A Bittersweet Sunset: Reflecting on Our Journey at Chestnut Manor

Last night’s sunset at Chestnut Manor was nothing short of breathtaking. There’s a certain magic in the way the light kisses the land here, as if the day itself is softly saying goodbye before slipping into night. In the midst of this golden glow stood our caravan—our cozy hideaway throughout the renovation. It’s almost time … More A Bittersweet Sunset: Reflecting on Our Journey at Chestnut Manor

Summer Chaos, Renovation, and the Tastiest Tomatoes

This summer was like a juggling act gone wild! Between renovations and work, my greenhouse turned into a jungle, but surprise! My little yellow tomatoes flourished amidst the chaos. They’re so tasty that the kids can’t resist munching them straight off the vine. As it turns out, chaos can be delicious—who knew? Note to self: more tomatoes next year! … More Summer Chaos, Renovation, and the Tastiest Tomatoes

Post 5: Preparing for Winter: Reflecting on Last Year’s Renovation Decisions and Looking Ahead

I’m excited to share that we will be starting our heating system this autumn! This means we can continue the renovation through the winter and move into the first floor. However, this post will focus on the decisions we made in September of last year (2023). As winter approached last year (2023), we faced the … More Post 5: Preparing for Winter: Reflecting on Last Year’s Renovation Decisions and Looking Ahead

Cottagecore: The Quiz Nailed It, but I Had to Look Up the Word!

The author discovers “cottagecore” through a quiz and learns it represents a simple, rural lifestyle filled with cozy, nature-themed aesthetics. This trend, which gained popularity during the pandemic, emphasizes vintage décor, gardening, and crafting. The author resonates with cottagecore, identifying more with country living than urban life. … More Cottagecore: The Quiz Nailed It, but I Had to Look Up the Word!

Capturing Real Moments: Tips for Family Photos

Ilze reflects on the passage of time since capturing a cherished photo of her daughters, noting how they’ve grown more independent and less willing to pose for pictures. While she misses the ease of past photo sessions, she values their memories and seeks advice on getting older children to cooperate for family photos. … More Capturing Real Moments: Tips for Family Photos

Post 4: A New Beginning with Modern Comforts

As the renovation progressed, we finally started seeing the fruits of our labor with the installation of the new triple-glazed windows. Once the windows were in, the house magically began to come together. The triple-glazed windows were a big investment, but they made all the difference. They weren’t just about looks—they’re essential for keeping the … More Post 4: A New Beginning with Modern Comforts

The Berry Chase: A Rural Tale of Desire and Delight

Berries! That’s all I can think about… Berries! Every time I head to the store or the local mini-market, I’m on the lookout for any sign of berries… Berries! Berries! Where are you, my beloved berries? If I were living in Riga, finding berries would be a breeze. I could simply stroll into any large … More The Berry Chase: A Rural Tale of Desire and Delight

The Mojito Mint Comeback—A Garden Experiment

Since we bought our house, I planted a small patch of mojito mint next to the greenhouse. It’s been a constant struggle, with the surrounding plants overtaking its space and the soil not being ideal for mint. Adding to the challenge, I didn’t have a reliable water source for it. Despite these difficulties, I managed … More The Mojito Mint Comeback—A Garden Experiment

#3: From Followers to Friends – Julie from hartlife1973.wordpress.com

Meet Julie My other friend from the early blogging days is Julie. She amazes me in so many ways, though I won’t list them all here. You should definitely check out her transformative journey—that’s how we first connected, through the Keto diet. Julie is an incredibly hard-working mom, and I admire how she’s always there … More #3: From Followers to Friends – Julie from hartlife1973.wordpress.com

Celebrating Helmi’s 9th Birthday in Our Unfinished House

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

Part 2: The Challenges of Breathing New Life: Chestnut Manor

Taking on a house that hadn’t been lived in for over 30 years was no small feat. When we finally purchased the property in late 2019, it felt like we had taken on more than just a house—we had inherited years of neglect, worn-down materials, and the challenge of preserving something that was quickly falling … More Part 2: The Challenges of Breathing New Life: Chestnut Manor

Falling in Love with a Forgotten Gem: Chestnut Manor

Ilze and her family embarked on a transformative journey when they stumbled upon Chestnut Manor in 2008. After years of fascination, they finally became the proud owners of the 1880s farmhouse in 2019. Despite its neglected state, the unique craftsmanship and potential of the home instilled in them a deep sense of belonging and purpose. … More Falling in Love with a Forgotten Gem: Chestnut Manor

Remembering Roger: A Tribute to a Friendship That Inspired Self-Love

As you know I’ve returned to blogging, I quite cause I thouth I didn’t had time, actually I’ve lost a freind. Thinking of my dear blogging friend Roger (Grumpy Tyke) fills me with gratitude and nostalgia. Though we never met in person, our connection through blogging profoundly shaped my life. Roger, known by many as … More Remembering Roger: A Tribute to a Friendship That Inspired Self-Love

🚩Red Flag Alert: The Importance of Accountability

🚩🚩🚩 One red flag for me is when someone never takes accountability for their actions. If they’re always blaming others or making excuses, it shows a lack of responsibility and self-awareness. It’s hard to trust someone who can’t own up to their mistakes. 🚩🚩🚩 Ilze P.S. It seems, that I’m answering a lot of prompts … More 🚩Red Flag Alert: The Importance of Accountability

Exotic Pear Jam and Juice Recipe: Preserve Autumn’s Bounty for Winter

Basket Full of Pears: Juice and Jam for Winter Autumn brings an abundance of fruit, and this year, I was lucky enough to get a basket full of juicy pears from Janis’s parents. They looked so perfect and succulent that I couldn’t resist turning them into something special. Using a juice steamer, I made fresh … More Exotic Pear Jam and Juice Recipe: Preserve Autumn’s Bounty for Winter

My Journey to Choosing the Perfect (for us) Floor Boards

Hello, everyone! I’ve recently been deep in the process of selecting floor boards for our home, and I wanted to share my experience with you. This journey was a lot more involved than I initially expected, but it’s one of those decisions that we’ll live with for the next 20 years. Here’s a glimpse into … More My Journey to Choosing the Perfect (for us) Floor Boards

The Power of “But” – Why We Should Rethink Its Use

I just couldn’t resist 🙂 We’ve all done it. We’re in the middle of a conversation, expressing a thought or opinion, when out pops the word “but”. It’s such a tiny, seemingly harmless word, yet it has the power to shift the entire tone of a sentence. While often necessary in communication, it can also … More The Power of “But” – Why We Should Rethink Its Use

How to Make Apple Juice and Apple Puree Using a Steamer

Hello, apple enthusiasts! In my recent apple processing adventure, I turned a massive 15 kilos of apples into Apple pie filling ( the recipe is here). Another part was transformed into delicious apple juice and rich apple puree using a steamer. If you’re looking to make the most of your apple harvest, here’s a simple … More How to Make Apple Juice and Apple Puree Using a Steamer

First Try: Apple Pie Filling for Winter (Without Clear Jel)

As you know this was my first time making apple pie filling for winter storage. Please read more here:Hello everyone! If you caught my previous post, you know I had an apple-filled adventure after a friend’s birthday party—coming home with a staggering 15 kilos of apples! (You can read all about that experience here.) It … More First Try: Apple Pie Filling for Winter (Without Clear Jel)

A Fun Apple Adventure: From Party to Winter Storage

Hello everyone! I recently had a delightful surprise at a friend’s birthday party: I came home with an enormous 15-kilo box of stunning apples! (It was so heavy, I could barely lift it!) Sunday became an apple extravaganza as I spent the entire day processing these fruits. And believe me, 15 kilos is a mountain … More A Fun Apple Adventure: From Party to Winter Storage

The First Day of School in Latvia: September 2nd

In Latvia, the school year traditionally begins on the 1st of September, but this year, the start has been moved to the 2nd, as the 1st falls on a weekend. Known as “Zinību Diena” or “Knowledge Day,” it’s a day full of excitement and tradition. Children return to school with flowers for their teachers, dressed … More The First Day of School in Latvia: September 2nd

Embracing New Routines: Navigating the Return to School, Work, and Renovations

As September rolls in, it’s that time of year when routines start to shift and the hustle and bustle of school and work life resumes. For many families, including mine, this transition can be both exciting and challenging. After a summer filled with relaxed schedules and spontaneous adventures, returning to a structured routine requires some … More Embracing New Routines: Navigating the Return to School, Work, and Renovations

My Journey Through Studio Ghibli: A Collection of Enchanting Favorites

Since I first discovered Studio Ghibli in 2004, these films have become a cherished part of my life. Their unique blend of fantasy, emotional depth, and stunning animation has captivated me and countless others around the world. While there are a few Ghibli movies I haven’t quite connected with, there are many that I return … More My Journey Through Studio Ghibli: A Collection of Enchanting Favorites

#2: From Followers to Friends – Jodi from lifeinbetween.me

Meet Jodi Back in 2017, my blog brought me an unexpected gift— Jodi. Jodi is a creative soul with a talent for cooking, baking, and a passion for watercolor painting that I’ve been fortunate to witness from the very beginning. Through her blog, she shares the joy she finds in life’s “in between” moments, whether … More #2: From Followers to Friends – Jodi from lifeinbetween.me

Comfort Food: Fried Russula from the Latvian Forest

When the Latvian forests are full of mushrooms, I can’t resist heading out to forage for Russula, one of my absolute favorites. There’s no exact recipe for this—just a straightforward and delightful method that I follow. As the mushrooms cook slowly in butter (or oil), they release their rich, earthy flavors, capturing the essence of … More Comfort Food: Fried Russula from the Latvian Forest

How I Cut Down on Plastic: 3 Personal Tips That Worked

Living in a world overflowing with plastic, I initially thought reducing my plastic consumption was a Herculean task. With our daily reliance on plastic—from phones to cars to computers—going completely plastic-free seemed nearly impossible. However, I discovered that living with less plastic is both feasible and impactful. The environmental damage caused by plastic is alarming. … More How I Cut Down on Plastic: 3 Personal Tips That Worked

The Majestic Great Egret: A Birdwatcher’s Perspective

With my untrained eye and the help of the Collins Bird Guide, I believe that what I’ve been seeing are Great Egrets. I certainly hope that’s the case, as I have to admit that the grey heron doesn’t particularly appeal to me—whether it’s the name, its behavior, or how often I seem to encounter it. … More The Majestic Great Egret: A Birdwatcher’s Perspective

A Twist on old recipe: Chanterelle and White Bean Soup

In 2015, after a successful day of foraging, we crafted a soup that has since become a staple in our kitchen. It started with a basket of fresh chanterelle mushrooms, but instead of the usual creamy, indulgent soup, we decided to try something a bit different. The result? A unique, vegan-friendly Chanterelle and White Bean … More A Twist on old recipe: Chanterelle and White Bean Soup

#1: From Followers to Friends – Getting to Know Me Better!

Hi, everyone, Welcome to the very first post in the “From Followers to Friends” (FFtF) series! I came up with this idea just five days ago and shared it on my blog yesterday. As this series is brand new, I thought it would be best to kick things off by introducing myself. This will give … More #1: From Followers to Friends – Getting to Know Me Better!

Marley’s Last Days in the Flat: A Return to the Countryside

Nelle captured Marley’s final days indoors with beautiful photos, showcasing his restlessness on the balcony and longing for the countryside. Marley’s return to familiar surroundings brought immediate joy and contentment. Despite missing the initial return moment, Marley’s thriving in his beloved countryside home brings comfort to Ilze and Nelle. … More Marley’s Last Days in the Flat: A Return to the Countryside

Four Years Later: A Family Snapshot Then and Now (?)

Four years have flown by and our girls have grown so much! It’s time for a new family picture to capture this moment and reflect the changes. Our last photo feels like a distant memory, and we’re excited to celebrate our growth and make new memories. Stay tuned for our new family picture! Warm regards, Ilze. … More Four Years Later: A Family Snapshot Then and Now (?)

Day 4: A Different Kind of Day – Surgery, Final Dip and Rainbow

Day 4 was different from the rest of our time in Salacgriva. We had to make a trip to Riga with Linna, as she needed to undergo surgery. It was a dental procedure, and while it wasn’t her first, the thought of full anesthesia always makes me anxious. It’s hard to believe this was her … More Day 4: A Different Kind of Day – Surgery, Final Dip and Rainbow

Day 3: Celebrating My Brother’s Birthday in Salacgriva

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

Day 1: Reconnecting with Salacgriva – Embracing the Sea

Salacgriva holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I grew up, where familiar faces and cherished memories intertwine with the salty sea breeze. I had the chance to reconnect with this beloved hometown and let me tell you, it was a return worth celebrating! For the past few years, my busy schedule had … More Day 1: Reconnecting with Salacgriva – Embracing the Sea

14th Wedding Anniversary

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

Healthy Mini Pancakes: A Perfect End (or Start) of Week

Ah, pancakes. Where would we be without them? I fondly remember those summer days spent at Grandma’s house, where pancakes were a cherished evening treat. Back then, the routine was always the same. Before we could enjoy those golden, fluffy pancakes, we had to finish a hearty, savory meal. But that was never a real … More Healthy Mini Pancakes: A Perfect End (or Start) of Week

Finding Joy in Imperfection: Bathtub

Yet, amidst the chaos, I’ve discovered something profoundly comforting: my bath. Yes, that’s right. Even in this incomplete setting, with construction materials scattered and the faint echo of power tools in the background, I have found my personal sanctuary. Let me paint you a picture. Our bathroom isn’t exactly what you’d call “finished” at the … More Finding Joy in Imperfection: Bathtub

I Missed You All: Reconnecting After Years Away

Welcome back! After a long hiatus, I’m thrilled to reconnect with this amazing community. I’ve missed the engaging conversations, delightful recipes, and heartwarming gardening tips. Let’s pick up where we left off—leave a comment, and let’s catch up on all the memorable moments we’ve missed! Warm regards, Ilze … More I Missed You All: Reconnecting After Years Away

An Evening to Remember Before Heading Back to the Flat

Yesterday evening was a moment of pure serenity, a fitting farewell before we returned to the flat. We usually spend our weekends at our renovation site, depending on the weather and the work we plan to do. This time, we decided to extend our stay, arriving early on Friday morning and making the most of … More An Evening to Remember Before Heading Back to the Flat

A Road Less Traveled: Starting Over, One Step at a Time

Hello everyone, It’s been a while since I last wrote here (2020 – almost four years). The truth is, life has been overwhelming—so much so that writing felt like an impossible task. But today, I’m sharing my story, hoping it might resonate with some of you or at least give me the strength to keep … More A Road Less Traveled: Starting Over, One Step at a Time

Digital Art

Ups and Downs, but in dark times comes bright ideas! Do you remember Marley? Dark times bring dark thoughts… Since I don’t know how to draw… paint… sketch. Played around in photoshop and made this: Instagram account: artfromthephoto Ilze

First of September

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

Wedding Anniversary

Today is our tenth wedding anniversary! I baked a honey cake (a huge one! tripled the recipe) and cooked “Karbonādes” (made from pork loin) but not to just celebrate with the guests but to work hard in our manor! Instead of asking everyone to come and celebrate we asked to come and help! The best … More Wedding Anniversary

Salacgriva

Finally we are in my home town. Its been a wile. We are happy to meet my family and great new baby boy in my brothers family. Now girls have three cousins – boys! As usully we spent time at the seaside. Sea? Its actually the Gulf of Riga… But I call it “sea” all … More Salacgriva

Hot day!

We are having a few very hot days in a row! Today it’s  +29 C tomorrow it will be +30 C It’s hard to stay committed to blogging, had 5 photoshoot this week already. One more on Saturday! Means a lot of work for me! Not all are paid, I do free photoshoots – my … More Hot day!

The First crop

Oh my, I toss and turn and couldn’t sleep tonight. I finally got out of bed at 5:32AM. Went for a walk and realise I will need spring onions for tuna salad… Well – to the garden I went 🙂 Fresh wind in my hair and refreshing dew drops on my feet! This lilac is … More The First crop

Field of Rape

“Rape” is such an unfortunate name! I have feeling it’s canola?! Now all the canola fields are in bloom and they look so good against the blue sky or other “green” fields! So far it’s – GOOD! But then there is something I hate about these fields!!!! I really DO HATE!  And that is SPRAYING! … More Field of Rape

Eggs and rhubarb

Since we moved to the countryside we haven’t bought eggs in a supermarket. We only eat eggs when we can get from happy chickens. Why!? The taste and nutrition! We are buying eggs from Janis uncle! He has 15 chickens and that is enough for us 🙂 We are happy to see chickens running around … More Eggs and rhubarb

Saturday fun!

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!

Fully packed Friday

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

Nelles Birthday

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

Project for fun!

Today I was helping two SMUs* with video making. I’m not a video maker, but I wanted to help and also to try something new. *SMU is a learning company set up and run by students with an educational nature. SMU performs the functions of a real company for teaching purposes and operates in a … More Project for fun!

Veggie garden

We have a veggie garden, that is 40 meters long and 15 meters wide field. 19 rows in total. Don’t know if the word “row” is the right one, but check the picture below. If there is another word how to call this – let me now in the comments below! Why in rows!? Simply … More Veggie garden

Easter 2019

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

New page

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

Happy Valentines Day

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