Heartfelt Clips and Healthy Tips: July 6, 2017

Earlier this year, we had a stray dog appear at work. We named her Lady; she seemed to be a very smart dog. We posted on Facebook, but no one claimed her. We took care of her for a few days while asking around to see if anyone could take her home with them. Finally, we had a man that was willing to take Lady home to his 2 boys who had just lost a dog a few weeks earlier. Lady loved her new home with the 2 boys.

The boys recently got some chickens to raise, in which they named one Gurdy.  We were told Gurdy had 3 siblings at one time, but something kept killing them. Gurdy was the only one who survived the killings. Lady was Gurdy’s protector, and they became best friends. They do everything best friends do together; they play, eat, and sleep together. I was told sometimes when Lady wants to rest, Gurdy doesn’t, so she constantly pecks on Lady to try to get her to play. One day Gurdy was standing on top of Lady and wanted to play, but Lady did not. Lady had become so aggravated, that she gently grasped Gurdy with her mouth and proceeded to place her on the ground beside her to let her know that she was not in a playing mood. Gurdy got the hint.

A few weeks ago the owners awoke one morning to a strange sound, similar to a rooster. While investigating the sound, they were amazed to realize that Gurdy was not in fact a chicken but a rooster instead!

Always remember, best friends can come in all shapes and sizes.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FRESH GARDEN VEGETABLES

We are in peak season for the harvesting of our gardens, which are full of healthy nutrients. If you do not have a garden, you can take advantage of the local Farmer’s Market and the fresh produce stands that are throughout the county. Below are some of the benefits of a few garden fresh veggies.

Tomatoes are packed with important antioxidants such as Vitamin C and Vitamin A. They can also help reduce the risk of heart disease with nutrients such as Niacin, Folate, and Vitamin B6. The Lycopene in the tomato is responsible for the red coloring, which is thought to be the contributor in lowering cancer risks.    

Cucumbers also have many healthy benefits and contain 95% water, which helps with hydration. They also contain anti-inflammatory flavonols called Fisetin, which aids in brain health. Cucumbers reduce the risk of cancer as well as containing antioxidants such as Vitamin C and Beta Carotene. They are also known to help reduce stress with the many different vitamin B’s; B1, B5, and B7. 

There are many other fruits and vegetables that contribute to one’s overall health.  Grab one and be a healthier you!