Big News, Mes Amis

This, my friends, is the wonderful news that I mentioned yesterday:

I have officially begun my training to become a doula.

If you are unfamiliar with this term, Mothering the Mother describes a Doula as a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth.

My urge to become a labour doula began after Gretchen's birth. As many of you are aware, my daughter was born at home with the help of a midwife and my best friend, who, in in essence, acted as my doula. She guided me through contractions, helped me focus and kept me positive through the most intense experience of my life -- this is exactly what I believe every woman deserves while giving birth. It's such an incredibly emotional experience, and though a mother's partner is a fabulous resource during labour, having the one-on-one, non-medical support of a knowledgeable woman can make a world of difference.

In labour with Gretchen, breathing through a contraction.

It is my goal as an aspiring doula to support women in whatever way they need in order to help them have a beautiful birth.

This is where my heart lies, my friends. I promise to share more about my education over the next few months as I become more and more immersed in my studies.

Peace & goodnight.