It seems like every day there is something new in the news that we need to be wary about. Yesterday it was that some hand sanitizers are toxic. I'm guessing you are safe with Purell, but check to see where yours is manufactured. Apparently, sanitizers made outside of the country (and possibly some made here, as well) are made with methanol, or wood alcohol and are being recalled. It won't be listed in the ingredients, so you need to check to see if what you are using is one of the problem brands. Here is a searchable list put out by the FDA.

Since the FDA has not put their stamp of approval on any brands, you should beware of those saying "FDA-approved."

It's hard to see so many states seeming to slip backwards rather than making progress in containing this virus. We are fortunate to live here in Vermont, especially in the Northeast Kingdom where there are few cases, but there is a continual influx of visitors from other states - some coming here to buy property, others just visiting, and that could mean there will be more cases here over time. Fall foliage season will bring more visitors and it is unlikely they will self-quarantine - and some will not even bother to wear face coverings. I think in order to protect ourselves, we must speak up when someone not wearing a mask approaches us. Ask them politely to keep their distance or put on a face mask. Not wearing a mask in public is being disrespectful and cavalier about others' safety, and that is not acceptable. Doctors and scientists agree that if everyone wore face masks, the virus would die out within about two months. Just think - if masks had been mandated everywhere back in March when this thing hit, we would not be in the serious situation we're in today! However, we have to live with the reality we've cultivated, and it isn't pretty. Every day I wonder how in the world we got to this point. We are supposed to be a nation of intelligent, caring, reasonable people - and yet, here we are. It boggles the mind.