We recently encountered a mold issue in the home we are renting, with mold levels rising to concerning heights. It became urgent to start eliminating the mold immediately. In my search for solutions, I discovered that English Ivy might help by absorbing moisture from the air. Intrigued, I decided to investigate further, and after some research, I ended up purchasing all the English Ivy plants available at the local garden center.

Here is what I learned from ChatGPT:
English Ivy (Hedera helix) has been noted for its ability to improve indoor air quality, including the reduction of mold spores in the air. Some studies have shown that English Ivy can absorb mold spores, helping to decrease their presence in indoor environments. However, it’s important to note that while English Ivy can help reduce airborne mold spores, it is not a comprehensive solution for mold removal.

I then wanted to know if the mold hurts the ivy!
English Ivy (Hedera helix) has evolved to thrive in a variety of environments, including those with high levels of pollutants. The plant’s ability to absorb mold spores and other airborne particles is due to its natural mechanisms for filtering and processing various substances through its leaves and roots.

Here’s why absorbing mold doesn’t damage the ivy:

1. Adaptation to Environment: English Ivy is a hardy plant that has adapted to survive in environments with different pollutants, including mold spores. It has evolved to tolerate and process these substances without being harmed.
2. Detoxification Mechanisms: Plants have natural detoxification processes. They can absorb pollutants through their leaves and roots and then break down or sequester these substances in non-toxic forms within their tissues.
3. Microbial Symbiosis: The roots of English Ivy, like many plants, host beneficial microorganisms that can help break down harmful substances. These microorganisms assist in decomposing pollutants and protecting the plant from potential harm.
4. Efficient Filtration System: The structure of the ivy’s leaves and root system allows it to filter and absorb airborne particles efficiently. This system helps in trapping mold spores and other pollutants, preventing them from spreading further.
5. Stress Tolerance: English Ivy is known for its resilience and ability to tolerate various environmental stresses, including pollution. This makes it less susceptible to damage from absorbing mold spores.

I have had this little book in my golf bag since probably 1982/1983 when I started playing golf. I continue to look at it probably every time I play golf especially for the downhill, sidehill lies instruction. For some reason, I never remember if the ball is below my feet, do I aim left or right of target! Anyhow, when I played with my daughter today, she wanted one and I wondered if it is still in print after over 40 years and it is! See the Amazon link below.

Something for your TO DO list mid-April is to venture to Parsons Reserve in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts to see the field of daffodils. It is a beautiful sight. The village of Padanarum nearby has options for lunch or an early dinner afterwards.

​True confession: if a diet of Oreos and Cheez-Its were like eating salmon and vegetables, I might err on a diet of the former! I consider myself aware of what is and is not 'healthy' to put into my body and make conscious choices. I was introduced to the Yuka App a few years ago. Yuka deciphers product labels and analyzes the health impact of food products and cosmetics. When I began using the app, I realized some of my 'healthy' choices at the grocery store were not as healthy as I thought. It works like this: you scan the bar code of a product you are buying; Yuka rates the product for various things such as additives, proteins, fiber, caloric context, saturated fat, etc. The app then gives an overall rating out of 100 and helps you make an informed decision about whether or not to put the item in the cart or keep it on the shelf. The App is free. I do subscribe to the premium version for $8.95/year. Be careful when you start using the App; those grocery visits can last a while as you want to scan everything!

​My rule is that if I share something more than a few times in a short time, I will add it to Nancy's Almanac. It may be because the nation is in the throws of the primary election season, but the conversation of wanting unbiased news has come up. To that end, I share my favorite source of news, 1440. Their site describes them as 'Today's news. Edited to be unbiased as humanly possible.'  Over 3.4 million receive their daily newsletter. I am one of them. Check it out and see if it works for you.

For a few reasons, Essentia water has been my go-to water for a while. My chiropractor, Ali Austin at Duxbury Wellness, recommended that I drink water with electrolytes. Electrolytes play a crucial role in muscle function, helping relieve tight muscles. They are minerals with an electric charge, like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, essential for various bodily functions. Maintaining a proper balance of electrolytes through diet or supplementation can be beneficial in managing muscle tightness. My sister was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer 12 years ago. I am overjoyed to say she is cancer-free. When she switched to immunotherapy for treatment, she also changed oncologists. Her new oncologist recommended many dietary changes, including only drinking pure water. Since that time, I have been drinking pure water exclusively. When I searched for water with electrolytes, I chose Essentia because it is pure water with electrolytes. 

​Itchy eye trouble?...
A couple of years ago, I had a stye in my eye, which was really uncomfortable. Because of my allergies, I tend to have dry eyes that can get very itchy depending on the season or the trigger I am exposed to. I had it treated and began a protocol that I continue with today. I learned that the slightest bit of dirt, dust, or residual eye makeup could irritate and clog your eye, creating a stye. I began using eyelid wipes regularly and also hydrated my eyes. I treated my stye with Simalson Stye Relief, but I recommend consulting your doctor for this and any advice. My takeaway from this experience was to keep my eyelids clean!