After spending fifteen years in England, Marta Gabrusāne made a courageous decision together with her children – to return to Latvia and begin a new chapter of life in her family home in the countryside of Latgale. Her personal story of reconnecting with her roots, embracing family values, and rebuilding life in rural Latvia has resonated widely with the public and on social media, including TikTok.
Marta explains that the decision to return was not something she had planned for a long time. It was driven by both life circumstances and a desire to be closer to her family. Her father, whom she describes as her greatest source of support, played a particularly important role.
“One evening, I sat down with my children and we talked it through – are we going or not? My younger son had no doubts at all. My older son needed more time to think, but after a week he agreed as well. Then we simply packed our belongings, took our cats with us, and headed to Latvia,” Marta recalls.
Returning to her childhood home was an emotional experience. Although no one had lived in the house for the past eighteen years, the property had been carefully maintained – the garden was looked after, the grass was regularly cut, and the surroundings were kept tidy. Marta admits that the first few months were spent rediscovering the places and memories of her childhood.
“I grew up here. When I returned, I walked along the same paths where I used to run barefoot as a child. At first, I simply wandered around, immersed in memories. Then we started working on our first projects – we built a sauna, began renovating my grandmother’s house, and are gradually turning this place into our true home.”
One of the biggest challenges has been helping her children integrate into life in Latvia. Since the family had not originally planned to return, English had become their primary language in everyday life.
“English is our first language. Even I often think in English. It’s easier for my younger son because he attends kindergarten and is quickly learning Latvian. For my older son, the adjustment has been more challenging, but he is doing well in school and is currently learning to drive through an English-language driving course. Latvia offers opportunities for people who have lived abroad for a long time to integrate and build a fulfilling life here.”
Despite the challenges, Marta looks to the future with optimism. Her list of plans is long. Alongside renovating the house and improving the surrounding area, she hopes to create an educational and recreational park – a place for families and anyone who wants to learn, connect with nature, and spend quality time.
Marta emphasizes that starting over is never easy, but the most important thing is not to be afraid to make a decision and take the first step.
“Sometimes the biggest changes begin with a single decision. If you feel it’s the right path, don’t be afraid – you simply have to start.”
Marta’s story is an inspiring example of how returning to one’s homeland can become a new beginning – an opportunity to reconnect with one’s roots, strengthen family values, and fulfill long-held dreams.
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