Small Things

A few small things that make a big difference to me.

1) A change of scene. After about a week here, I switched from a room with a bland view of a wall . . .

To a room with a more interesting view.

This picture is a bit dark, but the ground is covered with green, the windows off to the right look into an office, and the scaffolding supports a walkway. It might seem a boring view, but I get to see glimpses of people walking, talking, and living lives outside of my unit.

2) Exchange my IV's for a PICC line. A PICC line is kind of like a long term IV. Like an IV, it provides access to my viens in case I need blood and/or surgery quickly. But there are several big advantages to a PICC line. For starters, the PICC line can stay in for my entire stay - which eliminates the painful starting of a new IV line every few days. The PICC line is also in a convenient location - my upper arm. The IV's inevitably ended up in my elbow, wrist, or hand. I felt like I had a travelling handicap as I gave up the use of my arm or wrist, depending on the location of the moment. And lastly, the PICC line is larger than an IV so they can pump more blood into me quicker.

3) October 5 - Wyatt's scheduled birthday. Even though this date is at 36 1/2 weeks instead of my hoped for 36 weeks, it is amazing to me how relieved I am to have a concrete date to count down to. I can say with confidence that I will be at home or wrapping up my stay here at the hospital in 6 weeks.

4) Care packages, letters, messages, flowers, phone calls, and visits from family and friends. I've been overwhelmed and grateful for the love and support poured out to me and my family. I can't really describe how much it helps me to know that we are not alone. I'm one blessed woman to have you all.

5) The other pregnant ladies on my unit. An update on them . . . Amber had her twins yesterday. It is good for me to have a peek at the difference between her delivery at 34 weeks, and a full term delivery. She is back in her room, surrounded by family and friends - but no babies. They live over in the special care nursery. Her son has yet to see his sisters because no children are allowed in that nursery. If Wyatt hangs in there until 36.5 weeks, he probably will get to stay in my room like most babies. But he if does come earlier, it is good for me start adjusting my expectations now.

Little things add up to me settling in and surviving life here in the hospital. It's a strange life, but it is mine. And I think I can make it for another 6 weeks.