100 years! I’m proud to be Latvian! If you want to know our history, visit the blog post “18th November – Latvia’s Independence Day“. On a day like this, I couldn’t resist sharing few videos below 🙂 In the video, we see a lot of wonderful personalities – both more … More Latvia celebrating 100!
Finally, I’m (not) ready to open my photo studio! The Grand (is it?) opening will be on Saturday 25.08.2018 from 11:30 till 15:30. If you are in Gulbene – please visit! Most of the things gone wrong, but I feel it meant to be that way! For example, I ordered a big chesterfield sofa and … More Opening
From wiki: The Latvian Song and Dance Festival (Latvian Vispārējie latviešu Dziesmu un Deju svētki) is one of the largest amateur choral events in the world and an important event in Latvian culture and social life. It is also a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The All-Latvian Song and Dance Festival have been held since 1873, normally every five years. During … More Latvian Song and Dance Festival
Sunday we were at a birthday party for Linna’s kindergarten colleague Lizabella. That was fun! Girls enjoyed inflatable attractions while I took my camera out and start to capture kids and moms with kids… Loved it so much Ilze
So, I was off the blogging cause I “made” Nelles’ birthday party! This was my 12th kids birthday party I have thrown. Well, I would say I never learn! Still doing it by myself, still cooking, baking cakes, making decorations, cleaning, planting flowers, etc… even when I don’t have much time left. This is called … More Nelle is 6 now!
Here in Latvia, we have such thing as Name day. Imagine all the “Latvian” names (it’s not only Latvian, I would say common names in Latvia) are written in the calendar. What about those whose name isn’t written on the calendar. There is also one day (and that is May 22) when those who don’t … More My girls’ Namedays
Rhubarbs! Normally in Latvia, all country houses have one big rhubarb growing next to barn or in the garden. But not this old house! There is small rhubarb here but it doesn’t like to grow in this soil. But the best part in all this is, that Lāsma (neighbor about one and a half kilometer … More Preparing for a party: Rhubarb
My little Nelle will be 6 next Monday, but we will have an early celebration on this Saturday! Only five days left till Nelles party and I have no “idea” how to make a Paw Patrol themed party for her without having Paw Patrol party supplies in the closest shops. So, I wasn’t planning to … More Paw Patrol and Nelles birthday
Today is International workers day… have you ever heard of it?! Most important – first 11 dandelions are blooming in our yard (according to Nelles counting system). Happy faces, it’s +20C and girls are jumping around the puddles in swimsuits – finally! Ilze
We have Linnas Godfather here for the weekend and he brought his doggy to! Our Marley isn’t happy (since the dog stays inside all the time and eats what’s left in Marley’s bowl) but we are trying the best to show love to our Marley :). I hope that by the end of the day … More Doggy
Yesterday, I submitted my Business Plan and had a little party at home :). Actually, it was because of Ronalds (Helmī godfather) who came to us from Germany! Today we used Ronalds as a personal driver and went to Gulbene for a walk.. or so we thought! The weather was so cold and windy and terrible, … More Cold, Windy but Lovely!
.. So it’s on Sunday! The big day, when Linna will be 4! A lot to do, but started with My Little Pony inspired banner… Ilze
Let’s introduce Ronalds! He is Janis cousin…and that is the “furthest relation with us” he owns. He is also something closer, he is Helmī’s God Father! Since Ronalds is living in Germany and having a busy working schedule he visited us once a year. It is not like we can’t call each other or do … More Ronalds
a day in the life of a latvian mom 