I gave blood for the first time yesterday.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. And it was uncomfortable. And it did hurt, though I had an excellent phlebotomist who was funny, calming, and took great care of me when, as soon as the needle was removed, I developed a tingling/burning sensation all over my body, and instantly got really overheated and nauseous. He was also dressed as the grim reaper.
No, really.
Last year the theatre was doing Dracula during the annual blood drive (which also happens to be within a week of Halloween and takes place at a theatre, of all perfect places), so the Red Cross folks dressed up as vampires to collect blood. This year in anticipation of Halloween and – it’s a stretch but it kind of works – with our current production of Freud’s Last Session, they came dressed up as grim reapers and the like. I bet they look forward to the blood drive at the theatre every year. I love people with a sense of humor. Nothing cuts the tension or nerves quite like a grim reaper asking you personal health questions.
I told them next year they should dress as mosquitoes.
But 45 minutes of rest, a few cold compresses, and about 8 cookies later, I survived and feel great knowing my blood will hopefully be a lifesaver to somebody in need.
Donate blood. Do it.
PSA complete.
And last night Sandy made landfall. 24 years living in Texas, mere hours from the Gulf….and nothing. Less than 2 months living mere hours from the east coast…and bam! Hurricane.
Alas, Sandy is nothing if not punctual. Just as forecast, the wind and rain started in at promptly 5 p.m on Monday. But between some hot Vietnamese pho for dinner with a friend, apple cider and rum, some sea salt dark chocolate, autumn scented candles, relaxing music, a cozy blanket, and a great book…I was all set for a night in while the storms raged outside.
It could always be worse. You just gotta be thankful it’s not.
:)
