Month: April 2024

This week I am grateful for…

81. Discovering a Park

82. Chance Encounter

83. Mall Walking

84. Spices

85. Boston Marathon

#81: Discovering a Park

This week, I’m grateful for stumbling upon a stunning park within walking distance of my apartment. While leisurely walking through the neighborhood and absorbed in a podcast, I decided to explore a new street. Suddenly, to my right, unfolded a scene of lush greenery, towering trees, and joyful children, creating a joyous setting. But what truly captivated me was a basketball hoop that was all but calling my name. I eagerly anticipate my upcoming visits to this park.

#82: Chance Encounter

During another routine neighborhood walk this week, I was startled by a honk from a dark grey SUV with tinted windows. Pausing to investigate, I was greeted by the beaming face of a high school friend who lives roughly 40 minutes away. This unexpected reunion brought me immense joy, and catching up with her was a delightful surprise. I’m truly grateful for this chance encounter.

#83: Mall Walking

Despite overlooking it during the winter months, I’m now immensely thankful for the mall conveniently located just 10 minutes away.

On those bitterly cold days when walking outside was impractical, the mall provided a warm and welcoming space for exercise. To this overlooked sanctuary, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.

#84: Spices

A recent peek into my spice cabinet left me humbled by the number of options available. Though at times overwhelming, it served as a stark contrast to the limited selection I grew up with. Among them, the spice “Royco” holds a special place in my heart, a staple both in my current kitchen and in my childhood home in Kenya. For this abundance and diversity, I am truly grateful.

#85: Boston Marathon

Witnessing this year’s Boston Marathon was an experience filled with pride and inspiration. As the elite runners passed just a 10-minute walk from my apartment complex, I marveled at their extraordinary athleticism. Each year, they ignite a sense of awe within me. It fills me with immense pride to see Kenyan runners excel, with a Kenyan man clinching third place and Kenyan women sweeping the top three spots. I stand in admiration of these remarkable athletes.

What are you grateful for this week? Feel free to leave me a comment.

See you next week…

This week I am grateful for…

76. Colorful Clouds

77. Flying Kites

78. Helping a Stranger

79. Eclipse

80. Rainbow of Fruits

 

#76: Colorful Clouds

On Sunday evenings, I engage in a spirited game of basketball with friends at our local community college. As a registered mentor, one of the cherished perks is the opportunity to unwind on the court once a week. On my journey home, just as the sun dipped below the horizon, I was treated to a breathtaking sight: vibrant orange clouds painted across the sky. In that fleeting moment, I felt profoundly grateful

#77: Flying Kite

This week, on a blissful afternoon at a neighborhood park, families reveled in the warm, spring, weather. Amidst the laughter and joy, I noticed two individuals skillfully flying colorful kites. It stirred nostalgic memories of my childhood in Kenya, where friends and I crafted homemade kites from plastic bags, sticks, and string. Some attempts were more successful than others, but each flight was a lesson in perseverance and joy. We had to jog to keep the kites flying and I miss every moment of that.

#78: Helping a Stranger

This week, as I was leaving the grocery store, I noticed a man by his car, struggling to manage both his groceries and the his shopping cart. Sensing his predicament, I offered to return his cart to the docking station. His expression softened with gratitude, and he let out a heartfelt sigh of relief. In that simple act of assistance, I found a moment of genuine connection and gratitude.

#79: Eclipse

This week, our skies were graced with a remarkable celestial event: an eclipse. At precisely 3:30 pm on Monday, the moon covered 93.3% of the sun, casting an ethereal shadow over the earth for a fleeting three minutes. A generous neighbor offered my partner and I eclipse glasses, allowing us to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle firsthand. As darkness descended and the world held its breath, I couldn’t help but reflect on the marvel of existence. Amidst the darkness, there was a sense of unity and wonder—a reminder that we are all interconnected on this magnificent journey through space and time. Even in the midst of celestial drama, there was room for humor; someone later shared that the sun said “I can’t believe I got mooned” The next eclipse of such magnitude is a rare occurrence, not to be witnessed again for over 40 years. May I be fortunate enough to witness it once more.

#80: Rainbow of Fruits

I once read in a health magazine that a balanced diet should include a colorful array of fruits and vegetables. This week, I found myself deeply appreciative of the vibrant spectrum of fruits on my breakfast plate. I am talking strawberries, blueberries, avocados, bananas, and grapes. As I savored the flavors, I couldn’t help but marvel at the nourishment they provided for both body and soul.

What are you grateful for this week? Feel free to leave me a comment.

See you next week…

This week I am grateful for…

71. Spring Flowers

72. MBSR

73. Friends

74. Safety

75. Bird Feeder

 

#71: Spring Blossoms

During a walk around the apartment complex this week, I was greeted by the sight of vibrant white flowers from trees, signaling the revival of nature. Beneath them, a tapestry of colorful flowers had been carefully planted, eagerly anticipating the forthcoming warmth of summer. The embrace of spring and the blooming flowers fill me with great gratitude.

#72: Mindful Sessions

Every Monday evening, I participate in a Mindful-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) session facilitated by the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

This gathering serves as a sanctuary, grounding me amidst life’s turbulence. I am deeply thankful for the supportive community and the wisdom imparted by our instructor.

#73: Friends

This week afforded me the joy of spending time with a dear friend. Our culinary adventure led us to an Asian restaurant, where an array of delicious dishes awaited.

As expected, I indulged in a big platter of sushi, much to the disbelief of my friend, who underestimated my appetite.

#74: Safety

The North Eastern region of the USA was rattled by a significant earthquake this week, marking one of the most serious earthquake event in recent memory. Miraculously, there have been no reports of injuries or casualties. Gratitude washes over me as I reflect on the safety of those in the affected areas.

#75: Bird Feeder

Across from my apartment, my neighbor has installed a charming bird feeder, offering me a delightful view from my window. Witnessing an array of beautiful birds, from vibrant songbirds to woodpeckers. I even spot squirrels and chipmunks getting their share. Inspired by this daily communion with nature, I am inspired to set up a feeder of my own.

This week I am grateful for the following 5 things while traveling…

66. Safety

67. Weather

68. Restaurants

69. Strip Distrip

70. View of Pittsburg

 

#66: Safety

This week, I had the pleasure of traveling to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Traveling brings me immense joy, and I’m always grateful for the opportunity to explore new places. However, my flight from Boston to Pittsburgh was marked by some of the most intense turbulence I’ve ever experienced. For about six minutes, it felt as if we were on a rollercoaster ride. Despite not having a fear of flying, the experience left me shaken, and I breathed a sigh of relief when we finally landed safely, about 30 minutes later. This week, I am particularly grateful for the gift of safety.

#67: Weather

During my visit to Pittsburgh, I was fortunate to encounter beautiful weather. Despite learning that it had been rainy and cold all week, I experienced warm and sunny days during my stay. I am truly grateful for such delightful spring weather.

#68: Restaurants

One of the highlights of my travels is indulging in brunch and dinner at local restaurants. I thoroughly enjoy exploring new cuisines. Pittsburgh’s dining scene did not disappoint. I’m thankful for the delicious omelets, Korean BBQ, Ice Cream Sundaes, chicken wings, tacos, and breakfast lox, among other delights.

#69: Strip District

Strolling down Penn Ave in the Strip District was a delightful experience. The shops lining both sides of the street boasted captivating displays, and engaging with some of the vendors provided insights into their products. I am grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in this vibrant atmosphere.

#70: View of Pittsburg

Perhaps the most memorable moment of my trip was taking the incline ride up Mt. Washington to behold the panoramic view of the city. The breathtaking vista left me in awe. Pausing to take it all in, I savored the moment, appreciating the sheer beauty of the cityscape. Such moments remind me of the profound gratitude I hold for life’s wonders. Here is one picture I took…

What are you grateful for this week? Feel free to leave me a comment.

See you next week…