Tag: latvia

Blood Moon

September 8, 2025

Yesterday was such a magical evening. The full moon turned red during the eclipse, and it was breathtaking to watch! The moon glowing in that deep red color was both strange and beautiful. I loved every moment of it. Mostly, I loved seeing my girls’ curious faces and hearing them voice chat with friends all … More Blood Moon

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 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

Celebrating Heritage: Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Riga

July 7, 2025

Right now, the streets of Riga are alive with the heartbeat of Latvia — voices raised in harmony, feet moving in intricate steps, and a palpable sense of unity in the air. The 2025 Latvian Song and Dance Festival, known in Latvian as “Dziesmu un deju svētki”, is in full swing. Held from July 5th … More Celebrating Heritage: Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Riga

The Longest Day – Summer Solstice in Latvia

June 20, 2025

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

When a Colleague Cycles 108km/67miles to Visit You

June 6, 2025

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

4th May – Latvia’s Quiet Celebration of Freedom

May 4, 2025

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

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

March 30, 2025

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!

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

February 9, 2025

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!?

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

January 6, 2025

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

The Birds at My Feeder: Willow Tit… or Maybe Marsh Tit? (Poecile montanus or Poecile palustris)

December 6, 2024

After appreciating the bold personality of the Great Tit, I turned my attention to another, quieter visitor to our feeder. At first, I thought it was the Willow Tit. Its soft, understated plumage—subtle browns, grays, and a small black cap—fits the description perfectly. But as I watched more closely, doubt crept in. Could it be … More The Birds at My Feeder: Willow Tit… or Maybe Marsh Tit? (Poecile montanus or Poecile palustris)

The Birds at My Feeder: The Great Tit…boring

December 3, 2024

Great Tit (Parus major) is the first and most frequent to arrive. Its familiar black-and-yellow plumage, framed by a bold black head, is a cheerful sight against the duller tones of the season. I’ll admit, the Great Tit feels a bit predictable—its visits so routine that I sometimes catch myself dismissing it as boring. But … More The Birds at My Feeder: The Great Tit…boring

Winter Bird Feeding: A New Mix and a Little Family Humor

November 16, 2024

Let’s talk bird feed! Usually, I buy sunflower seeds and fat balls from Janis’ parents’ vet shop to keep the birds fed throughout the winter. This time, I decided to try something a little different and ordered a big bag of mixed feed: oats, dried worms, seeds, and even some corn. I’m not sure if … More Winter Bird Feeding: A New Mix and a Little Family Humor

Amanita Muscaria and the Beauty of Nature Close to Home

November 15, 2024

I stumbled upon a beautiful Amanita muscaria right next to our house recently. What a sight! It’s such a stunning mushroom, with its bright red cap and white spots—definitely a showstopper. Of course, we all know it’s poisonous, but it still adds something magical to the landscape. I love how nature keeps inching closer to … More Amanita Muscaria and the Beauty of Nature Close to Home

Lāčplēšu Diena: Honoring Latvia’s Heroes

November 11, 2024

On the 11th of November, Latvia celebrates Lāčplēšu Diena, a day to honor the bravery of the Latvian soldiers who fought for the country’s independence during the Latvian War of Independence in 1919. The day is named after Lāčplēsis, the legendary hero known for his strength and courage in battle. For many, Lāčplēšu Diena is … More Lāčplēšu Diena: Honoring Latvia’s Heroes

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

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

Why Latvian Miķeļdiena Might Outshine Commercial Thanksgiving?

September 27, 2024

As autumn sweeps across Latvia, the country celebrates Miķeļdiena, this year it’s on the 29th of September 2024. Held around late September, Miķeļdiena marks the end of the harvest work and is a time to give thanks for the year’s bounty. Celebrating the Harvest Latvia’s Miķeļdiena is a joyful conclusion to the harvest season. Communities … More Why Latvian Miķeļdiena Might Outshine Commercial Thanksgiving?

Celebrating Helmi’s 9th Birthday in Our Unfinished House

September 14, 2024

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

The Majestic Great Egret: A Birdwatcher’s Perspective

August 25, 2024

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

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

August 19, 2024

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 (?)

An Evening to Remember Before Heading Back to the Flat

August 5, 2024

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

Sunny Day!

January 15, 2019

Goodmorning. It looks like today will be sunny! I love snowy sunny days. I haven’t been outside walking for more than 2 months! Sounds crazy, but that is my life lately! I will go out for a walk today, cause I’m home and it’s sunny! Do you like walking? Ilze

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

Rabbits

June 17, 2018

A few days ago I cooked stew and had spare spring cabbage leaves to share. Also, plenty of dandelion leaves growing outside, so I suggested to pick those and go visit rabbits in our friends family house. It was 15 minute walk with my little ones and it was hot and sunny. We got water … More Rabbits

Small Detour

June 9, 2018

We sometimes like to take small detours around the countryside we are living in. Yesterday I spent the whole day learning photoshop and editing baby Freijas pictures so I felt like I need to change the ” view what’s around” and have a detour. It ended with a surprise – horses. Very friendly horses! Girls … More Small Detour

Grandma’s house

May 14, 2018

My grandmother Agafia died in the year 2004. Unfortunately, I can’t share a picture of here with you at the moment. I think when I’ll get back home I will find Agafia’s picture and will write a special blog post about her… But for now, I can share a most peaceful place on earth – my childhood memories, my … More Grandma’s house

Hometown Salacgriva

May 9, 2018

Our next stop was Salacgriva. We all wanted to meet my mom. Girls were sad when we left Gauja National Park, cause they meat wonderful friend Normunds and didn’t want to leave. But when I told that next stop is Salacgriva, they were so happy! Linna especially! So, after a one and a half hour … More Hometown Salacgriva

Monster Truck!

December 10, 2017

My new neighbor Lāsma and I we had a walk a few weeks ago. I have three girls and I went outside for walks constantly.. in the mud, in the snow, in the sand… Never ever had a problem! But look at this! 🙂 This was funny for a moment, but actually – got a bit … More Monster Truck!

18th November – Latvia’s Independence Day

November 18, 2017

18 November is the Independence Day of Latvia — there were no borders set, a group of dedicated nationalists proclaimed an independent Latvian state on this date in 1918. Several months after this courageous step had been made, military interventions still went on — the Russian Empire did not want to lose this important territory. This day is … More 18th November – Latvia’s Independence Day

Kitty Cat / Sunset

July 31, 2017

A small trip that made us smile. Made us happier, healthier and calmer. All cats need love – even old ones! A Lovely sunset at the end and all without crying went to bad. Summer, I love you! Ilze

Līgo / Jāņi 2017

June 25, 2017

Jāņi 2017. Celebrated at Salacgriva (my hometown), Latvia. I made floral head wreaths (I don’t know another name!!!) for all girls and me and Jāņi cheese like planned. This time it Jāņi cheese wasn’t that good. The first thing to do when I’ll get back home – find my Jāņi cheese recipe and post it … More Līgo / Jāņi 2017

Daffodils!?

May 3, 2017

I was surprised to saw tiny daffodils growing in my flower bed… they weren’t there last spring! I stood there for a while and enjoyed this unexpected beauty! And suddenly I remembered – I plant them last Easter! I had them for the Easter decoration and later I didn’t throw them away – I planted them! … More Daffodils!?

Hometown

April 28, 2017

Yesterday we packed first two suitcases for upcoming caravan trip… and packed two more bags for small get away to my hometown: Salacgriva. We decided to visit my mom and  “change the decorations”. About Salacgriva: It’s a small town located near Gulf of Riga (Baltic Sea), close to Estonian border. See here. If you ask me – … More Hometown

Snow, freeze, and Christmas… I meant Easter!

April 18, 2017

Winter is still standing behind springs shoulder. It was snowing yesterday! Easter snow?! Never happened before (or maybe I can’t recall…) Yesterday the ground was wet and warm and snow didn’t stay for long. But today I woke up to the white ground…. and it is freezing cold outside! -7C! The lowest temperature on April 18 … More Snow, freeze, and Christmas… I meant Easter!

European pine marten

March 7, 2017

Oh! That was a surprise! Something in the apple tree.. jumping… from one to another… squirrel! But wait! It is not a squirrel! What is it!? It is a European pine marten I guess! Can’t see! I stood quietly at the window and looked at the “pine marten”. That was all I can do, had … More European pine marten

Visitors

February 15, 2017

It’s been a while since I saw a doe in my garden for the last time. Finally, they are here once again! I love these animals. They are so beautiful, majestic, and free animals! The way they are eating, the way they are jumping, the way they are walking. I love it! Our living room … More Visitors

Sunday evening…

January 15, 2017

One day my mom told me that she don’t like Sundays evenings.. I think it was Sunday evening…. Especially when the sun goes down… Sounds terribly wrong for me and so I asked… WHY?! When she was a child she felt sad every Sunday evening. It doesn’t matter if it’s summer or winter.. spring or … More Sunday evening…

I slept in!

January 11, 2017

  For the first time in 5 years – I slept in (I’m not sure about the right definition here… Overslept… Neah!) Let me explain. My dear mother is with us right now. I woke up at 10am. Some may say that it is not “slept in” if you have to get to work.. it’s overslept! Maybe. But … More I slept in!

Foggy Winter Morning

February 11, 2015

I woke up and opened my eyes.I couldn’t believe what I saw!I got up and walked to the window…And there it was — a foggy winter morning. The girls were still asleep, so I grabbed my camera and rushed outside. Okay… not before putting on my down coat, scarf, hat, and mittens! 🙂 Today reminded … More Foggy Winter Morning

60th Birthday Invitations with Chocolate inside

October 6, 2013

These are for my mom — she’s turning 60 this October!The idea of including chocolate in the invitations came to me over the summer. I bought a small Latvian chocolate bar (Laimas “Luks”) and started designing a glamorous outer cover to turn it into a sweet and elegant invitation. I’m really happy with how they … More 60th Birthday Invitations with Chocolate inside