The Circle of Life and Love

(Me with my doula, Ginger.)

No matter what role you play, birth brings people together. As a doula and childbirth educator, I am continually honored by playing a small role in this life changing event. As a mom who has used a doula at each of my own 3 births, I understand the closeness and the fondness women always feel towards their doulas. And as a doula, I know how doulas hold a special place in their heart for each and every family they have worked with. These mutual feelings create a circle that is continually feeding into itself, and often results in lasting relati0nships. I am always touched to get a surprise visit from a couple I have worked with and their new baby. I love the Christmas cards, emails, and communication on Facebook. But this year I had a new first. I was invited to my first birthday party!

Many of you know that in my MUSIC BIRTH childbirth education classes, each class writes a lullaby for their babies. It is always a highlight of the class. So for this birthday party, my husband and I decided to make a recording of the lullaby for this family. (I am SO lucky that I married a man who loves music as much as I do, and has his own recording equipment!)

So today in the mail I got a thank you note from the little birthday boy and his parents, and it totally made my day. Here is an excerpt:

"Thank you for the CD of the lullaby. It is very special to have that recording! You all hold a special place in our hearts for allowing Marie to be a part of our son's birth. Thank you!"

I really do have the best job in the world! A huge "Thank you" to all of my past clients. You have made a difference in my life. I have recently put my career on hold as I have welcomed my third child into the world, and have been focusing just on my own family. But my maternity leave is about to end, as I just got a phonecall this morning from a client in early labor. :) Off to create another circle of love from the circle of life!

Happy Father's Day!

There is nothing like seeing your husband hold your baby for the very first time. You suddenly begin to love him in a way you never have before. And for those of you who are already parents, you already know that there is nothing sexier than a great dad who adores his kids.

In the Music Birth method, Dads play an integral role. Some are the main support givers. Others work side by side with their doula as equal partners in supporting their wives. Either way, they always rise to the ocassion.

Many dads get alone time with the baby before mom even does (since mom is often still busy with the afterbirth). This is a special time for all dads as the bonding process kicks into full gear. Many dads sing their lullaby to their baby at this time.

Some dads have to be brave and follow their newborns into the NICU. Providing for and protecting their families is not always an easy thing to do. But they do it, and they do it wonderfully.

A big "Thank You" to all you awesome dad's out there. I hope you have a great Father's Day because you truly deserve it!