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Now, let your breath guide you back to the present moment, where peace and mindfulness reside.

Thank you for reading today’s edition of Grateful Gazette 😌

Here’s what to know for Thursday:

• Sea otters help protect California’s coast from erosion

• Seed swap event in Charlottetown is bringing joy to gardeners

• K9 hero finds missing 11-year-old

UNLIKELY HEROES SAVING CALIFORNIA’S COASTLINE

Our favorite furry ocean-dwellers, the sea otters, are here to save the day once again. They are fighting coastal erosion along California's picturesque coastline.

According to a recent report by the Associated Press, these lovable creatures might be playing a crucial role in preserving the beauty of California's coast.

You see, sea otters have a talent for cracking open shellfish, which they've been doing for decades.

But as it turns out, their love for seafood might be helping to prevent coastal erosion. Researchers found out that when sea otters eat crabs, it helps keep the number of burrowing crabs in check.

Burrowing crabs have been causing trouble in California's estuaries and bays.

So it turns out that sea otter’s crab-eating habits are ensuring that coastal seagrass beds remain intact.

It's like they're throwing a never-ending crab feast that's not only delicious but also eco-friendly.

So, next time you spot a sea otter floating on its back, cracking open a clam, remember that they're not just cute. They're here to maintain the balance of our coastal ecosystems and keep erosion at bay.

Our furry, sea-loving buddies are out there saving the day one crab at a time.

🌿 A seed swap event is bringing joy to Islanders in the winter

🩲 Primark launches accessible underwear line with magnetic closures

⚒ Germany experiments with 4-day workweek model

🤱 Kentucky family adopts a baby boy who was left at a fire station

💵 Good Samaritan drives miles to return lost wallet on New Year’s Eve

🚍 Dublin unveils the world’s first transport accessibility training center

An 11-year-old girl who was reported missing and in danger is now safe and sound.

And it’s all thanks to the incredible efforts of a sheriff's K9 deputy in sunny Wimauma, Florida.

Deputy Mary Lu, the K9 superstar, went on a thrilling search mission around a local park one evening, as captured by the deputy's trusty body camera.

As Mary Lu closed in on the scent, her handler, Deputy Sarah Ernstes, had a brilliant idea. She asked if Mary Lu could reward the found 11-year-old with some adorable puppy kisses.

And you know what? The brave girl agreed!

Cue the "awws" and the heart-melting moment when Mary Lu planted a big, slobbery kiss on her rescuer.

It turns out our four-legged heroes not only have wagging tails but also big hearts. Sheriff Chad Chronister couldn't be prouder, saying, "Our team HCSO K9 Unit has once again proven its invaluable role in our community."

Isn't it amazing how our furry friends can bring smiles even in the most challenging situations?

I don’t know what’s happening here.

But I am definitely impressed.

- Thank you for reading Grateful Gazette. Remember to breathe deeply to bring your mind back to your body 💜

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