Q. Why does Raizy cover her eyes when lighting the Shabbat candles?

A. Two reasons why all Jewish women lighting candles (not just Raizy) do this:

(1) It solves a Halachic problem. We’re generally supposed to make the blessing BEFORE we do the Mitvzah. But if we do that, it will already be Shabbos (since women welcome the Shabbat with these candles) and once Shabbos begins we can’t light candles! So, to avoid this problem, she covers her eyes during the blessing and does not benefit from their light until the blessing is said.

(2) This is an important time for personal prayer. Like with the Shema, we cover our eyes to avoid distraction, at this important time of focus and concentration.