Nicole Richie has put herself on bed rest

The reality TV star was recently hospitalised with pneumonia and is now taking a well-earned rest to recover fully.

Nicole – who gave birth to son Sparrow in September – wrote on her blog: "Right now it's important for me to stay in bed and recover. Reading all of your messages on Twitter and my website has really brightened my spirits and I am so grateful for the support. I look forward to seeing you all very soon."

Nicole – who also has a 22-month-old daughter, Harlow, with Good Charlotte rocker Joel Madden – will be back working in 2010 when she launches her new clothing line Winter Kate.

She said: "I will definitely be back in the spring when Winter Kate launches."

Earlier this month, the mother-of-two was taken to the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles after complaining of feeling unwell and doctors quickly diagnosed her as suffering from the illness.

Her representative said: "Nicole has checked into Cedars-Sinai where she is being treated for pneumonia. She is doing well."