Snow, Valentine’s Day, Vaccines, and World War Z
Valentine’s Day 2021
We’ve never really been huge on Valentine’s Day.
Yes, we’re big on love.
And yes, I love my holidays.
But Valentine’s Day has always been as chill as can be.
The more chill, the better.
But this Valentine’s Day?
It had the perfect mix of chill and significance—the kind that makes it unforgettable.
First, we woke up to snow.
And snow in the desert is always magic.
The kids quietly stood by the window, watching big flurries dance through the air as I made my way downstairs for virtual church and a hot cup of coffee, sleepy kids trailing behind me.
Bella and Lucas were too cozy to head outside like they normally do on snow days.
Part of me worried that was proof we’ve been hibernating in here for too long…
But honestly, I couldn’t blame them.
We’ve been living like bears in our den for nearly a year now.
For better or worse, we’ve gotten good at it.
Liv, however, couldn’t resist the snow.
And I was ready—new photography gear had arrived early that very morning.
Snow and a surprise delivery?
It felt like Christmas morning for me.
Inspired, I grabbed my new (very inexpensive) toy lens—a little $8 Lensbaby 1.6X Telephoto attachment I scored on KEH—and headed outside.
Sometimes, if you want to see the world differently, you need a different lens.
Or… you can use the same tools in new ways.
That morning, I did both.
Fresh snow and a fresh perspective—perfect combo.
Then came the moment I’d been waiting for:
My first COVID-19 vaccine.
Honestly, is there a better way to spend Valentine’s Day than finally being able to say, I got vaccinated?
I couldn’t think of one.
The mood was hopeful, excited, with just a hint of nerves.
But more than anything, it felt good to know something was happening.
“Congratulations,” the man said as he checked me in.
And honestly? It did feel like something to celebrate.
I said a quiet prayer of gratitude for the scientists that morning.
I know it’s not the end, but it’s a step in the right direction.
And their hard work deserves more than congratulations—it deserves everything.
Valentine’s Day “linner” (late lunch/early dinner) was Chinese takeout, followed by molten chocolate lava cakes baked by our very own Bella.
Then, Alex, Bella, and I curled up by a roaring fire to watch World War Z.
Because it’s Valentine’s Day 2021…
And Brad Pitt saving the world from zombies with the help of vaccines?
It felt oddly perfect.
