words of wisdom

Walter’s

WORDS OF WISDOM

By Walter Eugene Davis Senior Helpers – Stratham, NH

Getting Ready for the Dog Days of Summer

Growing up the “dog days of summer” were meant for those hazy, hot and humid days when all you wanted to do is lay under the tree in the back yard. I have my spot all picked out! But did you know that the “dog days” started with the Greeks and Romans around the time when Sirius appeared to rise just before the sun, in late July? That time of the summer was the hottest time of the year.

As we start down the path of the summer of 2021, I have a few things that you humans may want to check out here on the Seacoast of New Hampshire.

The Gundalow Company – See the Piscataqua River from a unique point of view. The authentic re-creation of the vessels that worked the river as early as the 1860’s delivering goods up and down the river where the big boats were unable to travel. Aboard The Gundalow you will learn about the area, the maritime history, and the ecology. They offer daily sails and educational events for all ages. Check them out at: www.gundalow.org.

Odiorne State Park – 135 acres of walking trails, open space for a picnic or to fly a kite while taking in spectacular ocean views. Take the opportunity to learn at the Seacoast Science Center with daily classes about marine life, tidal pools, star gazing, military history and more. A true gem! (www.nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/odiorne-point-state-park) Fuller Gardens – Started back in the 1920’s by former Massachusetts Governor Alvan Fuller with the formal rose gardens on his summer estate. Hundreds of varieties adorn this meticulously maintained property. Additional themed gardens have been added over the years, including the Japanese garden and one that displays dahlias. A photographers haven! For more details visit: www.fullergardens.org. Now, its all about me! I would like to suggest some great locations for taking your furry friend for a walk that you will enjoy too! Plaice Cove and Whites Lane Trail in Hampton, Wagon Hill Farm in Durham, Stratham Hill Park, Philips Exeter Academy trails and Gilman Park in Exeter, and Route 33 Dog Park and the Urban Forestry Center in Portsmouth. Leashes are required and don’t forget to pick up after yourself.

It has been a heck of a year. Get out and enjoy the sunshine, the breeze blowing through your hair, and your mask-less face! But do not let your guard down as that “C” thing is still out there!

Walter

A big thanks to Dwight & Gayle Davis, owners of Senior Helpers, for encouraging Walter Eugene to write this column! Walter is a 6-year-old Lab mix rescue. They all found each other via New England Lab Rescue. Walter came from Hartsville, SC, and ended up hitting the jackpot with his new family! He participates in the family business providing love and comfort to many, with his official title being “Director of Security & Pet Relations.” Walter is also an active member of the welcoming committee! Senior Helpers provides in-home, non-medical care offering tailored services ranging from companion care for those who need daily assistance to in-depth specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s and other chronic diseases. They’ve worked with clients ranging in age from 25 to 104. Senior Helpers was voted “Best of the Seacoast” in home health care and received the “Business Excellence Award” and “Top 200 Most Influential Business Leaders in New Hampshire” from the New Hampshire Business Review.