Author: Peter

This week I am grateful for…

141. Perfect Timing

142. Grand Ole Opry

143. Delicious Brunch

144. Ice Cold Water

145. Sunset On The Walk Home

 

#141: 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.

#142: 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.

#143: 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.

#144: 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.

#145: 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.

 

What are you grateful for this week?

See you soon…

 

 

This week, I am grateful for…

136. Safety

137. Avocados

138. Family

139. Wooden Radio

140. Family of Deer

#136: Safety

I was recently reminded that safety is a precious gift. Being able to go anywhere without constantly looking over my shoulder is a blessing. I’m incredibly thankful for the sense of safety I have this week.

#137: Avocados

Avocados are always a delight, enhancing almost everything I eat. Thank you, you vegetable-looking fruit!

#138: Family

This week, my family faced a challenge, and I was proud of how we handled it. I’m immensely grateful for their support and strength.

#139: Wooden Radio

A few weeks ago, I saw an old wooden radio at a store. The store manager explained that this was what radios looked like back in the day. I was fascinated by its size and design, a stark reminder of how far technology has come.

#140: Family of Deer

While in the garden this week, I heard something in the woods. To my delight, it was a family of deer. I quietly observed them and even managed to take a picture before they moved deeper into the woods. I’m thankful for such encounters with nature.

Final Thoughts

I’ve had such a busy couple of weeks, from traveling to wrapping up my current job and preparing for the next one. I will share my gratitude for my travel adventure in the next post

In the meantime… What are you grateful for this week?

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This week I am grateful for…

131. New Opportunities

132. Traveling

133. Camp Fires

134. Perfect Timing

135. Baby Bunnies Part 2

 

#131: New Opportunities

This week, I’m full of gratitude for new beginnings. I’ve been offered a job at a local community college, and I’m absolutely thrilled about it. I’ll officially start my new role in late July. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the person who told me about this position (you know yourself- you are a real one) and to all my references (I appreciate you all so much!) Your support means the world to me, and I’m eagerly looking forward to this new chapter in my life.

#132: Traveling

Next week, my girlfriend and I are heading to Nashville for a fun vacation! We’re on a mission to visit all 50 states, and with this trip, we’ll have crossed off our 14th state. Nashville, Tennessee, here we come! Stay tuned for a future post where I’ll share all about our adventures.

#133: Campfires

I absolutely love summertime and all the activities that come with it. This week, while on a hike, I was enveloped by the nostalgic and comforting smell of a campfire. There’s something so magical about that scent, isn’t there? It instantly brought back memories of past summers and made me appreciate the simple joys of the season.

#134: Perfect Timing

In my apartment complex, you need a key to enter the apartment’s dumpster area. This week, as I was about to pull up to the dumpster with my car, I had that familiar, sinking feeling of knowing I forgot something important—my dumpster keys. Just as I had successfully completed a big, disappointed sigh, I noticed something magical. A woman driving behind me saw my predicament and knew exactly what I needed. She happily opened the gate for me. Not all heroes wear capes—thank you so much, kind stranger in the Honda Civic.

#135: Baby Bunnies

As I mentioned on June 19th, we discovered a nest of adorable baby bunnies in our garden. I’m happy to report that we successfully kept them alive and healthy until they left the nest this week. Watching them grow and venture out into the world has been such a joy. Here’s a picture I took of them.

Good luck out there, baby bunnies—wishing you all long and happy lives!

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on these moments of gratitude has filled me with joy and appreciation for the little things in life. Here’s to new opportunities, exciting travels, the comforting scent of campfires, the kindness of strangers, and adorable baby bunnies.

What are you grateful for this week?

This week I am grateful for…

126. New Opportunities

127. Celtics

128. Butterflies

129. Health

130. Sundae on a Monday

 

#126: New Opportunities

This week, I’m buzzing with excitement over new opportunities. Stay tuned—I’ll spill the details in next week’s post!

#127: Celtics

If you know anything about me, you know that I bleed green. As a die-hard Boston Celtics fan, this week was nothing short of exhilarating! I watched anxiously at a local restaurant as the Celtics clinched the 2024 NBA championship. My pride for this team is beyond words. Despite facing relentless critics over the past few seasons, they triumphed and secured their 18th championship. The last time the Celtics won was in 2008. Back then, I was in 8th grade, living in Kenya. Let’s go Celtics!!

#128: Butterflies

Today, I had a moment of pure magic. Looking out my window, I spotted delicate white butterflies dancing around my backyard. These past few weeks have been a whirlwind—working 60+ hours, 6-7 days a week, barely finding a moment to breathe. This morning, I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me as I paused to admire these beautiful, fleeting creatures.

#129: Health

A couple of weeks ago, a routine hospital check-up reminded me of the fragility of good health. I witnessed a patient across the hall screaming in pain, a stark reminder that health is a precious gift. This week, I’m especially grateful for my health and the ability to enjoy life without physical pain.

#130: Sundae on a Monday

Who says you can’t enjoy a sundae on a Monday? After work, my partner and I strolled to a local ice cream shop, just a 20-minute walk from our apartment. This place is a gem, set on a spacious piece of land with breathtaking scenery. They have livestock roaming around, and I like to think the milk for their ice cream comes straight from these happy animals. I ordered a delicious sundae and savored every bite. As I indulged, I soaked in the serene landscape and marveled at the swallows gracefully gliding through the air, feasting on flying insects.

What are your grateful moments this week?

This week I am grateful for…

121. Baby Bunnies

122. HIMYM

123. Walden Pond

124. Garden

125. Thai Food

 

#121: Baby Bunnies

As I’ve mentioned before, my partner and I rented a gardening plot for the season. This week, while tending to our garden, we noticed some disturbed grass, hinting at a hidden nest. Days later, to our surprise and delight, we discovered a nest with a litter of newborn baby bunnies. They were tiny and fragile, and we immediately committed to ensuring their safety and well-being until they’re fully grown. Stay tuned for updates on these adorable bunnies!

#122: HIMYM

How I Met Your Mother—a sitcom that aired from 2005 to 2014—holds a special place in my heart. From the moment I was introduced to it, I was hooked. Every time I hear the iconic theme song, it brings a rush of nostalgia. I’ve watched the entire series twice over, and whenever it’s on TV, I simply have to tune in. Thanks, HIMYM, for all the great memories!

#123: Walden Pond

Nestled in Concord, MA, Walden Pond State Reservation is an oasis of natural beauty. The crystal-clear pond surrounded by towering green trees creates a tranquil atmosphere. Watching schools of fish swim gracefully through the water adds to its serene charm.

#124: Harvesting Joys

Our gardening efforts are paying off splendidly—the snap peas are thriving, and we enjoyed a bountiful harvest this week. I’m thoroughly enjoying this gardening adventure!

#125: Thai Food Adventure

This week, we decided to explore a local Thai restaurant just a short walk from our apartment. The moment we walked in, we were struck by the unique setting—menus boldly displayed on the walls in stunning lettering, and a cozy atmosphere with intimate seating for no more than fifteen. The waitress promptly took our drink and meal orders, and we were thrilled when our food arrived swiftly. With the first bite, I was smitten. The flavors danced on my taste buds, especially the noodles that seemed to high-five my senses with each mouthful. Thank you, Thai food, for a truly delightful and delicious experience!

What are you grateful for this week?

See you all next week!

This week I am grateful for…

116. Sushi Adventures Part 2

117. Celtics

118. New Opportunities

119. Iced Coffee

120. Barbecue Chicken

 

#116: Sushi Adventures Part 2

As I reported last week, my partner and I embarked on a homemade sushi adventure. As we rolled each piece, a newfound appreciation blossomed within us for the skilled hands of sushi chefs. Who knew that behind every perfectly formed roll lay an art form? While we may still be learners sushi-making, the taste of our creations left us pleasantly surprised and hungry for more.

#117: Boston Celtics

With nervous breaths and pounding hearts, fans like myself cheered as our beloved team won the first game of the NBA championship against the Dallas Mavericks. The thrill of victory runs through our veins, mixed with a nervous anticipation for future games. But amidst the adrenaline and excitement, one thing remains certain—it’s a fantastic time to be a Celtics fan. Let’s rally together and bring that championship home, boys!

#118: Iced Coffee

Confession time: I’ve long been a steadfast tea fan and opposed to the allure of coffee…or so I thought. Imagine my surprise when, on a sweltering summer day, I rediscovered the joy of iced coffee. There’s something undeniably refreshing about its cool feeling on the senses, with a newfound appreciation with each sip. Who knew that I would be writing about my gratitude for coffee?

#119: New Opportunities

While some chapters are still unwritten, this week has gifted me with the promise of new opportunities on the horizon. Though I must remain mysterious for now, the anticipation brews within me, eager to share these developments with you all soon. Stay tuned.

#120: Barbecue Wings

My taste buds were treated to a revelation as my friend and I stumbled upon a local barbecue gem. With over 12 unique sauce options, we were spoiled for choice. Needless to say, we’ll be back for more soon!

What are you grateful for today?

This week I am grateful for…

111. Sushi Adventures

112. Acts of Kindness

113. Pickleball

114. Good Vibes

115. Delightful Kiwis

 

#111: Sushi Adventures

If there’s one thing my partner and I love to eat, it’s sushi! Some people might find the idea of raw fish unappealing, but for us, it’s pure delicious joy. This weekend, we’re taking on the exciting challenge of making homemade sushi. Yes, it’s notoriously tricky to master, but we’re ready for this labor of love. Stay tuned for our sushi-making escapades!

#112: Acts of Kindness

At work, I recently connected with someone from the school administration who has been incredibly kind to us. Their generosity in allowing us to use their space for our programs has been invaluable. Thank you for your kindness and support!

#113: Pickleball

Today, my partner and I played pickleball, and I had an absolute blast! Although I’m still learning the rules, the court is just a three-minute walk from my apartment, making it super convenient. There’s something incredibly satisfying about getting a good hit. I’m eagerly looking forward to more chances to learn and play the sport. I can get competitive too so this will be fun.

#114: Good Vibes

Last weekend, I spent a fantastic afternoon with two of my friends. We played some basketball and enjoyed great food together. There’s nothing like the joy of hanging out with friends, sharing laughs, and making memories. It was truly a wonderful time.

#115: Delightful Kiwis

Right now, the grocery stores are brimming with juicy kiwis. I absolutely love these green, furry, and delicious fruits. This week, I’m particularly grateful for the abundance of fresh kiwis to savor. They’re a delightful treat!

What brought you joy this week?

See you next week!

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.