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109-Year-Old Man Shares Tips for Longevity

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Quick Smiles:

  • Vincent Dransfield, a 109-year-old man from Little Falls, New Jersey, is a testament to the fact that healthy longevity is achievable, with a fit mind and body.
  • Dransfield credits his longevity to spending time doing what he loves, drinking milk, staying active, enjoying what he eats, fixing bad habits, and staying optimistic.
  • His love for the local volunteer fire department and drinking Ovaltine every day after breakfast are just a few things that have contributed to his long and fulfilling life.

Vincent Dransfield is a 109-year-old man who still lives independently in his own house in Little Falls, New Jersey, where he has resided since 1945. He has never had major diseases, like cancer or heart disease and requires no help navigating between the home’s main floor, his bedroom upstairs, and the basement where he does his laundry. Dransfield was funny and flirtatious when a reporter called and asked how he feels at 109.

“How do I feel? Let’s go out to a dance somewhere. How about that? That’s how I feel. I’ve been very, very, very lucky in my lifetime. I feel perfect,” Dransfield tells TODAY.com.

While living to 100 years or longer isn’t rare anymore, it’s uncommon for men to live that long. Among centenarians, 85% are women and 15% are men, according to the New England Centenarian Study based at Boston University. However, Dransfield not only enjoys incredible longevity but also healthy longevity, with a fit mind and body.

Dransfield has one child, three grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His wife of 54 years died in 1992. Many of his family members recently gathered at his home to celebrate his 109th birthday with pizza and carrot cake, his favorite.

Here are six tips for living a long and healthy life from Vincent Dransfield himself:

1. Spend time doing what you love

Dransfield spent more than 80 years serving as a member of the local volunteer fire department and was the chief for a period of time. When asked what brought him happiness and kept him going in life, he quickly answers: “The fire department. … I met so many friends.” Dransfield continued to be a regular at the firehouse as he got older and was part of the “3 to 5 club.” “After my grandmother passed away, that’s really what kept him going. Every day, he would go to the firehouse from 3 to 5, and all the old guys would sit there and hang out. That was like his family,” says Erica Lista, Dransfield’s granddaughter.

2. Milk does a body good

Dransfield left school after 8th grade and went to work for a dairy farm at 15 to help support his family. He delivered milk for five years and drank as much of it as he wanted, which he attributes to giving him a healthy boost — especially during the Great Depression in the 1930s. “I was drinking milk and eating well because I worked on a farm. And I often go back and think they gave me a good start in life and for my bones in my body,” Dransfield says. Milk still plays a role in his life: The centenarian credits drinking Ovaltine — a milk flavoring and nutrition supplement — every day after breakfast for his longevity. He’s been so outspoken about it that when he turned 100, everyone drank Ovaltine at his birthday party, Lista says.

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3. Stay active

Dransfield didn’t lift weights or exercise in a gym, but he kept moving throughout his life. “I was 21 years old when I joined the fire department, and that’s the exercise I got every day — answered the fire alarms in Little Falls,” he says. “I was active and ran out when the alarm went off for 40 years. Then for the next 40 years, (I continued) when I felt like it.” Structured exercise amuses him. “He laughs at people who jog. He’s like, ‘Where are they running to?’” his granddaughter says.

4. Enjoy what you eat

The centenarian likes Italian food, hamburgers, and sweets, and drinks coffee and beer. Despite not being careful about his diet, he has always been fit and has never had to watch his weight or lose weight.

“What’s crazy is he was not careful about his diet,” Lista said.

“He has eaten whatever he wants. He has never watched his weight. He’s never had to lose weight. He’s always been fit.”

5. It’s never too late to fix a bad habit

Dransfield believes that it’s never too late to fix a bad habit. He started smoking at 50 but quit about 20 years later because he decided to stop. He simply threw away his cigarettes and never smoked again.

6. Stay optimistic

Dransfield considers himself an optimist. He has a great sense of humor and likes to know everybody’s name in his community. He believes that staying positive and engaged with others is key to a long and fulfilling life.

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“I keep positive. I never think any other way when something’s wrong,” Dransfield said. “I’m doing fine and I hope the good Lord keeps me that way.”

Vincent Dransfield is a testament to the fact that a long and healthy life is achievable, even in old age. By staying active, eating what he loves, and staying engaged with his community, he has lived a fulfilling and happy life.


Source: TODAY.com

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Heroes

Kind Hearts Shield Convertible From Pouring Rain! [Video]

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Quick Smiles:

  • Four benevolent souls rush to the aid of a stranger’s convertible soaking in the sudden rain, bringing smiles to all who witness.
  • Using a pop-up tent, these unsung heroes ensure the car is shielded, showcasing a spontaneous act of kindness and community spirit.
  • This heartwarming scene rekindles faith in humanity and serves as a wonderful reminder of the goodness residing in people’s hearts.

There’s a certain kind of magic in witnessing spontaneous acts of kindness, especially when they unfold amidst unexpected storms.

In a moment caught in a TikTok video, we see the world becoming a bit warmer, a bit kinder, as four empathetic individuals rush to the aid of a convertible caught in the unrelenting rain.

We might not know who the owner of the convertible is or why their roof wasn’t up, but what we do know is the compassion and community spirit that filled the air as the rain poured down.

It’s a delightful scene, witnessing these kind souls, strangers to the car owner, springing into action to shield the soaking car.

@fjerry

Good people do exist ♬ original sound – FJerry

In a display of teamwork and kindness, they bring over a pop-up tent, meticulously ensuring it’s stable and securely placed over the car. Every careful adjustment, every thoughtful touch, encapsulates the essence of human connection and shared responsibility.

While it’s probable the car had suffered some damage, the considerate efforts of these kind hearts unquestionably made a difference.

In a world teeming with haste and individual concerns, witnessing such unprompted acts of generosity and care is indeed refreshing. It’s moments like these, where kindness is the hero, that bolster our faith in humanity, reminding us that the spirit of altruism and compassion is alive and well.

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This uplifting incident is a beacon of hope and inspiration, gently nudging us to look around and extend a helping hand, to add a sprinkle of kindness in someone’s day.

After all, the essence of life is intertwined with the moments of goodwill we share, the smiles we spread, and the hearts we touch.

Isn’t it wonderful to realize that the world is still full of people willing to go that extra mile to spread joy and alleviate discomfort? It’s these endearing acts, these gentle whispers of kindness, that truly make the world go round, creating a symphony of love and compassion for all to hear.

So here’s to the kind souls who protect and care, who spread love without a second thought. Let’s follow in their footsteps and color the world with kindness, one thoughtful act at a time!


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Cute Animals

Golden Buddies’ Sun-Filled Day of Play Spreads Joy and Smiles! [Video]

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Quick Smiles:

  • Golden Retrievers, Oatmeal and buddy, bring laughter and light with their delightful playdate in the park.
  • A viral TikTok clip captures the furry friends embarking on various adventures, from splashing in puddles to a friendly game of chase.
  • This heartwarming moment reminds us of the simple joys of play and friendship, echoing the importance of socialization and health for our four-legged companions.

Isn’t it delightful to see our fuzzy companions frolicking in the sun, playing chase, and splashing about in mud puddles?

We find a piece of pure, unadulterated joy in a playful moment caught on a TikTok video by @goldenchilaquil, featuring two adorable Golden Retrievers, including one named Oatmeal.

@goldenchilaquil

Mr Oatmeal got me in the water again! 🥣🫧💦 #fyp #dogtok #dogsoftiktok #chilaquil #doglover #petsoftiktok #goldenretriever #losangeles

♬ original sound – Chilaquil

Their wagging tails and ecstatic greetings set the tone for a day filled with happiness and simple pleasures.

Amidst the sun’s gentle warmth and the park’s vibrant green, our golden buddies engage in amusing escapades, each one brimming with joyful zest.

For our lovely fur-babies, much like us, socialization is a key aspect of a fulfilled life. Interaction with their furry peers not only helps them learn appropriate behavior and essential life skills but also fosters a sense of confidence.

Regular social engagements not only ward off feelings of anxiety and depression in our pets but also mitigate the chances of destructive behavior.

Active play brings along myriad health benefits as well. Remember the joyous splashes in the puddles? That swimming is a superb low-impact exercise, aiding muscle development and promoting joint health.

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Even the sheer act of running around the grassy expanses can do wonders for their cardiovascular health and keep those extra pounds at bay!

But it’s not just about fun and games. Oatmeal and his charming friend share activities that are therapeutic, enhancing their physical and emotional well-being. In the act of digging and running, they find moments of stress relief and joy.

In our fast-paced lives, we sometimes overlook the simple joys. The laughter and happiness radiating from Oatmeal and his friend serve as gentle reminders to step out and relish in the unabated joy of play and companionship.

A sun-filled day in the park, a wagging tail, a splash in the puddle—sometimes, that’s all the therapy we need, to paint our lives with the colors of joy and happiness.

Let’s take a cue from our golden buddies. Let’s slow down, embrace the warmth of the sun, the laughter of friends, and the sheer delight of living in the moment. After all, a happy heart and a joyful spirit are timeless treasures!


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Jersey Man’s Free Lawn Care Spreads Joy Nationwide [Video]

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Quick Smiles:

  • Brian Schwartz, a big-hearted New Jersey man, mows lawns for free, bringing relief and joy to seniors, the disabled, and veterans.
  • The nationwide movement, “I Want To Mow Your Lawn,” has sprouted international roots, with over 500 volunteers actively brightening lives in 46 states.
  • Beyond lawns, Brian’s team spreads happiness by aiding in sustainable garden planning and tackling various yard tasks, leaving a lasting impact on communities.

A Sprout of Kindness

In the heart of New Jersey blooms a tale of joy and compassion, where Brian Schwartz’s resilient spirit and generous heart have cultivated a garden of happiness for many.

After facing job loss, Brian didn’t succumb to despair; instead, he decided to pull-start a nationwide movement to automate and scale kindness, radiating positivity in the world.

“I want to mow your lawn,” declares Brian, his commitment resonating so genuinely that it has even earned a trademark!

His volunteering journey began as a beacon of support for seniors, the disabled, and veterans, helping them with lawn care, hedge trimming, and tree cutting—all without charging a penny.

Sprinkles of Fulfillment and Unity

“Every lawn mowed is not just grass cut; it’s relief provided, a burden eased, and a community strengthened,” Brian shares with radiant warmth.

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Helping individuals like Edna, a devoted teacher, or Peter, a D-Day Veteran, isn’t just a service; it’s an embrace of fulfillment, a whisper of encouragement, making every task incredibly rewarding.

Brian’s initiative, “I Want To Mow Your Lawn,” has blossomed beyond borders, with like-minded organizations in Australia, the UK, and Canada joining in.

Over 500 volunteers across 46 states have now become the agents of change, sprucing up over 2,000 lawns and weaving threads of unity and care in communities worldwide.

The Legacy of Love

Behind this canvas of kindness is Brian’s late father, a symbol of pride and encouragement, who believed deeply in Brian’s vision.

“The notion of him looking down with pride, knowing that we’re making a tangible difference, is a powerful driving force,” says Brian, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of remembrance and joy.

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It’s not merely about helping the immediate community but also about nurturing the values and principles of the next generation, like his young son, Dylan, who absorbs the essence of their noble work.

Sustainability and Lasting Impact

Brian’s endeavors don’t just stop at lawn mowing. He’s steering people towards more sustainable garden planning, introducing innovations like rock gardens, native gardens, and environment-friendly equipment.

Brian’s collaboration with major equipment makers and partners like Project Evergreen and Raising Men Lawn Care Service amplifies his impact, making every lawn a canvas of joy and sustainability.

Surprisingly, “I Want To Mow Your Lawn” also advocates for “No Mow May,” a petition emphasizing the importance of untouched lawns as vital food-producing havens for pollinators during spring, which has garnered substantial support.

Spreading Joy Beyond Lawns

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Peek into the organization’s YouTube channel, and you’ll see the smiles aren’t just limited to greener lawns. Whether it’s piles of leaves, snow, or ice, Brian and his merry band of volunteers are on a mission, spreading cheer and solving problems, leaving no lawn unloved.

This cheerful journey, sprouting from a simple desire to make a positive impact, paints the world with strokes of kindness, unity, and love, showcasing that the simplest acts can sow the seeds of widespread happiness and hope.


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