I woke up on Tuesday and the first thing that came to mind was, “ugh, I got my period.” And then I woke up a little more and remembered that I was pregnant so there were no periods coming that day. And then I woke up a little more and thought, crap. The irritability is back. I took both of my anti-contraction meds and tried to focus on the day.
Mike and I went to pick up Rigby and ended up waiting more than an hour to retrieve her because all the vets and techs were in an emergency (doggy hit by car). While we sat in the waiting room, my cramping started to get worse. Just as I was about to tell Mike that I needed to leave, the vet brought out Rigby! She was so happy to see us. She had a little bandage wrapped around her right front leg from where the IV had been, and a huuuuge scar on her belly from the surgery. The vet went over everything with us (the stones were struvite, diet should keep them away, more antibiotics), and then she was free!
Rigby is clearly very happy to be home, but she’s definitely still recovering.
We also caught her trying to lick her scar on several occasions, so she now has a lovely new accessory:
pretty sure she’s gonna run away from home for this one.
The cramping, unfortunately, sent me to Labor and Delivery again. Dr. Risky’s nurse practitioner sent me there before I even saw Dr. Risky for my usual appointment. I wasn’t really happy about that – I felt like it was the golden opportunity where the car is actually making the funny noise for the mechanic, you know? But off I went to labor and delivery. I was lucky enough to avoid a sterile speculum exam this time, but I still got all the other goodies – two different ultrasounds (you know, one outside, one inside), and a cervix check.
Seriously now…how the HELL do you women in labor stand a cervix check? Holy crap.
The resident that checked my cervix pronounced it closed, but soft. When she told me that, I sighed, because I knew Dr. Risky wouldn’t like that. After the residents and nurse left my room, I made myself comfortable and tried not to think about how many people had been all up in my vagina since Saturday.
After what felt like forever, my nurse came back in the room to tell me what Dr. Risky had decided. The contraction monitor had showed more irritability, even after the nifedipine dose I’d taken. Dr. Risky realized I was playing catch up with my contraction meds, so now instead of taking them as-needed, I am to take the anti-contraction meds around the clock.
The nurse then said, “Dr. Risky also wants you to lay down as much as possible, and really only get up to go to the bathroom.”
Me: *silence* *pause* *beat* You mean, bed rest?
Nurse: No…I asked her that, and she said not to say “bed rest” to you.
I had to laugh at that, like my brain would explode if I was put on bed rest again. Although, maybe it would, I don’t know. But basically, I have to “lay down as much as possible” until I see Dr. Risky next Tuesday. I really wish I could have seen her on Tuesday but I guess Dr. Risky figured the 87 residents who had their hands in my vagina were enough for one day.
So, let’s go over the similarities between me and Rigby – we’re both on special diets, we’re both on meds, we both have scars near our lady parts, we both have to lay down all the time, and we’re both only allowed to get up to pee. It’s practically impossible to tell us apart.
UPDATED:
By popular demand
Kate @ UpsideBackwards says:
Do you have a pretty inflatable collar, too?! Poor Heather. I suppose even being waited on hand and foot isn’t making up for this. Hugs! (And hugs for Mike too, I bet he’s putting up admirably with your irritable self and treating you like a queen).
Best of luck…
.-= Kate @ UpsideBackwards´s last blog ..Encouragement =-.
cheryl says:
I’m so glad Rigby is okay!
Andrea says:
I hope the similarities between you and Rigby don’t include the hairy/furriness factor – hee hee!
Glad everyone is doing ok
Heather says:
uuuh, just don’t check my legs.
Kathryn says:
Do you have that same woeful look that Rigby has in that second picture with the blue ring on?
Well Sugar, take a load off and tell that uterus and cervix of yours to knock it off for awhile. Sing them some lullabies or something and make them go into sleep mode for another…what is it now? 6-8 weeks or so?
Thinking of you and checking in everyday to see how you are!
Kathryn in Berlin
Heather says:
yep, a little more than seven weeks. My goal is just to make it to 2010!
Krissa says:
‘Nurse: No…I asked her that, and she said not to say “bed rest” to you.’
That made me laugh because I’ve been following your blog for so long!
Well, I am glad that you and Rigby are ok, but I sure wish you didn’t have to go through all this. Sorry you have to lie down so much – I know I’d hate that!
The inflatable collars are SO much better than the old cone e-collars! I’m glad you guys have that instead.
Glad you’re both ok. Wishing you both back to normal activities as soon as possible.
Heather says:
the vet suggested the inflatable collar, it’s so great!
Christy says:
I’m sorryyou got put on bed rest! That a no good. I’ll have to come over and keep you company. Xoxo
Heather says:
YES and I want to hear about your trip!
Lynn from For Love or Funny says:
Well, at least you have a buddy to enjoy your bed rest. Oops…I forgot that we’re not supposed to say “bed rest.”
.-= Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..What to get your wife for Christmas =-.
Barbara Howard says:
Hoping the regular use of the meds will make it possible for you to live a bit more out of bed than in…but mostly just hoping you have a nice full term baby girl! Hugs to Rigby. And to Mike, the husband and daddy and doggie daddy!
Ann says:
Spent some time on bed rest myself. Saw how easily I could lose my mind. I’m also an RN on a high risk OB unit where all of my pts are on bed rest. Just deliverd a mom last week who had been on bed rest in the hospital since the second week in September. The horrors of pregnancy can be overwhelming. Then you think of the reasons for doing what you have to do and the bed rest doesn’t seem like such a pain.
Heather says:
yeah, I’m a bed rest veteran. It’s physically hard but you just do it!
amanda says:
Wow, I’ll tell ya, most dogs get a plastic cone – but Rigby gets that sweet inflatable collar – NICE!
I am sorry you are (almost) on bed rest. That stinks. It always seems like this great relaxing thing – but it is definitely not.
xo from CT,
Amanda
ClassyFabSarah says:
At least you don’t have the collar around your neck… I mean, it’s a hot accessory for winter BUT it’d make it hard for you to, um, lick your belly. Which might be a whole ‘nother issue.
Prayers that your irritable uterus calms down SOON!
.-= ClassyFabSarah´s last blog ..Lazy Morning =-.
Domestic Extraordinaire says:
well as long as Mike doesn’t have to put a pretty blue thing around your neck I think all will be well.
((Hugs))) praying that the bedrest will help keep Binky cooking lots longer.
.-= Domestic Extraordinaire´s last blog ..And then you turned fifteen =-.
Janet says:
but your not all cute and furry
.-= Janet´s last blog ..The first snow =-.
Heather says:
just my legs!
Janet says:
HA HA HA *snort*!!
.-= Janet´s last blog .. =-.
charlane says:
UGH I feel for you. I was on bed rest for a month. Not my favorite month when thinking of all the months of my life, but the results were fabulous, my bum is gigantic and my daughter is stunning! Good luck…I hope you have a laptop!
.-= charlane´s last blog ..So this is Christmas… =-.
Heather says:
yeah, I was on bed rest for ten weeks last time, so I totally have all the necessary supplies!
jen says:
Rest, rest, rest. I know, I know; easier said than done. And yet, it’s best, right? And I’ve been there, I had a total of 11 weeks of bedrest while pregnant with my youngest, who’s almost 8yo. And when we talk about it even now, it makes my husband’s head want to explode. He was working 50 hrs a week, going to school at night and then having to be ME too. You know, the maid parts, not the gestating parts. It sucked. But we made it through and you will too!
Hugs to all of you!!
Glad Rigby is okay.
.-= jen´s last blog ..welcome interruption =-.
Heather says:
This bed rest will absolutely be easier on my husband than the last one. With Madeline’s pregnancy, it was very strict because every time I got up I leaked amniotic fluid. My husband had to do EVERYTHING for me. Poor guy.
Laura says:
No, not poor guy. Lucky guy- he gets YOU and your lovely babies to love!!!
Sara Joy says:
She must have been afraid you’d run away from home if she said “bedrest”.
Yikes. I’m so happy for all of you that Rigby is recovering well, and I hope your “laying down as much as possible” is short lived. But Heather, I want to note how impressive you are. It takes a heckuva woman & a heckuva Mama to go through all this for her baby. It might not mean much from an internet stranger but I am really proud of you, and I know I’m standing in line behind everyone who knows you in real life.
Can’t wait to see the beautiful product of all this work when we meet Binky in just a couple months, hang in there.
Blessings & peace,
SJ
thebonmama says:
Oooh, ooh! Make sure you get one of those nifty collars, too! Those should keep you from licking any of your…err… parts (should you think you need to do so), but more importantly, it looks COOL!
Hang in there, and my advice: drink LOTS of water so you can get up to pee a whole bunch! You’d be following doc’s orders!
.-= thebonmama´s last blog ..Weekend Vignettes =-.
Heather says:
I really need a collar that makes me not want pie.
Noelle says:
If you find one of those let me know!
Thinking of you and checking in every day
.-= Noelle´s last blog ..A 4-year-old’s Christmas surprise =-.
thebonmama says:
I’m looking for one that makes me not want cookies. If you see one of those while looking for the pie one, grab it for me!
Lisa says:
Having had an irritable uterus with both my kids, I know what you are going through unfortunately. The good news is that once you get on daily meds, your visits to L&D should stop. However, as soon as they take you off, you’ll be having a baby. (at least in my experience. My son was born 3 weeks early.)
Heather says:
yeah, that seems to be what everyone says. It’s going to be interesting.
Lisa says:
At least for me, the daily ones have a lot less side effects than the crap they stick in your IV. I too had the extremely low blood pressure, shakes, and I almost fainted from the “t” one they gave you (I can’t remember the name). The daily ones are just like taking another vitamin.
We keep ours fingers crossed and pray for you every day.
cj says:
how is it that even when things are not going the best for you, you still manage to make those of us who love your family from afar SMILE with the way that you share your stories? thank you, as always, for sharing.
all the best to you and Rigby.
Mary Ann says:
Those pictures of Rigby are precious. I’m sorry about the “laying down as much as possible”, even though that actually that sounds really good to me right now. I hope you’re both back up on your feet really soon. Look how far you have come, it’s only a little while longer, and you’ll get the best gift you could ever receive. Keeping you in my thoughts. Feel Better Soon!
Elizabeth says:
I’m glad that Rigby is home and doing well! Is she on the urinary s/o diet? The collar is nice! Much better than the plastic cones our patients get :)As for you, sorry you’ve have to visit L&D so much. Keep that uterus calm! Thinking and praying for ya!
Heather says:
Yep, she’s on the urinary diet! So that better keep the stones from coming back. I’d like to prevent her from going through that again!
Anna Marie says:
I know it’s not funny, but I laughed out loud when the nurse said she had been instructed not to say “bed rest” to you. Those are evil, evil words.
And if you start licking your scar Mike is going to have to put a collar on you, too.
Kelley Land says:
Thank God for your sense of humor! You really made me laugh here, and there’s a lot about your situation that is no laughing matter. I think it’s a gift to be able to find the funny in life, and you definitely have it. I’m thinking of you…and Rigby…as you stay still together. I’m so glad you have her company. Dogs are priceless pals.
.-= Kelley Land´s last blog ..It’s Not Easy Being Green…But We Can Try =-.
AmazingGreis says:
Note to Binky: You are so not done cooking yet!!!
Glad you and Rigby are doing ok. Hopefully NOT bed rest will do the trick.
.-= AmazingGreis´s last blog ..Blogger Football League – Week 13 =-.
Lindsay says:
Oh I feel for you! I spent yesterday in L&D too. I however was there getting a dreaded rescue cerclage. This week’s Dr. appt showed a shortened and very soft cervix and funneling…so off to the hospital I went. I am now on bedrest for 2 weeks until my follow-up then hoping it will be lifted. I hope it does the trick for you and that you and Rigby will both be up and playing soon!
.-= Lindsay´s last blog ..The Not-So-Happy Post About My Cervix =-.
Heather says:
ACK! CERCLAGE! I feel for you. Those can NOT be fun.
Lindsay says:
Getting the cerclage done wasn’t nearly as bad as I had it construed in my head…but it still sucked butt! It’s never a fun experience to be naked from the waist down, strapped to a table in the trendelenberg position, and all your bits and pieces just hanging out for all to see (we had to wait like that for 30 minutes b/c they had the wrong kind of suture!).
The bed rest is already bothering me though…I feel great…but have had to have people here all the time to watch my daughter since my husband works 24-48 hour shifts. I feel so useless. Any suggestions for getting through it?
.-= Lindsay´s last blog ..The Not-So-Happy Post About My Cervix =-.
Laryssa says:
I mean this with love: I hope the laying-in-bed-doing-almost-nothing days last until at least the end of January … because it means Binky won’t be showing herself early.
Wish there was something we could do to keep you entertained while your on not-bed rest!
.-= Laryssa´s last blog ..9 to 5 (Dolly Parton) =-.
Mary@Holy Mackerel says:
Too funny, and not.
Just make sure you don’t go licking yourself.
Take care of yourself.
.-= Mary@Holy Mackerel´s last blog ..Stupid Snowstorms =-.
Jenni says:
I just love you!! You made me laugh when you said the nurse fessed up and said the doc didn’t want her to use the term “bed rest” with you! Too funny!
I hope you and Rigby can take it easy for the time being so that you both get your needed end result! So glad Rigby is back in the fold with you guys!
Jenni
Kate says:
finding the humnor in this is the best thing to do, I love your posts.
I am thinking and praying you can bake a few more weeks, you are doing great!
Momma Uncensored says:
good to see that happy puppy face!
rigby is a beauty.
i fainted after having my cervix poked while pregnant.. something about a nerve down there.. good times.
.-= Momma Uncensored´s last blog ..dinstinct orders. =-.
Deborah says:
First of all…poor little Rigby! The first picture of her made my animal-loving heart just ache. It’s so hard to see our sweet friends feeling so bad.
Secondly, I’m sorry that you’re on having-to-lay-down-24-7 rest until Tuesday. At least it will give you a chance to take care of Rigby and see how she’s doing since she’ll likely be resting next to you. I’m so glad that you can see the humor in these things and let us have a little peek into your lives.
(((hugs)))
Jen says:
I laughed too at the bed rest comment, but what really got me was “tried not to think about how many people had been all up in my vagina since Saturday.” I laughed out loud, and loudly! Hilarious!
Seriously, though, glad you and Rigby have each other to take care of!
Ohmygoshi says:
strength in numbers!!! a speedy (and safe!) recovery to both of you!
.-= Ohmygoshi´s last blog ..We interrupt your regular programming =-.
Aunt Becky says:
I can make you a beautiful neck doo-hickey like that. You’ll be HOT.
.-= Aunt Becky´s last blog ..Why I Fail At The Internet (But Win At Life!) =-.
chatty cricket says:
I, like many others here, think you need a collar to match Rigby’s. But clearly since you’re not licking YOUR scar, yours can be of the dicky variety as opposed to inflatable. I’m going to hop on Etsy….
I think it’s freaking awesome that Dr. Risky knows you so well. I mean honestly Heather. Not awesome about the definitely-not-bed-rest though.
Heather says:
hee hee, you asked for it…I put up a picture with my neck collar.
chatty cricket says:
GAWGEOUS!
Heather says:
poor rigby! poor you! (i was bed rest also, it sucks)
it’s the slightly fancy cone of shame….
do you also have a cone of shame?
Karen says:
At least you don’t have that thing around your neck like Rigby…:)
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Dear PTO… =-.
Heather says:
I am glad that Rigby is home. I hope that you guys both start to feel better really soon!
.-= Heather´s last blog ..wanna win?? =-.
kbreints says:
oh no! I am sorry about the ‘laying diwn’… but how nice of your doc to call it that!
.-= kbreints´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday, a ‘white christmas’ it shall be =-.
Angi says:
Love to you both…you’ll both be back up and kicking before you know it.
.-= Angi´s last blog ..In Search of the Perfect Christmas Photo =-.
Nikki says:
I just had the brilliant idea to patent a rolling bed for you…kind of like a wheelchair except you can lay and roll around! There are probably some serious flaws with that idea but maybe it’d make “laying as much as possible” more fun!
XOXO
Heather says:
I would use a rolling bed all the time. Like, beyond pregnancy.
Teri says:
Well, I’m guessing you are a bit less fluffy than Rigby and here’s to hoping you don’t lick everyone and anyone!
.-= Teri´s last blog ..wordless wednesday: SAnta babies =-.
Heather says:
I’m only…slightly…less fluffy than Rigby.
Karen Chatters says:
Wow, that dog collar thingy is FAR better than the lampshade! Glad that Rigby is home with those he loves.
Sorry to hear that you’re on “laying as much as possible” duty. I guess it’s better than bed rest. (I know, lame.)
Mike better kick it in to gear, he’s going to have lots of nursing to do.
.-= Karen Chatters´s last blog ..The Obligatory Santa Visit =-.
Heather says:
Poor guy has so much experience with it thanks to my last pregnancy! He’s an expert now.
Jenn says:
If it was a week ealier, you’d have to add in the Diaper in order to be Rigs twin!!! YIKES!!!! ha ha You are one of the bravest woman I know.Most woman would be freaked out about their contractions but NOT Heather….you’re like “OOhh, well….guess I’ll just have to suck it up and lay down with my puppy? ha ha
I adumire you!!! Keep up the GREAT work!!! Because of you, your daughter is growing stronger every single day and will be born a full term, perfect little baby girl. It just doesn’t get any better than that!!!!
Love,,
Jenn
Heather says:
But really, would a diaper be the worst thing? I sometimes think I would achieve the highest level of laziness if I went with a diaper.
Jenn says:
OOOHHH my Gawd!!! You answered me? YOU ANSWERED ME! WOW…YAHOO!!!! This is like Christmas! It’s like you are a Movie Star and I am an annoying DORKY fan…that is how excited I am you “saw” me today!!! ha ha
Well….uumm… HI and THANK YOU!!!
OOhh and yes (sorry…back to the topic at hand)…the diaper is Definitely NOT the worse thing that could happen. I am totally pro diaper…..just don’t ask me to change it for you! ha ha,…you may be a Super Hero/Rock Star in my eyes but I draw the line at changing your ass!!!
Have a Happy evening and thanks for making me SMILE!!! Your friend, Jenn
Andria says:
Just don’t go trying to lick your scar, okay?
.-= Andria´s last blog ..Choosing Where to Give Life =-.
Lisa says:
Rigby looks thoroughly unimpressed with that inflatable collar
I hope both of you are feeling better soon and are allowed to get up to do more than pee. In the meantime at least you have each other keep you company.
Sending contraction stopping thoughts to you and stay put thoughts to Binky.
Love and hugs.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Our Gingerbread House =-.
Kittay says:
Lol. Poor Rigby! That pic with the collar is kinda hilarious though. Aww
.-= Kittay´s last blog ..You know how I know you’re a DBag? =-.
Jocelyn says:
Good luck to you Heather. I’m sure it’s not fun laying down a lot but it does beat having 87 folks in your vagina, right?
.-= Jocelyn´s last blog ..Reader Me This, Batman =-.
Michelle says:
Your outlook is amazing – I’m so glad you can find some humor in the situation. I look forward to when a beautiful, healthy Binky is born. You are the best mom!
AmberMc says:
My God. When I was pregnant the office I went to checked my cervix EVERY FREAKING TIME! Starting at 5 weeks! They were known at the hospital as the Cervix Checkers. Then I got GD and went in 2x a week. Whew my cervix has been around the block. Then Emergency C-Section and not one contraction. My cervix was ready for her close up! What a let down.
.-= AmberMc´s last blog ..LAS VEGAS! =-.
JennK says:
So…it’s not “bed rest” if they don’t call it “bed rest”? At least you have an excuse to watch all the bad reality TV you want!
.-= JennK´s last blog ..I Am Alive. =-.
Michaela says:
The inflatable collar nearly made me snort coffee out my nose.
And to answer your labor/cervix check question: I was hurting so bad in labor I didn’t even notice the cervix check. Isn’t being pregnant wonderful? By the time I delivered, I think even the gift shop workers had put their hands in my lady bits.
Melissa says:
I feel for you guys – never a dull moment there! I am just glad that every day that Binky stays put means she’s getting that much stronger. So possibly rent all of the chick flicks that you can handle? I am telling you, a little Bridget Jones’ Diary and then maybe some Sweet Home Alabama take all of my troubles away.
.-= Melissa´s last blog ..Norovirus? No Problem! =-.
cindy w says:
I don’t know if you’ve seen “Up,” but that pic of Rigby made me think, “She wears the cone of shame!”
About the cervix check? I once saw Caroline Rhea do a stand-up bit about being in the room when her sister was having a baby, and she said, “At one point, she grabbed the bedrails and scurried up the back of the bed on what I could only begin to describe as HER HIND LEGS.” And yes, that’s pretty much exactly what I did when they checked my cervix during labor. My L&D nurse was amazing, but I seriously almost punched her right then.
P.S. Your vagina is gonna be totally famous by the time Binky is born.
.-= cindy w´s last blog ..{W} My Dad =-.
Becky says:
Hilarious! Glad to see you’ve kept your sense of humor through all of this! Well, you’re already giving yourself shots everyday, now healthy food and “horizontal rest”….doesn’t sound like fun, but it’ll be SO worth the effort!!! Oh and BTW, cervical checks during labor…not cool! Most painful part of delivery for me! What makes me more mad is that they seem to love to do it! I always get the ones who are learning so they have to dig around to figure out what they are doing…somebody’s gonna lose a hand one day!!! (((HUGS-from Kansas)))-Becky
Julie says:
You make me cry, but you also crack me up! You have such a wonderful way to show your sense of humor even in the most trying times. Keep your head up and I will pray for the next couple of months to fly by. Enjoy your cuddle time with poor Rigby and take care of yourself.
Mary says:
Rigby, Heather, Rigby, Heather…if only you had the reach for licking that Rigby does.
My big concern going into delivery was pooping on the table. By the time we got to that point, I didn’t even care. I’d take pooping over the inserting of whatever that medication (cytotech or something) was they did at the beginning.
You could so TOTALLY bedazzle that collar!
Sarcastica says:
I love your attitude about this I’m sure it’s very disappointing news, but you are finding the humor in it so that’s good!!
You are remarkable!
.-= Sarcastica´s last blog ..Things I Love: 14 =-.
Amanda says:
I’m totally with you on not getting the whole cervix check thing. I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have enjoyed it. At all.
Glad to hear that Rigby is back where he belongs and that you are too.
I’m envious of you being able to lay with Rigby but then again, I must be the only person in America that enjoyed bedrest. Or I’m just one of the laziest. Whichever is fine with me.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..Sunday – Blow By Blow =-.
Molly says:
You have such a good sense of humor through all of this. At least you and Rigby can be “rest” together!
Angie [A Whole Lot of Nothing] says:
Holy bananas, woman! You better stay horizontal 99% of the day or I’ll come all the way across the country to strap you down.
.-= Angie [A Whole Lot of Nothing]´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday: For Anissa =-.
Courtney says:
I hope taking it easy is better then bed rest! So glad Rigby is ok!
Lindsay from Florida says:
This is what us web strangers are for, Heather. Post however many times a day you like while on “not bed rest” … we’re here for ya!!!
Jenny says:
I swear my doctor tickled my tonsils when he did my cervix check – I had no idea the cervix was so…far away. Brutal.
I hope you aren’t too bored on bedrest, and that sweet little Binky stays put in her womb with a view.
Yolanda says:
Heather,
Good morning. It may be hard to tell you and Rigby apart but you two beautiful ladies will be much better with the very needed TLC.
Keary Naughton says:
at least you don’t have the lovely necklace that Rigby has. Take it easy….
Katie C. says:
Your story reminded me of when I lost my baby about four months ago – I had so many people up in my vajayjay that I remember I started crying at one point while getting a vaginal ultrasound (it was like the sixth one over the course of a week). The poor ultrasound tech was so sweet and just told me it was going to be all right, even though I knew it so wasn’t going to be all right. I did find that no matter what, a positive outlook can make a world of difference. I know bed rest has got to suck the big one, but as long as you keep your sense of humor and a smile, things will be that much easier. Plus, you have us crazies to keep you company!
Sending you all my thoughts and prayers. Let’s hope that little one can stay in there another month or two at the least!
Angela says:
Hi Heather! I just wanted to let you know that in my Pre-K class, we pray for you every morning. I hope that Binky keeps staying nice and cozy in there!
We also started praying for Rigby once I read about her on your blog. Our dogs were suffereing from bad skin allergies and bladder infections, and we were told they needed to get on a special diet, too – so the doctor told us to try a holistic food. I thought “Crap, that’s gonna be expensive” ’cause I figured we had to find someone to make it! But we found a brand called “Wellness” and it’s in a shiny bag (which is a plus! lol) and it has made the biggest difference in the world! They are back to being playful and their fur looks better and stuff, so after Rigby is done with her special diet, I would suggest you try that! Take care
Heather says:
aw, thank you to you and your students!
Kellee says:
Well I’m glad to see they offer something different for dogs now beyond the huge plastic cone. What was it in her diet that was causing the stones in the first place.
And all I can say is THANK GOD for the interwebs. I’m glad you have a way to take the edge off of your rest. *hugs*
.-= Kellee´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday: Winter still yields the possibility of growth =-.
Heather says:
not sure…I will have to ask the vet!
Katie says:
I work full-time and have a 2 year old and am 5 months prego. So I guess, I would be happy to get that bed rest prescription a little bit. But I know it will be boring very soon. I had a friend who had to be on bedrest for 8 months since she had some cervical problems.
Take care of you and take lots of rest. We all want Binky to stay in for next 6-8 weeks at least.
Sending you all the love and good luck.
Heather says:
Bed rest sucks because you catch up on your sleep really fast. And then you have all the stress of whatever put you on bed rest, but less ways to take your mind off of it…not to mention the physical toll it takes on your body. But, I think you need a vacation. Who can I speak to about this for you?
BeeBelle says:
I had to check the comments to see how many of them would speculate on you licking your scar! I do like that Rigby will be keeping you company while you are lying down as much as possible.
.-= BeeBelle´s last blog ..Coyotes =-.
Ms. Moon says:
I think that you need a necklace too. Perhaps of lovely purple amethysts.
.-= Ms. Moon´s last blog ..Quiet =-.
Chris says:
That accessory of Rigby’s is GREAT!!! Where ever did you find it??? It’s so much better than those awful cones that the vets office usually puts on to keep the lickers from well, licking!
Yes, I know, wayyyyyy too excited by this, but it breaks my heart when they have the cone and are running into their water dishes with it and such. This looks much more ladylike. I’m glad Rigby is home with you, and you two can lie around and commiserate on the indigities to which you’ve both been subjected.
PS- the curled up in blankets picture is just precious. Rigby is quite the photogenic subject even when she’s not feeling well.
Now stay lying down, both of you.
Thank you as always, for sharing with all of us–I’d been hoping Rigby would be home to take care of you soon.
Heather says:
We got it at PetCo – the vet suggested it and it’s worked GREAT so far!
Alicia @bethsix says:
Dude. This post made me laugh. And I have to say, when you said you were lucky enough to avoid a sterile speculum exam, for a split second, I really thought you were happy to have a dirty speculum all up in yer hoo-ha. Awesome.
I’m sorry for your not-bedrest-but-something-very-much-like-it. Binky needs to calm it down on meeting the ‘rents.
.-= Alicia @bethsix´s last blog ..Things I’ve Done Today That I’ve Blamed On Being “Tired” =-.
Heather says:
HA! Dirty speculums would almost be preferable to a cold speculum with NO GEL because it ruins the sterile environment!
C says:
Residents are so not allowed near my bits anymore. The one that checked me (the only time I let a resident near me) left me wondering if she was trying to reach for my lungs. My very own Dr. Risky came in after and rechecked and it was practically delightful in comparison!
I’m going into bed rest week number…7. But it went by faster than I thought it would! Now at 33 weeks, I finally feel like I can breathe a LITTLE at least, and start worrying about how I have nothing…but nothing ready.
I hope your laying down as much as possible goes by just as fast!
Heather says:
Isn’t bed rest the worst? I did ten weeks with my first pregnancy. You’re doing great, though! Seven weeks is really impressive!
Marti from Michigan says:
I’m so sorry, for all of you!!! I look out my Michigan window and see nothing but swirls of snow! We’re in the midst of a blizzard!!! Supposed to last until Saturday. So glad you’re in a warm climate.
I will pray that your uterus will settle down and not be so irritable. Hmmmm, a grumpy uterus, very interesting.
((((HUGS)))) all the way from Michigan!!!
Bobbi Janay says:
Yes but do you get to wear the awesome neck pillow?
.-= Bobbi Janay´s last blog ..Hmm =-.
Julie says:
Well just think it is not forever. I remember being on complete “pelvic rest” with my daughter starting at 3 months it sucked I went stir crazy. Hopefully you have a membership with Netflix cause it sounds like you will be needing a lot of distractions to pass the time!
Heather says:
yep, I still have my netflix subscription from my bed rest with Madeline!
Miriam says:
Well I’m glad to see your sense of humor is intact.
Dr. Risky is doing everything she can to keep you out of the hospital, so lounge around the house and watch Sex in the City – that’s what I did. I know bon bons aren’t on the special GD diet.
You are doing a great job cooking Binky and before you know it, this endless pregnancy will be over and Binky will be here.
Heather says:
while I rest, I am going to think of a way to get gestational diabetics bon bons. It’s a passion!
Katrina says:
Poor Heather and Rigby. You two are quite the pair!
Don’t feel too bad about putting her in that ring so that she won’t lick her boo-boo. She doesn’t look all that silly. Better than wearing a cone! In fact, haven’t you heard? Cones are OUT this season, and rings are IN. I’m sure she appreciates your style savvy in keeping up with the latest doggie fashion.
Getting up as little as possible sounds not so fun. I’ve never been on (bed rest — shhhh!) but I can only imagine how boring that must be.
Hang in there. Everyday that passes is one day closer to a healthy baby. I admire you so much, and am praying that Binky stays safe inside until February.
Katrina says:
and I was just thinking….one day Binky can read back in this blog and she will see all that you did to keep her safe — all the shots, the bedrest, all the meds, etc. She can read all about how much you and Mike loved her right from the moment you knew she was coming. I think that’s awesome.
Laura says:
I think it’s awesome too! What an incredible mommy who fought so hard for both of her baby girls!
((Hugs))
Heather says:
It’s not even the boredom as much as the physical fatigue…you feel your muscles wasting away and it literally hurts. But I have the internet to keep me busy!
Chrissie says:
Awwww! Hang in there!!! ((HUGS))
missy says:
Both of you stay put and stay well! Poor Rigby, feel better soon sweetie.
Tina says:
Be good about taking those meds girl. Set your timer and don’t skip a dose. So sorry that you are having to do this but you made it to 30 weeks without bed rest..that is awesome! I am thinking of you constantly Heather. Love you!
Heather says:
I’m being good – you’re my mentor!
catherine lucas says:
You will have earned this baby… Stay low and put a fixed number on entries in your treasure chamber… How many people do they allow to feel you inside??? Sjeesh…
But every day is one day closer to keeping Binky in our arms…
.-= catherine lucas´s last blog ..Babies and scallops =-.
Kathleen says:
Sorry about the imposed lying-down relaxation (can’t theink of clever euphemism for the dreaded bed rest). Hang in there!
Notesfromthegrove says:
…except that YOU don’t have to wear that hot blowup collar.
preTzel says:
But…can you rock a blue necklace like Rigby? Girl has it going on with her new accessory. Love it.
Glad Rigby came through surgery fine and is back home where she belongs.
Praying hard that your uterus gets over its moodiness and irritability. Just know that even during an Iowa blizzard I was thinking of you and yours.
.-= preTzel´s last blog ..Letters Home. =-.
Glenda says:
Heather, the last paragraph is funny! You have someone to keep you company now lol going through the same thing you’re going through. Awww Rigby…hoping she recovers soon! Praying that your contractions and meds get in sync with the program…and keep Binky safe and sound till Valentine’s Day! XXX
Susan says:
You absolutely brought me to tears and snorts of laughter…my co-workers are asking me what’s so funny! Having been probed and prodded myself this week, I understand. All that hands in/on the lady parts and no one even bought me a drink.
So, let’s not call it bed rest. Let’s call it “staying still with Rigby so she’ll get better” rest. You wouldn’t want your four-legged child to recover alone – she needs you right there by her side. And as long as Mike is taking care of Rigby, he can take care of you. God bless that man!!
Sending love from Fort Worth for all of you!
Nancy says:
I tried to find an addy to email you privately……so hopefully you read your comments ;). My twin sister was on the same meds as you for contractions for PTL for her 1st baby. I had 2 preterm babies so I was a candidate for this with my 3rd. http://www.marchofdimes.com/prematurity/21236_19093.asp
Has doctor Risky ever mentioned this? It was a lifesaver. No bedrest NOTHING. I delivered at 38 weeks 2 days. My only full term baby. I was just curious
Laura says:
heatherspohr@gmail.com
Heather says:
She HASN’T mentioned this. It will be my first question on Tuesday!
Lindsay says:
Heather, I have been on these shots since 16 weeks and they have made a HUGE difference in the contractions I was having…I was having 5-6 a day and since starting only have 5-6 a week! It really has made a big difference and I am so glad my OB suggested them!
.-= Lindsay´s last blog ..An Official Diagnosis and Our Trip to L & D =-.
Laura says:
Hang in there Mama Spohr and Rigby (and Mike too!). You are all such troopers and your strength and resilience is amazing.
Tami says:
Im glad Rigby is home. The first picture is precious, covered up in a blanket. Take the bed rest to make sure Binky stays safe. You and Rigby need all the rest you can get. God bless Mike for being a good helper.
Keyona says:
Poor puppy! Glad you both are ok. Rest. Please rest. Or lay down as much as possible. :o)
.-= Keyona´s last blog ..The Nutcracker =-.
ruth says:
Oh dear. Sorry you have to be horizontal for a while. I hope both of you critters get some relief from all this stuff !
Liz B. says:
I was going to make a crack about wearing a lamp shade collar, but I see about 50 people have already beat me to it!
But I’m curious, does bed rest/laying down as much as possible mean exactly that? Can you sit up, if partially reclined? Just thinking that a rainy Sunday afternoon vegging on the couch gives me a headache, so I can’t quite imagine not being able to get up, or sit up at all. What is it like?
Heather says:
I recline a lot. The first time I was on bed rest, with Madeline, I really had to lay on my side. But this time, since my membranes haven’t ruptured, I have a little more leeway. So I’m propped up by lots and lots of pillows. I really only lay down when I’m sleeping!
Rebecca says:
My daughter saw the photo of Rigby with the ring around his neck and said “Look mommy! It looks like that dog is ready to go to the beach and he can go to the beach all by himself with that thing on.”
My daughters speech teacher is pregnant and her first came early so she has to be seen weekly by a specialist. I said something to the nature of “Oh You get to see Dr Risky”. It took her about four seconds to get it and then she laughed and said she liked that one. So thanks for calling your Dr. Dr. Risky because I feel like I was able to help her relax a bit with that one.
.-= Rebecca´s last blog ..What Would You Do? =-.
Andrea's Sweet Life says:
Now all you need is some hemorrhoids so that you can have a little inflatable donut, too.
So sorry you have to be on “not bed rest”, I hope so very much that Binky stays in there till January! xoxo
.-= Andrea’s Sweet Life´s last blog ..Yes, Another One =-.
Judy says:
keep taking care of yourself and your girls…your doing a great job!!
Michele says:
Exactly live… Well, except for the whole hairy all over thing…
Take it easy, sister! Soon, bedrest (oops, I mean “laying down except to use the bathroom”) will be a thing of the past and things will be better.
.-= Michele´s last blog ..Happy 3 Month Birthday! =-.
Heather says:
well, let’s just say there isn’t a lot of grooming going on…for either of us.
Angie says:
“…and tried not to think about how many people had been all up in my vagina since Saturday.”
You really are a funny girl, Heather. I think I come here for a laugh as much as I do to check on your status.
I’m sorry you, er, must “lay down”. Having been through it, it’s the pits and going back to our bedroom after our daughter’s birth was nighmarish b/c of the bedrest memories…but as you know–*so* worth it in the end! Hang in there, sweetie!
nic @mybottlesup says:
oh binky, stay put!!! mama, stay put!!! rigby, you’re in stay put!!! mike, you’re in charge.
.-= nic @mybottlesup´s last blog ..pillow talk =-.
Issa says:
I’m glad you at least have Rigby to cuddle with. Laughing at the picture on Twitter.
.-= Issa´s last blog ..The, hi it’s almost Christmas and I have no brain left meme. =-.
Mrs. Flinger says:
But this: “I made myself comfortable and tried not to think about how many people had been all up in my vagina since Saturday.” was my favorite part of being pregnant. You know how many people HAVE NOT been up there since.. um.. 2007?
.-= Mrs. Flinger´s last blog ..Have yourself a Racially Diverse Christmas =-.
Heather says:
seriously. On Saturday night, I was offering my vagina up to med students. Why not, everyone else was up in there.
Miss says:
Can I throw in a “your vagina is like 7-11” joke here??!
.-= Miss´s last blog ..{W}rite-of-Passage =-.
Heather says:
Thank you, come again!
Melissa says:
The post made me laugh. The caption when you scroll over Rigby’s pic about “not being able to lick her vagina” made me laugh out loud- you are so funny.
Best of luck on the resting-in-bed-thing.
on a side note, I run 5k’s/races for causes, do you know if the March of Dimes does those? I ran for the Love of Liz here in Mpls, for Cancer patients, and I would love to run for Maddie. If you know of anything, please let me know!
Heather says:
I don’t know, but I will find out!!!
Rita from the Chicago says:
How is it, that in a post about your dog returning home from surgery and you having to go to the hospital and being put on “non bed rest,” that you are still so funny as to make me laugh out loud!!?!?
You have such a great spirit and it really shows through your writing. Hang in there on “not bed rest” and thank you for sharing.
Just Jiff says:
I cracked up on the how many people have been in your vagina part. Wooo. I needed that laugh today!
And the last photo is AWESOME!
Hang in there… we all know that bedrest sucks…but you’d LOVE to be able to lay around like that when you’re super exhausted with a newborn.
.-= Just Jiff´s last blog ..Giveaway. =-.
Lisa_in_WI says:
That collar is too cute on little Rigby! Glad everything turned out well with her surgery.
And I hope your relaxing — not to be confused with bed rest! — gives you some good news when you see Dr. Risky next week!
.-= Lisa_in_WI´s last blog ..Easy Holiday Recipe – Chocolate Marshmallow Bark =-.
Sarah says:
STAY IN, BINKY!! IN!!!! Heather, do they have any idea why this is happening?
Heather says:
Hopefully my doctor will have an idea when I see her next week. I’d really like to know myself!
Mama Cas says:
AWW! Poor Rigby! The first pic of her with the collar on? Her expression says:
“Do NOT post this on the internet. I know where you sleep.”
And I’m crossing my fingers for you and Binky. Hopefully your vagina doesn’t have to see any more action until 6 weeks postpartum!
Kristie says:
Ooops, I don’t know what just happened to my last comment, so I hope this isn’t a double posting…
I’m so sorry. Hang in there.
I know how hard it is on all sorts of levels to just lay there. Intellectually, you know you’re doing what you need to for Binky, but everything else is so hard!
Take care.
-Kristie
.-= Kristie´s last blog ..PuffPac Provides a New Twist on Gift Wrapping – What’s New Wednesday =-.
MFA Mama says:
Oh man. I was on bedrest for five months during my first pregnancy…it totally sucks. But it’s totally worth it
And the picture? With both of you with the blue collars (what is yours, a neck pillow? Tell me Mike didn’t buy you a “large dog” inflatable collar???)…ohgawd. Hilarious!
Heather says:
hee hee. Yes, it’s a neck pillow.
Cinthia says:
Freakin’ awwwwww! Best picture of the week, had to show my husband. Hang in there and a speedy recovery/being done with bed rest for the two of you.
Katrina says:
I’m so glad that you have your collar to keep you from licking your wounds.
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..Who says there isn’t any weather in CA? =-.
Jodi says:
That picture is priceless! Hope you both are feeling better.
Kim says:
Oh you are killing me. Love the picture. Hate that you’re not on bed rest but can’t get up other than to pee. I have to get sewing so you have something fun to at least look at while you’re laying there.
.-= Kim´s last blog ..Blog Bid Hope The Auction =-.
brit says:
wait, are you on the right…or the left….
J says:
Well, I can tell you apart. You have different hair.
Hang in there. Glad Rigby is home.
Carolyn says:
I LOVE the picture!!! That made my day! Thanks Heather – you are always so funny.
Tina says:
love the updated pic
I did have to squint a little to see who was who !!!!
Glad you are home with your Rigby
Elizabeth says:
I had 10 weeks hosp. bedrest and I thought of it as each day I spent in the hosp. was one less day my baby might have to spend in the NICU. Hang in there and keep that trade in mind!
.-= Elizabeth´s last blog ..Getting better =-.
Heather says:
yep, that was my mantra when I was on bed rest with Madeline!
Jen L. says:
That picture? IS PRICELESS. Please frame it. Happy healing to Rigby.
Sorry you can only get up to pee. Should we send puzzle books?
Also sorry everyone was all up in your va-jayjay. I remember being in labor and asking my doctor if there was anyone on the labor and deliver floor who HADN”T had their hand crammed up my lady bits. Good times, good times.
.-= Jen L.´s last blog ..Weird Week =-.
Amanda/Baby A says:
I think blue is really both of your color. It’s fahb-u-lus dahling.
Glad Rigby is home safe.
Sorry you’re on “lay down as much as possible.” =P I appreciate Dr. Risky’s comment on not calling it the B_R_ words.
ShellyD says:
Those are called the “cones of humiliation” in our household…
amy says:
Love the shot of you two, you are both so gorgeous! Now get back to BED!
Karla says:
I’m so glad Rigby is doing better. If you are going to have stones, struvite are the best because they can be prevented the easiest. That’s what my bichon had and we’ve been able to keep any more stone issues at bay with increase in water, taking her out more often, and just taking her in to check at the first sign of a bladder infection. She’s had a few infections since the surgery over 2 years ago but we’ve caught it soon enough and gotten her on antibiotics so no stones. I’m sure Rigby feels so much better. I’m sure you’re enjoying Rigby’s company now that you have to spend more time horizontal. You’re almost there! I’m only 6 days behind you. I wonder if these last months will go fast? I think I’ve finally hit the nesting period as I was scrubbing the inside of our fridge today and dusting light fixtures. Take it easy.
lm says:
haha that picture made me smile.
Amanda says:
It’s not “bed rest”– you could, like, be on the couch or the floor… So many options!
Elise says:
Aww, that picture is just too cute and funny!
Wishing you well…
VDog says:
SNORT!
I’m pretty sure I already gave you the “lie down as much as possible” order.
XOXOXOXO
Want me to send you trash mags? heh
Vaness says:
That was a great post, I admire your ability to get this post and up and keep a positive attitude.
.-= Vaness´s last blog ..Beyond Words… =-.
Sara K. says:
The last picture of you and Rigby is so cute! I am so glad Rigby and you are both doing okay, I check on you all daily.
Love~
Jess says:
POOR Rigby! Did they use regular sutures or did they use the ones that dissolve?
Bed rest, sorry you have to be on it. Catch up on tv shows or movies. Reading. If you want some book recs let me know.
I’m thinking of you!
dysfunctional mom says:
The look on Rigby’s face in the 2nd picture is HILARIOUS. But don’t tell her I said that!
You both look gorgeous, regardless.
edenland says:
OMG that pic ….. but how the hell do you look so stunning? It looks like you just had a photoshoot at Vogue.
Also, I would like a rolling bed too.
And if you ever get to the stage where you need nappies like Rigby, you should ask NASA. They totally make astronaut nappies. Truez.
Debby says:
Your collars are way to cute. I am glad that Rigby is home and that Binky is still tightly closed in the cave!
.-= Debby´s last blog ..SLOW COOKER =-.
Michelle Pixie says:
Yep! You both are so cute it’s hard to tell you apart!
.-= Michelle Pixie´s last blog ..Postal =-.
Laurie Sue says:
You have a gift for making me laugh even though you go through uncomfortable things! Keep your head up, you and Binky will get through this fine!
Michelle W says:
Well I am a little concerned…..
I know why Rigby is wearing the collar and for a dog it’s quite excusable, I am a little worried about why your collar is necessary though.
(yes I know it was by request but just let me have my joke)
Karen says:
My physio told me that in the last 3 weeks of my pregnancy I was not allowed to:
drive;
stand;
sit;
bath (shower only)
walk upstairs (if I went up I had to stay there);
walk downstairs (and if I went down, you guessed it!);
That only left me with lying down, upstairs or downstairs.
However, I was NOT told bedrest!
I have never put so much weight on soo fast, and so did the bump!
krysti says:
My bf was on bed rest for what seemed like forever with her little guy. I still laugh remembering that she actually started keeping track of the number of different people who “saw her vag.” It wound up being a pretty high number!
I’m glad Rigby’s doing better.
Expat Mom says:
So, I’m thinking we all need to leave really long, interesting comments every day so you will have to spend 8-10 hours just reading those . . . then you’ll zip right through these last 7 weeks.
Hang in there! I can’t wait to “meet” Binky, but it had best be later rather than sooner. I did about 3 weeks of bed rest with my first because I had pre-eclampsia and it SUCKED. I think I just ate the whole time . . . but you are obviously limited in what you can have right now. Maybe time to take up a few new hobbies? Not anything dangerous to Mike, like knitting . . . crochet perhaps?
.-= Expat Mom´s last blog ..A Gingerbread House Party! =-.
MJ says:
“Seriously now…how the HELL do you women in labor stand a cervix check? Holy crap.”
Thank you. THANK YOU. I had to have mine checked last week (I’m due tomorrow, it was only at a ONE) and I swear, on the pain scale, it’s a 10.5. It sucks SO BAD.
Thank you for proving that cervix checks are not for wimps. Cuz you’re one of the toughest women I know.
Bec says:
Thinking of you guys and hoping you’re all okay.
Laurie says:
I don’t personally know you, but I love you.
Not in a creepy way…..lol.
I’ve been reading your blog for over a year and I never cease to be amazed by your strength and humor, and I never fail to be struck anew by the enormity of your loss.
You are an inspiration, though I am heartbroken for you how you came to be one.
Here’s a huge cyber hug to you.
Much love, Laurie Jones
Megan says:
The cervix check while in labor? Yeah, it’s not so pleasant. Yowza is correct!
.-= Megan´s last blog ..Free kisses! =-.
Al_Pal says:
*HUGS* I remember seeing the double-collar photo on twitter, darling, both of you.
Good Luck with being a layabout. ;D
MrsP says:
hahahaha I love your sense of humor!!!
Gabriel says:
I will love to do the same, but … hey my dog is 40 kilos heavier. I love the photos… made me smile.
.-= Gabriel´s last blog ..What the hell is a Browser? =-.