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Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

It’s official. Colton, age 8, has a girlfriend just in time for Valentine’s Day. He and Parker met at church, and their friendship recently blossomed into something more when Parker developed a little crush. Now, they’re holding hands and telling everyone they’re getting married (fear not, Pastor Bob, you’ve got a few more years to plan the ceremony).

On Wednesday night, Parker even dropped the “love you” as they parted ways—and Colton quickly reciprocated. Then, he came to a realization: “Guys,” he said to Kody and me, “we’ve got to go to the store. Quick.” We’ve promised to take him out tonight to buy her a Valentine’s gift. If you’re also last-minute shopping for your love, we’ve got a slew of Virginia-made shopping ideas in today’s lead story. Enjoy the holiday weekend and remember, I’m so glad you’re here.

P.S. Monday is Presidents’ Day, and our offices are closed. Keep an eye on your inbox on Tuesday for your next Dogwood newsletter!

Virginia is for Lovers, after all! (Walls.io/Unsplash)

By Aila Boyd

Here’s what you need to know: Whether you’re shopping for a foodie, fashionista, or simply someone who enjoys Virginia-made products, there’s something for everyone.

Our top picks: 

• The Virginia Shop’s offerings in Charlottesville have been carefully curated by owner Tiffany Smith, who goes to great lengths to ensure the unique goods she sells are from Virginia. Snag a sweet-and-savory snack basket for $42.95, which includes an assortment of sweet items like fudge cups and pretzels.

• Handley Watches is run by a husband-and-wife team from Richmond. Their company is based on the principle that watches should have flexible bands with sophisticated dials. The waterproof bands are ideal for those who lead an active life.
• Since 2012, North End Bag Co. in North Virginia Beach has been using the old-world bark tanning technique for its leather goods. As a result, it says its bags are stronger and more durable than most.

It’s not too late. But time is ticking to pick up the perfect gift.

Earlier this week, we asked you: Have you seen the monks along their route—or do you plan to see them before they depart DC?

So we found it fitting to wrap up our coverage with one last update: Just when we thought their journey through Virginia was done, we got a surprise.

Last night, on their way back to Texas via bus, the monks stopped in the mountain city of Wytheville. This morning, they boarded again, heading through Southwest Virginia on their ride to Fort Worth. They’re traveling along I-81 in Virginia and Tennessee today, and you can view their planned stops here. 

As always, I’d love to have you join in on the conversation. Email me anytime.

Demonstrators rally against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Hanover County on Jan. 28, 2026. (Michael O’Connor/Dogwood)

By Ava Edwards

Want to get civically engaged this week? You can rise up with the COVA coalition, take advantage of lobby days, make your voice heard with the League of Women Voters, and more.

Weekend opportunities:

🗓 Saturday, Feb. 14

• COVA Coalition: Rise up! Rally in Chesapeake (Chesapeake, 9–10 a.m.)
• Indivisible & Northern Virginia Voices: De-ICE America! Protest (McLean, 1–2 p.m.)

🗓 Sunday, Feb. 15

• Virginia Education Association: VEA Lobby Day 2026 (Richmond, 5 p.m.)

• Could we really go through this weekend without sharing our lovely rejected Valentine’s cards? No. No, we could not. Here they are once again, in all of their epic glory. We don’t suggest sending these, but we sure do hope you share them. (Peek at your own risk)

• Hampton University and North Carolina A&T are facing off in this year’s NBA HBCU Classic. We’re diving into the rivalry and what to watch for during the game. Since the All-Star Game is being held in Los Angeles, the tip-off begins at 11 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 13. (Read more)

• More people living with diabetes may soon have easier access to the life-saving insulin and health care equipment they need in Virginia. The state House of Delegates recently passed a bill that would lower the cost of insulin to $35 and establish a $35 cap for diabetes equipment and supplies. (Read more)

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