Birth...

I have not been a doula long. In three years, 10 births and many post-partum visits, I have witnessed strength, courage and incredible surrender by women and men alike. From home births, emergency ambulance rides, four day labours, unexpexcted c-sections, 11 pound babies born without drugs and to nearly having to deliver a baby myself (never had to, but have come very close.. bless the midwives:)). It's always a wild adventure. Having been through two births myself, each birth I attend brings up different emotions in me.  I worked in film and television for nearly 10 years and never once felt as important as I do in a single moment as a doula.  They say:" Love what you do" no?
 Yesterday, in the wee hours of the morning, I sat with two people I care deeply for, and witnessed them becoming parents for the second time. As I was driving home, I felt a wave of gratitude come over me. How grateful I am to be with the ones I love at such an important time in their lives. How honoured I am to be wanted and trusted at that time. Just as every birth is a blessing... every birth blesses those who get to be part of it.  I definitely feel blessed.

(foot model:  Little Oakley 2010)