The Starlings Are Back!

I’ve finally spotted Sturnus vulgaris—the common starling—around our house! These birds are a familiar sight here in Latvia, but it’s only recently that I’ve seen them near our home. Their presence is such a joyful one, and it feels great to have them around! Starlings have this remarkable ability to brighten the surroundings with their … More The Starlings Are Back!

Have You Gathered Your Coltsfoot Tea Yet?

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is a well-known medicinal plant, often used for its healing properties. While the leaves are more commonly collected, the flowers are sometimes harvested too. Here are more about the Coltsfoot: I personally prefer gathering just a few flowers—nothing excessive. In autumn and winter, I add a flower or two to tea if … More Have You Gathered Your Coltsfoot Tea Yet?

Coltsfoot: The Hidden Guardian of Spring

Before spring fully awakens, a small yet powerful flower emerges. Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) resembles a dandelion but holds its own magic. Blooming before its leaves appear, it has long symbolized resilience and healing. A Plant of Many Names Known as son-before-father, horsehoof, and coughwort, coltsfoot’s Latin name Tussilago comes from tussis, meaning “cough.” Its flowers … More Coltsfoot: The Hidden Guardian of Spring

Update on Our Tulip Experiment: A Surprise in the Greenhouse!

Last autumn (see here: https://latvianmom.com/2024/10/27/planting-tulips-and-daffodils-our-winter-greenhouse-experiment/), we planted tulip bulbs in terracotta pots and left them in the greenhouse (see here: https://latvianmom.com/2025/02/17/bringing-winter-into-the-greenhouse/), curious to see if they would sprout earlier than those in the garden. With winter behind us, we almost forgot about them—until about two weeks ago, when we spotted the first green shoots breaking … More Update on Our Tulip Experiment: A Surprise in the Greenhouse!

Looking Back at February’s Goals (Because I Skipped March…)

I was ready to sit down and reflect on my intentions—only to realize I never made any for March! Life has been busy, and somehow, March slipped right past me. But that just means it’s the perfect time to go back and review what I had planned for February. Let’s see how things went! I … More Looking Back at February’s Goals (Because I Skipped March…)

A Day Out with a Friend – A Walk, a Gift, and Lots of Laughs!

Today, I twisted my friend’s arm again for a walk – but this time, she could walk way more than yesterday! We sat down in the middle, but then continued to walk. By the way I came prepared – I brought her a little gift for her name day. You know me, sometimes I forget … More A Day Out with a Friend – A Walk, a Gift, and Lots of Laughs!

My Best Friend’s Name Day – A Day in the Hospital (March 23)

March 23rd should have been a day of celebration—my best friend’s name day, a time for flowers, well-wishes, and maybe a little cake. But instead, she spent it in a hospital bed. She fainted suddenly, and thank goodness her mother was with her. At the hospital, they initially thought it was dystonia and discharged her. … More My Best Friend’s Name Day – A Day in the Hospital (March 23)

A Calm Sunday with Window Cleaning, Greenhouse Prep & Cucumber Blossoms

Sunday was a slow, calm day—exactly what was needed. We finally tackled the living room windows, which had been in a terrible state. Paint splatters, renovation dust, and who knows what else had built up, making them almost impossible to see through. Scrubbing them was no easy task, but Jānis took on the challenge. Out … More A Calm Sunday with Window Cleaning, Greenhouse Prep & Cucumber Blossoms

Linna’s Unforgettable Birthday: Laughter, Games, and a Meowing Surprise

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

Celebrating Latvian Excellence: Flow Wins an Oscar!

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!

Replanting Cucumbers

I had to replant cucumbers already! The thing is, it’s true when someone says — don’t start too early, they won’t grow. I started my cucumbers (these cucumbers will be indoor ones, not for the field — it’s way too early for that here in Latvia) on the 30th of January and another two batches … More Replanting Cucumbers

Flu Recovery Update

After a few days of battling the flu, there’s finally some good news — Nelle’s temperature is down, and she’s feeling much better. It’s such a relief to see her more energetic and slowly returning to her usual self. To protect the rest of the family from getting sick, we’ve all started using Tamiflu, and … More Flu Recovery Update

Morning coffee

This morning, Nelle made me a coffee with whipped cream—just because. It’s one of those little moments that make me realize how fast she’s growing up. She’s drinking decaf coffee, chatting with friends, playing online games, and juggling a few books at once. But when it comes to snow, she’s still the first one out, … More Morning coffee

Valentine’s Day – A One-Sided Tradition?

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?

Winter is Here, Snow is Here! Where is The Sun!?

Winter has arrived in Latvia! A few days ago, the temperature dropped, and snow started falling. It’s been here for five days now, and everything is covered in a beautiful white blanket. The world feels quieter and more peaceful, and I’m enjoying the crisp, fresh air. Crisp means there should be sun soon! The kids … More Winter is Here, Snow is Here! Where is The Sun!?

Continuing the Middle Path: Our Next Steps in Vaccination

On December 20, 2024, I wrote about walking the middle path when it comes to vaccinations—about balancing research, personal beliefs, and practical needs. Today, that path continues as Jānis and the kids are in Riga for their next round of shots. Jānis is the one handling the logistics. It’s a relief because I don’t have … More Continuing the Middle Path: Our Next Steps in Vaccination

Starting the Season: What I’ve Sown Indoors and in Winter Sowing so far

I couldn’t make the title shorter, sorry :). As the days are still too cold in Latvia. We start sowing seeds late April or May outdoors. I can’t wait and I’ve been busy sowing seeds indoors and outside in water bottles – winter sowing. What I’ve planted so far. Winter Sowing ’ve already started a … More Starting the Season: What I’ve Sown Indoors and in Winter Sowing so far

Another Trip to Riga – Second Dentist Visit Done!

Yesterday, I got back from my second trip to the dentist in Riga. Two visits down, two more to go! This time, she removed the nerve, and next time, she’ll widen the canals before finally filling and sealing everything for good. Surprisingly, it wasn’t painful, which is a huge relief. But the real challenge? The … More Another Trip to Riga – Second Dentist Visit Done!

Goodbye January!

As the year’s first month comes to a close, I’m reflecting on everything that has happened—both the highs and the lows. I hope to do this every month, but we will see, I’m not good at this! Highlights of the Month: Challenges: Looking Ahead to February: Thank you, January, for all that you brought. I’m … More Goodbye January!

Jigsaw Puzzle #22 Colorful Birds – Trefl

Puzzle Title: Colorful Birds Number of Pieces: 500 Manufacturer: Trefl Puzzle size: 48 x 34 cm Year Completed: 2022 My Experience: Loved it! Puzzle Trivia: The most expensive puzzle ever sold was a gold-and-enamel puzzle that sold for $27,000 at auction. This puzzle is created by artist Graeme Stevenson. This was such a colorful puzzle, … More Jigsaw Puzzle #22 Colorful Birds – Trefl

Dreaming of Green: Counting Down to Seed Sowing

January feels like the longest month for gardeners in Latvia. It’s cold and dark, and there’s nothing I can start indoors just yet. But February is so close, and with it comes the first chance to start sowing seeds. The gardening year of 2025 is just around the corner, and I’m beyond excited—especially because this … More Dreaming of Green: Counting Down to Seed Sowing

Jigsaw Puzzle #21 Waves (Colorboom collection) – Clemontini

Puzzle Title: Waves (Colorboom collection) Number of Pieces: 500 Manufacturer: Clemontini Puzzle size: 49 x 36 cm Year Completed: 2022 My Experience: Loved it! Puzzle Trivia: In 2005, Dave Evans created a wooden jigsaw puzzle with 40,000 pieces, hand-cut to celebrate the Queen’s 80th birthday. I picked up a few puzzles from this collection, thinking … More Jigsaw Puzzle #21 Waves (Colorboom collection) – Clemontini

Asking for Your Help: The Quest for the Perfect Pie Crust

Have you ever found yourself craving a dish you didn’t grow up with? That’s exactly where my girl Linna is right now. Pies – those golden, flaky creations filled with sweet or savory goodness – seem to have a captured Linnas attention. But here in Latvia, pies aren’t a traditional thing. We don’t have family … More Asking for Your Help: The Quest for the Perfect Pie Crust

Jigsaw Puzzle #20 Fluffy Team (Panorama) – Trefl

Puzzle Title: Fluffy Team (Panorama) Number of Pieces: 500 Manufacturer: Trefl Puzzle size: 66 x 23.7 cm Year Completed: 2021 My Experience: Puzzle Trivia: The largest commercial puzzle available for purchase contains 60,000 pieces called “What a wonderful world”, featuring a world map. This puzzle was so adorable, I completely forgot to record my progress! … More Jigsaw Puzzle #20 Fluffy Team (Panorama) – Trefl

Only Murders in the Building: Why I Like It

I’ve been hooked on Only Murders in the Building, but not for the reason many might think. Yes, Selena Gomez is great, but she’s not the reason I keep coming back. What captivates me is the concept, the clever way the characters unravel mysteries, and—this might sound odd—the interiors of the Arconia! Oliver’s apartment, with … More Only Murders in the Building: Why I Like It

Childhood in a Bowl: Kissel – A Sweet and Fruity Tradition

If you missed my earlier post where I shared the recipe for Cottage Cheese Pie—one of my ultimate comfort foods tied to childhood memories and family celebrations—you can find it here: Cottage Cheese Pie Recipe. Today, I’d love to introduce you to another beloved Latvian treat that pairs perfectly with Cottage Cheese Pie: Ķīselis (Kissel). … More Childhood in a Bowl: Kissel – A Sweet and Fruity Tradition

How I Decided to Reduce My Work Hours to 128 Hours a Month

Making the decision to reduce my work hours to 128 hours a month wasn’t easy, but it felt necessary. I love my job and the people I work with. The owner’s values align with mine, and the supportive work environment makes it hard to imagine stepping away. Also, I work from home, so it’s easy … More How I Decided to Reduce My Work Hours to 128 Hours a Month

National Nothing Day: A Day for Nothing… Really?

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?

Jigsaw Puzzle #19 Streets of Paris – Castorland

Puzzle Title: Streets of Paris Number of Pieces: 500 Manufacturer: Castorland Puzzle size: 47 x 33 cm Year Completed: 2021 My Experience: Loved this one! Puzzle Trivia: “Dissected maps” is another early term for jigsaw puzzles. This puzzle was adorable—definitely photoshopped, but still so charming! I never thought I’d be interested in visiting Paris, but … More Jigsaw Puzzle #19 Streets of Paris – Castorland

Cottage Cheese Pie Recipe: A Slice of Nostalgia

In my previous post, I shared how cottage cheese pie is one of my ultimate comfort foods, tied to childhood memories and family celebrations. If you missed that, read it here: https://latvianmom.com/2025/01/14/kissel-and-cottage-cheese-pie-a-taste-of-childhood/ Now, I’d love to share a simple recipe to bring this delicious treat to your kitchen. This version is close to the one … More Cottage Cheese Pie Recipe: A Slice of Nostalgia

Kissel and Cottage Cheese Pie – A Taste of Childhood

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

Jigsaw Puzzle #18 Jackson Port, Sydney – Trefl

Puzzle Title: Jackson Port, Sydney Number of Pieces: 1000 Manufacturer: Trefl Puzzle size: 48 x 68 cm Year Completed: 2021 My Experience: This was crazy! Puzzle Trivia: Puzzles with irregular or whimsy shapes are known as “whimsy pieces,” a feature often found in wooden puzzles. This puzzle was absolutely crazy! I think it was around … More Jigsaw Puzzle #18 Jackson Port, Sydney – Trefl

Where Has Winter Gone?

This winter feels unsettlingly warm. Snow comes and goes, melting away almost as quickly as it falls. Just a week ago, I captured this picture. Today, it’s all gone—again. These changes aren’t just random; they’re part of a pattern driven by climate change. Warmer winters disrupt wildlife, agriculture, and the traditions we hold dear. Rising … More Where Has Winter Gone?

Jigsaw Puzzle #17 Lamas in the Mountains – Trefl

Puzzle Title: Lamas in the Mountains Number of Pieces: 500 Manufacturer: Trefl Puzzle size: 48 x 34 cm Year Completed: 2021 My Experience: So Cute! Puzzle Trivia: Puzzles with irregular or whimsy shapes are known as “whimsy pieces,” a feature often found in wooden puzzles. Kids helped with this one. They loved it cause it’s … More Jigsaw Puzzle #17 Lamas in the Mountains – Trefl

Grocery Shopping…

I recently stumbled upon a blogger who shares her grocery shopping trips, detailing what she buys and how much it all costs. I love seeing how others navigate their food budgets and priorities—it’s so relatable and oddly inspiring! Meanwhile, yesterday we filled a cart with what felt like nothing and walked out 150 euros lighter. … More Grocery Shopping…

Snow Day Family Fun

Saturday was one of those perfect winter days. Jānis bundled up the kids and took them to our favorite hill for some snow-sliding fun. It’s a special place for us—it’s where we got married. Now, the kids are creating their own cherished memories, racing down the hill on their sleds and playing in the snow. … More Snow Day Family Fun

Celebrating Latvian Excellence: Gints Zilbalodis and “Flow” at the Golden Globes

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

A Glimpse of the Past: Horse and Sleigh Gliding Through the Snow

Yesterday, I saw something magical—a horse and sleigh gliding through the snow. It felt like stepping into a winter wonderland. This wasn’t a tourist sleigh but a 100-year-old Latvian worker’s sleigh, originally used for hauling wood from the forest. No one does that anymore! This one had been cleverly repurposed into a sitting sleigh, with … More A Glimpse of the Past: Horse and Sleigh Gliding Through the Snow

A Visit to the Sea

I’m still into memories of our recent trip to Riga for a party. After the party, we made our way to Salacgriva to pick up the kids, who had been staying with my mom. But of course, we couldn’t leave without a visit to the sea. It’s something I always need, even though I’m not … More A Visit to the Sea

New Year’s Resolutions: Loving What I Do, Improving What Counts, and Finding Better Ways to Grow.

As we welcome the New Year, I like to take a moment to reflect on the things that bring me joy, the areas of my life that could use a little more attention, and the skills I’d love to learn. I believe it’s not just about changing everything at once, but about celebrating the little … More New Year’s Resolutions: Loving What I Do, Improving What Counts, and Finding Better Ways to Grow.