2013 Year in Review

Well, today is Christmas, and I realize that I haven't blogged for many months.

It has been a very busy year for me. I moved to another country, assisted many births as a doula, finished my homeopathy program, renovated space in my home, made a few great friends, and traveled a lot. I also have to admit - I had a bit of writer's block for many months (I'm finally feeling myself come out of that...whew!). I went through a lot of self-transformation as I worked my way through the things that were blocking my self expression. Although it was painful at times, I have felt a lot of healing and I encourage all of you to work through your fears and let go of those things that are no longer serving you (maybe a New Year's resolution?).

I have also been deep in thought about our birth system, since that is what the majority of my work focused on this year. Sometimes it seems so flawed and I feel so helpless. I have a deep faith in a woman's ability to give birth without assistance. It sometimes feels frustrating to work in a place where childbirth is so managed and health professionals are constantly poking and prodding. I have seen women laboring beautifully at home, where they feel comfortable, and then go to the hospital where all contractions stop. Many nurses and doctors believe the woman needs assistance with medications to speed up labor, when in fact, the only thing the woman needs is to feel safe and comfortable. How many unnecessary interventions are used because a woman doesn't feel safe, comfortable and supported? Interestingly, in 2010, the U.S. ranked 50 in maternal mortality. That means that 49 countries had less maternal deaths in childbirth than the United States. Additionally, the U.S. spends more than any other country on healthcare related to pregnancy and childbirth! Doesn't that seem strange to you? We tend to think that the medical system is the best in the world, when, in fact, 49 countries out rank us!

I hope that 2014 is a great year of change.

I will be away on a 3 month backpacking journey, and I hope to post some exotic blogs from India.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to you, dear friend.