Sixteen years of marriage. ❤️ We had a plan for our anniversary: dress up a little, go out, sit in a restaurant, have a nice dinner, and properly celebrate 16 years together. But it doesn’t feel like me… or Jānis. So why do it? Instead, we ended up in the forest, hunting for chanterelles. There … More 16 Years of Marriage… and a Forest Full of Chanterelles
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
I was feeling a bit down yesterday, so I went to the forest. I foraged for chanterelles and russules, and ate a few bilberries — enough to turn my mouth completely blue. Saw a huge patch of ferns and a whole field of heather (Calluna vulgaris). I couldn’t resist taking a few stems home. Butterflies … More Vacation Day 8: Forest Foraging & A Not-So-Great Ending
This morning I woke up at 11am and couldn’t open my eyes. It was so dark outside — and just as dark inside — that for a second, I thought it was already evening. You know that strange twilight feeling, when the sky doesn’t care what time it is? I tried to shake it off … More When the Forest Calls Through the Rain
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!
I recently set out on a mushroom-hunting adventure, and I’m thrilled to report that I found a few chanterelles! Just enough to whip up a delicious mushroom gravy, a staple in every Latvian household. There’s something so comforting about this dish, especially when served with creamy mashed potatoes. I can’t help but reminisce about a … More Chanterelles and Gravy: A Culinary Tradition
I recently bought a new pair of wellies, and I’m excited to take them out for a spin! With mushroom hunting season winding down, I can’t wait to explore the woods and see if I can find some of my favorite chanterelles. There’s something special about wearing wellies while wandering through the forest, stepping over … More New Wellies and the Last Chanterelles of the Season
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