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!
The meadowsweet has started to bloom! I can’t wait to see the whole field burst into those soft, creamy-white blossoms, glowing in the light like a dream. There’s something magical about them—how they catch the sun and seem to shimmer in the breeze. And the scent… it’s the smell of summer itself. Warm, sweet, and … More 🌿 Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) – A Scent of Summer and Sweet Relief
Yesterday was one of those rare days that felt like a gift. The sun finally made an appearance after a month of grey skies and drizzle. I didn’t even realize how much I had missed it until I stepped outside and felt its warmth on my face. And yes—believe it or not—I even got a … More A Sunny Day and Nature’s Goodies
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!
There’s something special in the air on Līgo night. The scent of blooming meadows, the hum of insects, the quiet excitement of an ancient celebration getting closer. Līgo is the evening before Jāņi, and it’s more than just preparation – it’s the build-up of energy. People gather, flower crowns are made, songs are sung in … More Līgo – The Night When Latvia Glows
The scent of blooming meadows, bonfires waiting to be lit, flower crowns drying on the table, and songs quietly echoing from a speaker in the kitchen… It’s almost Jāņi, and we’re getting ready in the most traditional way we know. One of the first things on my list each year is Jāņu siers – that … More Latvian Midsummer Cheese
The weather is absolutely terrible today – cold, wet, windy, and grey. You know, the kind of day that feels like time has jumped backwards into late November. I kept looking out the window, hoping for at least a patch of sunlight, but nope… just drizzle and clouds all day long. Solstice? Sure – but … More Homemade Cinnamon-Roasted Almonds in 15 Minutes
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
Clover might just be one of the most underestimated little plants growing all around us (well, also nettle, read here). It doesn’t shout for attention. It’s low to the ground, quiet, and humble—but if you look closely, it’s everywhere. In our fields, by the garden beds, under the apple trees… And as I’ve learned, it’s … More Clover – A Tiny Flower with Big Benefits
Lately, I’ve found myself pausing more often just to admire the fields around our home. It’s not a carefully planted garden or a designed landscape—it’s just nature doing its thing. And right now, that means wildflowers. A whole sea of them. Especially daisies. Some people call them oxeye daisies—Leucanthemum vulgare, if we’re being official. But … More The Wild Beauty Around Me: Oxeye Daisies—Leucanthemum Vulgare
This morning started like any other – I was making tea and preparing to dive into work, when a surprisingly loud chirp-chirp-chirp pulled my attention toward the front door. I peeked out and there it was – a great tit, perched confidently in the bush just next to the entrance. The sound was so sharp … More A Little Star in the Bush
I still can’t believe it—I got pictures of a sotrk right in my yard! It came so close, just calmly walking around like it owned the place. I grabbed my phone as fast as I could and snapped a few shots before it flew off again. What a moment! For those who don’t know, sotrk … More Sotrk! A Surprise Visitor in My Yard
One of the containers I planted tomatoes in had a few holes at the bottom—nothing fancy, just enough for drainage. But with all the rain lately, it flooded a few times. Turns out, the roof rain collector was clogged, and all that water ended up pouring straight into that one unlucky container. My poor tomato … More A Surprise Under the Tomato Container
Yesterday, I spent way too long tidying up the greenhouse—and honestly, I don’t even like it. For starters, the entrance is a slippery slope. Literally. It’s built into a hill, and after any rain, it’s like trying to walk across soap. I’ve already slipped there twice and hit myself hard, and ever since, I tread … More A Love-Hate Relationship with My Greenhouse
Yesterday, I broke my blogging streak. I had this goal in mind—360 days of daily blogging. I was so close. But life, as it does, had other plans. I simply forgot. I remembered to share the post… but I hadn’t written one yet. Something unexpected came up at work, and the day slipped through my … More 312 Days Later – And Still Blogging
I couldn’t sleep. You know those restless nights when your mind simply won’t quiet down, and even your usual rituals—tea, journaling, a bit of stretching—don’t help? That was me, tossing and turning. Eventually, I gave up trying. I slipped out of bed, wrapped myself in a hoodie, and stepped outside for some fresh air, it … More Strawberry Moon Magic – A Sleepless Night
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 🎨
I keep skipping my walks. I know I should walk more—I want to walk more! But getting to 10K steps a day feels completely out of reach right now. Honestly, I wish I could be one of those people who just naturally hit their step goals without even thinking about it. You know the ones. … More I Skip Walking More Than I’d Like To
As you know, my colleague Marika came for a visit. You can read here: When a Colleague Cycles 108km/67miles to Visit You I didn’t feel like going out, but we went for dinner anyway — and I’m so glad we did. We ended up chasing a rainbow. Then wandered into a forest wrapped in fog. It … More Fun we had with Marika
I finally did it—I planted and seeded the furrows. This year I have 4! It’s ridiculously late in the season, I know. Normally by now, the garden would already be showing signs of life, and I’d be sharing photos of sprouting rows or eating baby carrots! But this year… this year has been strange. It … More Late Seeds, Soaked Soil, and a Bit of Hope
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
When I came to Anna’s Manor for our work event, I noticed a stork feather lying in the grass. It felt like a small gift — quiet, light, and meaningful. I picked it up and brought it home with me. It’s now resting on my oak desk, reminding me of the stillness of that place … More Feathers, Stones, and Memory
Yesterday I spent the day at our regular two-day work event — something we do every couple of months to reconnect, since we all work remotely. I only planned to attend the first day, and now I’m back at home, working in my quiet little corner. The event took place at Anna’s Hotel — a … More A Day with the Team – Anna’s Manor
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
Hello, June 🌿 I can hardly believe we’re here already. Usually in the middle of May, all the furrows are full of carrots, beetroots, potatoes, etc. The new growing season is started. But not this year! I still wait for the tractor to come and make a furrow in my field! Also, I’m feeling a … More June Goals & Intentions
May was a busy and fulfilling month! Here’s a look back at the goals I set at the start of the month and what we managed to accomplish. But first the May gallery 🙂 House & Renovation As planned, we didn’t do much with the house renovation. Gardening Personal & Creative I’m proud of what … More What We Achieved in May
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
Last week felt like a whirlwind of everything but home. We were constantly on the move—errands, appointments, work – community days in Riga, quick visits, spontaneous plans… I barely had time to catch my breath, let alone sit down and rest. Now that a new week has started, I can feel the tiredness setting in. … More No Time to Lose: 5 Days Until Nelle’s Party!
Does anyone remember La Femme Nikita? The TV series from the late ’90s and early 2000s? I lived for that show when I was in high school. It aired late at night, way past a responsible bedtime for someone who had to be up early for school. But I didn’t care. I was obsessed. I … More Late Nights and La Femme Nikita: A High School Obsession
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 🌧🌿
I spent three days in Riga for a work event and stayed in a really nice hotel. The whole experience was refreshing — from the comfortable accommodation to the chance to spend quality time with colleagues and meet our guests, including clients and partners. It felt so good to connect in person again, especially when … More Work Event in Riga
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
A few days ago we went to the hairdresser’s! With the weather still teasing us between spring and summer, it felt like the perfect time for a little refresh. So off we went: Nelle, Linna, and me, each with our own little mission. I went first. Nothing dramatic here, I needed a bit of cleanup. … More A Trip to the Hairdresser: Trimmed Ends, Fresh Looks, and a Bold Surprise
I’ve been struggling lately, feeling like everything around me is too much. Work, home, life—it’s all felt overwhelming. So, I made the decision to take 4 days off from work and do nothing at home. I ignored the chores, let the laundry pile up, and let the dust settle. Instead, I spent the time watching … More Taking a Breather
It’s hard to believe, but Nelle’s first graduation is just around the corner. She’s almost 13 (turning on the 28th of May!), and this feels like one of those big milestones that sneaks up on you—even though you’ve seen it coming on the calendar for months. Dresses are being chosen, hairstyles imagined… and the very … More With or Without Socks?
After sharing how I lost half of my tomato plants, I wasn’t sure I’d even write another post about them this season… but here we are. The second half of my tomatoes are now planted out—and I’m crossing all my fingers and toes. These are my last seedlings. They were struggling in their pots (plugs!) … More Garden Diary: The Last Tomato Hope!
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 💛
Latvia is heading to the Eurovision finals this year, and it’s all thanks to Tautumeitas! The moment was announced last night, and I’m still smiling. There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing a Latvian group with such a deep connection to our roots make it to one of the biggest stages in Europe. I’ll be honest … More Tautumeitas Make It to Eurovision 2025 Finals!
One of the most satisfying experiments I tried this year was winter sowing—and I’m happy to report that some of those little seedlings are now thriving in the garden! Back in the colder months, I sowed several types of seeds outdoors in containers, letting nature do its thing. I wasn’t sure how many would make … More Winter Sowing Update: The Calendula Surprise
This weekend felt like a little celebration—I finally planted out the monthly strawberries I grew from seed earlier this year! Watching them grow from tiny specks in the soil (it takes a lot of patience; they grow slowly) to strong little plants has been a gratifying process. These aren’t your usual garden strawberries; they’re monthly … More Planting Out Our Homegrown Strawberries 🍓
Saturday night turned into early morning. I couldn’t fall asleep—wide awake until 4AM. Maybe it was the full moon, maybe it was the one cup of cola I had (and I never drink caffeine!), or maybe just life’s current chaos, but sleep simply wouldn’t come. I had restless legs, and I stepped outside, thinking some … More 4AM: Can’t believe my eyes
As you know, I ended up with almost 100 tomatoes by accident…. I was so ready for tomato season—so ready to get my hands into the soil, to watch those little green plants thrive. But reality had other plans. We lost about half of our tomatoes. It started with the weather. It’s been so cold—unusually … More Garden Diary: I Lost Half of My Tomatoes…
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!
I can hardly believe it – my oldest girl is turning 13 this month! And not only that, she’s finishing her years at the art school. Our first big goal has been officially reached. It feels like just yesterday she started, still so small, brought there when she was still in kindergarten. And now here … More Nelle and the Art School 🎨💫
I can’t recall a spring quite like this one—so cold for so long! These past few weeks have felt more like late March than May, and it’s starting to wear on me. By now, I’d normally be busy in the new garden (at least in the greenhouse), hands in the soil, finally planting out my … More A Cold Spring and Tomato Troubles
We finally did it—all the trees are in the ground. Remember the trees I brought home from the sad nursery? Read here: https://latvianmom.com/2025/04/29/a-spring-trip-for-trees/ For years, we dreamed not just of restoring the house, but of bringing life back to the land around it. Last spring, that vision began to take root—literally. We planted magnolia for … More Spring 2025: Trees
After more than a decade, it’s finally hanging again—the old retro chandelier from 1880. I can’t stop looking at it. It’s not much for others, but for me it’s everything. I haven’t seen it up since 2012. Not because it was broken or forgotten, but because my brother didn’t like it. Back when he got … More The Light That Finally Came Home
We finally climbed the hill we always passed by — and discovered it was part of the Struve Geodetic Arc. A rainy-day reminder that history is sometimes right under your feet. … More The Hill We Finally Climbed
An accidental food delivery turned into a rainy-day road trip, a manor visit, and a sushi celebration. Sometimes the best plans are the ones you didn’t make. … More We Traveled Where Our Food Had Already Been
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 Valpurgis Night: A Night Between Seasons
May brings fresh energy and blooming beginnings. This month, I’m focusing on garden tasks, creative projects, and grounding routines like journaling in my grimoire. With no big renovation plans (maybe just the bathroom…), I’m choosing to slow down, reflect, and enjoy the rhythm of spring—especially with Nelle turning thirteen! … More May Goals & Intentions
I started the month with a list of goals and intentions — and then promptly forgot about them. 😅But somehow… I was on track anyway. Let’s take a look. But first, let’s start with the galery: House & Renovation Gardening & Outdoor Work Family & Everyday Life Personal Goals April was full, bright, messy, and … More What We Achieved in April
A 100 km trip for new trees brought more than just magnolia and cherry saplings—it stirred memories of last spring and a surprising sadness for a once joyful place. Now, with soil under my nails and hope in my heart, I plant anyway. … More A Spring Trip for Trees
With the pallet collars at home, it’s time to dive into the layout! I want the garden to be both practical and beautiful — easy to care for, full of life, and a joy to walk through or have a chair in it to sit and enjoy. To plan it out, I used GrowVeg – … More Kitchen Garden: The Layout
I originally wanted to share everything once it was finished, but knowing myself, I might forget — so instead, I’ll post small progress updates along the way. This year, a big dream is finally taking shape — I’m starting our own kitchen garden!I’ve been gathering ideas for a long time, and now the first pieces … More Kitchen Garden: The Concept
I can’t believe it — it’s snowing! Everything is so green, and the plum trees are blooming! I already have seedlings growing in the greenhouse and a few things planted outside. The last thing we need now is snow and freezing temperatures (below 0°C)! And yet, in this chilly chaos, we had a little surprise: … More Snow Outside, Cucumbers Inside
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 ✨
I did something I’ve been meaning to do for ages—I took time off work and wandered into the nearest field with my camera. No plan, just a quiet escape. And there they were—geese! Awkward, graceful, and surprisingly calm as I snapped my very first photos of them. Some were too far away, but one or … More First Goose Photos
This day was full of a lot of things.Goose, for one. I’ll write more later…. Or will I? Ilze
We had a burst of summer warmth these past few days, but now it’s back to the chill — just +11°C again. Yesterday, I noticed the Prunus cerasifera in bloom — the first tree to flower on our land each spring. It always arrives too early, like a quiet whisper before the season truly begins.And … More Prunus cerasifera: The First to Bloom
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
A few weeks ago, I decided it was finally time to sew some radishes. It wasn’t a big, planned-out gardening moment—more like a spontaneous little joy. I looked at one of our circular raised beds and thought, “Why not make it a bit more fun?” So instead of planting in straight rows, I made a … More A Spiral of Radishes
Back in February, I shared my excitement about starting seeds indoors and trying winter sowing for the first time. If you missed those posts, you can catch up here and here. It feels like just yesterday I was cutting open water bottles and gently tucking seeds into the soil under layers of snow and ice. … More Winter Sowing – Progress Update
Lately, I’ve been busy packing out our plates and sets—finally giving them a proper home after what feels like forever. There’s something so satisfying (and slightly overwhelming) about unwrapping each piece of porcelain and imagining the meals, celebrations, and quiet cups of tea they’ll be part of. The buffet, as lovely as it is, turned … More Finding Room for Beauty (and a Little Bit of Chaos)
Today’s post will be a bit longer. I love being back to nature and enjoying its wild bounty, like nettles, which offer both nourishment and healing, reminding me of the incredible gifts the earth provides. While most people rush to get rid of nettles, I welcome them—especially this time of year. Today, I went into … More Nettles – My Springtime Secret Weapon
This weekend was supposed to be about unwrapping memories. And it was—but not quite the way I expected. Among the many boxes we brought back from storage, there was one I was especially excited to open: my vintage German porcelain from Seltmann Weiden. I bought that set during my mom’s 60th birthday party—the one we … More Let’s Talk About Weekend or Seltmann Weiden Service
On Saturday and Sunday, we finally brought home all my china from storage, along with my grandmother’s buffet. (Or is it a cupboard? Honestly, I never know the right word in English—please, comment below). It’s a beautiful piece with the history, made in 1880, and has been in my family ever since. I grew up … More Monday
Spring is finally here! I think I said this already a few times. I had a walk that was so warm, and it felt like the season was truly ready to melt us all. After weeks of cold and dreariness, the sun has finally come out to play, and there’s that special warmth in the … More Spring is Here!
As you know, I have land—a lot of land. Seven hectares (17 acres – for friends on the other side of the pond), to be exact. But what I don’t have (yet!) is a real garden. No flower beds, no borders bursting with color, no carefully planned layout. Just open space, dreams, and a greenhouse … More A Few Blooms, A Lot of Land 🌸
Back on January 30, I decided to try something new—growing cucumbers indoors in our growing tent. These aren’t just any cucumbers; they’re a special kind that doesn’t need pollinators, which makes them perfect for indoor growing. I wasn’t sure if we could really pull it off, but I figured, why not give it a try? … More Indoor Cucumbers: Progress So Far
Yesterday was my final dentist appointment—yes, really this time! If you’ve been following along, you might remember the post I shared after my fifth visit back in February, when the main problem tooth was taken care of. This last visit wasn’t about that one—it was for two other teeth that had small holes. They were … More Final Dentist Appointment – And a Surprise Winter Return
Linna had to plant three seeds for a school project. She did that quite enthusiastically—one bean, one cucumber, and one mystery seed I didn’t even recognize. But then she looked up at me and asked, “Can I seed some flowers too?” How could I say no to that? Doesn’t matter if it’s 8pm and tomorrow … More A Small Project Turned Into a Flower Adventure
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!
Right now, I’m sitting in the living room—in our old chair, laptop on my lap. On the right, the windowsill is full of plants soaking up the light. On the left, an absolute army of tomato seedlings—around 120 in total. They’ve taken over the space, tall and cheerful, stretching toward the sun as if they … More A Nice Living Room Moment
I’ve seen them before, but never quite like this. The cranes—tall, elegant, and ever so cautious—have always been fleeting visitors in my world. I never tried to capture them – they were gone in an instant. Yesterday, I spotted them for the first time around our house! I feel lucky. I reached for my camera, … More Elusive Visitors: The Cranes
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?
Yesterday, I saw them again—the doe family that had visited throughout the winter. It was a quiet and peaceful sight, one I had almost forgotten in the bustle of everyday life. They had come regularly when the ground was covered in snow, searching for food, their graceful forms blending into the stark landscape. But by … More The Return of the Doe Family
Spring has arrived—or at least, that’s what the past few days wanted us to believe. The sun finally broke through, the air warmed up to a delightful +14°C (57F), even reaching +16°C (60F) in the afternoon. It felt like a reward after the long, dark winter. Birds sang louder, the soil softened, and the first … More The False Spring and the Inevitable Frost
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
March passed quickly, and while I didn’t have official goals, plenty still happened! Now that April is here, it’s time to focus on what’s ahead. Spring is in full swing, which means more outdoor work, gardening, and home projects. Here’s what I’m aiming for this month: Home & Renovation Gardening & Outdoor Work Family & … More April Goals & Intentions
March flew by in a blur, and while I never set official goals for the month, plenty still happened! Looking back, I realize that even without a plan, we made solid progress in different areas—home, garden, and personal life. So, let’s go through what we actually got done in March! Let’s start with the gallery … More What We Achieved in March
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!
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…)
Yesterday was one of those rare, golden days that remind me why I love spring. The sun poured through the windows, making everything feel warm and alive. For the first time in what felt like weeks, I could step outside and simply enjoy the light, the air, the feeling of the season shifting. Before heading … More A Glimpse of Sunshine
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!
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)
Remember this post? Yesterday, I finally made time (though I had absolutely no will) to prick out the tomatoes. It was one of those tasks I kept putting off, but I powered through… and now I have around 120 tomato plants. That’s 100 too many. I only need about 20—some for my garden, and maybe … More The Great Tomato Overpopulation of 2025
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