It has been a rewarding and busy year for me and I feel it’s important to acknowledge the top 4 things I am thankful for from the past year.
- My family. I know most people would say this, but I want to explain more. My husband, Neil, is my rock. He jumps right in to take care of our girls without question so I can be there for you, my clients. He supports my goals for my business 100% and is my trusting ear for my frustrations as well as my victories. In addition, my parents are my next line of support. They take my girls when Neil is at work and I’m called to my clients at any hour of the day. I can do my job for you more effectively because I know my family is taken care of. Lastly, my two daughters are the reason I have the passion that I do for this work. They have taught me what being a mother means and why it’s all worth it. They have shown me the value of patience, love and support more than they will ever know.
- My clients. You have all shown and taught me so much. Every birth I attend, every class I teach, and every family I support teaches me something new. I am honored to be allowed into your space and help support the important transition in your lives. Without you, I wouldn’t be able to continue supporting families. Thank you for that.
- My birth professionals network. These doulas, chiropractors, midwives and other providers that I have formed stronger relationships with, especially this past year, have been invaluable. It has helped me not only grow as a business, but personally as well. I am grateful for the friendships I have gained from this trusted network that I have built and continue to build everyday. It truly does take a village and these people help me bring the absolute best to my clients.
- The organizations I have chosen to certify with. Anyone who knows me knows I do not believe that “one size fits all” is applicable to me or anyone for that matter. I like to take from things that appeal to me and make my own mold. DONA has provided me with the base for birth doula work and I have been able to successfully grow from it. I achieved my Lamaze certification this past year for childbirth education and strongly believe in their overall mission to improve birth outcomes for mother and baby. I am currently certifying with ProDoula for postpartum doula work and their sense of community and non-judgmental support for the clients they serve, as well as the value they expect us to place on ourselves could not have come to me at a better time as I strive to build my business and support my clients in the best possible way.
I am looking forward to 2016 and know it will be bigger and better than 2015 was. I am always furthering my education to bring my clients the best possible care and look forward to the many new journeys my clients will take me on in the coming year. I will continue to appreciate myself and my family and try to respect the balance that is needed to bring my best self to you.
Happy New Year to you all and I hope it brings you peace, light and happiness.