Doing it All 

As a doula, I get to see new families forming and growing all the time. I get to witness the joy, connection and evolution of the family unit, and I also get to witness the struggles and stresses of being a parent in 2024. 

One worry that I see crop up over and over again is how to stay on top of it all. How will you ever get through the to-do list if every time you tick something off, ten new things get added? How will you be able to handle a second child, or a third, when you’re already so busy with one, or two? When and how will you go back to work, and how will the family dynamic change when that happens? How can you possibly be expected to prioritize family time when you’re just trying to make ends meet?

When it comes to welcoming a new life into the world, the focus often centers on the birthing person. But what about the dads and partners? They play a crucial role, as well. 

How dads and partners also benefit from a doula might surprise you. These skilled professionals don't just support the person giving birth - they're a game-changer for the whole birthing team.

The feeling of finding out you're pregnant can be a mix of excitement, disbelief, and joy all rolled into one. It's a moment filled with overwhelming emotions as you realize that a new life is growing inside you. 

There's an indescribable sense of wonder and amazement at the miracle of creating a human being. It's a profound realization that marks the beginning of a journey filled with love, anticipation, and perhaps a touch of apprehension as you prepare for the changes and challenges ahead.

Pregnancy can also be a whirlwind of emotions, physical changes, and many unknowns. It’s natural to look to others for reassurance and guidance as we navigate this new and unfamiliar territory.

Tips for the holidays

Setting boundaries and allowances for friends and family during the holiday season. 

My husband and I have been married for 15 years and together for 16. Setting up family traditions of our own as well as continuing to be a part of the traditions of our families has been (at times) a bit of a struggle, both in logistics and interpersonal relationships.  

Here are a few things that I would suggest considering: