This week, my partner and I took a peaceful walk through a park in Central Massachusetts, and the scenery was nothing short of magical. The fall leaves were at their peak, and the vibrant shades of yellow, red, orange, and green painted the landscape like a work of art. I couldn’t stop marveling at the beauty around me! I captured a few photos, but they hardly do justice to the breathtaking view. Here is one.
#212: Breathtaking Full Moon
Driving home one evening just an hour after sunset, I witnessed something that stopped me in my tracks—a massive full moon hovering on the horizon. It was one of the largest and brightest moons I’ve ever seen! As I merged onto the highway, the moon loomed so large in the sky, I let out an instinctive “Woah!” right in the middle of listening to the radio. The sheer size and brilliance of the moon made me feel incredibly small and reminded me of the vastness of the universe. It was a humbling, awe-inspiring moment.
#213: A Glowing Sunset
You know that magical orange glow that happens just before the sun dips below the horizon? I was lucky enough to catch one of those perfect sunsets this week. The clouds lit up with a bright, fiery hue that only lasted a few fleeting minutes, but it was enough to remind me of how stunning nature can be when you pause to appreciate it.
#214: Apple Oatmeal
In my kitchen this week, I’ve been experimenting with apple recipes, and I stumbled upon another winner—apple oatmeal made on the stovetop. Imagine warm oats simmered with brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and sliced apples, all topped off with crunchy walnuts. It was pure comfort in a bowl and a perfect fall breakfast. I loved it so much, that I might add it to the breakfast rotation.
#215: A Surprisingly Quick Oil Change
Life has been busy this week, and my car was long overdue for an oil change. On a whim, I stopped by a local express oil change shop, expecting a long wait. To my surprise, there was only one car ahead of me, and I was in and out in 30 minutes! The cherry on top? They threw in a free car wash for choosing their service and even fixed one of my wipers, which had been making an obnoxious sound for weeks. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight shines on a moment of gratitude from a family member who commented on a previous post.
It has been somewhat challenging week but one beautiful thing this week was seeing my son swimming, more like learning to swim, with his father in the pool 🏊! Soo grateful to be alive and well to witness that!
Over the past month, I’ve been attending an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course at Brown University. It’s been a truly transformative experience. Each week, we dive into deep, meaningful conversations that leave me feeling enriched and connected. Our instructor is so knowledgeable and inspiring, and the community we’ve built in the class is something I’m deeply grateful for. It’s a reminder that growth happens not just in the quiet moments of reflection but in sharing that space with others on a similar journey.
#217: First Comments on My Blog
I started this blog in December 2023 with a simple goal: to create and share content from the heart. Last month, I took the leap and shared it with friends and family, inviting their suggestions and feedback. They had such thoughtful and creative ideas for making it more engaging! I felt so grateful for their support and took their advice to update older posts and refine new ones. And this month, something wonderful happened: I received not one, but three comments on my October 13th post! Your support means the world to me—thank you for being a part of this journey!
#218: Fall Festival Adventures 🍂
Last weekend, my partner and I went to an apple festival at Mount Wachusett in North Central Massachusetts. The weather was picture-perfect: 70 degrees, sunny, and not a cloud in the sky. The festival was buzzing with energy, and since parking was a bit of a walk, we decided to skip the shuttle and walk the ten-minute trail instead. The walk was magical, with breathtaking views of the mountains and vibrant fall foliage. We spotted birds along the way, taking in the crisp air and golden hues.
Some festival highlights? Sipping on warm apple cider, meeting a llama and two delightful alpacas, enjoying a sky ride, and exploring a marketplace filled with unique vendors. Here is one photo I took that does not do the view justice at all…
There’s something special about these moments that remind you of the beauty of this Fall.
#219: A Double Bald Eagle Sighting
Speaking of beauty, I had not one, but two unexpected encounters with bald eagles this week! The first was on our walk to the fall festival. At first, I mistook the eagle for a turkey vulture until I saw its unmistakable white head and tail. I was so excited that I pointed it out to a few nearby people, and we all paused to admire its graceful flight.
Later that day, on the drive home, another eagle crossed our path about 20 minutes from home. I am grateful for nature as it has a way of giving us these fleeting, magical moments that leave a lasting impression.
#220: A Lesson in Generosity While Driving
I had a bit of a revelation this week during my morning commute. I was running late and, as usual, it seemed like the universe was throwing every slow-moving car in my path. When the driver ahead of me stopped at a yellow light we both could have made, frustration almost took over. But instead, I caught myself. I took a few deep breaths and made a choice: compassion over irritation.
What followed was unexpected. The energy of the commute shifted. I even let someone merge in front of me, which felt liberating. And to my delight, that person passed the kindness along by letting another car merge later. My morning turned into something less stressful, and in the end, I was actually on time. Talk about karma!
Weekly Spotlight
This week, I wanted to share a powerful quote from 10% Happier by Dan Harris:
“Make the present moment your friend rather than your enemy. Because many people live habitually as if the present moment were an obstacle that they need to overcome in order to get to the next moment. And imagine living your whole life like that, where always this moment is never quite right, not good enough because you need to get to the next one. That is continuous stress.”
If you are interested in learning how to live in the moment, check out Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction at Umass Memorial or at Brown University.
After a long, stressful day at work this week, I came home to an unexpected gift. Before I even opened the door, the delicious aroma hit me—I thought it might be from a neighbor’s apartment, but no, it was coming from inside. I walked in to discover my partner had prepared homemade beef stew and freshly baked bread from scratch. After a day filled with stress, this warm, comforting meal was exactly what I needed. Nothing beats hot beef stew and fresh-baked bread on a cold, rainy fall evening. It was a beautiful reminder of how much thoughtfulness and love can lift a person up. See the picture of it above.
#222: Canceled Meetings
Have you ever felt that creeping dread as a meeting approaches? You keep checking the clock—an hour turns to 45 minutes, then 30… Finally, you accept your fate and prepare yourself. But then, you hear that familiar “Bing” from your inbox: “I apologize for the late notice, but I won’t be able to make it…” And just like that, you’re doing an internal dance of relief and thanking the universe. You graciously reply, “No problem at all, we can reschedule…”—but what you really want to say is, “Thank you for saving us all!”
#223: My Portable Tea Mug
This week, my portable tea mug has been my best friend. On busy mornings when I barely have time to grab breakfast, it’s there, keeping my tea warm and helping me feel just a little more grounded as I head to work. You’ve kept me caffeinated and motivated, dear tea mug, and I’m so grateful for the comfort you bring.
#224: A Good Excuse to Eat Candy
Halloween was on Thursday, and I was more than happy to have a “real” excuse to indulge in my favorite treats. The weather was in the mid-70s—ideal for sharing candy with students at work and getting a few treats for myself. KitKats, Skittles, and Snickers found their way to me, guilt-free. It’s not every day you get to enjoy a mini-candy-fest without a second thought!
Sunset Views After Work
With the days getting shorter, I now get to leave work just before sunset. There’s something magical about stepping outside and being greeted by the rich oranges and deep pinks of the setting sun, especially as they cast their glow on the autumn leaves. Mother Nature, you’re an artist, and you make my commute infinitely more beautiful. Thank you for painting the sky each evening and reminding me to pause and marvel at your beauty. Here is one pic I took this week.
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight is a quote on gratitude:
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie
I wanted to start by acknowledging that we had an elections this week in the USA but I will not be making any comments about that on this post
This week I am grateful for…
226. An All-Day Silent Mindfulness Retreat
227. Words of Wisdom
228. A Moment of Courage
229. A Cozy Moment on a Chilly Day
230. Lemon Mango Tea
#226: An All-Day Silent Mindfulness Retreat
As part of my 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course this fall, I participated in an All-Day Silent Retreat hosted in-person at Brown University. Walking into the retreat space, I was delighted to find over 25 other participants who also chose to be there in-person. The experience was truly meaningful, enriched by inspirational talks from knowledgeable teachers (who were the only ones allowed to talk) and an atmosphere brimming with mindful insights. Many of us were surprised at how quickly the eight hours flew by, a testament to how absorbing and transformative the day was.
During a brief outdoor walking meditation, we were fortunate to enjoy the warmth of a 65-degree day. The fresh air and a serene riverside path, with views of Providence’s skyline, provided a beautiful setting that deepened the experience. See a photo that I took above. I walked away from the retreat with profound gratitude—for the opportunity to connect, for the insightful teachers, and for the quiet, shared presence of everyone there.
#227: Words of Wisdom
One of the teachers shared a powerful reflection on how emotions like anger and frustration can take hold of us. According to research, intense emotions like these biologically last only around 90 seconds. After that, it’s up to us; what lingers is often fueled by our thoughts and responses. The teacher pointed out how easily a situation can escalate when we react impulsively. For instance, when someone says something hurtful, if we react in anger, it can strain the relationship far longer than those initial seconds of emotion.
Imagine that same scenario approached mindfully: noticing the anger in real-time, allowing it to pass, and then, when calm, addressing the situation constructively. While easier said than done, this approach has the potential to transform how we relate to others—and to ourselves.
#228: A Moment of Courage
That day, I had a small yet powerful moment of courage during a loving-kindness meditation. This practice involves sending love and kindness to others, including dear friends, oneself, a neutral person, a challenging person, and even the whole planet. We silently repeated phrases like, “May you be safe, may you be healthy, may you be at ease, may you feel loved.”
The instructor encouraged us to send these thoughts to someone close to us, even if they were no longer with us in a physical sense. For the first time, I chose to visualize a family member I lost two and a half years ago. It took courage, but I allowed myself to feel the sadness without resisting it, sitting with the emotion fully from start to finish. It was a bittersweet but deeply healing experience for which I am profoundly grateful.
#229: A Cozy Moment on a Chilly Day
The days are getting shorter, with the sun now setting around 4:30 p.m., and each week seems to draw us closer to the depths of winter. While the early darkness can feel a little gloomy, I’m finding myself savoring cozy moments more. This week, I felt particularly grateful for the simple joy of snuggling under a warm blanket on a cold day—one of life’s small comforts that brings an instant feeling of peace and warmth.
#230: Lemon Mango Tea
Earlier this year, during a trip to Pittsburgh, I picked up two types of decaf tea, one of which was a delightful lemon mango blend. This week, that tea has been my go-to comfort on brisk evenings. Its citrusy aroma fills the room, and each sip brings a small moment of joy and warmth. In moments like these, I’m reminded of the power of small rituals to bring a sense of calm and contentment.
Weekly Spotlight
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.
This week, we celebrated Thanksgiving here in the USA—a time to reflect on the things that fill our hearts with gratitude. In the spirit of this special holiday, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite Grateful Moments from the year, centered around the themes of Family and Friends.
243.Gratitude Moments #33, Feb. 9th :Nephews and Nieces
244.Gratitude Moments #151, July 28th :Family
245. Gratitude Moments #195, Sept. 30th :Family and Friends
#241: My Mother
I am always grateful for my mother but this week I am extra grateful. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. She has single handedly been the biggest influence in my life. I love her and appreciate everything she has done and continue to do for me. She brought me some Kenyan tea from her trip back from Kenya. I am very grateful for her.
#242: Healthy Baby Niece!
This weeks I am very grateful that my brother and sister in law had a healthy delivery! I am very grateful for a new niece. I have 5 siblings, including myself, that makes a total of 6. With the birth of the newest member of the family, I now have a total of 9 nephews and nieces. I am very grateful for every single one of them. Welcome to the world adorable niece!
#243: Nephews and Nieces
On Wednesday I went to visit my brother who has a newborn baby girl. My mother and my 2 sisters were there as well. It was great to play with my nephews and nieces. I can never seem to get tired of hearing them laugh hysterically for simple and often silly things. It was adorable to see my 7 month old baby nephew attempt to eat a slice of fruit.
He was trying his hardest to grab the slice which was too big for his tiny hands and attempted to take a bite with no teeth. It was extremely adorable. I am very grateful for all my nephews and nieces.
#244: Family
Every summer, my family gathers for a reunion that’s become one of my favorite traditions. It’s a week filled with fun, nostalgia, games, and activities—creating memories that last a lifetime. I don’t remember exactly who started this tradition, but it’s been the perfect way for us to reconnect and catch up. With five siblings, my mom, in-laws, and nine nephews and nieces, our gatherings are anything but small! This year was particularly special. We brought back childhood games from our days in Kenya, shared old songs and stories, and created new memories with the next generation. I’m incredibly grateful for a loving, caring family that keeps this tradition alive.
#245: Family and Friends
Today’s post looks a little different from the others, and there’s a good reason! I recently shared my blog with friends and family, asking for their feedback, and they didn’t disappoint. One of the best suggestions was to change the heading to reflect the actual date, and I’ve also decided to number my gratitude moments—starting at 1 and ending at 260 by the end of the year thanks to their feedback.
I just want to take a moment to thank each of you who took the time to fill out my feedback survey. Your insights and support mean the world to me. I’m truly grateful for my family and friends—you guys make everything better!
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight shines on an inspiring quote from Reba McEntire, the legendary country music singer and actress:
“My goals have changed throughout my life. At one time, it was winning awards, selling out concert dates, and selling more albums than anyone else. Now, my goals are to see my grandchildren grown, live a long and healthy life with my family and friends, and travel the world.”
The Northeast USA has been experiencing drought, with many wildfires and ponds and lakes shrinking. But this week brought a gift we’ve all been waiting for: rain. The last few days have been marked by steady showers, and last night, it rained through the night. The gentle tapping of raindrops on the windows and roof created a peaceful melody, a backdrop for the best sleep imaginable under warm, soft blankets. It felt like nature’s lullaby.
#237: Leaving Work Early
One of the best perks of my job? The flexibility to leave early when my weekly hours are met. This week, I finished my tasks ahead of schedule and left work guilt-free, knowing everything was taken care of. There’s nothing quite like stepping out into the afternoon, with extra time to savor the day and the satisfaction of a job well done.
#238: Endings and New Beginnings
This week marked the end of my 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course. Saying goodbye to such a compassionate and insightful community was bittersweet. Over the weeks, we shared courageous moments, insightful wisdom, and transformative growth. While parting ways was difficult, I left feeling inspired, carrying the tools and motivation to continue this mindful journey. Endings, I continue to learn, often pave the way for profound new beginnings.
#239: A Surprise Album Release
Waking up to the news of a surprise album release from a favorite artist? Pure joy. This week, not one but two of my favorite artists, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, dropped new projects. It’s the kind of surprise that turns ordinary errands into mini road trips, with the car’s speakers providing a concert experience. These albums are the perfect soundtrack for life on the go—and I’ve been finding every excuse to hit the road just to soak them in.
#240: An Unexpected Encounter with a Deer
While walking through a local wildlife sanctuary with my girlfriend, she suddenly exclaimed, “Ohh look!” My heart skipped a beat—I was sure she had spotted a snake. (Quick side note: I wouldn’t say I’m afraid of snakes, but let’s just say I respect them, a lot… from a distance.) Instead, to our left stood a deer with antlers that seemed seasoned. He was completely unbothered by us, strolling across the path with a quiet confidence. It was a moment of awe and connection with nature. See the photo above.
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight is an inspiring quote:
I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.
My partner and I are moving in December from the apartment complex we’ve lived in for 2 years in Natick, MA. One thing I’ll miss the most is the local restaurants and diners we’ve grown to love.
This week, after a tough workout at the gym, we went to one of our favorite diners for brunch. As we ate, we realized it might be the last time we’d eat there before the move. I ordered a veggie omelet with home fries and wheat toast, and we made an effort to savor the moment, even practicing mindful eating by focusing on the taste of the first bite. See the picture of my plate above. It was a simple yet meaningful experience.
#232: The Comfort of a Heated Room
Temperatures are continuing to fall each week with freezing nights and frosty mornings. Stepping into a heated room after being in cold feels magical. It’s like receiving a warm hug from both humanity and technology.
#233: Spotting an Owl
During an evening walk to check on the garden we rented over the summer, we experienced a moment of pure wonder. As I opened the gate, its metallic creak startled a light gray owl, which silently took off, flying deeper into the woods. My partner and I stood there, amazed by the elegance of the moment.
For me, it was extra special—it was my first time seeing an owl in the wild since moving to the States. That fleeting encounter at dusk felt like a gift from nature.
#234: The Convenience of a Laundry Machine
Sometimes, it’s easy to take modern conveniences for granted. This week, I found myself reflecting on how thankful I am for something as simple as a laundry machine.
Growing up in Kenya, doing laundry was a whole-day commitment. With unreliable water supplies, we often fetched water from local streams, taking multiple trips to gather enough water. Then came the handwashing—scrubbing each piece of clothing, rinsing, and hanging them to air-dry. It was labor-intensive and time-consuming. So this week I am thankful for the convenience of a washing machine.
When a friend in Kenya recently told me how transformative a washing machine would be for her life, I nodded with deep understanding. I’ve lived that reality. So this week, as I tossed clothes into the machine and pushed a button, I felt a profound sense of gratitude.
#235: The Crunch of Fall Leaves
The trees have lost their leaves, and the ground is covered with Dry leaves. On my walks, I’ve enjoyed the simple pleasure of stepping on crunchy leaves. It’s a small thing, but it brings back memories of colder seasons and makes me look forward to the upcoming holiday season.
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight is one of my favorite Ted Talks by Tim Urban on Procrastination. It is funny, thoughtful, and highly Inspirational.
I wanted to start by acknowledging that we had an elections this week in the USA but I will not be making any comments about that on this post
This week I am grateful for…
226. An All-Day Silent Mindfulness Retreat
227. Words of Wisdom
228. A Moment of Courage
229. A Cozy Moment on a Chilly Day
230. Lemon Mango Tea
#226: An All-Day Silent Mindfulness Retreat
As part of my 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course this fall, I participated in an All-Day Silent Retreat hosted in-person at Brown University. Walking into the retreat space, I was delighted to find over 25 other participants who also chose to be there in-person. The experience was truly meaningful, enriched by inspirational talks from knowledgeable teachers (who were the only ones allowed to talk) and an atmosphere brimming with mindful insights. Many of us were surprised at how quickly the eight hours flew by, a testament to how absorbing and transformative the day was.
During a brief outdoor walking meditation, we were fortunate to enjoy the warmth of a 65-degree day. The fresh air and a serene riverside path, with views of Providence’s skyline, provided a beautiful setting that deepened the experience. See a photo that I took above. I walked away from the retreat with profound gratitude—for the opportunity to connect, for the insightful teachers, and for the quiet, shared presence of everyone there.
#227: Words of Wisdom
One of the teachers shared a powerful reflection on how emotions like anger and frustration can take hold of us. According to research, intense emotions like these biologically last only around 90 seconds. After that, it’s up to us; what lingers is often fueled by our thoughts and responses. The teacher pointed out how easily a situation can escalate when we react impulsively. For instance, when someone says something hurtful, if we react in anger, it can strain the relationship far longer than those initial seconds of emotion.
Imagine that same scenario approached mindfully: noticing the anger in real-time, allowing it to pass, and then, when calm, addressing the situation constructively. While easier said than done, this approach has the potential to transform how we relate to others—and to ourselves.
#228: A Moment of Courage
That day, I had a small yet powerful moment of courage during a loving-kindness meditation. This practice involves sending love and kindness to others, including dear friends, oneself, a neutral person, a challenging person, and even the whole planet. We silently repeated phrases like, “May you be safe, may you be healthy, may you be at ease, may you feel loved.”
The instructor encouraged us to send these thoughts to someone close to us, even if they were no longer with us in a physical sense. For the first time, I chose to visualize a family member I lost two and a half years ago. It took courage, but I allowed myself to feel the sadness without resisting it, sitting with the emotion fully from start to finish. It was a bittersweet but deeply healing experience for which I am profoundly grateful.
#229: A Cozy Moment on a Chilly Day
The days are getting shorter, with the sun now setting around 4:30 p.m., and each week seems to draw us closer to the depths of winter. While the early darkness can feel a little gloomy, I’m finding myself savoring cozy moments more. This week, I felt particularly grateful for the simple joy of snuggling under a warm blanket on a cold day—one of life’s small comforts that brings an instant feeling of peace and warmth.
#230: Lemon Mango Tea
Earlier this year, during a trip to Pittsburgh, I picked up two types of decaf tea, one of which was a delightful lemon mango blend. This week, that tea has been my go-to comfort on brisk evenings. Its citrusy aroma fills the room, and each sip brings a small moment of joy and warmth. In moments like these, I’m reminded of the power of small rituals to bring a sense of calm and contentment.
Weekly Spotlight
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.
After a long, stressful day at work this week, I came home to an unexpected gift. Before I even opened the door, the delicious aroma hit me—I thought it might be from a neighbor’s apartment, but no, it was coming from inside. I walked in to discover my partner had prepared homemade beef stew and freshly baked bread from scratch. After a day filled with stress, this warm, comforting meal was exactly what I needed. Nothing beats hot beef stew and fresh-baked bread on a cold, rainy fall evening. It was a beautiful reminder of how much thoughtfulness and love can lift a person up. See the picture of it above.
#222: Canceled Meetings
Have you ever felt that creeping dread as a meeting approaches? You keep checking the clock—an hour turns to 45 minutes, then 30… Finally, you accept your fate and prepare yourself. But then, you hear that familiar “Bing” from your inbox: “I apologize for the late notice, but I won’t be able to make it…” And just like that, you’re doing an internal dance of relief and thanking the universe. You graciously reply, “No problem at all, we can reschedule…”—but what you really want to say is, “Thank you for saving us all!”
#223: My Portable Tea Mug
This week, my portable tea mug has been my best friend. On busy mornings when I barely have time to grab breakfast, it’s there, keeping my tea warm and helping me feel just a little more grounded as I head to work. You’ve kept me caffeinated and motivated, dear tea mug, and I’m so grateful for the comfort you bring.
#224: A Good Excuse to Eat Candy
Halloween was on Thursday, and I was more than happy to have a “real” excuse to indulge in my favorite treats. The weather was in the mid-70s—ideal for sharing candy with students at work and getting a few treats for myself. KitKats, Skittles, and Snickers found their way to me, guilt-free. It’s not every day you get to enjoy a mini-candy-fest without a second thought!
Sunset Views After Work
With the days getting shorter, I now get to leave work just before sunset. There’s something magical about stepping outside and being greeted by the rich oranges and deep pinks of the setting sun, especially as they cast their glow on the autumn leaves. Mother Nature, you’re an artist, and you make my commute infinitely more beautiful. Thank you for painting the sky each evening and reminding me to pause and marvel at your beauty. Here is one pic I took this week.
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight is a quote on gratitude:
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie
Over the past month, I’ve been attending an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course at Brown University. It’s been a truly transformative experience. Each week, we dive into deep, meaningful conversations that leave me feeling enriched and connected. Our instructor is so knowledgeable and inspiring, and the community we’ve built in the class is something I’m deeply grateful for. It’s a reminder that growth happens not just in the quiet moments of reflection but in sharing that space with others on a similar journey.
#217: First Comments on My Blog
I started this blog in December 2023 with a simple goal: to create and share content from the heart. Last month, I took the leap and shared it with friends and family, inviting their suggestions and feedback. They had such thoughtful and creative ideas for making it more engaging! I felt so grateful for their support and took their advice to update older posts and refine new ones. And this month, something wonderful happened: I received not one, but three comments on my October 13th post! Your support means the world to me—thank you for being a part of this journey!
#218: Fall Festival Adventures 🍂
Last weekend, my partner and I went to an apple festival at Mount Wachusett in North Central Massachusetts. The weather was picture-perfect: 70 degrees, sunny, and not a cloud in the sky. The festival was buzzing with energy, and since parking was a bit of a walk, we decided to skip the shuttle and walk the ten-minute trail instead. The walk was magical, with breathtaking views of the mountains and vibrant fall foliage. We spotted birds along the way, taking in the crisp air and golden hues.
Some festival highlights? Sipping on warm apple cider, meeting a llama and two delightful alpacas, enjoying a sky ride, and exploring a marketplace filled with unique vendors. Here is one photo I took that does not do the view justice at all…
There’s something special about these moments that remind you of the beauty of this Fall.
#219: A Double Bald Eagle Sighting
Speaking of beauty, I had not one, but two unexpected encounters with bald eagles this week! The first was on our walk to the fall festival. At first, I mistook the eagle for a turkey vulture until I saw its unmistakable white head and tail. I was so excited that I pointed it out to a few nearby people, and we all paused to admire its graceful flight.
Later that day, on the drive home, another eagle crossed our path about 20 minutes from home. I am grateful for nature as it has a way of giving us these fleeting, magical moments that leave a lasting impression.
#220: A Lesson in Generosity While Driving
I had a bit of a revelation this week during my morning commute. I was running late and, as usual, it seemed like the universe was throwing every slow-moving car in my path. When the driver ahead of me stopped at a yellow light we both could have made, frustration almost took over. But instead, I caught myself. I took a few deep breaths and made a choice: compassion over irritation.
What followed was unexpected. The energy of the commute shifted. I even let someone merge in front of me, which felt liberating. And to my delight, that person passed the kindness along by letting another car merge later. My morning turned into something less stressful, and in the end, I was actually on time. Talk about karma!
Weekly Spotlight
This week, I wanted to share a powerful quote from 10% Happier by Dan Harris:
“Make the present moment your friend rather than your enemy. Because many people live habitually as if the present moment were an obstacle that they need to overcome in order to get to the next moment. And imagine living your whole life like that, where always this moment is never quite right, not good enough because you need to get to the next one. That is continuous stress.”
If you are interested in learning how to live in the moment, check out Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction at Umass Memorial or at Brown University.
