We’re back in California and the last day of traveling really wore me out. I only got a few hours of sleep the night before we flew back from Boston, which didn’t help my comfort level on the 6 1/2 hour flight. I’m certain my extreme tiredness had everything to do with how crappy I’ve felt since our return. Yesterday I threw up a lot, although I was also very nervous about my appointment with Dr. Risky, so I’m sure that was part of my unease too.
I decided to take the tocolytic Indocin as it was prescribed last week. From my research, a week on the drug wouldn’t do any harm, and since I was going to be more active than normal Mike and I figured it would be a good idea. Yet, ever since I started taking the Indocin, my contractions have been more often. We brought this up to Dr. Risky, along with our other concerns about the drug. She is so great in that she listens to all of our questions, and then takes as much time as we need until we reach a decision that we’re all comfortable with. She also checked my cervix (OUCH) and luckily everything is OK in there. Still, these contractions need to go away. I was reading some of the risks involved with contractions and classical c-section scars, and they aren’t good.
I am on an extremely low dose of the Indocin. It’s a drug that, at a higher dose, would carry many risks, but there is also a window during the pregnancy where it can be taken when the risks are lower. At this point in my pregnancy, it’s the best option for reducing contractions (I’ll have more options when I hit 24 weeks). The only potentially bad side effect is that it can reduce amniotic fluid. Dr. Risky measured my stomach today and said everything is on track, but next week I’ll have an in-depth ultrasound to make sure Binky’s amniotic fluid levels are up to par.
In the meantime, I am going to continue taking the Indocin. Dr. Risky told me to keep my activity level low this week, so hopefully between my rest and the drug my contractions will slow down, or even go away entirely. I’m really hopeful this works – I have one more business trip scheduled for the end of the month and I really want to go on it if I can. I’ll be OK with whatever Dr. Risky decides, but I will be very sad if she says I can’t go.
I’m really looking forward to seeing Binky next week. It will have been a month since the last time we saw her, and I am so anxious to see how she’s changed. At this point in my pregnancy with Madeline I was getting at least one – usually two – ultrasounds a week, and I am feeling the emotional strain from not being able to see with my own eyes what’s going on in there.
On a side note – someone nominated me for a “Mommy Blog Award” through thebump.com. I’m really honored, so thanks to whoever nominated me! The person with the most votes in my category will be entered to compete for the title of “Best Overall Blog” and $1,000. If I win, I’m going to give the money to Friends of Maddie. So a vote for me is a vote to give forty NICU families support packs. Voting closes October 19th, so please vote for for us!!
Anne Y says:
Hope you are able to get some much needed rest!
Our vote is yours!
Maura says:
On my way to vote. Hope you can take it easy and keep that level up!
.-= Maura´s last blog ..A Story About Toy Story =-.
Lauren @ MOMMYISROCKNROLL says:
Get some rest! I loved ultrasounds because it was visual confirmation that there was actually a baby inside of me. I only got a few since my pregnancy was uneventful but it was always exciting to see her. Good luck!
Kristen McD says:
You’ve got our vote for sure. Now please go put your feet up.
Dina says:
Drink lots of liquids and rest up! !
You really are amazing and have my vote for sure.
I don’t often comment, but read your blog daily and think of your family often, especially your beautiful, inspiring Maddie.
All the best wishes to you, Binky, and your amazing husband!
Cinthia says:
Tell Binky we all say hi and big hugs!
pamela says:
Praying for you and your family! On my way to vote right now! I’m sure you’ll win!
.-= pamela´s last blog ..A Precious Angel. =-.
Kate @ UpsideBackwards says:
Look after yourself. Or better, get someone (Miiiiike!) to look after you. Hugs to you both.
.-= Kate @ UpsideBackwards´s last blog ..Counting =-.
McKenna says:
Voted!
I hope you win, you so deserve this.
VDog says:
Love you, babe.
.-= VDog´s last blog ..To Sleep, Perchance to Dream =-.
catherine lucas says:
I think you should keep the money for all the costs you had with Maddie… Of course, you can give it to Friends of Maddie as this a more then noble cause, but lets be a bit practical here… Your medical bills must have rocketed skyhigh…
I am NOT trying to be rude, and I know it’s really none of my business what you do with the money, but I think that you and Mike deserve a bit of a break…
Scary Mommy says:
I hope you get some rest today. And, you always have my vote!
Al_Pal says:
Wow. Here’s hoping that the meds work, you get plenty of rest this week & month, and that you’re cleared for travel.
I’ve been really impressed by your travel, BTW!
Best Wishes for a great ultrasound next time, & I shall make sure to go vote.
*hugs*!
Lynn from For Love or Funny says:
Going to vote for you now…
.-= Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..I finally met my Fairy Godfather… =-.
amanda says:
Going to vote now – and hoping you have a restful week!
xo from CT,
Amanda
.-= amanda´s last blog ..and now, a guest post from Greg =-.
Earth_Mommy says:
Give Binky a rub from me? You and Mike get some rest. I hope the drug works for you. I can only imagine a fraction of a percent how rough all of this is on you. *huggles and cuddles*
.-= Earth_Mommy´s last blog ..Writing =-.
Anna Marie Hinnant says:
Get your feet up and rest a bit, and I’m headed off to vote for you!
Hope you start feeling better soon-
Hugs.
Erica says:
Dear Heather,
Of course you have my vote, I’ll be placing it as soon as I have finished here. I hope you are listening to your Dr. Risky and putting your feet up now and letting Mike run around after you.
I hope you manage to catch up on some of that lost sleep or at least relax and take it easy. I’m counting down the days with you until you see your special Binky Bean again.
Please take very good care of yourself and the Binky Bean.
With love
Erica in Luxembourg
Alexandra :) says:
You are SOOOOO going to win this thing!
charlane says:
Voting now…bring on the Support Packs!
.-= charlane´s last blog ..Yo Gabba Gabba =-.
ClassyFabSarah says:
I’ll vote early and often.
Praying that those pesky contractions give it a rest and that you have an excellent ultrasound very soon.
.-= ClassyFabSarah´s last blog ..Happy Birthday to Me! =-.
Cheri in MD says:
I Voted! Someone else’s blog is in the lead right now….so fellow readers get out there and vote for Heather and Friends of Maddie
Heather says:
I hope Dr Risky says you can still go!! I’ve already voted for you and for Matt and Maddy!!! Good Luck!!!
Tami says:
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care of your self and I placed my vote for you last night. I hope you win.
Tricia (irishsamom) says:
Rest, rest and more rest. The meds and plenty of fluids always worked for me. And of course the rest, which is easier said than done.
Take care of you. Good thoughts and wishes and love,
Tricia
.-= Tricia (irishsamom)´s last blog ..Remembering 9/11 – Repost – 8 Years =-.
Shannon Kieta says:
Done! Voted for you! On another note; PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, SLOW down!!!!!!!! I keep telling you this. You scare me girl! I don’t want you to over-do it! Nothing is more important than Binky right now. All else can wait! You relax, put your feet up and enjoy being pregnant! I am going to call Dr. Risky and tell her to put your butt on bed rest if you don’t listen to me!!!! Remember, we are related (adopted sister’s), so I can tell you what to do!!!(ha). Shannon
Jodie Brooks says:
I’m on my way to vote! Get some rest, Lady!! Praying for you everyday!
Momma Uncensored says:
voted.
stay off your feet for a while lady.
.-= Momma Uncensored´s last blog ..molly-o =-.
sandy says:
i started reading your blog over a year ago..i can honestly say i have no idea how i found your blog..anyway..just want to say I LOVE YOU!!!
good luck with everything..you have touched my life..some times i come into work and read your blog with tears running down my face; it takes courage to share everything you write.
all the best to you and your family.
Tina says:
Just voted for ya! Good luck!
And just know that we continue to hold you in prayer as you continue on this very stressful journey!
.-= Tina´s last blog ..Go Ahead and Laugh =-.
Jenn says:
Hey Heather,
Just voted. You are running at a close 2nd but I’m sure with your peoples…you’ll win! Where is your next trip too? Wow – ya’ all travel a lot.
Take it easy!
Jenn
Lindsay from Florida says:
Voted. Really, really hope you (and Matt and Maddy on the Daddy blog side) win in the end!
Now, REST!!! And Binks, settle down a bit! We are all pulling for you and your beautiful family always.
Jen says:
I voted! Praying for you….try and take it easy this week! I know, easier said than done, right?
.-= Jen´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday- Give the weather 5 minutes, it’ll change. =-.
Lisa says:
I hope between the rest and the indocin your contractions will go away entirely.
Off to vote for you.
Love and hugs.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Baby Denied Health Insurance For Being “Too Fat” =-.
Courtney says:
Hugs to you and your family in this stressful time! I am always praying for you all! God Bless!
Cara from NC says:
Just voted for you, hope you guys win!!!!
ruth says:
Voted for you! Good luck with everything!
.-= ruth´s last blog ..Random stuff =-.
JennK says:
You have my vote. Hang in there, Heather. You and Binky are doing great!
.-= JennK´s last blog ..There are no words. =-.
Karen says:
Rest up!! Kick back, put your feet up and drink lots of water. Rent some movies and nap often. Once Binky gets here, she’s going to run you ragged so this is the best chance to rest up now!!
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday =-.
maggie says:
glad things are going well
please do what the doctor says
dont go on the business trip
stay home and rest rest rest
you have the rest of your life to go
on a business trip!
Angela says:
I voted for you! I hope you win! Prayers for you, Mike, Maddie, Binky, and Rigby too!
.-= Angela´s last blog ..Our New Home! =-.
Molly says:
You don’t have to ask me to vote for you–done!
Take it easy.
Diane says:
You have our vote. Are we able to vote once… once a day? I already voted but I will have to go back and look again.
Time for a take it easy break! Can’t wait for you to see your precious daughter as well.
Tricia says:
Voted! xoxoxoxoxo Hope you start feeling better friend!
Emese says:
You have my vote mama!
Come on people get those votes in…we (Heather) are losing by 1%!!! Lets make sure that $1000 goes to a GREAT cause!
Emese says:
Oh and FYI..you can vote more then once =)
Lindsay from Florida says:
Haha, I just realized that as well. Now we’re AHEAD by 1%!!! Let’s keep the lead, everyone!
Laura says:
Yay for getting to vote more than once!
I have to admit though, I voted one time for the blog with 0%. I just felt bad!!
Yay for the Spohrs!! You so deserve this award!! Your blog is awesome, and I would LOVE if you could give that money to FoM and the deserving NICU families!!
We love you, Mama Spohr!!!
Erica says:
Voted!!! I have never commented just read. I want you to know that you have touched my life like no other. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t read. Your strength and courage is touching so many lives throughout the world.
Amber says:
I don’t think I’ve commented other than to congratulate you guys on this pregnancy, but your fears re: the c-section scar and contractions struck a cord.
Just after I found out I was pregnant with my 3rd, I did SO much research on c-sections that I actually put myself into a deep depression and ended up taking medication for it. [I wanted to attempt a VBA2C.] After Maddie, I truly can’t imagine how difficult and worrysome it must be for you reading all of those bad statistics and/or opinions re: everything surrounding c-sections and everything else.
Many, many prayers and positive thoughts for you and your husband, your pregnancy, Binky, your doctors, and your awesome support group of family and friends.
Denise says:
Heather,
I came across your website a few months ago and look forward to reading it everyday. This weekend I went back and read through all of your archives, even before Maddie was born. You write so beautifully about your Maddie. I just felt the need to tell you I am sorry that your family and especially Maddie had to go through that difficult time. Your daughter is an angel you will always have. My heart aches for you. I will continue to read your blog and look forward to the birth of your daughter! Congratulations.
AmazingGreis says:
I’m voting! Keeping you, Mike & Binky in my thoughts!!!
.-= AmazingGreis´s last blog ..I (heart) Faces – Week 40 =-.
Laura says:
Voted- lots of times!!!
I have a dumb question- what is a classic c-section scar? Vertical? Just wondering… I had a c-section last year and I didn’t know that contractions after one are cause for concern? Sorry if this is lame to ask. I honestly have never heard this.
I am so sorry you were feeling yucky, and I hope today is better! Not that you asked, but I think you should spend the whole day on the couch, eating yummy food and watching trashy tv! Do it!!!!!!!
Love to you, Maddie, Mike and the Binky Bean always!!!
((Hugs))
Sadie says:
I’ve never posted before but have continued to read you through your journey. I think of you often and always hope for the best when it comes to you and your family. After voting for you today, I thought that, although donating the money to a FANTASTIC cause would be great, you should maybe save some of it to do something special for you and Mike. You guys do so much for others and are so inspirational–you should take some time out to treat youselves for all of the hardships that have been thrown your way… just a suggestion! Good luck on the contest!!
Jenn says:
Okay, I say this out of love and concern for you….
GET YOUR ASS IN BED!! Seriously! I know that you want to do all these great things in honor of Maddie (and we are all in awe of all that you do), but please take it easy. We all love you and your family so much and our fighting right along side of you to keep healthy.
And of course I voted for you and will continue to do so since we can vote more than once
Now take it easy and rest!
Love, Jenn in CA
.-= Jenn´s last blog ..Changes are coming =-.
Trisha Vargas says:
Going to vote right after this!
Please get some much needed rest and put those feet up, you and Binky both need it!
(((HUGS))) from FLorida
Badass Geek says:
Hope you get some rest, and that things continue to go well.
.-= Badass Geek´s last blog ..In Which I Am Observant, Part Eight =-.
judy says:
just voted for you….you’re in the lead as of two minutes ago Get some rest.
Glenda says:
I just voted! You’re in the lead! Yay! Get as much rest this week so that you can get the green light from Dr. Risky to go on your next trip. Hope you’re feeling well and everything continues to go smoothly. XX
Danielle says:
I voted for you and Maddies friends!!!
.-= Danielle´s last blog .. =-.
Amy in Oregon says:
Voted! And now to echo everyone else above me’s sentiments…..stay off those feet for a while Heather! Nothing like an Internet full insisting you stay off those feet awhile huh?
Deb says:
Heather – You have my vote! I read and pray for you everyday.
Elizabeth says:
I voted last night. Keep those feet up and get as much rest as you can. xo
Em says:
I hope you are feeling better soon – i am sure that your already irratible/grumpy uterus is not happy with all of that traveling! It was awesome that you were able to travel to DC and talk about how healthcare effects EVERYONE. Especially children who dont qualify for many healthcare plans!
I hope that Binky cooperates and gives you some good pictures (but I imagine that she is getting a lot bigger now, and takes up more of the ultrasound screen!!)
Baking Mad Mama says:
Hey Heather, I hope you feel better soon and are able to make your business trip. Best of luck for your next ultrasound too!
Off to vote now. You and your family are always in my thoughts.
Amélie says:
You’ve got my vote for sure, and of about 50% of all the voters already!
Being a student, far away I’m happy to be able to give a little bit to friends of Maddie by doing this
Sarah says:
Hi Heather,
I am not a doctor, but thought I would pass along this tidbit of info. to you in the chance it may be helpful.
I was recently at an OB appointment and asked my midwife if it was safe to continue taking the magnesium supplement I started taking a few months back (before I was pregnant.) She said yes because among other things it “helps keep your uterus quiet.” I don’t personally have any issues in that department and I don’t know much more than that, but I thought it may be worth asking Dr. Risky about?
Here’s a link to what I take. I take the “Calm plus Calcium” one. I enjoy the raspberry-lemon flavor.
Praying for you!
Sarah
Sarah says:
oops. forgot the link…
http://www.petergillham.com/product-line/index.php
Lindsay says:
Voted…several times!
Also, I know Friends of Maddie is pretty new, but what are the plans for expanding? I would love to figure out a way to get the support packs to our NICU(in Ohio). My daughter spent 66 days there and I still go back monthly for preemie parent meetings(to support other parents and get info on preemie development). There are so many parents there that could use the support packs. If there is anyway to help get them here, please let me know!
Lindsay
.-= Lindsay´s last blog ..Baby K Update! =-.
Dina says:
I posted a comment earlier about how often I think of you, Maddie, Binky, and your whole family.
Want any unsolicited advice? I really think you should rest as much as possible and maybe not go on a trip for a while.
Just rest, rest, rest. And hydrate, eat, and hydrate!
Then rest some more!!
Mary says:
I know a lot of us are telling you this, but try to take care of yourself. I think you need a huge loaf of Hawaiian Bread. Washed down with a slurpee.
Michelle says:
I voted! Good luck!
Kristin says:
Ultrasounds were always my friends. I was always a gigantic wreck before each monthly ultrasound with the twins.
Sending you lots of love. Not sure I can make the 26th…….
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Smiling through the gray =-.
Domestic Extraordinaire says:
Glad everything is on track-hoping your contractions end soon. Hopefully you will be able to go to the stuff at the end of the month, I know your aiming low gals would miss you tons if you couldn’t…even though they would totally understand.
.-= Domestic Extraordinaire´s last blog ..His Name is Logan =-.
Heather says:
I voted!! You are currently kicking some booty!! Keeping you and Mike and Binky in my prayers…
.-= Heather´s last blog ..Homesick =-.
Jara says:
Okay, here’s what my doc told me about bedrest when I told her how hard it was for me to think of myself as someone who needs to be in bed all day: Don’t think of yourself on bedrest. Think about it like if your baby was here and I told you that you had to hold the baby while in a prone position and not move her around. YOu would still find it hard, but you wouldn’t think of yourself as the bedridden one. For me, that actually helped a lot!
mythoughtsonthat says:
Faith….Hope….Love….Peace.
.-= mythoughtsonthat´s last blog ..What I Wanted To Say/What I Said Instead =-.
Lisa says:
Please take it very easy this week! We’re all looking forward to seeing you in a few weeks. Take care. Now I’m off to vote!
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Still Running =-.
tara says:
on my way to vote!
i am always thinking of you, mike, maddie and binky. xo
Elizabeth says:
Heather,
Dr. No Vowels put me on Indocin. I was on it from week 23-24 until week 32. I cannot remember my exact dose but I took a big pill every 6 hours. It was unnerving because the bottle said not to take while pregnant… You cannot take it after week 32, I was told at that point the risks outweigh the benefits. My son was born 5 days after I took my last dose. The indocin allowed me to get to nearly 33 weeks and I was very grateful. I was monitored closely but that was happening anyway so it wasn’t a change.
Please email me if I can answer any questions!!
Elizabeth
Elizabeth says:
THANK YOU!!! Sorry, total brain melt. That is what happens when I try to do too many things at one time!
Tina says:
I voted
Leita Reyna says:
You got my vote Hun … saying prayers for a good, long pregnancy for you.
Marisol says:
I just voted for you…several times haha. =)
.-= Marisol´s last blog ..Settling into Houston… =-.
Dawn says:
I just voted and you are way ahead of everyone else!!!!!
Jackie says:
Is it against the rules to vote multiple times a day? Oh well.
Rest up pretty. Take care of you and little baby Binky.
Love you. Miss you. And, can’t wait to see you next weekend!
Debbie S. says:
Just voted!!! Friends of Maddie is leading the pack!!!!!
Marti from Michigan says:
I went in and voted for you guys! Looks like you’re ahead right now.
I’m on your side 100%!! Love to you from Michigan, and lots of prayers as well.
Laurie Sue says:
Your site is the best one out of those nominations! I voted for your site…a lot! Hope you (and Friends of Maddie) win!
Jennifer says:
Just voted and you’re in the lead! Can’t think of a better cause…take care of yourself, Momma!
.-= Jennifer´s last blog ..Saying goodbye… =-.
Adara says:
I have never commented but I have been reading for a while. I followed a link from Matt Logelin’s page over a year ago and have been checking in when I have time. I just wanted to say that I am so glad that in this sadness and stress, you are being blessed with an amazing miracle, a child. What a wonderful gift! And I love the fact that it has brought joy to you both again!
Blessings and congrats!
Adara
Krissa says:
Just voted. … Hope you’re getting some rest, not throwing up and I’m glad you’ll get to see what Binky’s doing in there again soon.
lisa wood says:
Put your feet up and rest….I so voted for you and have a great feeling that you will win.
Love this blog, love your strength and how the money will be going to a really good cause.
Lisa
Vennie says:
Wow girl, you’re in the lead at 49%! I voted for you, and will clean out my cookies and vote again (and again and again). (sssshhhhhh) lol
Keep your head up and remember to not worry. (Easier said than done, huh?) But worry really causes our body a lot of stress, as I’m sure you know. Do you do yoga or any type of meditation? Maybe in those moments you feel sick or worried, you could just stop, become peaceful in that moment, and affirm that everything is just as the Divine intends it.
I’m praying for you guys and send you lots of uplifting vibes!
.-= Vennie´s last blog ..Elk Grove, CA can suck Ben Affleck =-.
Becky says:
I voted!!! You’re in the lead by 9%!!! Go Momma Spohr!!!!!! Go FOM!!!!!!!
Vaness says:
I voted! You’re in the lead. Rock it!
.-= Vaness´s last blog ..No way! =-.
Toni Jones says:
That is wonderful! You have my vote. I thought I’d share some news with you, I do a lot of work for the MArch of Dimes Orange County Chapter and we recently had an event to raise money..and we raised over $88,000! As I was there I thought about your Maddie and prayed for your family. I hope you win this contest! good luck!
.-= Toni Jones´s last blog ..Pumpkin Patch 09 =-.
Meghan says:
Everybody needs to keep voting! Heather was in the lead a couple days ago, but as of today is behind by 3%. Good luck! I’ve been voting as much as I can.