my own pregnancy

It has been a VERY long time since I have updated this site and I’m sorry that I have neglected it! At the end of October, 2010 my husband and I discovered that I was pregnant with our 3rd! The first trimester of this pregnancy was much different than my first two, which was the first clue that a little GIRL was developing inside my belly. I had terrible morning sickness and for a few weeks could hardly function within my normal routine.

Baby girl is due July 4th, 2011 and my 2 and 4 year old boys (along with the rest of us) can’t wait to meet her! The second trimester brought new energy and enthusiasm and now, at 28 weeks, I am nesting and enjoying time with my boys at home.

I am still very involved in the day to day development and operations of my skincare company, Zoe Organics (www.zoe-organics.com), but have taken a break from doula-ing. (For those who have left comments or email, I am so sorry I didn’t see them!) Recently, I put my passion for pregnancy and breastfeeding into a line of 100% organic/natural skin and body care products! I don’t believe it was a coincidence that the launch of this pregnancy line came at the same time I announced my pregnancy!

This month marks the first year we have been back in northern California and what a year it has been! Time has flown so fast and I feel like I am just now feeling “adjusted” and “settled” in our new home and environment.

Being pregnant always inspires me and reminds me of the miracle of pregnancy and child birth and yes! I plan to return to doula-ing after “maternity leave”.

There are so many ways Full Bloom Birth and Zoe Organics coincide and I encourage you to connect with us through our website, blog, newsletter and join the discussions that go on at our Facebook page. We focus largely on an organic/natural lifestyle, with a special emphasis on motherhood (pregnancy and beyond) and children. Come on over and let me know that you did – I would love to hear your story!

I commit to check back here often and provide updates on my own third trimester journey as well as my birth story! I will also be regularly using my email account, so please contact me at heather @ fullbloombirth.com (omit spaces) or leave a comment here!

Until next time…Happy Blooming!

heather

choosing the right doula for you

Doulas come in all shapes and sizes, exhibit a vast array of personalities and philosophies, and offer their own unique set of services.  In other words, no two Doulas are exactly alike.

When I was doing my Doula training and internship, I was fascinated by the unique backgrounds of my sister Doulas. So many beautiful stories were shared for why they became a Doula and what motivated them.

Why is it important that you choose the right Doula? Because your Doula is going to be by your side, in a very personal, intimate setting. Your Doula is going to share in a life-changing event! Your Doula must be someone you can trust and feel confident in.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when choosing a Doula;

• What personality do you feel most comfortable with? Someone who is energetic and cheering you on, or someone who is soft-spoken and will blend in with your serene birth setting?
• Is there a special birthing technique that you plan to use, such as Hypnobabies?
• Is massage, aromatherapy, or acupressure important for you during labor?
• Where do you plan for your birth to take place? Hospital, Birth Center, Home? You will want a Doula who has experience with your birth location and supports your philosophy.
• If your Doula has an emergency or illness, does she have a back-up?
• Do you desire extra breastfeeding support? Some Doulas have more experience or additional training in Breastfeeding
• Do you have any special ceremonies or rituals that you would want your Doula to participate in or be comfortable with?

Most Doulas offer a free consultation to perspective clients. Don’t be afraid to interview several Doulas! Ask lot’s of questions and if you have a birth partner, bring them along so you can discuss how you both felt about the Doula after the interview.

Price. I know that Doula fees will be factored into your decision because the cost of bringing a new baby into the world can really add up. Doula fees can really run the gamut. Make sure to ask what perspective Doulas include with their fees. Doulas with special training in massage therapy, child birth education, lactation, or have hundreds of births under their belt will charge more – but don’t discount their extra qualifications. If you can’t afford a Doula, ask your hospital or birth center if they have Doula interns. Doulas are required to provide doula services at a set number of births prior to obtaining their certification. These Doulas in-training are seeking women to support (for free, or at a reduced rate).

Finally, ask for references from previous clients. Follow through and contact these references. It will only help you to feel better, or escape a negative situation. Ask your midwife or healthcare provider for referrals. Happy clients are a great indicator of a good Doula.

Follow your heart. Most of the time we have a gut reaction when we meet someone. We either connect or we don’t. Its OK to move on to another interview if you didn’t feel a Doula was the right fit for you! If you find one who you really connect with, don’t take too long reserving them because chances are they will be popular with someone else too!

a new community

I hardly know where to begin! Honestly, I feel a bit like a fish out of water. Although I was born and raised in the beautiful Napa Valley, my training and education, as well as the start of my doula career, have been centered in Orange County, California, where we have lived during the past 7 years. Although change can be a bit rough, I am so excited to be back in Northern California and to be part of a new community!

As you will see from my bio, I am passionate about pregnancy, childbirth, babies and motherhood! I recently launched my skin and body care company, Zoe Organics, and am a firm believer in the organic baby care line!  I am currently developing the pregnancy line  - so beginning this summer, my doula clients will get to enjoy this beautifully handcrafted, organic skin and body care line.

I am so excited to support the women of the Lake, Napa and Sonoma counties! Contact me for a free consultation: heather@fullbloombirth.com.

Happy Blooming!