Last weekend, my partner and I traveled to Savannah GA to celebrate our anniversary. Escaping Massachusetts’ 30-degree weather for Savannah’s sunny 75 felt like a gift in itself. The quick 2.5-hour flight from Boston meant more time wandering cobblestone streets, soaking in the charm, and simply enjoying being away together.
#243: Delicious Southern Meals
I may not call myself a foodie, but Savannah made me question that.The city’s savory and sweet comforts—fluffy biscuits at brunch, perfectly fried chicken, Sundae for dessert—were unforgettable.
One night we even splurged on an eight-course dinner. It’s not something we normally do, but it turned into a fun, memorable experience.
#244: History
We spent a day on a hop-on hop-off tour that brought Savannah’s rich history to life—from the city’s ties to slavery, the Revolution, and the Civil War, to landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica and the historic squares. We wandered down the scenic River Street and through City Market. We even saw one of the filming locations from Forrest Gump.
#245: Green Space
What surprised me most was how much nature is woven into the city. Savannah’s many squares offer quiet pockets of green amid the historic buildings. On our last day, we visited a drive-through wildlife refuge where we saw birds of all kinds, several alligators, and more. The mix of history, charm, and nature easily puts Savannah on my list of places I’d visit again.
Weekly Highlight
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, a reminder from John F. Kennedy: “We must find the time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”
Today, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I wanted to share a few of my favorite gratitude moments from 2025 so far.
221. Moment #7: Time with Family
Our trip to Iowa gave me the chance to spend quality time with family. With everyone living so far apart, I’ve learned to treasure these moments more than ever. I feel so fortunate to have such a loving, kind, and supportive family. They’re truly a blessing in my life.
222. Moment #18: An Upcoming Trip
You know that childlike excitement that bubbles up when you’re planning a vacation? That’s exactly how I feel right now! This March, during spring break, my girlfriend and I are heading to a warm destination. While the details are still coming together, just dreaming about the sunshine and adventure lifts my spirits. Stay tuned for more updates!
223. Moment #21: My Health
For as long as I can remember, I used to have really bad stomachaches that would even wake me up in the middle of the night. It was excruciating and persistent. It was worse when I was going through a stressful time in my life. This was before I started mindfulness meditation so I did not have any tools to help with my anxiety and stress. What used to work was medicine that my doctor prescribed for the pain but I do not like depending on medication plus it had a terrible taste.
One day, my doctor decided to test me for H.Pylori which he told me could explained some of my symptoms. H.Pylori is a bacterial infection that affects your stomach I learned after I tested positive. I learned that it usually happens in childhood and the cause can be contaminated water. So not having access to clean water or coming from developing countries can be a risk factor.
I got on an anti-bacterial medication for the first time in my life and two weeks later, all my symptoms had ended. No more waking up in the middle of the night from pain. No more avoiding high acid meals like pasta with red sauce. No more stomach pain when hungry. I could eat fruits with citrus again like oranges and mandarin. I am very grateful for health this week.
224. Moment #26: Adventure with Mr. Cheese
A few days ago, we spotted a bright yellow cat lingering outside our apartment. It was dark and freezing, and our concern grew as we watched him hover near the entrance, as if hoping to slip inside. My first thought was that he belonged to our next-door neighbor—after all, she has a sign on her door that reads, “Please don’t let the cat outside.”
We tried coaxing him in, but he was skittish, walking away and hiding in the shadows. We tried knocking on our neighbor’s door but there was no response. Unsure of what to do, we consulted google and friends. That’s when my partner’s best friend suggested something brilliant—setting up a makeshift shelter. We placed a bin outside, lined it with warm towels, and hoped he would find refuge there overnight.
The next morning, we saw him again, this time nibbling on something near another neighbor’s door. Moments later, a window opened, and more food dropped onto the ground. Curious, I approached the neighbor to ask if she knew anything about the cat.
That’s when I learned so much.
Turns out, he’s a stray that she—a veterinarian—has been feeding for weeks! She even gave him a name: Mr. Cheese. Her goal is to slowly earn his trust in hopes of eventually adopting him. To our delight, she had even set up a time-lapse video, which captured Mr. Cheese curling up in our box for shelter. Seeing that brought my partner and me so much joy. Here is a blurry picture of him…
Stay tuned—we’re hoping for a happy ending in the adventures of Mr. Cheese!
225. Moment #31: A Healthy Baby Nephew
My heart overflows with gratitude as we welcome the newest addition to our ever-growing family. With 10 nephews and nieces now, my heart is fuller than ever. I’m especially grateful for a smooth and healthy delivery. And to top it off, this little guy made his grand entrance on Valentine’s Day—what a perfect day to be born! Welcome to the world, sweet nephew.
226. Moment #39: The Sweet Sound of Birds Returning
With the first hints of warmth come the early songs of songbirds. This week, I heard the gentle cooing of doves, a sure sign that spring is on its way. Their soft, rhythmic calls bring an instant smile to my face, a reminder that soon the world will be buzzing with new life and outdoor adventures.
227. Moment #41: A Healthy Arrival
This week brought the sweetest news—my friend welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world! I couldn’t be more thrilled. Welcome to the family, little niece! I cannot wait to meet you!
228. Moment #72: “Stand By Me”
There’s something timeless about Stand By Me. That opening instrumental? Instant chills. I was late to the party—I didn’t hear it until college—but ever since, it’s had a permanent spot on my feel-good playlist. No matter where I am or what I’m doing, once I hear that first note, I’m singing along like no one’s watching
229. #82: My Mother
As I write this, it’s Mother’s Day, and I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for my mom. Words truly fall short. If I ever write a book about my life, it will begin—and likely revolve around—how incredible she is. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without her courage, love, strength, and guidance. Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mothers out there!
230. Moment #86: Swallows Dancing in the Sky
Swallows have returned, swirling and gliding in the spring air. There’s something so calming about watching them move, their freedom and grace almost meditative. They remind me of the swallows I grew up seeing in Kenya—a sweet memory carried on the wind.
231. Moment #104: 🌊 A Refreshing Jog by the Ocean
We spent the weekend in Cape Cod with my partner’s family, and it was full of great conversations, delicious meals, and laid-back vibes. But one of my favorite moments? Going for a jog along the bike trail by the ocean. The cool breeze, ocean views, and rhythmic sound of my feet hitting the path—it was equal parts invigorating and meditative. A perfect blend of movement and stillness.
232. Moment #107: 🔥 The Smell of Campfire
While out on a walk this week, I caught a whiff of campfire smoke drifting through the air. Instantly, it transported me back to previous summer seasons. Isn’t it amazing how a single scent can unlock a flood of memory and emotion?
233. Moment #132: Petting a Random Dog (Who Wasn’t “Cute”… Until She Was)
My partner LOVES dogs. And by “loves,” I mean she will suddenly grip my arm with great urgency and whisper, “I must pet that dog,” whenever one crosses our path. This week, we met a little Shih Tzu on our walk. At first glance, I’ll be honest—she wasn’t the cutest pup I’ve ever seen. But then she came up to us, tail wagging like she was on caffeine, full of personality and joy. She had this gentle, goofy spirit that melted our hearts. Within minutes, we were grinning and noticeably more relaxed—like she had cast some kind of fur-covered stress relief spell.
234. Moment #143: 🏔 Hiking the Rocky Mountains
While in Colorado, my partner and I hiked a trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. The 3-hour trek was moderately challenging, but the view from the top was humbling—a sweeping panorama that made us pause in awe. I’m deeply grateful for the memory we made together. Look at the photo that I took above.
235. Moment #151: Family Reunion
Two weeks ago, I had the joy of spending a full week with my family at our annual reunion. The weather was hotter than I would have wished, but the chance to catch up, share old stories, play games, and explore local attractions was priceless. Like any family, it’s not always rainbows and roses—but at the end of the day, I’m deeply grateful for the love and connection we share.
236. Moment #182: An Adventurous Evening
Last night turned into a little adventure. We started with a trail walk in a local park, one I’d never tried before. As the sun dipped under the horizon, it painted the sky and trees with vibrant shades oranges and deep browns.
Afterward, we headed downtown Worcester for sushi, then stumbled upon a heavy metal concert at the Palladium. The energy was wild, and even though it wasn’t planned, it added an exciting twist to the night. We ended with a casual walk through the city, enjoying the buzz of it all.
237. Moment #193: A 5K and a Humbling Win 🏃🏽♂️
I ran a 5K this week and somehow ended up being the fastest in my age group. It felt good — though I couldn’t help but laugh, thinking, “Not bad for a grandpa!” A humbling but fun moment that reminded me progress is something to celebrate, no matter the scale.
238. Moment #190: Stars in the Night ✨
One of my favorite surprises was the night sky. With little light pollution in upstate NY, the stars were bright and clear! It was a bright as I remember growing up in Western Kenya. Back then, the moon and stars were so bright they could light your path on a clear night. Seeing bright stars again brought back a quiet kind of nostalgia.
239. Moment #196: Apple Picking & Cider Donuts
‘Tis the season for apple picking! Last year, I went four times — and somehow, each trip felt better than the last. Yesterday, I revisited one of my favorite orchards, surrounded by rows of crisp apples, good company, and the irresistible smell of freshly made cider donuts. Warm, sugary, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They’re a fall dream. Let’s just say the next few days will be filled with apple-inspired recipes (apple crisp is first on the list!).
240. Moment #199: Walks at Dusk
One of my favorite times of day is right before sunset. This week, I went for a quiet walk at dusk and was struck by how peaceful everything felt. People hurried home, the horizon glowed with orange light, and fall leaves shimmered like fire. I passed 2 houses where they had just turned on their TV, heard birds singing their last songs of the day, and even saw a few bats swooping through the air. It was simple and a little bit magical.
241. Moment #216: Upcoming trip to somewhere warm
My partner and I will be celebrating our five-year anniversary soon with a trip somewhere warm and beautiful. Just knowing sunshine and adventure are around the corner makes me smile every time I think about it.
Winter is officially announcing itself in New England. This week we dipped into the 30s, and honestly, nothing has felt more magical than curling up on the couch under my heated blanket. It’s like being hugged by electricity but in the best way.
#212: Wonderful news
My family received some truly wonderful news, and my heart has been smiling and my eyes filled with tears of joy. Moments like this remind me how deeply joy can ripple through the people we love.
#213: A short week
Thanks to Veterans Day, this week felt a little lighter. That extra space to breathe, rest, and catch up on life came at the perfect time.
#214: Sunrise on a brown-leaf horizon
Driving to work, I’ve been gifted with sunrises glowing over distant trees still holding onto their last brown leaves. Soon they’ll be bare, but this week, that fleeting beauty felt like a silent blessing.
#215: Healing Wrist
A couple of weeks ago, I could barely put weight on my wrist. This week, I noticed real healing and even completed a proper push-up. Progress feels like a blessing.
#216: Upcoming trip to somewhere warm
My partner and I will be celebrating our five-year anniversary soon with a trip somewhere warm and beautiful. Just knowing sunshine and adventure are around the corner makes me smile every time I think about it.
#217: Hot tea on a cold morning
My morning tea has turned into a tiny ritual of magic. The rising steam against the cold air, the warmth in my hands—it makes the early commute feel a little softer.
#218: Sleeping in
When the temperatures drop, my warm bed becomes both my hardest goodbye in the morning and my happiest hello at night. On weekends and holidays, getting to linger there a little longer feels like luxury. As I write this, I can’t help but wonder; does my bed think about me too?
#219: First sight of snowflakes
Earlier this week at work, my coworker and I spotted the season’s first snowflakes drifting past the window. I know snow brings mixed feelings, but that first moment; when the world slows down just a bit was quietly breathtaking.
#220: A good audiobook
I’m almost done listening to Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI. It’s fascinating, sometimes a little unsettling, but it’s been my companion during chores. Everything feels easier with the brilliance of Yuval Noah Harari
Weekly Spotlight
“Differences are not intended to separate, to alienate. We are different precisely in order to realize our need of one another.” — Desmond Tutu
206. The Extra Hour of Sleep 207. Warm Showers 208. Cuddle Season 209. Family and Friends 210. Halloween in Higher Ed
#206: The Extra Hour of Sleep
Daylight Saving Time ended this week, and while I’m not a huge fan of the practice itself, I have to admit—getting that extra hour of sleep felt amazing. The sun now sets around 4:39 p.m., which makes the evenings feel extra cozy (and a bit too short).
Honestly, I’ve never really understood the point of daylight saving. It throws off everyone’s rhythm—humans and wildlife alike. Studies even show that losing that one hour in spring can affect our health and safety. But last night? That bonus hour was pure bliss. I’ll take that small win!
#207: Warm Showers
With the chill in the air, hot showers feel like a daily luxury. Every time I step into that warmth, I can’t help but feel grateful.
Growing up, taking a warm shower wasn’t as simple as turning a knob. We had to boil water in a pot, mix it with cold water in a basin, and use your and to splash the water on your body to rinse off. So now, every warm shower feels like a reminder of how far life has come—and how easy it is to take simple comforts for granted.
#208: Cuddle Season
No explanation needed. The colder months just invite closeness—whether it’s curling up under a blanket, sharing a cup of tea, or simply slowing down with the people (or pets!) you love.
#209: Family and Friends
Last weekend, my girlfriend and I had family over, and it was exactly what my soul needed. After a long, draining week, being surrounded by laughter, stories, and food in our small apartment was healing. The mix of dishes, conversations, and togetherness filled me with deep gratitude. Sometimes, the best therapy really is family and friends.
#210: Halloween in Higher Ed
I love Halloween at work. Candy everywhere. Students in good spirits. Costumes, laughter, and that spark of childlike joy.
We even hosted a trick-or-treat event where staff brought their kids, nieces, and nephews in adorable costumes. Watching everyone—students and families alike—light up reminded me how joy thrives in community.
Weekly Spotlight: A Parable to Reflect On
The Monk and the Minister
Two childhood friends grow up and take different paths. One becomes a humble monk; the other, a powerful minister to the king.
Years later, they meet again. Seeing the monk’s simple robes and lean frame, the minister says:
“If you could learn to cater to the king, you wouldn’t have to live on rice and beans.”
The monk replies:
“If you could learn to live on rice and beans, you wouldn’t have to cater to the king.”
Most of us fall somewhere in between. As for me—I’d rather be closer to the monk. (From J.L. Collins, The Simple Path to Wealth)
Our trip to Iowa gave me the chance to spend quality time with family. With everyone living so far apart, I’ve learned to treasure these moments more than ever. I feel so fortunate to have such a loving, kind, and supportive family. They’re truly a blessing in my life.
One of my favorite times of day is right before sunset. This week, I went for a quiet walk at dusk and was struck by how peaceful everything felt. People hurried home, the horizon glowed with orange light, and fall leaves shimmered like fire. I passed 2 houses where they had just turned on their TV, heard birds singing their last songs of the day, and even saw a few bats swooping through the air. It was simple and a little bit magical.
