I Wanna Be

"A society in which vocation and job are separated for most people gradually creates an economy that is often devoid of spirit, one that frequently fills our pocketbooks at the cost of emptying our souls. " -Sam Keen

It has taken me awhile to come to grips with what I want to be when I grow up.  Well, actually, I know exactly what I want to be, it just doesn't happen to come with a paycheck.  Being a mom is the best, it puts me at the top of my game, and is just right for me.  At least, being Maeve's Momma is just right for me.

Lately I have been pondering the possibility of becoming a postpartum doula when Maeve starts school.  Most people, when they hear the word doula, think of a midwife sort of person, but I do not want to be on the business end of giving birth, no thank you.  A postpartum doula comes after the baby is born to help the family transition to life with an infant, to help the mother, and to teach the rest of the family how best to support her.  These doulas give helpful advice on lactation, sleep, as well as just plain look after the baby while mommy takes a shower, or runs errands for the family.  Basically, a postpartum doula is who you hire if you can't have your mother come stay with you after the baby comes.

I really can't think of any downsides to this job.  I guess there would be diaper changes, but newborn diapers are a cinch.  And I would get to hold infants, support and encourage new moms, and I think I mentioned I would get to hold infants. 

So I am looking into the training side of the equation, trying to figure out if this job would be a good fit for me.  The training and materials cost roughly $500 and many hours, and even though that sounds expensive, it is MUCH cheaper than going back to school for another degree or certification.  So we'll see what comes of it.  But in the meantime, it's nice to think I may just have stumbled on what I want to be when I grow up.

Quick tip: don't hold baby by the neck.