Author: Peter

This week, I found myself reminiscing about a special trip my partner and I took to the South last summer. As I looked back at photos and memories, I felt a wave of gratitude for those warm, joy-filled moments. Sometimes revisiting the past is the perfect way to appreciate the current moment.

116. Perfect Timing

117. Grand Ole Opry

118. Delicious Brunch

119. Ice Cold Water

120. Sunset On The Walk Home

#116: Perfect Timing

Last week, my girlfriend and I embarked on a five-day adventure to Nashville, TN. At least, that was our initial plan. Instead, we found ourselves renting a car and exploring four states: Tennessee, Alabama, Kentucky, and Indiana. Due to our hectic schedules at work, we didn’t plan a detailed itinerary which ended up being a great thing as we allowed for room to be spontaneous. About two days into the trip, we realized that you can experience the essence of Nashville in just two full days. Despite our lack of preparation, everything fell into place perfectly.

For instance, our cab driver from the airport dropped us right in front of the African American Music Museum, one of the spots on our list. It was the first Wednesday of the month, and we discovered they offered free admission on that day! It couldn’t have been more perfect. We had just enough time to explore the museum before our Airbnb was ready for check-in.

A couple more moments happened during brunch in Louisville, Kentucky. I forgot to ask our waitress to bring my tea with the meal. She brought the tea first, and as I realized my mistake, my meal arrived just a minute later. It was a small moment of gratitude for me.

In Birmingham, AL, we visited the Civil Rights Square. My girlfriend needed to use the restroom, and we couldn’t find one nearby. We decided to head towards the 16th Street Baptist Church, a significant civil rights site. To our surprise, we arrived just in time for the last tour of the day, which started two minutes later. This tour was the highlight of our trip, a poignant and memorable experience that I’m incredibly grateful for.

#117: The Grand Ole Opry

On Sunday night, we attended a country music show at the Grand Ole Opry. I was blown away by the rich history of country music and the incredible performances. My favorite act was the final one by Don Schlitz, the songwriter behind classics like “The Gambler” and “When You Say Nothing at All.” It was a night filled with history and unforgettable memories.

#118: Delicious Brunch

One of the best parts of traveling is indulging in delicious brunches at local spots. I savored veggie omelets, pancakes, biscuits, and home fries. Each meal was a delightful experience, and I’m grateful for the wonderful brunches we enjoyed throughout our trip.

#119: Ice Cold Water

The weather was scorching hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 96 degrees. I was immensely grateful for ice-cold water during those sweltering days. Each sip felt like a moment of pure tranquility.

#120: Sunset on the Walk Home

On July 4th, we were treated to a breathtaking sunset on our walk home. The sky was illuminated with a soft, bright orange and yellow glow, with fireworks sparkling behind tall buildings. It felt like a scene straight out of a movie. Here is a photo I took which does not do it justice at all…

I’m deeply grateful for that awe-inspiring moment of bliss.

 

Weekly Spotlight 

This week’s spotlight is a thought-provoking quote by Arthur C. Brooks that reminds us what truly matters in the end:

“No one sighs regretfully on his deathbed and says, ‘I can’t believe I wasted all that time with my wife and kids,’ ‘volunteering at the soup kitchen,’ or ‘growing in my spirituality.’ No one ever says, ‘I should have spent more time watching TV and playing Angry Birds on my phone.’ 
— Arthur C. Brooks

It’s a powerful reminder to invest in the people and values that bring lasting fulfillment—not just temporary distraction.

 

This week I am grateful for..

111. Graduation, Part 2

112. A Workout That Hit Different

113. A Work Trip to Look Forward To

114. Family Reunion Time

115. Rain, But Make It Refreshing

#111: Graduation, Part 2

This week, my heart was full as I watched students I’ve worked with over the past year walk across the graduation stage. I had the honor of calling their names, and seeing them light up with pride while their families and friends cheered them on was unforgettable. I’m so proud of all they’ve accomplished—and I can’t wait to see where life takes them next.

#112: A Workout That Hit Different

You know those workouts that stay with you for days? I did one of those ab sessions this week. Every sneeze, cough, or laugh reminded me of it—but in the best way. I’m sore, but also energized and ready to “torture” myself all over again soon.

#114: A Work Trip to Look Forward To

I’ve got an out-of-state work trip coming up, and I’m genuinely excited. It’s a chance to meet new people, exchange ideas, and learn best practices that will help me grow in my role. Can’t wait to soak it all in.

#114: Family Reunion Time

Each year, my family gathers for a week of laughter, games, storytelling, and adventure. This tradition is one I treasure, and I’m especially grateful for the upcoming reunion—it always fills my cup.

#115: Rain, But Make It Refreshing

It’s been raining a lot lately, but thankfully the weather has been warm. One day while walking to my car, a soft rain hit my face—and instead of being a nuisance, it felt oddly refreshing. Let’s see what the weather will be the next couple of days.

Weekly Spotlight

This week’s spotlight is NPR’s Hidden Brain podcast titled “Being Kind to Yourself.” It offers a powerful reminder to practice self-compassion and treat ourselves with the same kindness we extend to others. Truly a thought-provoking listen!

Being Kind to Yourself

This week I am grateful for…

106. Graduations

107. The Smell of Campfire

108. Cheerios & Cornflakes

109.  The Smell of Fresh Grass

110. An Osprey’s Precision

#106: 🌟 Graduations

One of the many reasons I love this time of year is graduation season. Working in higher education, I now get a behind-the-scenes view of just how much planning and coordination it takes to bring these milestone moments to life. Seeing all the moving parts come together—from seating arrangements to speeches—has given me a deeper appreciation for these ceremonies. But what moves me most is witnessing the joy, pride, and emotion on the faces of families and friends as they celebrate their loved one’s accomplishments. It’s a beautiful reminder of how far we can go with support and perseverance.

#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?

#108: 🥣 Cheerios & Cornflakes

This week, I treated myself to a throwback: a box of Cheerios and another of Cornflakes. I hadn’t had them in years, but something nostalgic pulled me toward them in the cereal aisle. I’m happy (and slightly embarrassed) to report that both boxes barely lasted the week! There was something simple and satisfying about enjoying those familiar flavors again—like breakfast time was giving me a warm hug from the past.

#109: 🌿 The Smell of Fresh Grass

After a run this week, I paused to stretch near a patch of grass. As I leaned in, the earthy, fresh scent filled my senses. It was such a small moment—but it stopped me. That smell, that breath of the outdoors, reminded me how lucky I am to be alive and present. Sometimes, gratitude lives in the quietest moments.

#110: 🦅 An Osprey’s Precision

While relaxing on a park bench overlooking a pond, my partner and I watched an Osprey circling overhead. Below, a few people lined the water’s edge, fishing with patience but no success. Within minutes, the Osprey locked eyes on its target, dove headfirst into the water, and emerged triumphantly with a fish clutched in its talons. We sat in awe, watching it shake off the water and soar into the sky until it vanished from view. The entire moment—swift, wild, and graceful—left us speechless. Nature has a way of humbling us like that.

Weekly Spotlight: The Story of the Hummingbird

This week’s spotlight is a powerful, inspirational story shared by Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a PhD. She tells the tale of a brave little hummingbird who does what it can in the face of overwhelming odds. It’s a reminder that even small actions, taken with courage, can spark great change.
Take a moment to watch it below—you’ll be glad you did.

This Week I’m Grateful For…

101. ☀️ The Warmth of the Sun

102. 🦋 Spring Butterflies

103. 🔥 The Smell of Barbecue in the Air

104. 🌊 A Refreshing Jog by the Ocean

105.🍜 A Delicious Thai Date Night

#101: ☀️ The Warmth of the Sun

After days of gloomy skies, chilling winds, and drizzly rain, the sun finally made a triumphant return. As I write this, rays of golden light are streaming through the window, gently warming my skin—and it feels glorious. I’m soaking up every moment. With more sunshine in the forecast, I might even give my vitamin D pills a break. Nature’s pharmacy is open, and I’m here for it.

#102: 🦋 Spring Butterflies

With the rising temperatures, life has begun to flutter back into full bloom. One afternoon, a stunning butterfly caught my attention—its wings danced with vibrant shades of violet, blue, and purple. I stood there, mesmerized, watching it flit effortlessly from one spot to another. That small moment was full of magic. I couldn’t help but feel grateful for such unexpected beauty.

#103: 🔥 The Smell of Barbecue in the Air

Three times this week, I walked past the mouthwatering aroma of barbecue floating through the air. There’s something about that smoky scent mingled with the sound of laughter and clinking plates that instantly lifts my spirits. Families and friends gathering outdoors, grilling, sharing stories—it’s the scent of connection and celebration.

#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.

#105: 🍜 A Delicious Thai Date Night

Midweek, my partner and I enjoyed a spontaneous Thai dinner for date night. I’ll admit—I had my heart set on a different spot, but thank goodness for her gentle persistence. I ended up with a plate full of noodles, crisp veggies, and tender steak that totally hit the spot. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so here’s one of my plate. (Spoiler: it was as good as it looks.)

Weekly Spotlight 

A coworker from Ghana once told me a saying that’s stuck with me ever since: “If you don’t use your head, you will suffer the body.” I don’t even remember the original context, but the message was clear—and hilarious. Now, whenever one of my brothers makes a silly miscalculation that ends up backfiring, we repeat that line like a mantra. It never fails to make us laugh—and remind us to think things through next time.

This week I am grateful for… 91. Family and Birthdays

92. Resting

93. Playing Basketball Outdoors

94. A Surprisingly Competitive Game of Cornhole

95. Reconnecting with My High School Teacher

96. Savoring Tea

97. One Perfect Strawberry

98. A Funny Old Story

99. No Seasonal Allergies (Thankfully!)

100. Wonderful News

 

#91: Family and Birthdays

Last week we celebrated my nephew’s birthday. It’s wild how fast he’s growing up. I’m so grateful for him—and for the moments we share as a family. These are the memories that matter most.

#92: Resting

After a couple of exhausting weeks, I am incredibly thankful for the chance to rest and recover as I prepare for a new week. I’m grateful for the balance between hard work and the much-needed rest that follows.

#93: Playing Basketball Outdoors

With the return of warmer weather, I’ve been enjoying the chance to play basketball outside again. There’s something magical about organized sports—the thrill of teamwork, the satisfaction of sweating it out together, and those spontaneous moments of joy on the court. Playing with friends in the fresh air adds a whole new layer of fun. I’m looking forward to soaking up even more of these outdoor moments in the coming months.

#94: A Surprisingly Competitive Game of Cornhole

At a recent work event, what started as a lighthearted game of cornhole quickly turned into a hilariously competitive showdown. It was priceless watching coworkers—who I never suspected had a competitive side—bring their A-game. The playful banter, good-natured competition, and perfect weather made it a day to remember. I’m already looking forward to more moments like this with my work crew.

#95: Reconnecting with My High School Teacher

One of the highlights of the week was unexpectedly reconnecting with my high school English teacher. I instinctively called her by her formal title, and she sweetly invited me to use her first name. I respectfully declined—some habits are rooted in deep gratitude. She helped me write my college essay and played a pivotal role in shaping my educational journey. Teachers like her truly change lives, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to express my appreciation.

#96: Savoring Tea

There’s a quiet joy in slowing down and savoring something simple. This week, that joy came in the form of a warm, freshly brewed cup of Kenyan tea with a splash of milk. Taking time to enjoy that morning ritual grounded me and reminded me of the comfort found in small, intentional moments.

#97: One Perfect Strawberry

 

You know that moment when you bite into a piece of fruit so good it makes you pause? That happened to me with a strawberry this week—sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor. It made me question my fruit loyalty. Mangoes and pineapples usually top my list, but if strawberries keep showing up like this, there may be a new contender.

#98: A Funny Old Story

About five years ago, I made the bold (and clearly questionable) decision to hand-feed squirrels at a park. One of them bit me—right on the index finger! It bled a lot, and let’s just say the squirrel’s dental capabilities were… underestimated. Explaining the situation to doctors, nurses, and friends was the real ordeal. One nurse even joked about maybe me getting squirrel superpowers after the bite—whatever those might be! Now, every time I walk past that park, I smile thinking of that bizarre but memorable encounter. I hope that little guy is still thriving in his old age. I hope he did not discover a new taste for human meat.

#99: No Seasonal Allergies (Thankfully!)

Springtime brings beauty, but also sneezes—for many, anyway. I’m incredibly grateful not to suffer from seasonal allergies. Being able to fully enjoy nature’s bloom without itchy eyes or a runny nose is a gift I don’t take for granted.

#100: Wonderful News

This week, I received some beautiful news that truly brightened my day. It’s the kind of joy that bubbles up when someone close to you experiences something great. While I can’t share the details, I’ll just say this: it’s heartwarming to witness good things happening to good people.

Weekly Spotlight 

This week, I’ve been diving into The How of Happiness, a practical and research-backed guide to increasing well-being.

One quote that sticks with me:
“[Optimism] is not about providing a recipe for self-deception. The world can be a horrible, cruel place, and at the same time it can be wonderful and abundant. These are both truths. There is not a halfway point; there is only choosing which truth to put in your personal foreground.”

If you’re looking for a grounded, optimistic read that encourages growth without being preachy, I highly recommend it.

This Week, I’m Grateful For…

81. Health

82. My Mother

83. Brazilian Food

84. Green Trees

85. The Sound of Wind in the Trees

86. Swallows Dancing in the Sky

87. Baths

88. Popcorn 

89. Sun after Rain 

90.Family and Birthdays 

#81: Health

I haven’t posted in 2  weeks—I came down with something and needed time to rest and heal. I’m finally starting to feel like myself again and getting back into working out, which makes me extra grateful for good health. It’s so easy to take feeling well for granted, until it’s gone. There’s a quote I love that says, “If you’re healthy, you have a thousand problems. But if you’re unhealthy, you have only one.” It rings especially true this week.

#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!

#83: Brazilian Food

I love exploring different cuisines, but Brazilian food has a special place in my heart (and stomach). There’s a local Brazilian buffet I frequent where you can load your plate with everything from brown rice and black beans to fresh salads, sweet plantains, and an incredible variety of meats. My go-to? Juicy, flavorful picanha. Just thinking about it is making me hungry.

#84: Green Trees

There’s something magical about the moment trees burst into full, leafy life. The bright greens of spring feel like nature’s celebration. I’ve been soaking up every bit of it, welcoming the warmer days with open arms.

#85: The Sound of Wind in the Trees

One of the quiet joys I’d forgotten during winter is the sound of the wind rustling through leaves. When I walk through the park now, I like to pause, close my eyes, and just listen—the wind, birdsong, and the laughter of people enjoying the season. It’s pure peace.

#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.

#87: Baths

I usually shower, but this week I took a bath—and wow, I forgot how deeply relaxing a warm soak can be. I listened to a podcast, let the day melt away, and emerged feeling like a new person.

#88: Popcorn

A few years ago, my partner had the genius idea to buy fresh popcorn kernels, and we’ve never looked back. There’s something so satisfying about hearing them pop on the stove. It’s cheaper, more fun, and way more delicious than microwave bags. Honestly, it turns a snack into an experience.

#89: Sun After Rain

Yesterday started with a heavy, moody rain that made it feel like the day would stay gray. But by afternoon, the clouds parted and sunshine spilled across everything. Birds chirped with what sounded like joy, and I took a long, refreshing walk. One of the things I love about New England is how the weather shifts so dramatically—it keeps you paying attention.

#90: Italian Food

Let’s just say Italian food will always be a top-tier comfort for me. Two weekends ago, I had a plate of pasta with red sauce that almost brought me to tears. Rich, comforting, and soul-satisfying—I’ll definitely be going back for more. Just look at the picture I took of the food…

Weekly Spotlight

This week’s spotlight is a quote often attributed to Lao Tzu, a legendary Chinese Philosopher

“Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.”

― Lao Tzu

76. Warm Weather

77. Spring Flowers and Leaves

78. Bird Bathing Joy

79. A Long Weekend

80. The Boston Marathon 

#76: Warm Weather

Spring is officially here, with temperatures floating happily in the 50s and 60s. On Saturday, it even hit 70 degrees and turned partly sunny. I stepped outside in a T-shirt, and it felt like the sun wrapped me in a soft, golden blanket. I could almost feel my skin soaking up the vitamin D thatI desperately needed according to my doctor. Oh, sweet spring—where have you been all my life?

#77: Spring Flowers and Leaves

Everywhere I look, trees and plants are waking up. Green leaves are beginning to unfurl, and bursts of color are appearing in parks and gardens. On a walk this week, I found myself mesmerized by lush green grass and trees adorned with white, pink, and red blossoms. Bees buzzed from bloom to bloom, busy and joyful. I’m excited to witness the full bloom of nature in the coming weeks—it’s like the world is exhaling beauty again.

#78: Bird Bathing Joy

This week, I caught a bird in the middle of what looked like the most refreshing bath. It flapped and fluttered in the water, soaking its feathers, then shook them out with such exuberance—it looked like pure joy in motion. I couldn’t help but stop and smile, feeling that joy secondhand. Little bird, I wish you many more refreshing baths this season!

#79: A Long Weekend

Thanks to Patriots’ Day on Monday, we got a lovely long weekend. And honestly, the only thing better than a long weekend… is the short week that follows! The extra day to rest and reset was much needed and much appreciated.

#80: The Boston Marathon

Every year, the Boston Marathon moves and inspires me. This year, I was especially proud—the Kenyan woman who won didn’t just take first place, she shattered the course record by more than two minutes. As a Kenyan myself, I felt extra pride watching her strength, grace, and determination. In her post-race interview, she thanked her mother who was waiting for her at the finish line, and she expressed her gratitude to the city of Boston for hosting the event. Her story left me feeling both inspired and deeply connected.

Weekly Sportlight

This week spotlight is a Poem by Safire Rose:

She let go.

She let go. Without a thought or a word, she let go.

She let go of the fear.

She let go of the judgments.

She let go of the confluence of opinions swarming around her head.

She let go of the committee of indecision within her.

She let go of all the ‘right’ reasons.

Wholly and completely, without hesitation or worry, she just let go.

She didn’t ask anyone for advice.

She didn’t read a book on how to let go.

She didn’t search the scriptures.

She just let go.

She let go of all of the memories that held her back.

She let go of all of the anxiety that kept her from moving forward.

She let go of the planning and all of the calculations about how to do it just right.

She didn’t promise to let go.

She didn’t journal about it.

She didn’t write the projected date in her Day-Timer.

She made no public announcement and put no ad in the paper.

She didn’t check the weather report or read her daily horoscope.

She just let go.

She didn’t analyze whether she should let go.

She didn’t call her friends to discuss the matter.

She didn’t do a five-step Spiritual Mind Treatment.

She didn’t call the prayer line.

She didn’t utter one word.

She just let go.

No one was around when it happened.

There was no applause or congratulations.

No one thanked her or praised her.

No one noticed a thing.

Like a leaf falling from a tree, she just let go.

There was no effort.

There was no struggle.

It wasn’t good and it wasn’t bad.

It was what it was, and it is just that.

In the space of letting go, she let it all be.

A small smile came over her face.

A light breeze blew through her.

And the sun and the moon shone forevermore…

–Safire Rose

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This week I am grateful for…

66. Family Time

67. Old Childhood Stories

68. An Unexpected Snowy Saturday

69. Black Mirror: Love It or Hate It?

70. Trying New Food

71. Delicious Burritos from Bajas

72. “Stand By Me”

73. Sun After a Day of Clouds

74. Falcon at Dusk

75. A Good, Sweaty Workout

 

#66: Family Time

This week, I had the chance to spend some quality time with my family—and honestly, few things feel more meaningful. With most of us living far apart and many working in healthcare, syncing our schedules isn’t easy. That’s why I’m especially grateful for the moments we shared this week. Every gathering feels like a gift.

#67: Old Childhood Stories

One of the best parts of being with family? The endless loop of funny, ridiculous, and sometimes slightly embarrassing childhood stories. Sure, it’s a little cringey when my partner gets front-row seats to my most foolish moments—but I wouldn’t trade those laughs for anything. I’m grateful for the stories that never get old and the conversations that bring us closer.

#68: An Unexpected Snowy Saturday

Waking up to a couple of inches of snow this Saturday was an unexpected surprise—and I chose to embrace it. Normally, weekend snow feels like a nuisance (no snow day perks, just slushy errands). But this time? I had nowhere to be. My partner and I tackled some cleaning, then cozied up and caught up on our favorite shows. It ended up being the kind of slow Saturday I didn’t know I needed.

#69: Black Mirror: Love It or Hate It?

Speaking of shows, I still can’t decide how I feel about Black Mirror. It’s one of those series that leaves me feeling disturbed, amazed, confused, and intrigued all at once. Every episode ends with me thinking, What the hell did I just watch?—and yet, I keep going back. The new season is no different… if anything, it’s taking the emotional chaos to a whole new level.

#70: Trying New Food

This week, we tried a new restaurant that checked every box—affordable, tasty, and conveniently close. I had a bowl of rice, spicy shredded chicken, salad, and that irresistible white sauce. You better believe we’re going back.

#71: Delicious Burritos from Bajas

Sometimes, all you need is a burrito. When I’m hungry and looking for something nutritious, satisfying, and budget-friendly, burritos are my go-to. Shout out to Bajas this week for delivering the goods—grateful for every bite.

#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

#73: Falcon at Dusk

While working near the window at dusk, I caught a glimpse of something wild—a sleek grey falcon swooping into a bush, scattering small birds into the sky. It didn’t catch anything, but the moment—ten seconds of pure, raw nature—was breathtaking. A little reminder of the wild beauty all around us.

#74: Sun After a Day of Clouds

It’s been grey, rainy, and cold lately—and we’re all feeling it. A coworker recently cracked us up saying, “I’m waking up angry at the clouds now.” But this week, after a full day of gloom, the sun finally peeked out for about an hour. That short burst of light reminded me: spring is almost here, and soon the trees, flowers, and all things green will be back in full bloom.

#75: A Good, Sweaty Workout

After a food-filled trip to Puerto Rico (hello, mofongo and flan!), I was definitely feeling out of shape. But this week, I finally got in a solid, sweaty workout—the kind that feels like you’re detoxing every pastelillo and pina colada. It wasn’t easy, but it felt amazing to get moving again.

Weekly Spotlight 

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African Proverb

This timeless saying reminds us that while ambition and drive are essential, true success is rarely a solo journey.

 

This week I am grateful for…

56. The Ocean 

57. Summer Weather 

58. Epic Adventure

59. Delicious Food

60. Dessert Delights 

61. A fun Coincidence 

62. The Rainforest

63. History

64. Safety 

65. Birds 

It’s been a couple of weeks since I posted a gratitude update—life took me on a 10-day adventure in beautiful Puerto Rico! To catch up, I’ll be sharing 10 gratitude moments in this post and the next, bringing me back on track toward 260 moments for the year. Here’s what I’m especially grateful for this week:

#56: The Ocean

If you’d asked me three weeks ago whether I’m a beach person, I would’ve said, “Not really.” But now? It’s complicated—but yes! I fell head over heels for the crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches of Puerto Rico. Our Airbnb was right by the ocean, and when I close my eyes, I can still hear the soothing sound of the waves. It was magic.

#57: Summer Weather

Escaping New England’s chilly, rainy spring for Puerto Rico’s sunny warmth felt like a dream. Most days were in the 70s and 80s, with the occasional dramatic downpour that only lasted 20–45 minutes before the sun came shining back. It was refreshing in every sense of the word.

#58: Epic Adventure

One day, my partner and I joined a rainforest tour that turned out to be more adventurous than we’d anticipated—and I loved every second. We hiked deep into the forest, slid down a natural water slide, did a bit of rock climbing, cliff-jumped into cool waters, and swung on a rope tied to a tree like we were kids again. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I’m so glad it did.

#59: Delicious Food

Puerto Rico is a food lover’s paradise. From savory mofongo to the most flavorful Puerto Rican rice and bean, I couldn’t get enough. I even tried a piña colada at the restaurant that claims to have invented it—and as someone who rarely drinks, I have to say, it was worth it.

#60: Dessert

Oh, the desserts! Traditional Puerto Rican flan, rich chocolate cake with creamy ice cream… It felt like a week-long celebration of sweetness. I may have come back with 3 extra pounds but Zero regrets.

#61: A Fun Coincidence

While enjoying dessert at a little restaurant near our Airbnb, we randomly chose a fancy-looking table. Midway through our cake, we noticed a sign above us that read: “On June 14, 2011, U.S. President Barack Obama had lunch at this table.” What a fun and surreal surprise—we were literally eating cake where a president once sat!

#62: The Rainforest

El Yunque National Forest stole a piece of my heart. We visited twice and could’ve gone again. Cooler than the rest of the island, it was a welcome break from the heat and humidity. From the top of one of its towers, we had a stunning view of palm trees, endless shades of green, a distant city, and even the ocean. Nature at its most majestic.

#63: History

Old San Juan was a vibrant mix of history, culture, and color. I learned so much about the island’s rich past—Indigenous peoples, Spanish colonization, early American influence. Every cobblestone seemed to tell a story.

#64: Safety

I never take safety for granted. The fact that we flew, explored, drove around a new place, and returned home without incident is something I deeply appreciate. It’s a gift that’s easy to overlook.

#65: Birds

I spotted so many bird species I’d never seen before—each one with its own unique song and splash of color. Listening to them in the early morning or while walking through the rainforest added a quiet joy to the trip.

Weekly Spotlight 

This week, I’m shining the spotlight on one of my all-time favorite songs—“Lovely Day” by the late, great Bill Withers. Few songs lift the spirit the way this one does. Withers’ smooth voice, soulful energy, and timeless message are the perfect recipe for instant good vibes.

Here are some of the lyrics that always bring a smile to my face:

“Lovely Day”
Written by Bill Withers and Skip Scarborough

When I wake up in the morning, love
And the sunlight hurts my eyes
And something without warning, love
Bears heavy on my mind
Then I look at you
And the world’s alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it’s gonna be…
A lovely day

Chorus:

Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day
Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day

A lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day
Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day

When the day that lies ahead of me
Seems impossible to face
When someone else instead of me
Always seems to know the way
Then I look at you
And the world’s alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it’s gonna be…
A lovely day

What brought you joy this week? Feel free to leave a comment below.

 

This week I am grateful for…

51. Raindrops While Sleeping

52. Birdwatching from My Window

53. A Walk to the Park

54.Playing Basketball Again

55. Sunsets from My Apartment Window

#51: Raindrops While Sleeping

There’s something magical about falling asleep to the soft rhythm of raindrops tapping against the window. The gentle sound creates a feeling of calm, making the blankets feel even warmer and more inviting. This week, I found myself especially grateful for those peaceful, rain-filled nights.

#52: Birdwatching from My Window

One of the small joys of working remotely is catching glimpses of nature right outside my window. On certain days, I get to watch birds searching for food, hopping and fluttering about, each with their own quiet purpose. It’s a simple yet beautiful reminder to slow down and appreciate the present moment.

#53: A Walk to the Park

This week, my partner and I took a long walk—about 35 minutes—to a nearby park, soaking in the sunshine and fresh air. At the park, we spotted a beaver, ducks, and an array of birds, each adding to the joy of the day. The warmth in the air made me even more excited for the season ahead, a taste of the beautiful days to come.

#54: Playing Basketball Again

Few things make me feel more alive than stepping onto the basketball court. The energy, the teamwork, the friendly competition—it’s all so invigorating. This week, I had the chance to play again, breaking a sweat and reliving that sense of flow. I’m hoping for more games this season!

#55: Sunsets from My Apartment Window

I feel incredibly lucky to have a view of the sunset right from my apartment window. Each evening, I remind myself to pause, take it in, and appreciate the moment. We never know how many more sunsets we’ll get to witness, so I try to savor each one.

Weekly Spotlight

This week, I’m reflecting on a quote that feels especially relevant and inspiring:

“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker