In Retrospect, I Should Have Just Gotten the Shot

If you are my Facebook friend, you had to know this post was coming

I got an email late in the day on Thursday – the H1N1 nasal vaccine was available in my town’s health department for kids’ ages 2-5.  I quickly called for our appointment and got one the very next day for both of my kids.

So yesterday, after naps, I brought both kids to our local town hall for their shot.  I was pleasantly surprised to see how uncrowded and organized the process was.  After a short 5 minutes (which I spent filling out forms) we were called by the middle aged and super-friendly nurse.

My daughter went first and then my son.  It was extremely easy – neither cried or fussed, and the nurse handed me two cards showing they got the first dose with an appointment for the second dose.  We were just about to leave when she put her arm around my shoulder and said, “Now Mom, did you get your shot yet?”.

I said, “Um… no, there are really hard to find.” (right??)

And she said…. “Oh, because you are …

PREGNANT!….

you need to get one.”

“No,” I stuttered, “I just… have a sweater on.”

“Oh, because if you were pregnant, you couldn’t have the nasal vaccine, but I’d make sure you got the shot”, she replied.

The rest is a blur.  I walked out of the town hall, and immediately called my mom.  I was shaking a bit.  This is the SECOND time this has happened THIS YEAR.  She, as I expected, told me how crazy it was, but I didn’t even hear it.

Then, I called my husband and started crying.  Yes, me, crying.  I never cry anymore, but I had tears streaming down my face.  My stomach is so fat I look like another life form has taken shape there.

So, I’m back to trying to repair my abdominal muscle separation.  Wish me luck.

Oh, and if you see me IRL, please don’t ask when I’m due.