The dog is there for decoration and interest - she didn't donate blood or receive a blood donation.  Rosie is just great at posing for the camera.  I, however, am great at being a blood donor and I was reminded again this year that donations fall during the summer months.   I wrote the story below last year when I was a first time donor.  And one fact remains the same one year later - the fact about a drop in blood donations during the summer and not the fact that I need to bribe myself to donate blood (with a promise of Ben & Jerry's).  I am pleased to say that one year later I am a regular donor.  I'm working my way toward donating a gallon of blood which is apparently a milestone.  I want to join that club.

The towel in the picture is the bribe that Bonfils Blood Center is offering this summer in exchange for a donation.  Last year Bonfils offered a handy-dandy water bottle complete with carabiner which also made me feel very outdoorsy and adventurous.  May I just add that carabiner became a key ring that I use daily - I never did climb a cliff in the last twelve months but I still hold out hope - I first need to overcome my fear of climbing anything, like a ladder.  (See my story "Got Poop?" and "Volunteer Vacation.")

Anyway, if you have a spare lunch hour, find a place in your city and donate blood before all the good presents run out.

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