15 Minutes of Freedom

Yesterday was the NICU reunion--just outside the hospital--and I was excited to go because my OB had given me permission before she was off for the weekend to go out there in a wheelchair. Unfortunately, the doc on call for the weekend was less optimistic and told me I couldn't go ... but that if I did, it better not be more than 20 minutes. I'll admit, he quickly became my least favorite doctor in my OB's group (for that and a few other reasons).

Now don't get me wrong--I am willing to make sacrifices just to make sure Heidi gets the best chance possible. I take a shower every other day, even though I am allowed to take one every day; I keep my bed at a lower angle than I am allowed; and I stay as relaxed as I can. But I really didn't think sitting in a wheelchair for a short time was going to be THE last straw that would trigger Heidi's arrival. Even the nurse was shaking her head at the on-call doc and assured me it'd be fine. Still, just to play it safe, I decided to only go out for 15 minutes.

So, I did it! I actually did get out of my room (though my camera was being a total pooper scooper and wouldn't take any pictures to prove it)! It was a glorious, happy 15 minutes of sunshine! The weather was beautiful! I saw lots of awesome friends I haven't seen for a while. I watched many happy micro preemies--who I remember hanging out on ventilators not too long ago--now running around like regular toddlers. Many hugs later, I returned to my hospital bed with a BIG smile on my face, grateful for just ONCE being able to get out of my room.

And best of all (neener neener to Doctor Pessimist), I'm still pregnant.


~Natalie