I did my good deed for the week on Monday, making my 39th blood donation!

Every donation consists of one pint so I was curious to find out what that equated to in gallons. That’s almost 5 gallons I’ve donated, so far! Crazy! Anyway, I’ve always encouraged my friends to donate blood whenever they can.  There are few opportunities in life where you can regularly make a difference in another person’s life and giving blood is a surefire way to know that you are making a difference!  And I hear it’s supposed to be good for you, too!  Something about blood regeneration, I think . . .

Donating blood is easy! It’s relatively painless (like a pin prick) and it feels good to know that you’re helping somebody in need. The American Red Cross is a good place to start when seeking a blood center near you!

. . . it’s all about good karma! . . .

I’m officially in love . . . and my forbidden lover’s name – Relax The Back. Yes, I am in love with a store! But, this isn’t just any run-o’-the-mill store! I went for the first time today and the feeling that eventually overcame me was that of discovering a tomb of a lost pharaoh in Egypt (ok, perhaps I am easily excitable). Hey, it’s all about the little things, right? But, when you think about the fact that we spend 1/3 of our lives in bed (some of us more . . . but, I won’t mention any names) and probably an equal amount of time in our offices or in front of a computer then it makes sense that we should, whenever possible, invest in products that improve the quality of that time spent on our backs or in front of the computer screen!

First, let me tell you about these Tempur-Pedic beds . . . specifically, one called the GrandBed. Ok, here’s my dilemma . . . I do hope to have kids someday . . . and I’d like to think they will go to college . . . . . . . hmmm – GrandBed or kids’ education(s). It’s a tough call . . . I’ll have to get back to you on that one . . .

Next, because I am a photographer who works specifically with digital equipment I spend hours upon hours in front of the computer which can really wear on you over time. It is critical to have a comfortable workstation. And this new workstation I’m looking at is killer! Ok, get this – it’s electronic and the height of the desk increases or decreases just with the touch of a button. How can I possibly make you understand? Try putting your computer on your kitchen counter and then stack three or four phone books underneath it so the computer screen is at eye level . . . see what I mean? I’ll try to avoid any once you stack you never go back comments (oops!) but that’s what this desk accomplishes. Nirvana!

And, finally I sat on this really funky stool called The Swopper. Yes, it’s crazy looking but don’t knock it for its looks! It felt great on my back! Something about improving “core strength”, or something. Sounds like Pilates talk to me but I don’t care – I’m listenin’ . . . and, alas, probably buyin’, too!

Why do these stores suck me in so? I often ask myself that question. Well, it’s all an investment, right? It’s all about quality of life. And, if I have to sacrifice my future kids’ educations to maintain my quality of life now – and, really, my quality of life now will ultimately benefit them someday, right? – then, I figure it’s the least I can do . . . it’s for the kids!