This Week I’m Grateful For…

161. Overnight Rain

162. Toastmasters

163. A New Adjunct Professor Role

164. A Friendly Cat

165. Evening Walks

166. Cooling Temperatures

167. The Approach of Fall

168. Back-to-School Energy

169. Succession

170. Kenyan Tea

#161: Overnight Rain

Yesterday afternoon, while sitting outside, the sky shifted in an instant. Dark clouds rolled in, the wind shook the trees, and the air felt charged with anticipation. Soon, lightning flashed, thunder roared, and a tornado warning buzzed across my phone. It was humbling, a little scary, but also awe-inspiring.

When the rain finally came, it poured with force, rattling the windows and creating a river on the ground. Later in the evening, the storm softened into a gentle patter, tapping on the glass like nature’s lullaby. I fell asleep to it and slept like a baby.

#162: Toastmasters

This week, I delivered my very first Toastmasters speech. The nerves were there, but so was the joy. What stood out most was the thoughtful feedback I received from the group. Over the years, public speaking has become something I no longer avoid but a skill I’m learning to shape. That shift in perspective feels empowering.

#163: A New Adjunct Professor Role

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been offered an adjunct professor position at my workplace! My first class is this Tuesday, and I’m both excited and honored for the opportunity to step into this new chapter.

#164: A Friendly Cat

On a walk with my girlfriend, we stumbled upon the sweetest little tuxedo cat; black fur, white paws, and the friendliest meow. He brushed against our legs, followed us down a narrow path, and completely stole our hearts.

Curious, we knocked on a nearby door to ask if he belonged to anyone. A kind couple told us he’s the neighborhood cat, free to roam. Relieved, we said goodbye (though my girlfriend had a hard time walking away). Hoping we cross paths with him again soon.

#165: Evening Walks

Speaking of walks, I’m grateful for the evening strolls my girlfriend and I shared this week. A simple rhythm of steps, conversation, and presence. It’s these small rituals that make life feel full.

#166: Cooling Temperatures

Lately, the weather has lingered between 64–74°F, which to me is absolute perfection. Cool enough for a sweater in the morning, warm enough to exercise comfortably, and crisp enough for restful sleep at night.

#167: The Approach of Fall

These cooler days are a gentle nudge that fall is near. I don’t want to rush it, but I can’t deny that autumn is my favorite season. Stay tuned for some fall-themed posts coming soon!

#168: Back-to-School Energy

As a student, back-to-school season was always bittersweet, happy reunions with friends mixed with the sadness of summer’s end. Now, working in higher education, that ambivalence remains. Part of me mourns the quiet of summer, but another part comes alive seeing students return and campus energy build again.

#169: Succession

After putting it down last year, I recently restarted Succession on HBO. Five episodes in, and I’m completely hooked. The writing is sharp, the characters messy, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes.

#170: Kenyan Tea

Few rituals bring me joy like a cup of Kenyan tea. The aroma, the creamy swirl of milk, the warmth in my hands—it’s a daily moment of comfort I savor deeply.

Weekly Spotlight

This week’s spotlight is a quote from Arthur C. Brooks:

“Satisfaction comes not from chasing bigger and bigger things, but paying attention to smaller and smaller things.”
— From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life