Bed rest, are you kidding me? “How am I ever going to survive 8+ weeks of resting much less lying in bed all day?” That’s the question I kept asking myself when my doctor informed me early on in my pregnancy that I would be placed on bed rest beginning at 28 weeks. As the weeks neared, a feeling of anxiety began to build in my body as thoughts of “what to do” relished in my mind.

If you find yourself in the same situation, here are a few helpful tips to pass the time during bed rest.

1. Don’t be afraid to make a “to do list” for your husband, family, and friends

(example: grocery store list, Walmart/Target list, dinner, laundry, to do’s around the house, and simple errands). Although it can be difficult asking others to help, I strongly suggest doing so. It will make your life so much easier and will make people feel like they are supporting you.

2. Blogging was a saving grace to me in more ways than one during my weeks of bed rest

Not only was I able to pass time by blogging, I was able to connect to other moms of multiples, others that struggled with infertility and the IVF process, and so much more. Blogging was also a way for me to journal my journey to motherhood and will act as a baby book for my children, as it holds precious memories.

3. Get hooked on a good book

There are so many new ones out there, so grab your Kindle, Nook, and/or iPad, curl up on the couch, and start reading!

4. Indulge in as much “trash TV” and TLC as you can

It’s the only time that you can get away with it, and probably the last time you will be able to do it for a while, so don’t be embarrassed, just do it!

I’m no expert, but doing the above sure did help pass the time when I was expecting twins and placed on bed rest at 28 weeks. It wasn’t always easy sitting and resting, especially there was so much to do to prepare for our little ones, but as each passing doctor appointment came and went with no signs of preterm labor, I knew I was doing what was right for my body and my babies. So, if you find yourself in the same situation, know it’s normal to feel anxious, but just remember, you are doing what’s best for yourself, your body, and most importantly, your baby/babies.

My name is Hayley Scott and I’m blessed to be the MoM of 3 ½ year old b/g twins. My journey to motherhood wasn’t an easy one, as there were a few bumps along the road, but with time, many prayers, great doctors, and a few bucks (yeah right, more like thousands), our dreams came true on December 21, 2008.