My 16 week appointment went swimmingly. I saw one of the other doctors in the practice who I hadn’t met before. She wasn’t even that freaked out when I burst into tears as soon as she walked in. We heard the baby’s heartbeat immediately, strong and loud and so beautiful. My cerclage is healing perfectly and my cervix is closed up tight. My strict pelvic rest was relaxed slightly (it’s ok to carry my heavy purse, for example) and best of all: she didn’t act like I was annoying for wanting more ultrasounds and more doctors appointments. She told me to ignore the gatekeeping receptionist and ask to be connected to the doctor and ask for whatever I want.

Ask for whatever I want. Be the squeaky wheel. That has to be my mantra for the rest of my pregnancy. For the rest of my life really.

Next week I start my progesterone shots. My next appointment is in four weeks and we have an hour long ultrasound. Today, I’m happy and hopeful.

Thank you everyone, for your prayers and kind words.