We would like to introduce family and friends to our doula, Lisi. I discovered doulas while I was in massage school and even considered going through the training to become one myself. A doula is a birth assistant; someone to help mommy and daddy through the process of labor and delivery through massage, aromatherapy, and other relaxation techniques. We are gearing up for a completely drug-free birth and wanted the support of a professional who knew lots of alternative pain relief options. Lisi has been attending deliveries for almost 10 years and we love her laid-back, warm personality and sense of humor. On Saturday, she came over to the house for a consultation and we practiced some breathing techniques, learned different labor positions, and even simulated a few 'mock contractions' where I had to hold ice in my hand for several minutes. Carey is definitely front row and center, rubbing my back and helping me to remember the proper breathing patterns.
With Lisi on our team, we are confident this baby can make his/her entrance into this world without the help of narcotics or an epidural. In the next four weeks, we will continue to practice our breathing and getting everything we need ready for the big day. I'm working on getting my hospital bag packed, a birth playlist created, and putting the finishing touches on the baby's room. It's hard to believe in less than a month (let's hope!) we will all discover who this little person is who has been growing and growing and growing inside me for the last 9 months!!
