From the Archives: February 13, 2022

It’s currently 7:42pm as I write this. I’ve already washed my face, slipped into my pajamas, and tucked myself into bed—waiting for it to be late enough to actually fall asleep. I’m tired. It’s been a full, really good day, but I’m definitely ready to rest.

Since it’s too early to go to sleep, I’m going to try to post my images from today’s trip to Banská Štiavnica. I also want to prep my lesson plans for tomorrow and get in a little time with my Bible study.

One thing I realized today is just how much COVID changed me. Before all the restrictions and the weight of the world, going out with my family was easy. It brought joy naturally. Now, even simple outings feel foreign. I have to relearn how to enjoy them. I’m not used to spending consistent time together outside the house anymore—and I really don’t like that. I know it will take time to return to what once felt normal, but right now, it’s something I need to keep praying through and inviting Jesus into.

As for the day itself—Banská Štiavnica was beautiful. But cold. I expected the weather to be around 7°C, but it only reached 3°C at its warmest and quickly dropped back to 0°C after 2pm. Thankfully, I dressed warmly, but it was still cold. Half the town basked in sun, the other half sat in deep shadow and snow. It made for some interesting photos—some warm and glowing, others wintry and blue.

We noticed something else too: whenever we visit Banská Štiavnica, Tín always gets sick from the winding mountain roads. Every time we arrive, he needs to eat something before he can even begin to feel better. Once he’s eaten, he usually comes around and enjoys himself—but it’s always a hard start. I don’t blame him; the roads are rough. I’m glad we don’t make that drive too often.

Today was full of learning, praying, small healing, and good memories—even if some of the images I took felt repetitive. I struggled a bit as a photographer, but I know that’s part of the rhythm too. Some days flow. Some don’t. The important thing is to keep showing up.

P.S. Some of the images are repetitive. I felt a bit off as a photographer today and had a hard time settling into my creative rhythm—but I shared them anyway. Because this is part of the story too.