When we talk about postpartum mental health, the focus often lands on moms, and rightfully so. But it’s crucial to remember that dads and partners can experience postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety too. The transition to parenthood is a life-altering experience, and it comes with a whirlwind of emotions for everyone involved. Recognizing that dads can struggle is an essential step toward creating a supportive environment for the entire family. For many dads, the pressure

When I was told I wouldn’t be able to breastfeed Meadow due to her feeding challenges, a wave of grief hit me. I had dreamed of breastfeeding her, picturing those quiet, connected moments. But, as with so many aspects of our journey, things turned out differently than I’d planned. Fortunately, donor milk was an option, and I’m deeply grateful for the nurturing power it brought Meadow in those early, uncertain days. I know that donor milk can feel like a big step—something you

The arrival of a new baby brings so much joy—and let’s be real, quite a few big adjustments too. For older siblings, this new addition to the family can be a mix of excitement, curiosity, and sometimes even a little confusion or jealousy. As parents, we can help our older children feel secure and connected during this transition, giving them ways to bond with their newborn siblings in ways that feel meaningful and fun. Here are a few ways to encourage that special sibling bon

There’s something so special about watching a big brother or sister meet their new sibling for the first time. Those little moments of awe, curiosity, and gentle care they show create the beginning of a beautiful bond—one that can grow into a lifelong connection. But bringing a new baby home can also stir up big emotions and even some uncertainties for older siblings. That’s why, as parents, we can play such an important role in encouraging these new sibling bonds from the ve

We go into labor hoping for a certain experience, preparing and dreaming about how those first precious moments will feel. But sometimes, despite all the preparation and hope, things don’t go the way we planned. This can leave us feeling lost, disappointed, or overwhelmed by guilt—questioning ourselves, our choices, or our bodies. If you’re wrestling with these feelings, please know that you’re not alone, and your experience is valid. When my journey into parenthood didn’t go

There’s something about sleep during those newborn days that feels almost mythical—a rare, beautiful thing you catch in bits and pieces. The reality is that sleep in the early weeks can be challenging for both babies and parents. As your little one adjusts to life outside the womb, they’re learning about this brand-new world, including when and how to sleep. Meanwhile, you’re navigating the delicate balance of meeting their needs while trying to get a little rest yourself. It

When you’re a new parent, safety becomes your top priority, and this includes making sure everything in your home is secure, especially around your newborn. If you use cannabis for its therapeutic benefits during the postpartum period, it’s essential to store it safely and responsibly to avoid any accidents or exposure to your baby. Here are some key tips on how to store cannabis safely around newborns: 1. Out of Reach and Locked Away Keep all cannabis products in a secure, c

As a parent, watching your little one grow and change day by day is nothing short of magical. Each small step, smile, or sound feels like a victory, marking another moment of their unique journey. But alongside that joy can come a lot of questions—and let’s be real, sometimes a little worry—about whether they’re developing as expected. We all want to give our babies the best foundation and help them grow in their own time, and understanding milestones can be a way to both cel

The pregnancy journey is filled with a range of emotions, physical changes, and transformations as you prepare to meet your little one. Amidst all the preparations, routines, and appointments, there’s something incredibly special about taking time to bond with your baby before birth. Prenatal bonding helps nurture a connection with your baby, allowing you to feel more in tune with their presence and creating a foundation of love and familiarity that you’ll carry into parentho

Having a baby in the NICU is one of the most challenging experiences a parent can face. Those early days—meant for bonding, celebrating, and getting to know each other—suddenly become filled with medical jargon, beeping machines, and an endless cycle of worry. As a parent who’s been through the NICU journey, I know how easy it is to put yourself last, focusing solely on your baby’s well-being. But caring for yourself is essential, too. Keeping yourself emotionally, physically

Talking to your provider about cannabis use during pregnancy or postpartum can be scary. Not because you’re doing something reckless—but because you’re trying to take care of yourself in a world that still isn’t sure how to hold those conversations with care. As a cannabis-informed doula, I walk with people through this exact fear all the time. The truth is: you deserve respectful, honest care, even when your choices don’t align with what’s considered “typical.” But how do yo

Tomorrow is the day. I honestly can't believe it. After all the planning, creating, organizing, worrying, dreaming, and putting all of the little pieces together, Bloom Together: Create for Choice is happening tomorrow. And I would really, truly love to have you there. Tomorrow, Friday, September 18th at 5:30 PM, we are gathering at Marge Roberts Park in Arvada to spend an evening creating, connecting, sharing food, learning, laughing, and celebrating community. And I want to

Supporting LGBTQ+ parents during birth and postpartum is essential for creating an inclusive and affirming environment. As a doula, I believe that fostering a welcoming space involves understanding the unique challenges and joys LGBTQ+ parents may experience on their parenting journey. Understanding Unique Challenges From the start, LGBTQ+ parents may face additional challenges, such as navigating healthcare systems that may not fully understand or respect their family dynami

Cannabis in pregnancy is a complex, personal choice, and parents-to-be are often left to sift through a mix of information and stigma. As a doula, I offer compassionate support and share resources so families feel empowered and informed on their unique journey. Here, I’d like to share some perspectives, considerations, and ways to approach this topic confidently and cautiously. The Current Landscape of Cannabis and Pregnancy Cannabis has been used across cultures for centurie

The alarm goes off, not because I’m eager to start the day, but because someone’s little body is used to waking before the sun. I quietly slip out of bed, careful not to wake Meadow or Dakota, and I take a moment to breathe, to center myself, before the chaos of the day begins. Being a postpartum doula isn’t a nine-to-five job. It doesn’t start with a commute or end with a clocking out. It starts and ends with real life—messy, unpredictable, and often beautiful in ways you ca

Feeding a baby isn’t always simple. No matter how prepared you feel, the reality of breastfeeding or chestfeeding can be messy, emotional, and full of surprises. As a postpartum doula, I’ve seen families struggle, worry, and sometimes grieve the feeding experience they imagined—but I’ve also seen hope, creativity, and strength emerge when support is there. Here are some things I want every parent-to-be and new parent to know about feeding: 1. Trust your body (and your baby).

Being a parent—or preparing to become one—is equal parts exciting and terrifying. You’re stepping into a season of life that changes everything, and yet, for all the classes, advice, and apps, nothing can fully prepare you for the reality of birth and postpartum. That’s why the books you read matter. The right book can educate, soothe fear, challenge assumptions, and even feel like a companion during those long, quiet, overwhelming hours. I want to share the books I return to

A Women’s Rights Community Craft Night in Arvada There are a lot of things I could say about why I created Bloom Together: Create for Choice. I could talk about reproductive justice. I could talk about bodily autonomy. I could talk about the importance of having choices and being able to make decisions about our own bodies. And I will talk about those things. But honestly, at the heart of this event is something much simpler: I believe people need community. As a doula, I spe

Pregnancy gets a lot of attention—and for good reason—but what comes after birth is just as important. The fourth trimester is a time of massive physical recovery, emotional adjustment, and learning how to care for a tiny human who depends on you completely. And yet, so often, parents are left to navigate it alone. That’s where support comes in. Postpartum care isn’t just about checking on your baby; it’s about checking in on you. It’s helping you heal physically, emotionally

One of the most powerful things you can do as a parent-to-be is invest in your own knowledge and preparation before your baby arrives. Prenatal education and classes aren’t just about memorizing facts or practicing skills—they’re about building confidence, creating a support network, and equipping yourself to navigate one of the most transformative times of your life. Whether it’s childbirth, breastfeeding, or infant CPR, each class is a stepping stone toward feeling empowere