Do Hand Sanitizers Work?

"Yes," says Dr. Jose Munoz, the director of pediatric infections diseases at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital in Valhalla, New York. But, he cautions, sanitizer and wipes shouldn't replace soap and water, especially if hands are visibly soiled. "You need to physically remove dirt to remove the germs," he explains.

For the best results, Dr. Munoz has these tips:

Use sanitizer sparingly. Many products contain alcohol or other ingredients that shouldn't go into little mouths. So teach your kids to use only a dime-sized dollop (adults should apply sanitizer to toddlers' and babies' hands). "Once the alcohol has evaporated, there's no risk of poisoning," he says.

Apply it thoroughly. Hand sanitizer evaporates quickly and doesn't spread as effectively as, say, a lotion might. So be sure to rub sanitizer all over your hands for at least 15 seconds.

Don't wipe it off. Hand sanitizer needs to air-dry. "The drying process is actually part of what kills germs," says Dr. Munoz. "As the alcohol evaporates, it essentially dehydrates them."

- Taken from the December/January 2010 issue of Family Fun Magazine (I highly recommend this magazine!)

The Prayer

By MAD21

My all-time favorite prayer is the one our Father gave to us in Matthew 6:5-15. I prefer the King James version, but mostly because it's the version I memorized as a child. There is something about his kingdom and glory being Forever that gets me every time.

But one of the most beautiful prayers I have ever heard put to music is The Prayer sung by Josh Groban and Charlotte Church. The song was written by David Foster and Carol Bayer Sager for the movie Quest For Camelot. I leave the words here below for you as well as a video. I am so thankful for people who can write words and music, and sing so beautifully that you can almost feel God soaring through your soul. I pray it blesses you the same as it does me.

I pray you'll be our eyes
And watch us where we go
And help us to be wise
In times when we don't know

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Life is Funny: Thump In The Night

By MAD21

I had gone to bed early that evening. I was tired from a long day, and not much sleep the night before. I had been asleep for almost two hours when something woke me up. Something was making a loud thumping noise.  It would stop for a second, and then a rustling noise, then thump again. I thought it was my hubby doing something out in the living room, but no. <sigh> So I get out of my cozy warm bed and stomped out into the hallway.

What, or who, do I find?? You'll never guess... My cat, KC, had found something to play with. But this item wasn't any of her usual toys, not even the things she usually steals off the kitchen counters or tables when we aren't looking. No. This evening my cat doesn't steel away with small toys, or toy parts, or even her usual thievery of my daughter's small stuffed animals... No. That night, my cat decided she wanted to play with an AVOCADO. Yes. I have a crazy cat who likes to play. And makes a toy out of anything. Including fruits and veggies... Never a dull moment in my house. I think I've seen it all now.

My friend and fellow blogger Wendy at Weight..What? has a fun carnival at her blog called "Life is Funny." Every Monday we talk about something in life that we find funny. Be sure to go visit her blog to read her post along with links to other blogs who are participating.

Black Friday - Don't Be Caught In The Dark

By Heather (Balance with Purpose)

Long after turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes make you want to take a nap and hours after the final touchdown is thrown on Thanksgiving Day, retailers everywhere open their doors to the millions of people who are courageous enough and determined enough to brave stores in the hopes to get their hands on the perfect Christmas presents at the lowest prices ANYWHERE. Did you hear me? I said “lowest prices anywhere” and I’ll add, “It’s the last time you’ll see those prices or that one special gift.”

Okay, I’m lying, but it’s for the greater good. Let me be the first to tell you, friends, don’t believe everything you see on television or everything you read in the paper, including those pretty, glossy flyers that will arrive bright and early this Sunday.

Especially not those pretty, glossy flyers!!

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A Week For Being Thankful

By MAD21

" We don't give thanks because we are happy.
We are happy because we give thanks."

Following the tradition of Thanksgiving, I thought I would share just a few things I'm thankful for this year:

My Hubby: The love of my life. Who took the time to chase me when I was not the least bit interested in being pursued. Who works hard to take care of our family and is the best father I could have ever dreamed of having for my children. For his love of learning and ability to actually remember things when it's important (which comes in handy a lot considering I lost that ability when I had kids!). For all of our 'inside jokes,' travels together, and for being my best friend.

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