Month: May 2024

This Week, I’m Grateful For…

106. Long Weekend

107. Summer

108. Show 100

109. Watering Garden

110. House Plant

 

#106: The Friday Feeling

There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of a long weekend after a stressful week of hard work. Waking up on a Friday morning knowing a long weekend is ahead is truly special. Even interactions with coworkers seem more pleasant. It’s that unique mix of relief and excitement that makes Fridays feel magical.

#107: Summer Barbecue

Summer is almost officially here, but we’ve been lucky to enjoy warm weather for the past few weeks. Just last week, while sitting in my living room with the windows open, I was delighted by the sweet aroma of a barbecue drifting through the air. I couldn’t tell what was being grilled, but I knew I wanted some! My Brazilian neighbors clearly have some barbecue secrets I need to learn. Time to level up my grilling game!

#108: The 100 TV Series

I’ve mentioned this show before, but I have to express my gratitude for it again. I’m currently on season 4, and the writers keep finding new ways to keep me hooked. My partner judges me hardcore for liking it, but I have no regrets. It’s my guilty pleasure, and I’m loving every moment of it.

#109: Watering my Garden

Earlier this year, my partner and I rented a plot to start our garden, and it’s become a source of immense joy and peace for me. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watering the garden. I love adjusting the hose to a gentle setting, spraying some water to cool it down, and then creating a rain-like effect over the plants. On sunny days, the mist refreshes me as it occasionally splashes onto my skin, and sometimes, I even create a beautiful rainbow. It’s a truly serene experience.

#110: Reviving My House Plant

About two weeks ago, I was sure I had killed my house plant. I rearranged the living room and moved the plant to a spot with less sunlight. By the time I realized it, the leaves were droopy and drying up. I decided to take it outside for some sun, but the forecast showed three cloudy days ahead. I feared the worst, but I watered the plant and left it outside anyway. To my surprise, it bounced back stronger than ever. As I write this, I’m admiring its healthy green leaves and a flower about to bloom. It’s a beautiful reminder of resilience and the simple joys of nurturing life.

What are you grateful for this week?

This week I am grateful for…

101. New Opportunities

102. Garden

103. Rain

104. Chicken Parm

105. Celtics

 

#101: New Opportunities

This week, I’m full of gratitude for an exciting opportunity that I can’t share just yet. Stay tuned over the next few weeks for if you are curious.

#102: Garden

This year, my partner and I embarked on a new adventure by renting a garden plot. We both cherish our time outdoors, and this project has been a perfect way to connect with nature. We’ve planted onions, tomatoes, peppers, snap peas, and more. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about strolling to our little garden, nurturing the plants, and watching them grow. The garden, surrounded by trees, offers a serene escape. Sometimes, I close my eyes, meditate, and soak in the songs of birds and the wind on leaves and on my skin. I’m deeply grateful for this sanctuary and can’t wait to see our garden plants grow.

#103: Rain

Rain, oh glorious rain! After enduring some serious heat, we welcomed three days of refreshing rain. It was a much-needed break from the hot weather, and our garden has thrived with the perfect mix of rain and sunshine. The plants are growing bigger and stronger, thank you Rain.

#104: Chicken Parm

Let me share a little secret: my partner makes the most mouthwatering chicken parm. She doesn’t know I’m bragging about her cooking skills, but I can’t help it—I’m incredibly thankful for her and her delicious creation. Every bite is a reminder of her love and talent.

#105: Celtics

I don’t want to jinx it, but the Boston Celtics are on a roll this year. They’ve made it to the Eastern Conference Finals, and I couldn’t be prouder. We’re up against the Indiana Pacers, promising an exciting series ahead. Let’s go, Celtics—bring it home!

What are grateful for this week?

This week I am grateful for…

96. Graduation

97. Mom

98. Puppy

99. Baby Squirrel

100. Work Colleague

 

#96: Graduation

Graduation season is in full swing, filling the air with excitement and accomplishment. Witnessing my best friend earn his Master’s Degree fills me with immense pride. It’s remarkable to recall his passionate speech after completing his Bachelor’s: “I’m done with school; I never want to do that to myself again.” Yet, two years later, thanks to his girlfriend’s encouragement, he enrolled in a Master’s program. I couldn’t be prouder of his perseverance! Attending another friend’s doctoral graduation adds to the joy. Congratulations to all who have worked tirelessly to reach this milestone, surrounded by the cheers of family and friends.

#97: Mom

My heart is full of gratitude for my mother on this years Mother’s Day. Her sacrifices have shaped my life profoundly—I owe everything to her. From my very existence to our migration to the USA, and the wonderful connections I’ve made along the way, it’s all because of her. Happy Mother’s Day to the bravest and most extraordinary mother in the world.

#98: Puppy

This week, dog-sitting the most adorable canine companion has brought unexpected joy. The additional walks have kept me active, and the companionship has been priceless. See you soon you adorable little thing.

#99: Baby Squirrel

During a stroll through the neighborhood, a heartwarming sight captivated me—a squirrel carrying a tiny, balled-up bundle in its mouth. Closer inspection revealed a baby squirrel being carefully transported to safety. Witnessing this tender moment filled me with gratitude for the wonders of nature.

#100: Work Colleague

At work, a colleague stands out for her kindness, wisdom, and inspiration. Her presence enriches my professional journey immeasurably. Thank you for being awesome!

 

What are you grateful for this week?

 

See you next week.

This week I am grateful for…

91. LinkedIn Connections

92. Spring Flowers

93. Dove Songs

94. Shoes

95. Family of Woodpeckers

 

#91: LinkedIn Connections

Lately, I’ve been considering applying for a meditation teaching certificate program at Brown University. After thorough research, I felt it wise to connect with alumni from the program via LinkedIn. I reached out to several, and I’m thankful that the majority responded promptly. The conversations have been invaluable, leaving me feeling empowered and inspired about pursuing this path.

#92: Spring Flowers

Every time I step out for a walk, I’m greeted by the vibrant colors of spring. It’s my favorite season of the year—wait, is it fall? Or maybe summer? Yet, the beauty of snow holds its own charm. Regardless, I’m deeply grateful for the abundance of beautiful spring flowers in every corner..

#93: Dove Songs

Spring seems to awaken all kinds of birds, making it a bustling time for bird admirers like myself. Among the variety of songs, I find myself particularly grateful for the gentle cooing of doves that occasionally wake me from sleep in the mornings.

#94: Shoes

While disposing of household trash near the dumpster this week, I accidentally stepped on sharp broken glass. Though my shoes got a minor cut, it made me pause and reflect—what if I hadn’t been wearing them? Growing up in Kitale, Kenya, I’ve encountered sharp thorns and rocks, making me especially thankful for the protection good quality shoes afford.

#95: Family of Woodpeckers

During a recent walk, I passed by a partially decayed tree and was startled by the loud cawing coming from it. Moments later, a large red-capped woodpecker emerged from a hole in the trunk, followed by another. To my delight, I could hear the faint chirping of their chicks inside. Witnessing this natural spectacle filled me with immense gratitude.

What are you grateful for this week?

This week I am grateful for…

86. Flying Swan

87. New Connections

88. Boston Celtics

89. Acai Bowl

90. Rain and Sun

 

#86: Flying Swan

This week, I found myself by a local pond, basking in the warmth of the sun and the serenity of nature. Suddenly, a rhythmic whooshing sound captured my attention, growing louder with each passing moment. Swiftly, I turned to my left and beheld a sight of sheer majesty—a white swan gracefully gliding just above the water’s surface. Later, I discovered that this close-to-surface flight is made possible by the “Ground Effect,” enhancing efficiency for birds in flight. I felt truly fortunate to witness such a spectacle this week.

#87: New Connections

During a volunteering event this week, I struck up a casual conversation with a fellow volunteer whom I hadn’t previously met. He shared with me an inspiring tale of his journey—he immigrated to the United States from Nigeria six years ago. Hearing his story was both humbling and motivational. Thank you for opening up and sharing your experiences with me.

#88: Boston Celtics

As an avid supporter of the Boston Celtics, I couldn’t help but rejoice as they secured a victory against one of their longstanding Eastern Conference rivals, the Miami Heat, just yesterday. Here’s hoping this marks the beginning of a successful playoffs this year for the Celtics!

#89: Acai Bowl

Let’s be real, indulging in the sweet delight of a Brazilian Acai Bowl is an experience I’ll never tire of. There’s a Brazilian resaurant just an eight-minute drive from my apartment that I’m convinced serves the finest Acai Bowls in existence. Thank you for always satisfying my cravings and being a reliable source of utter joy!

#90: Rain and Sun

Earlier this week, the skies were covered in darkness, with heavy rain pouring relentlessly for three consecutive days. Having grown up in Kitale, Kenya, where season heavy rains were common, I’ve developed a fondness for such weather. However, even I found myself longing for a break from the downpour. Then, on the fourth day, as dawn broke, the sun emerged from behind the clouds in a display of breathtaking beauty.

The sight of vibrant orange hues mingling with the clear blue sky was nothing short of cinematic. I hurriedly opened my window to bask in the sun’s golden glow, just moments before it dipped below the horizon. It was a fleeting yet profoundly beautiful moment of clarity and serenity, for which I am deeply grateful.

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

See you next week…