Thursday, February 25, 2010

when life gives you lemons....







3:14 yesterday i found out the fate of my next 17 weeks...bed rest.
with taylor, i spent 3 months on bed rest. and while people think that bed rest would be a luxury, i can assure you otherwise. only being allowed to get up to shower and go to the potty is not what i consider a luxury item....having to have someone wait on you 24/7 and take care of your child is like a prison sentence. it's hard on your whole family.
i have shed my tears and now i am stating that i am not going to dwell on situation but rather make lemonade from it: i'm going to be thankful for my wonderful supportive family, smile as i listen to tay upstairs playing the drums, laugh as i watch warren pick out her outfits and try to do her hair, give lots of kisses to tay when she is sitting in my lap, enjoy being able to catch up w/ my friends when they call to check in, work on expanding my business (e*design and a website are in the works), make my blog better, keep the designer's attic up (a huge thank you to all of the people who have supported that blog), take time to read books (any suggestions?), and most of all- take care of myself so that we can welcome a healthy, baby boy into our lives this june (and hopefully not before then)....

63 comments:

Sarah's Fab Day said...

As a mother who's experienced the emotional turmoil of a long bedrest too, I feel for you my dear. As hard as it will be just try and use my mantra, it's just a whisper of time in the grand scheme of your life. Sending lots of love your way!

Brooke @ Blueprint Bliss said...

Shannon- praying for you.
xx- Brooke

lizziefitz said...

SUPERB ATTITUDE, I WILL BE PRAYING!

Tammy@InStitches said...

I like your attitude and I invite you to stop by my blog for a visit. I would love to have you !

Maria Johns said...

Keep your spirits up, i hear you on bedrest being hard especially with a little one around!! praying for ya.

Courtney said...

What a great way to look at it...sounds like you're already making the most of a very tough, emotional time. Good thing is...beautiful baby boys make it all worth it!

Design Esquire said...

I'm praying for you! I can't imagine how hard bedrest is, but it will be worth it in the end!!

Dear Lillie said...

Will be keeping you in my prayers!

Jennifer said...

so sorry to hear about this Shannon! praying that those 17 weeks will pass quickly for you and that your needs will be met and spirits up.

since I suspect you are a dog-lover, you must read The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth (or is it Gary?) Stein. SOOOOO good!

Heidi said...

Hang in there girl, you are a brave one. I will be here for support and I know that I am not alone. Love, Heidi

paula said...

oh no! I will definitely be praying for you.

Love the Decor! said...

While I only had a few weeks of be rest, I can so sympathize with you. I love the attitude you are taking on! A wonderful book I read lately
Chasing Fireflies
By: Charles Martin
Here is a bit about it.
I borrowed the book from a friend, If it was my own I would send it to you.

When paramedics find a malnourished 6-year-old boy near a burning car that holds a dead woman, they wonder who he is---and why he won't talk! Chase, a small-town journalist, is assigned to cover the story and investigate the boy's identity. But will his search unearth long-buried emotions about his own history?

Unknown said...

A great friend of mine was just on bed rest from 20 weeks on. After seeing her go through it, even though it was tough, she had the best attitude. I think you are going into it with a great frame of mind and like you said, everything happens for a reason. I hope he stays nice and cozy in there until June!

Kelleyg said...

So sorry you are on bedrest again. But the end result, a beautiful baby boy, will be totally worth it. Maybe you should read all the Peter Mayle Provence books and dream of sunny French countryside!
Praying for you!

the glover gang said...

right there with you!!! on bedrest for the past three weeks with 12 more to go, with a 15 month old at home and husband in korea!! i feel your pain!!!!

High-Heeled Foot in the door said...

Oh no love that stinks, but you must keep that bun in the oven so I know you will make it happen and have fun doing it too!

Just imagine all the blogs you can catch up on, netflix tones or movies, catching up on reading, maybe try to learn how to knit.

It will go by fast!

xo,

Camila

ashlina {the decorista} said...

sending you prayers and well wishes....
try to make the best of that bed rest, im kinda jealous...

;)


beautiful photos too

xo

simply seleta said...

I went thru only two weeks of bedrest with baby #2. Whew, you're right it's so challenging. I will keep you in my prayers for good spirits and a healthy brewing baby boy! You have such a great attitude - you're going to make it thru this! xoxo

spark! (Ada-Marie) said...

Hang in there, sweetie! Take care of you and that baby boy. It will all be worth it. Thinking of you! xxoo

Unknown said...

That's tough, but I like your attitude, hang in there, hope you've got plenty of help around!

Imagine you baby boy in your arms, this will help you going through those weeks.
Maybe you can make your day bed where you can be part of the family!

A good bbc series to watch: The House of Eliott, great story, fabulous costumes.
And to read: All by Elizabeth Kostova, but this so depends on your taste and reading style...

XX
Victoria

Liz said...

I second everyone - your great attitude will get you through this!

I'm about to start reading The Help by Kathryn Stockett, which many friends have highly recommended. Sounds like a good Southern story!

I, and I'm sure everyone else, is looking forward to seeing your new business website and more blogging and goodies at Designer's Attic!

Stephanie said...

I am new to reading your blog but I just wanted to post and say that I am so, so sorry to hear about your bedrest. I didn't have to go through it myself so I can't even imagine but I believe you that it isn't a luxury! You sound so brave and optimistic! Keep up the positive attitude! Can you post pictures of the outfits that Warren picks out? :-)

Caroline said...

Great attitude. It will fly by and you will all be happier for it. Good thoughts are sent your way!!!

pixelimpress said...

wow, thoughts and prayers headed your way, shannon. a book recommendation.... trail of crumbs by kim sunee. i really enjoyed it.

Ali said...

I bet it will fly by!! I highly recommend Beth Moore's Esther study. My husband and I just left Atlanta and are headed to Hilton Head for the weekend. Do you have a restaurant recommendation in Beaufort?? I will add you and your baby boy to my prayer journal! Your blog is one of my favorites!!

Dina said...

You have such a positive attitude and it's going to fly by! I was on bedrest for 5 weeks and it's not what people imagine!

As far as good reads, if you haven't already delved in:
The Help
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle-if you're into organic eating
The Emily Giffin books
Chasing Harry Winston
Memoirs of a Geisha-oldie but great
Pat Conroy books
My Life in France-Julia Childs
The Jennifer Weiner books

I have a husband who loves to cook, so everyday I'd watch Paula Dean and Ina Garten and then print the recipes I liked from their shows off the internet and he'd cook them for us at night! I built up a little repertoire of new recipes that way!

There's always Scrabble, I made my huband play that with me at night, sad but true!

Anonymous said...

You should definitely read some good books! I just finished The Help and it was a great read, and both of Jeanette Walls' books, Half Broke Horses, and Glass Castle.

I know it's so hard to sit still and keep yourself occupied -- you could get crafty, embroidery or knitting are nice, low-impact activities.

Hope it means more blogging too :)

alison giese Interiors said...

Oh goodness. So sorry to hear about the best rest. I know it must break your heart. My best thoughts go out to you, hubby and Tay, and I send you major props for the great attitude!

Unknown said...

Keeping my fingers crossed for you that time goes by quickly. I understand how much harder it is with your second than first. It will be a great experience for dad and tay, and you will get to enjoy lots of quiet moments with them! Best wishes to you, have fun with all the projects you can do with a laptop! xo

Nook No. 4 said...

I love your blog and just want to send some encouragement your way. You seem to have the right attitude and the time will go by quickly. If you're bored come on by and check out my new blog-
NookNumber4.blogspot.com

Best,
Vanessa

Unknown said...

Bless your heart! For books: Anything by Mary Kay Andrews. She is a southern writer and is hilarious! I have all her book and will send them to you! You can also watch all of the "Housewives" shows and not feel guilty. Good luck and we will be praying for you!

Oliveaux said...

Oh no that will be a challenge...lots of reading and blogging!! I love your attitude. Take care! Ax

la la Lovely said...

Oh that is so hard......but way to have a great attitude about it! I once read a book (chick lit) called Bed Rest. It was pretty cute, actually. Saying a prayer for you and your family! It will be worth it in the end!
xx Trina

Full House said...

I can feel for you. I too use to smile when people would say that they would love to be on bed rest. I was down for 4 months strict bed rest and to put it into perspective...doing the dishes would have been a luxury. Hang in there. We'll be rootin for you.

Can't wait to see what all of your endeavors bring.

xx - Christina

Jessica Ryan said...

Hang in there, you can do it!

My babies are now 11, 9 and 4.5... I was on bedrest at the end with all three and for my last two I was on terbutaline. Ugh... but the rewards were so worth it!

How good of you to make your lemonade which I am sure is going to be super-sweet and super-delicious!!!

tarheel said...

oh, I'm so sorry! You have a terrific attitude, and it will be worth it when that precious baby makes it into the world. Take care.

Bellybee said...

I agree, much harder said than done to be on bed rest but the final result makes it all worthwhile plus some! I was on bed rest with my daughter and although it is hard work the final result makes every second worthwhile.

Enjoy as much as possible lots of special cuddles with your little girl while you can and make the most of the one on one time with her now... she will remember & cherish it forever.

Take care of you and your little prince and keep up your wonderful attitude. X

MB said...

Hey Lady, hang in there. I'm sending lots of positive thoughts and prayers from across the Atlantic.

Reading material...anything by David Sedaris.

La Bonbonniere said...

I'm sorry to hear that! I'm sure you'll have lots of time to work on your blog. Love it!

Blair Friedeman said...

Oh no, I am so sorry!!!

Sarah said...

Oof, I am so sorry!
I have done the bed rest thing (and the surprise! baby at 33 weeks thing too), and it isn't fun or glam.

Good luck. At least you have lots to keep you busy while you're horizontal.

Julie Richard - Shelter said...

So sorry to hear that! Hang in there, you will have a beautiful healthy baby before you know it.

Best,
Julie
Shelter

Julie Richard - Shelter said...

So sorry to hear that! Hang in there, you will have a beautiful healthy baby before you know it.

Best,
Julie
Shelter

Unknown said...

Just wanted to say that I was on bed rest with four kids- last ones twins - and every time they were late and huge! It may seem endless at times, but you get into a "groove" and you're out of the woods before you know it. Take care and don't worry.

Best,
Deborah (just received my fabrics - thank you!)

Hamptontoes said...

Sorry to hear that you are going to be on bedrest, however you do have the right attitude. Is there any way to have some of Taylor's toys brought into your bedroom so that you can feel a part of playtime? All the best!

susanne said...

It is SO hard to let people do things for us (the "us" being moms who always do for everyone else!)
You will be working very hard from your bed - bringing a precious new baby into the world. Lots of good wishes and happy thoughts coming your way.

AEOT said...

Hang in there hon!! I am pregnant right now as well (just posted pics of the nursery!!! Woo Hoo!) and can only imagine how hard it would be to be on bedrest, especially with a toddler around. It will be worth it in the long run, you ARE doing the best thing for you and the new little boy. However, I can totally sympathize!! Lots of rest, lots of fluids, and get in all the book reading (and internet shopping!) you can now. Thinking of you!

Melissa said...

Shannon, I am sorry to hear that you are being put on bedrest. You have such a good attitude and I know that you will make the best of it! If there is anything I can do please let me know. I'm not sure if I have told you before, but I love your blog--you are so talented!

Dumbwit Tellher said...

Your mind & heart are in the right place;all for the good of your sweet son. My prayers and all the best wishes I can muster up are with you.

x deb

Louisa said...

Hi Shannon,

From one pregnant girl to another, I'm sorry to hear you've been put on bedrest but your attitude is great. I'm due around the same time as you and I'm sure the coming months are going to fly by!

Take care,
Louisa

Lauren said...

aw Shannon!!! I'm thinking of you and sending hugs your way. This has to be so rough & you're amazing to be looking at it so positively. Please let me know if I can do anything.

keep it up.
xoxo,
lauren

Acanthus and Acorn said...

That is definately not going to be fun, but I am so impressed with how you are planning to make the best of it and focus on some other items. Thank you so much for making the BB chair fabric available and you were so prompt getting it in the mail with it's cute little ribbon and sticker.
I LOVE DESIGNERS ATTIC!!!
Take good care of yourself,
~Rebecca

adesigninggirl said...

Im wishing for all the best for you and your family.

Alexandra Rae said...

I'm so sorry for you. As a mother of three I know how it is to be stuck in bed for a even a week! Your baby will be fine and just beautiful. And June will come quick. I really believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe this is to provide the time you needed to be strapped to your computer so you can launch the next great part of your career. And he's just in there feeding off all the happy feelings you'll have while you create this new venture. Good luck to you. I just found your blog, so now I can follow your progress. ;-) I guess you'll have a lot of time on your hands, so please check out mine. http://mypinksketchbook.blogspot.com

Alexandra Rae said...

I was going to recommend a book I'm reading, but realized it gets a little strong. So I won't, but instead will recommend, as a total stranger and brand new follower, that you only read happy, funny things while you're pregnant. Praying for ya!

M.A. the 2nd ~ Frances Russell said...

Take care and stay strong as it is all worth it in the end. You are brave and facing it head on. I am going to send you some virtual cup cakes to maybe lift your spirits. Just hop on my blog ~ www.18centurypassionsandobsessions.blogspot.com
I have 2 sons and 1 daughter and of all the things we do in this life ~ they are the most important and the most precious.
Books ~ Antonia Fraser "The Journey"
Phillipa Gregory "The White Queen"
Chris Kuzneski novels (a bit edgy but exciting)
Movies ~ Marie Antoinette/Julie and Julia/Out of Africa/Somethings Gotta Give/The Duchess/A Good Year.....I have lots of other suggestions if you need anymore. Good luck and enjoy the cupcakes!
Frances

Smitten Design said...

I'm sorry to hear this. Continue to keep your positive attitude, I'll be praying for you.

KathleenG said...

Thinking good thoughts and wishing you and your family the best.

Design Apprentice said...

My Mom was on bed rest in the hospital for three months before she had me. We have always shared such a strong bond and have so much in common. I pray you and your little boy will have that same sort of connection, maybe because of a subconscious knowing of what a mother's love means. Best of luck to you in your projects. As for book ideas? I'm full of them. I don't know your style but I'm reading mating rituals of WASP, I LOVED Roses, The Help, The Devil in the Junior League to name a few. You're in my thoughts and prayers, this will all turn out beautifully.

Anonymous said...

Just read this post. That's alot of bedrest, but hope you get alot done from there. Will pray you and your little boy will have a healthy and safe delivery.
marcie

Fran said...

Oh, Man....I can only imagine how tough that'll be. Hang in there. Your attitude speaks volume and at the end of it, you'll grow from it. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. All the best....

megan @ a life's design said...

I hope you are doing great! Many prayers for you and your baby boy.

Karyn said...

Good books, The People of the Book is a fantastic read. For fun, easy reads, try the series by Meg Cabot called "Size 12 Is Not Fat".

Hang in there, you can do it! Your positive attitude will get you through.