Beat Bed Rest Boredom!

Re-discover your favorite TV show: In today's society, almost everything is on DVD. Think back to the TV show you would race home to see after school, or the show you would schedule all your classes around when you were in college. Ask your significant other or a friend to pick up the entire series for you. Most shows now have added footage or commentary, so you can fall in love with your favorite show all over again.

Learn how to knit: Making something for your baby is a tradition that seems to have fallen by the wayside, but you can help bring it back to life. Get a video, book or an elder relative to show you how to knit. In no time, you'll have a beautiful blanket or pretty booties to give to your little one.

Become a 13-year-old boy: If a nephew or cousin (or anyone) has an old PlayStation lying around, ask to borrow it and a few games. By the time the baby comes, you'll be world champion video game chick!

Catch up with old friends: In an age of instant messaging and e-mail, letter writing is almost obsolete. Dig out your address book (or Palm Pilot) and start writing some letters to friends with whom you may have lost contact. They don't have to be long sappy letters, just short notes to let them know how you're doing, and that you're thinking of them.

Get the nursery ready: Don't think that just because you are on bed rest you can't fully indulge your desire to "nest." Just bring your computer to bed with you and let the Internet do the work for you. Putting the finishing touches on the nursery is just a click of the mouse away.

Contact your local hospital: Some hospitals have "Bed Rest Bags" they give women that are filled with games and information on how to pass the time. If your hospital didn't give you one, call and ask, or see if another hospital close by has any.

Reach out to other moms in your situation: It can seem like you are all alone in the world when you begin your bed rest, and initially, you may feel a variety of emotions as you try to cope with the change of plans. If you are really feeling down or just feel like you need someone to talk to, contact Sidelines National Support Network, either at (888) 447-4754 or through their website at www.sidelines.org. You can order their magazine, LeftSide Lines, and other information and tips on things you can do during bed rest.

Remember that it's all worth it: Whatever the medical reasons for your bed rest may be, remember that its purpose is to make sure your baby arrives happy and healthy. This is but a small sacrifice.