I love New Year’s! It’s a time for fresh beginnings and endless possibilities. As 2025 begins, I’m excited to embrace more adventure and step outside my comfort zone. I want it to be a year full of courage and bravery. More on this late! This year, I plan to prioritize my mental and physical health, cherish quality moments with family and friends, and let go of unnecessary stress over small things. Here’s to a year of growth and joy!
#2: Kind Stranger at Dunkin’s
A couple of weeks ago, I was picking up a large order of coffee and donuts for a work event. The order was too much for me to carry in one trip, so I was figuring out what to leave behind. A kind woman saw my predicament and offered to help carry the rest of my order to my car. Thank you so much, kind stranger.
#3: Fresh Haircut
There’s nothing quite like a fresh haircut. This week, my barber gave me an incredible fade—truly a work of art. I don’t say it enough, but thank you for your unmatched skills. You manage to boost my confidence by at least 30-45% every month. You’re the real MVP!
#4: Funny Moments
Gyms are full with energy these days, thanks to New Year’s resolutions and a renewed sense of purpose. This week at the Y, we ended a workout with a cooldown that involved balancing on a bouncy ball while mimicking a paddling motion with our feet. Let’s just say it wasn’t my finest moment—I was wobbling and flailing like a beginner tightrope walker. But when I glanced over at my partner, she was effortlessly paddling like a pro. I was like “Look at her go! She is adorable!” I couldn’t stop laughing; it was the perfect reminder not to take myself too seriously. Who knows, we might have discovered her hidden talent for bouncy ball paddling!
#5: Dessert
Dessert wasn’t a common feature in my childhood. I vividly remember my first taste of cake in 7th or 8th grade at boarding school in Kenya. A friend had brought back a piece of Black Forest cake from a fancy restaurant, and kindly let me try it. The experience was nothing short of euphoric—an intense dopamine rush that made me feel alive and alert. Though I don’t have much love cake now, I’m grateful for the wide variety of desserts available to me.
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight is an inspiring Poem by Danusha Lameris
I’ve been thinking about the way, when you walk down a crowded aisle, people pull in their legs to let you by. Or how strangers still say “bless you” when someone sneezes, a leftover from the Bubonic plague. “Don’t die,” we are saying.
And sometimes, when you spill lemons from your grocery bag, someone else will help you pick them up. Mostly, we don’t want to harm each other.
We want to be handed our cup of coffee hot, and to say thank you to the person handing it. To smile at them and for them to smile back. For the waitress to call us honey when she sets down the bowl of clam chowder, and for the driver in the red pick-up truck to let us pass.
We have so little of each other, now. So far from tribe and fire. Only these brief moments of exchange. What if they are the true dwelling of the holy, these fleeting temples we make together when we say, “Here, have my seat,” “Go ahead — you first,” “I like your hat.”
As promised from last week’s post, here is a list of my top 10 Moments that brought me Joy in 2024.
1. #21: Healthy Baby Niece!
Jan. 28, 2024
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!
2. #45: Hot Shower
Feb. 28, 2024
One more thing that I probably take for grated is hot showers. This week I am grateful for hot showers. It’s great that I can take a warm shower with a flip of a switch. Growing up, if I wanted a warm shower, I needed to boil water in a pot then mix it with cool water in a plastic basin or a bucket. I did not have access to a warm shower at a turn of a nob. I miss those simpler days greatly but this week I am grateful for access to hot showers and running water for that matter.
3. #71: Spring Blossoms
April 15, 2024
During a walk around the apartment complex this week, I was greeted by the sight of vibrant white flowers from trees, signaling the revival of nature. Beneath them, a tapestry of colorful flowers had been carefully planted, eagerly anticipating the forthcoming warmth of summer. The embrace of spring and the blooming flowers fill me with great gratitude.
4. #97: Mom
May 12, 2024
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.
5. Adventure with Baby Bunnies
#121: Baby Bunnies part 1
June 19, 2024
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!
#135: Baby Bunnies Part 2
June 29, 2024
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!
6. #133: Campfires
June 29, 2024
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.
7. Adventure in the South
July 17, 2024
#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.
#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.
8. Six-Day Silent Retreat
August 25, 2024
#166: Silence
Two weeks ago, I embarked on a five-day silent retreat at Karme Choling Meditation Retreat Center in Barnet,Vermont. I’m eager to share the profound gratitude I experienced during that time. It was my first silent retreat—a journey where I spent five days in silence, meditating for eight hours each day.
The first thing I am deeply grateful for is the silence itself. It’s astonishing how much you learn about yourself, your thoughts, your surroundings, and even other people when you choose to be silent. The retreat allowed me to observe my thoughts and emotions in real-time, without the usual distractions. Over those five days, I began to notice patterns in my thinking. I became aware of where my mind tends to wander, and I was able to evaluate whether those thoughts were serving me. If they weren’t, I felt empowered to gently let them go.
There were moments when the urge to speak was almost overwhelming, especially when I was in the company of others in a casual setting. Yet, I discovered the power of non-verbal communication—how much connection can be achieved through simple gestures and body language. In short, the silence was transformative. It’s incredible how much you can notice about yourself and the world around you when you embrace silence. I would highly recommend a silence retreat for anyone seeking peace, joy, and personal insight.
#167: Community
The retreat wouldn’t have been as meaningful without the incredible community that surrounded me. The teachers were knowledgeable and truly inspiring, guiding us with wisdom and compassion. My fellow participants were supportive and kind, adding layers of richness to the experience. I’m deeply grateful for each and every one of them, as they made the retreat not just rewarding, but deeply meaningful and unforgettable.
#168: Awe Moment 1
During the retreat, I experienced two moments of intense awe and gratitude. The first occurred on the third day during a walking meditation. We strolled through a garden bursting with vibrant flowers. After three days of silence and eight hours of daily meditation, I found myself in a state of profound peace, fully present in the moment. As I knelt down to smell two different flowers, I was struck by the beauty around me—the bright colors, the fresh scents, and the sight of tomatoes ripening from dark green to bright red. My heart swelled with gratitude for the Earth and its endless gifts. A tear slipped down my cheek, and for about ten minutes, I was enveloped in an overwhelming sense of gratitude—a feeling that stayed with me for the rest of the retreat.
#169: Awe Moment 2
The second awe-inspiring moment happened later that evening. It had been raining on and off throughout the day, with a hurricane passing nearby. During our last meditation session at 7 PM, the rain was pouring down. But as the session ended at 7:30, the rain stopped. A fellow participant gestured that there was something beautiful outside, and I rushed out, thinking I might catch a glimpse of a rainbow. Instead, I was greeted by a breathtaking sight—the moon, enormous and radiant, peeking through fast-moving clouds at dusk.
Drawn by the beauty, I walked down to a stream that passes close by. The power and sound of the water was humbling. As I looked up hill, I saw tall grass swaying gently in the wind, and the moon glowing brightly as the clouds danced across the sky. I was filled with an intense sense of awe, gratitude, and pure joy. The birds were singing their final songs before nightfall, and in that moment, I felt incredibly fortunate to be alive, witnessing such natural beauty.
#170: Nature
This retreat reminded me of just how breathtaking nature can be, especially when observed in silence. The retreat was nestled amidst mountains, their slopes lush with a variety of green trees. I noticed the vivid colors of birds and their sweet songs, the intricate patterns of rocks, and the dance of butterflies. Throughout the week, I encountered deer, a groundhog, and even fish in the stream.
On the last night, a meteor shower lit up the sky. I woke in the middle of the night to marvel at the stars, and in remote Vermont, it was undimmed by light pollution. At 4 AM, I joined two other participants to watch the sunrise, a moment of serene beauty that filled me with joy. For all these experiences, I am profoundly grateful.
What are you grateful for this week?
9. Fall Adventures
Sep. 30, 2024
#200: Apple Picking
This week, I went apple picking with friends for the second time this season, and it was just as magical as the first. There’s something about being out in nature, picking fresh apples straight from the tree, and enjoying moments of laughter and connection with the people you love. We indulged in warm cider donuts, sipped apple cider, and even spent time with some farm animals. It was the kind of day that felt like a perfect snapshot of Fall—filled with joy, warmth, and memories that will last. Here goes one pic from the occasion.
I’m incredibly grateful for this experience and for the friends who made it so special. Here’s to more days like this!
#219: A Double Bald Eagle Sighting
Oct. 27, 2024
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.
#221: Hot Beef Stew on a Cold Day
Nov. 3, 2024
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.
10. #234: The Convenience of a Laundry Machine –
Nov. 17, 2024
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.
Bonus:
#260: Reaching 260 Grateful Moments – Dec. 22
This week marks a milestone: 260 moment of gratitude for the year! Documenting these big and small joys has been transformative. On dark days, this collection reminds me that life is filled with beauty and possibility. Thank you for joining me on this journey.
As winter settles in, this week has been a beautiful blend of small joys, meaningful connections, and reflections. Here are the moments that filled my heart with gratitude:
256. Sunrise After a Day of Snow
257. Upcoming Holiday Break
258. Family and Friends
259. Short Commute
260. Reaching 260 Grateful Moments
#256: Sunrise After a Day of Snow
This week we have had freezing temperatures and a chilling breeze with temperatures well below freezing. We also had a 2-inch snowfall which sadly didn’t bring a snow day. However, the sunrise on fresh, bright white snow was pure magic. Sipping a hot cup of tea while admiring the snowy landscape this weekend was a moment of peace which I had the pleasure of cherishing this week.
#257: Upcoming Holiday Break
Working at a college has its perks, like an extended holiday break! From December 25 to January 1, I plan to unpack, tackle home projects, spend time with loved ones, and recharge. Knowing this time is just around the corner fills me with excitement and relief.
#258: Family and Friends
This week’s move reminded me how fortunate I am to have an incredible support system. Thanks to my family and friends, what could have been a daunting task turned into an efficient and joyful experience. Unloading a U-Haul in just over an hour? That’s teamwork! Thank you all for your love and support. Special shoutout to the “Relocation Engineer” (you know yourself)—your vision and skills during the move were invaluable.
#259: Short Commute
One of the best perks of moving is my 15-minute commute. Late work nights have been much more manageable knowing I’d be home quickly. I’ve felt less tired and more present at work, which is a gift in itself. Short commutes truly save energy and time—something I’m especially grateful for this week.
#260: Reaching 260 Grateful Moments
This week marks a milestone: 260 moment of gratitude for the year! Documenting these big and small joys has been transformative. On dark days, this collection reminds me that life is filled with beauty and possibility. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Next week, I’ll share some of my favorite moments from 2024—stay tuned!
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight features an insightful and inspiring TED Talk by one of my all-time favorite psychologists, Professor Dan Gilbert.
What are you grateful for this week? Share your moments in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
This week marks a big life change: my partner and I are moving to Central Massachusetts. I spent my teens and young adult lit in Central Massachusetts and now I am moving back! Moving can be a lot of work and can be expensive, so if you can avoid it, my advice is to stay put as long as possible! Amid the packing chaos, I’ve been feeling both nostalgic and grateful. For example, today is my last day at the Local YMCA—a community that has given me so much. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, I’m ready for this new chapter. Change can be intimidating, and that’s perfectly normal. There are always unknowns with big transitions. But I recently read a quote at work that resonated deeply: “Difficult paths lead to beautiful destinations.” Here’s to the journey ahead.
#252: New Beginnings
One of the most exciting things about our move? A much shorter commute. My current hour-long work each way will soon be replaced with a 15-minute drive. That’s over an hour saved every day! Long commutes have always been a source of stress for me, and I know I’m not alone. If you’re lucky enough to have a short commute, take a moment to appreciate it—you’re living the dream!
#253: Sitting on a Couch After a Long Day
Here’s a life lesson: don’t sell your couch before moving. In the name of “smart planning,” we listed our couch on Facebook Marketplace, thinking we’d have time to enjoy it before lowering the price if we had no offers. Within days, someone bought it, and now we’ve been couch-less for 2 weeks. I didn’t realize how much I relied on that simple comfort—especially after a long day—until it was gone. Pro tip: dining chairs don’t quite cut it for relaxing with your hot sip of hot beverage.
#254: Family and Friends
A huge shoutout to family and friends who showed up for us during this move. From lending hands to lifting boxes, you made the impossible manageable. Your love and support mean the world to us. I might do another shoutout next week!
#255: A Slice of Cake When You Need It Most
This week was hectic, to say the least, but my coworkers got me a slice of my favorite cake. Their thoughtfulness was a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a busy week feel a little lighter—and a lot sweeter. Here is the pic of the cake…
Here’s to endings, beginnings, and the little things that make life beautiful. What are you grateful for this week?
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight is a simple but powerful quote by Ann Voskamp
“No amount of regret changes the past. No amount of anxiety changes the future. Any amount of gratitude changes the present.” ― Ann Voskamp
What brought you joy this week? You can leave me a comment below.
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After a rain-soaked day, I was greeted by an unexpected gift: a radiant orange sky, glowing in the aftermath of sunset. I paused for a few mindful breaths, savoring the fleeting beauty of the moment. Nature has this way of grounding us when we least expect it if we stop and notice, doesn’t it? My photo below doesn’t quite capture the magic, but it’s a reminder that sometimes, life’s simplest scenes leave the deepest impressions.
#247: Leftover Restaurant Food
A little shoutout to restaurants with generous portions—there’s nothing better than opening your fridge to find a second serving of your favorite meal waiting for you. It’s like a delicious sequel at no extra cost! Special thanks to the places that don’t skimp on servings.
#248: The First Snow of the Season
This Thursday, we received the first snowfall of the season in Massachusetts—just 4 inches, but enough to give students (and staff!) a snow day! Working at a college, I found myself behaving like a student again, obsessively refreshing my notifications. Then bing!—there it was: “Due to inclement weather, the college will be closed on…” That’s when I had an involuntary happy dance and a chorus of “Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!” It was great to watch the snow from the indoors and enjoy my morning cup of tea. Thank you Mother Nature for that amazing gift.
#249: The Movie Wicked
Confession: I’m not big on musicals, and I’ve never seen The Wizard of Oz. But this week, my girlfriend and I went to see Wicked, and let me tell you—I was pleasantly surprised. As a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, it weaves a captivating tale that had me invested from start to finish. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo were mesmerizing in their roles, and now I’m low-key excited for part 2. I need to know what happens next!
#250: The Holiday Season
Ah, the holiday season—my second-favorite time of year (fall still reigns supreme). There’s something magical about the merry buzz in the air, the twinkle of lights, and holiday songs that seem to warm even the coldest of days. I adore hearing strangers exchange heartfelt “Happy holidays!”—it’s like a warm hug for the soul.
Weekly Spotlight
This week, I want to share a poem often attributed to Nadine Stair, with the story going that she wrote it in her 80s. It’s a beautiful reminder to embrace life with a touch of daring and joy:
“If I had my life to live over, I’d dare to make more mistakes next time. I’d relax, I would limber up. I would be sillier than I have been this trip. I would take fewer things seriously. I would take more chances. I would climb more mountains and swim more rivers. I would eat more ice cream and less beans.
I would perhaps have more actual troubles, but I’d have fewer imaginary ones. You see, I’m one of those people who lived sensibly and sanely, hour after hour, day after day. Oh, I’ve had my moments, and if I had to do it over again, I’d have more of them. In fact, I’d try to have nothing else. Just moments, one after another, instead of living so many years ahead of each day.
I’ve been one of those persons who never goes anywhere without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, a raincoat, and a parachute. If I had to do it again, I would travel lighter than I have.
If I had my life to live over, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall. I would go to more dances. I would ride more merry-go-rounds. I would pick more daisies.”
— Nadine Stair
What brought you joy this week? You can leave me a comment below.
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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.
Two weeks ago, I embarked on a five-day silent retreat at Karme Choling Meditation Retreat Center in Barnet,Vermont. I’m eager to share the profound gratitude I experienced during that time. It was my first silent retreat—a journey where I spent five days in silence, meditating for eight hours each day.
The first thing I am deeply grateful for is the silence itself. It’s astonishing how much you learn about yourself, your thoughts, your surroundings, and even other people when you choose to be silent. The retreat allowed me to observe my thoughts and emotions in real-time, without the usual distractions. Over those five days, I began to notice patterns in my thinking. I became aware of where my mind tends to wander, and I was able to evaluate whether those thoughts were serving me. If they weren’t, I felt empowered to gently let them go.
There were moments when the urge to speak was almost overwhelming, especially when I was in the company of others in a casual setting. Yet, I discovered the power of non-verbal communication—how much connection can be achieved through simple gestures and body language. In short, the silence was transformative. It’s incredible how much you can notice about yourself and the world around you when you embrace silence. I would highly recommend a silence retreat for anyone seeking peace, joy, and personal insight.
#167: Community
The retreat wouldn’t have been as meaningful without the incredible community that surrounded me. The teachers were knowledgeable and truly inspiring, guiding us with wisdom and compassion. My fellow participants were supportive and kind, adding layers of richness to the experience. I’m deeply grateful for each and every one of them, as they made the retreat not just rewarding, but deeply meaningful and unforgettable.
#168: Awe Moment 1
During the retreat, I experienced two moments of intense awe and gratitude. The first occurred on the third day during a walking meditation. We strolled through a garden bursting with vibrant flowers. After three days of silence and eight hours of daily meditation, I found myself in a state of profound peace, fully present in the moment. As I knelt down to smell two different flowers, I was struck by the beauty around me—the bright colors, the fresh scents, and the sight of tomatoes ripening from dark green to bright red. My heart swelled with gratitude for the Earth and its endless gifts. A tear slipped down my cheek, and for about ten minutes, I was enveloped in an overwhelming sense of gratitude—a feeling that stayed with me for the rest of the retreat.
#169: Awe Moment 2
The second awe-inspiring moment happened later that evening. It had been raining on and off throughout the day, with a hurricane passing nearby. During our last meditation session at 7 PM, the rain was pouring down. But as the session ended at 7:30, the rain stopped. A fellow participant gestured that there was something beautiful outside, and I rushed out, thinking I might catch a glimpse of a rainbow. Instead, I was greeted by a breathtaking sight—the moon, enormous and radiant, peeking through fast-moving clouds at dusk.
Drawn by the beauty, I walked down to a stream that passes close by. The power and sound of the water was humbling. As I looked up hill, I saw tall grass swaying gently in the wind, and the moon glowing brightly as the clouds danced across the sky. I was filled with an intense sense of awe, gratitude, and pure joy. The birds were singing their final songs before nightfall, and in that moment, I felt incredibly fortunate to be alive, witnessing such natural beauty.
#170: Nature
This retreat reminded me of just how breathtaking nature can be, especially when observed in silence. The retreat was nestled amidst mountains, their slopes lush with a variety of green trees. I noticed the vivid colors of birds and their sweet songs, the intricate patterns of rocks, and the dance of butterflies. Throughout the week, I encountered deer, a groundhog, and even fish in the stream.
On the last night, a meteor shower lit up the sky. I woke in the middle of the night to marvel at the stars, and in remote Vermont, it was undimmed by light pollution. At 4 AM, I joined two other participants to watch the sunrise, a moment of serene beauty that filled me with joy. For all these experiences, I am profoundly grateful.
There’s something magical about stumbling upon a hidden gem in your own neighborhood, isn’t there? This week, my best friend and I found ourselves basking in the warmth of a local diner, and let me tell you, it was a delightful experience.
From the moment we stepped in, the aroma of homemade soup welcomed us, instantly setting the tone for a great evening. What struck me the most was the genuine friendliness by everyone there. It felt like stepping into a welcoming summer oasis, a place where worries melt away and good vibes flourish. And the food? Oh, it was a symphony of flavors, all at a reasonable price. With each bite, it felt like a tastebud adventure, and I found myself already planning my next visit.
#52: Best Friend
But of course, what’s a memorable experience without your best friend by your side? Their presence added an extra layer of joy to the evening, turning it into an unforgettable memory. It’s moments like these that remind me of the importance of cherished friendships and the simple joys they bring. Thank you for a wonderful time!
#53: MBSR
On Mondays I attend the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) sessions offered by the University of Massachusetts Medical School. These sessions have become a lifeline, offering a sanctuary where I can unwind and center myself. The transformative power of mindfulness cannot be overstated, and I’m immensely thankful for the peace it brings to my life.
#54: The 100 TV Series
I recently started watching the show “The 100” on Netflix. While the acting may not be Oscar-worthy and the plot a little predictable at times, there’s an undeniable allure to the storyline. It’s one of those guilty pleasures that keeps you hooked despite its flaws, and for that, I’m grateful.
#55: Delicious Strawberries
Did you know that strawberries are not widely grown in Kenya? In fact? I did not eat my first strawberry till I moved to the United States. Strawberries can be a hit or miss for me. But this week I ate some really delicious strawberries from Trader Joe’s. I am very grateful for delicious strawberries.
What are you grateful for this week? Feel free to leave me a comment.
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.
At my apartment complex, the laundry room is a short three-minute walk from my place. When the weather is nice, that brief stroll becomes one of my favorite parts of doing laundry. It’s a simple pleasure—feeling the sun on my face, breathing in the fresh air, and enjoying a few peaceful moments before getting back to my chores.
#202: Waitress Remembering You
This week, my girlfriend and I visited a local sushi spot, and to our surprise, the waitress remembered us and even our usual sushi order. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or not, but it definitely gave us a good laugh. It was a light-hearted moment, and I was grateful for the shared laughter with my girlfriend and the waitress—it added a fun twist to our evening out.
#203: Weekend Off
One thing I often take for granted is having weekends off. Not everyone has that luxury—my partner, for instance, is a nurse and sometimes has to work weekends. I’ve also had jobs in the past where weekends weren’t always free. But this week, I had the entire weekend to myself, and I’m particularly grateful for the freedom to do whatever I wished. It was a much-needed break, and I didn’t take a single moment of it for granted.
#204: Banana Oatmeal Bars
My girlfriend and I recently discovered an amazing Banana Oatmeal Bar recipe that has quickly become a breakfast staple in our home. The best part? The recipe calls for very ripe bananas, which means we haven’t wasted a single banana since we found it. These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even dessert. This week, I am especially grateful for these tasty treats.
#205: Taste
A few weeks ago, I tested positive for COVID, and along with other symptoms, I lost my sense of taste. I wouldn’t call myself a foodie, but I do enjoy a good meal, so losing that ability was incredibly frustrating. This week, I’m beyond grateful to be able to savor food. It’s amazing how much you can miss something as simple as taste until it’s gone.
