About me in October
October 17, 2025
I’ve added an option to translate the page into English, so you’re very welcome to visit and read about me this October! Ilze
Tag: autumn
The Night Grows Longer
September 23, 2025
Today marks the moment when the night becomes longer than the day. The sun sets earlier, the shadows stretch, and the cool evening air lingers just a little longer. It’s a quiet reminder that the year is turning, that autumn is deepening, and that our pace of life can slow along with the shortening days. … More The Night Grows Longer
A Surprise in the Garden
September 17, 2025
The weather outside is getting colder, and the days are starting to feel shorter. Autumn is slowly settling in, and I’ve been preparing myself for the usual quiet of the garden as the season changes. But today I had a lovely surprise. Some say that when the weather gets colder and colder, zucchini stops producing—but … More A Surprise in the Garden
A Walk in Pärnu
September 16, 2025
On the weekend, I had a lovely walk with my mom in Pärnu, Estonia. It felt like such a treat to step away from daily routines and just wander together. The city has this calm charm—wide streets, a gentle seaside air, and a pace that invites you to slow down. We didn’t rush anywhere. We … More A Walk in Pärnu
Lamps by the Big Window
September 15, 2025
This week we finally installed lamps on our huge window. They aren’t meant to be the main light in the room but more of a gentle mood light. I’ve been craving that kind of soft glow—something that doesn’t overwhelm but adds a quiet atmosphere once the evening sets in. Right now, I’m not sure how … More Lamps by the Big Window
Vacation Day 30 – Watercolors, a Garden Party, and a Sunset
August 31, 2025
I started my day with a watercolor doodle. This time I decided to try drawing an amanita mushroom – such a classic forest symbol of autumn. It was fun to play with the bright red cap and little white dots. Later in the day, I didn’t really feel like going out, but we were invited … More Vacation Day 30 – Watercolors, a Garden Party, and a Sunset
Vacation Day 29 – Leaves, Sewing, and Small Joys
August 31, 2025
In the morning, I went for a walk and brought home a beautiful maple leaf. I even tried drawing it later. It didn’t turn out exactly as I imagined, but considering I’ve had no prior training in art, I think it came out pretty well. It feels so refreshing to slow down, notice these little … More Vacation Day 29 – Leaves, Sewing, and Small Joys
Vacation Day 28 – Morning Walk, Watercolors, and Foraging
August 30, 2025
I started the day at 6:45… just woke up, without an alarm! Not sure why, but I decided to take the day as it comes. First thing, I went for a walk and collected maple samaras – their shapes are so perfect and delicate. Feeling inspired, I tried my hand at watercolor and painted the … More Vacation Day 28 – Morning Walk, Watercolors, and Foraging
Vacation Day 23 – Autumn Whispers in the Garden
August 27, 2025
I cut all the tops of the pumpkin plants, hoping they will grow strong and be ready soon. Tops look so beautiful, full of promise—I’m even thinking about putting them in a vase just to enjoy them indoors for a little while. There’s something magical about seeing the garden transition from summer to autumn, and … More Vacation Day 23 – Autumn Whispers in the Garden
Vacation Day 21 – A Wet, Autumn-Like Evening
August 25, 2025
At night was heavenly—but not in the way you might think. The rain came down in a steady, soothing drizzle, and the air felt cool and damp, like the first whispers of autumn. Roads suffered… again. This morning—or perhaps more accurately, early afternoon, since we woke up late it was sunny! I went out with … More Vacation Day 21 – A Wet, Autumn-Like Evening
Have You Gathered Your Coltsfoot Tea Yet?
April 5, 2025
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?
Life by the Dirt Road: Unexpected Joys and Challenges
November 13, 2024
When we first bought our house, we weren’t exactly thrilled about living next to a dirt road. The dust would roll in every time a car passed by—especially in the dry summer. But we loved the house and the land, so we decided to stick with it. The dust is still an issue, but I … More Life by the Dirt Road: Unexpected Joys and Challenges
Five minutes outside with my dream lens in hand..
November 7, 2024
Just got my dream lens, the Canon 100-500mm, and I couldn’t be more excited! I hadn’t been so into photography for the last few years, but now, I can feel that old spark coming back. Getting this lens wasn’t easy. With all the house renovations, I’d been saving up and was close to putting the … More Five minutes outside with my dream lens in hand..
November Blues
November 4, 2024
Ugh, it’s that time of year again. I’m sick, I’m grumpy, and November feels like it’s just the gloomy bridge between October’s colorful autumn and December’s Christmas cheer. Gray skies, endless rain, and not much to brighten things up… just plain dreary. November really can be a drag. Oh, wait a minute there are some … More November Blues
Embracing Autumn: My Time for Jigsaw Puzzles
October 22, 2024
As autumn graces us with its presence, painting the world in rich oranges, deep reds, and golden yellows, I feel a delightful urge to retreat indoors and indulge in my favorite cozy activity: jigsaw puzzles. After a summer filled with outdoor adventures and sun-soaked days, the arrival of cooler weather invites a comforting shift, a … More Embracing Autumn: My Time for Jigsaw Puzzles
A Weekend with Friends and Golden Autumn in Latvia
October 15, 2024
This weekend was extra special as we had Linna’s friend over! They’ve been best friends since kindergarten. Things changed a bit when Linna chose German as her third language and her friend opted for Russian. They are not in the same classes anymore. Despite the shift, their bond remains strong, and I hope it continues … More A Weekend with Friends and Golden Autumn in Latvia
A Chilly Surprise: First Frost on a Sunny Morning
October 2, 2024
Waking up on the last day of September to a brisk, chilly morning was quite the experience! The sun was shining brightly, and at first, I didn’t even notice the frost, as the sun had melted most of it away. The steam rising from the ponds created a magical, ethereal atmosphere that took my breath … More A Chilly Surprise: First Frost on a Sunny Morning
Embracing October: The Enchanting Transformations of Autumn in Latvia
October 1, 2024
As October arrives, Latvia transforms into a vibrant autumn wonderland. The air turns crisp, the days shorten, and nature’s colors come alive in gold, amber, and crimson hues. Birch trees glow with yellow leaves, while maples blaze in fiery reds and oranges. Leaf peeping is at its finest, with fallen leaves creating a rich carpet … More Embracing October: The Enchanting Transformations of Autumn in Latvia
The Berry Chase: A Rural Tale of Desire and Delight
September 19, 2024
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
Cozy Up with a Warm Spiced Apple Drink
September 10, 2024
As the autumn chill sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than wrapping your hands around a warm mug of spiced apple drink made from fresh, homegrown apples. This simple yet aromatic recipe has been a beloved tradition since I first shared it on my old blog in 2013, capturing the essence of the season with … More Cozy Up with a Warm Spiced Apple Drink
Crazy… but love it!
October 25, 2018
Two months as an owner of my own business! My first business :). I haven’t been in my comfort zone ever since! The journey so far was crazy enough. I love it! Perfect balance between workout (photoshoots) and time at the computer (photo editing). On Sunday I saw a squirrel – hanging upside down and looking … More Crazy… but love it!
A Surprise in the bushes!
October 23, 2018
The girls needed a wee in the middle of nowhere so we went in the bushes. What a surprise was there! Vacuum cleaner!!? YES! Karcher! And “Privāts” (from Latvian – Private) written on the side. Well, we stayed there a few minutes more to enjoy the yellow lonely Karcher. It fits there perfectly with all … More A Surprise in the bushes!
Misty Mornings
September 2, 2018
Beautiful misty mornings are here! I love those mornings but don’t like the fact that autumn is coming! And by autumn I don’t mean colorful leaves, sunny days and stunning views! What I don’t like is rainy weeks, muddy roads, blues and sneeze that comes with it… Am I the only one struggling to smile … More Misty Mornings
Frosty & Cold Morning
October 25, 2017
Brrr…. this was a surprise for all of us when we opened our eyes on Saturday morning and saw frost! Unexpected! Completely unexpected! The previous evening was beautiful and warm. I’m happy I was outside capturing all the beauty! Cause it was the last time this year we could enjoy the beautiful Latvian autumn colors. … More Frosty & Cold Morning
Beautiful Autumn Evening
October 24, 2017
I had my walk a few days ago and I took my camera with me! First autumn frosts are here but I had lucky to capture the autumn colors just before it! This was a lovely autumn evening with the sun, clouds and yellow leaves. This is how Latvia looks in autumn. And I love … More Beautiful Autumn Evening
Day out: Stameriena / Stameriena Castle
October 16, 2017
My bestie Džeina called me and offered to drive me for a walk. A little off-topic: I have a driving license for a year now but I’m too scared to drive. I’m not driving. Džeina has a driving license for almost 10 years now and finally, she isn’t scared and she is ready to drive wherever … More Day out: Stameriena / Stameriena Castle
1st of October
October 1, 2017
I know October isn’t all about sneezes and colds! But I wrote my ever first poem…forgive me! October will be beautiful! I know! 1st of October You came in fast! I wasn’t prepared And I’m a bit scared! You come with sneezes, With coughs and colds. Unwanted layers. Socks all day long. Beautiful, October … More 1st of October
DIY: Easy Paper Pumpkins
September 12, 2017
These paper pumpkins are easy to make and sure looks cute. I made these as a gift wrapping for the “Little Pumpkin party” a.k. “David’s first birthday”. If you have bigger present than a t-shirt for 1yo, you will need bigger size paper. If smaller or few small presents, pack them in a cello bag … More DIY: Easy Paper Pumpkins
How to pick mushrooms
September 6, 2017
This is funny! I don’t know if you know how to pick mushrooms but I do! And I love those rainy days that brings mushrooms here in Latvian forests. Latvia have forests and forest this year have mushrooms. How do I know? Simply! Mushrooms like boletus type are at the same place every 3 years. … More How to pick mushrooms
a day in the life of a latvian mom 