Motherhood takes many shapes and forms. As a new mom and Doula I am constantly astounded by the bravery, strength, and courage of mothers. I’ve learned that being a mom is a gift, blessing, and is truly indescribable (oh, and it’s also hard too). I write this with one incredible mommy in mind (and all mothers who can relate). A fellow boy-mom and my dear friend: Layla. I write this with her permission unable to contain my tears and heartache. Layla lost her newborn son Ryker Brooks who lived just 5 days before being carried on angel wings to heaven. She may not see or know it yet, but she’s a super mom and one of the strongest mothers I know. She personifies love, selflessness, gratitude, and openness, even during the worst sorrow a parent will ever go through as described by Layla. Continue reading
I love surprises! One of the greatest gifts I have ever given myself was keeping the gender of our baby a surprise. Despite it being torture for my poor husband who would have preferred to find out the gender at 20 weeks, he humoured me and we waited. The wives tales, guessing, and anticipation was exciting and I waited anxiously for one of the greatest surprises of my life. Few things in life are surprises, but I knew this would be one worth waiting for. By not knowing the gender, I also found that preparing for the baby’s arrival (who we lovingly referred to as “baby”, “piña” – pineapple in Spanish, or “they”) was easy and enjoyable.