This Week, I’m Grateful For…
81. Health
82. My Mother
83. Brazilian Food
84. Green Trees
85. The Sound of Wind in the Trees
86. Swallows Dancing in the Sky
87. Baths
88. Popcorn
89. Sun after Rain
90.Family and Birthdays
#81: Health
I haven’t posted in 2 weeks—I came down with something and needed time to rest and heal. I’m finally starting to feel like myself again and getting back into working out, which makes me extra grateful for good health. It’s so easy to take feeling well for granted, until it’s gone. There’s a quote I love that says, “If you’re healthy, you have a thousand problems. But if you’re unhealthy, you have only one.” It rings especially true this week.
#82: My Mother
As I write this, it’s Mother’s Day, and I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for my mom. Words truly fall short. If I ever write a book about my life, it will begin—and likely revolve around—how incredible she is. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without her courage, love, strength, and guidance. Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mothers out there!
#83: Brazilian Food
I love exploring different cuisines, but Brazilian food has a special place in my heart (and stomach). There’s a local Brazilian buffet I frequent where you can load your plate with everything from brown rice and black beans to fresh salads, sweet plantains, and an incredible variety of meats. My go-to? Juicy, flavorful picanha. Just thinking about it is making me hungry.
#84: Green Trees
There’s something magical about the moment trees burst into full, leafy life. The bright greens of spring feel like nature’s celebration. I’ve been soaking up every bit of it, welcoming the warmer days with open arms.
#85: The Sound of Wind in the Trees
One of the quiet joys I’d forgotten during winter is the sound of the wind rustling through leaves. When I walk through the park now, I like to pause, close my eyes, and just listen—the wind, birdsong, and the laughter of people enjoying the season. It’s pure peace.
#86: Swallows Dancing in the Sky
Swallows have returned, swirling and gliding in the spring air. There’s something so calming about watching them move, their freedom and grace almost meditative. They remind me of the swallows I grew up seeing in Kenya—a sweet memory carried on the wind.
#87: Baths
I usually shower, but this week I took a bath—and wow, I forgot how deeply relaxing a warm soak can be. I listened to a podcast, let the day melt away, and emerged feeling like a new person.
#88: Popcorn
A few years ago, my partner had the genius idea to buy fresh popcorn kernels, and we’ve never looked back. There’s something so satisfying about hearing them pop on the stove. It’s cheaper, more fun, and way more delicious than microwave bags. Honestly, it turns a snack into an experience.
#89: Sun After Rain
Yesterday started with a heavy, moody rain that made it feel like the day would stay gray. But by afternoon, the clouds parted and sunshine spilled across everything. Birds chirped with what sounded like joy, and I took a long, refreshing walk. One of the things I love about New England is how the weather shifts so dramatically—it keeps you paying attention.
#90: Italian Food
Let’s just say Italian food will always be a top-tier comfort for me. Two weekends ago, I had a plate of pasta with red sauce that almost brought me to tears. Rich, comforting, and soul-satisfying—I’ll definitely be going back for more. Just look at the picture I took of the food…
Weekly Spotlight
This week’s spotlight is a quote often attributed to Lao Tzu, a legendary Chinese Philosopher
“Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.”
―
