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As you embark on the incredible journey of pregnancy, it's not just your belly that's growing — it's also the bond between you and your partner. Pregnancy isn't just about the physical changes and preparations for baby's arrival; it's a profound and transformative experience that can deepen your connection with your partner in ways you never imagined. From the shared excitement of seeing those first ultrasound images to navigating the ups and downs of pregnancy symptoms together, every moment becomes an opportunity to strengthen your relationship and grow as a team. In this post, we'll explore the importance of bonding with your partner during pregnancy, and share some practical tips to nurture your relationship and savor this special time together. Prepare for Birth Attending Prenatal Appointments Together: Even with work schedules, partners can make an effort to attend important prenatal appointments, such as ultrasound scans or check-ups with the obstetrician or midwife. While it may not be possible to attend every appointment due to work commitments, prioritizing key milestones allows the partner to stay involved, provide support, and bond with the baby and the expecting parent. Creating Rituals for Connection: Despite busy schedules, partners can carve out intentional time for bonding rituals during the pregnancy. This could involve setting aside time each day to read a book to the baby bump, practicing relaxation techniques together, or simply having a heartfelt conversation about their hopes and dreams for the future as parents. These rituals not only strengthen the bond between partners but also foster a sense of connection with the growing baby. Supporting with Practical Tasks: Partners can show support and involvement by taking on practical tasks around the house or with baby preparations. This could include assembling baby furniture, setting up the nursery, attending prenatal classes or workshops together (if available and feasible), or even taking on additional household responsibilities to ease the expecting parent's workload and ensure they have time to rest and relax during the later stages of pregnancy. Plan your Postpartum Journey Adjusting to Parenthood: Explore the emotional and practical adjustments that come with becoming new parents. This could include discussing the changes in daily routines, sleep patterns, and dynamics within the household. Addressing common challenges such as managing fatigue, balancing responsibilities, and nurturing the relationship with your partner amidst the demands of caring for a newborn can provide valuable insights and support for expecting parents. Preparing Together for Postpartum Support: Collaborate with your partner to prepare for the postpartum period and prioritize self-care as a team. Work together to create a postpartum support plan that includes strategies for nurturing each other's well-being and adjusting to the demands of parenthood. Consider scheduling regular check-ins to discuss your needs, concerns, and goals for the postpartum period, and explore ways to support each other emotionally and practically. By actively involving your partner in the planning process and fostering open communication, you can strengthen your bond as a couple and lay the foundation for a supportive and connected postpartum experience. At Rain or Shine Doulas, we understand that the journey of pregnancy and parenthood is a shared experience between partners, filled with both joyous moments and challenges. Our mission is to support you every step of the way, from preparing for the arrival of your little one to navigating the postpartum period as a united team. Whether it's providing guidance and practical support during prenatal appointments, facilitating bonding rituals, or offering assistance with postpartum planning and self-care strategies, our team of dedicated doulas is here to empower you and your partner to create a stronger, more resilient bond. Together, let's embrace the journey of parenthood and cherish the moments that bring you closer as partners and parents. Want more? Here are two free gifts from Rain or Shine Doulas 
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Embarking on the essential task of procuring groceries takes us through a myriad of options, each influencing the journey from the store to our homes in Edmonton. As we navigate the diverse avenues available, from the hands-on approach of personally navigating supermarket aisles to the convenience of doorstep deliveries via services like Doordash and Instacart, it's imperative to understand the intricacies involved in each method. This breakdown not only provides insight into the distribution of responsibilities but also sheds light on the individuals who play pivotal roles in ensuring our grocery needs are met. Join me in exploring the nuances of this daily ritual, aiming to foster a collective understanding that appreciates the efforts behind the scenes and encourages a more informed, considerate approach to grocery shopping.
YOU DO IT You drive to the store You gather your groceries You go through the checkout and pay for the groceries You pack the groceries into your car You drive home You unload and bring groceries inside You did 100% of this. Great job! STORE PICK-UP You order online Store gathers your order Store’s online system checks out your groceries You drive to the store Store loads the groceries You drive home You unload and bring groceries inside You did 60% of this and the Store did 40% STORE DELIVERY You order online Store gathers your groceries Store’s online system checks out your groceries Doordash drives to the store Store loads the groceries Doordash drives to your home Doordash unloads and brings the groceries to your house You bring groceries inside You did 25%, the Store did 37% and your Doordash Delivery person did 38% *Note: Save-on has their own delivery trucks so it is not Doordash INSTACART PERSONAL SHOPPER You order online Instacart drives to the store Instacart gathers your groceries Instacart manually checks out and pays for your groceries Instacart packs your groceries Instacart loads your groceries into their vehicle Instacart drives to your house Instacart unloads and brings the groceries to your house You did 12%, your Instacart shopper did 88% Here are some helpful pieces of advice: Please be careful and make sure you are home when selecting that you want to meet the delivery person. They are not allowed to leave your order unattended if you select this, which is detrimental to any other orders they may be carrying. If you live in a condo or apartment building, please give more details when it comes to accessing your building/unit other than your door code. Does your building have an elevator? Can the driver come right up to the door or do they need to park on the street and walk to get to the entrance? Having this information ahead of time will allow your Instacart shopper to know how to pack your order and will be prepared to deliver it. To sum it all up, navigating the world of grocery shopping in Edmonton offers a spectrum of choices, each with its own level of involvement. Whether you take charge of the entire process, opt for the convenience of store pick-up/delivery, or a personal shopper like Instacart, the decision ultimately lies in your hands. However, it's crucial to acknowledge the efforts of those involved in bringing the groceries to your doorstep. This breakdown aims to shed light on the intricacies of the process, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation for the services provided. Let's all strive for a more informed and considerate approach, fostering a system that values the hard work of those who make our grocery journeys possible. Welcome! I am so glad you are here. Doulas are a non-medical addition to your pregnancy support team, unfortunately we are not covered through Alberta Health Services as your OB and Midwives would be. There are great strides being made for insurance and group benefits coverage, however it is not where it needs to be at this time. Trust me, we are working on it! Hiring a Doula who will provide the level of support which we do deserves payment that is worthy of the work we do. Sadly right now it is often left to you, the client, to foot the bill. When researching Doula websites and looking at fees, you may see offers for payment plans. I love visuals and using excel/google sheets, and so I have built the table to break down what payment plans could look like depending on what week you hire your doula. To expand on this topic even more, other ideas for gathering the funds to afford Doula support are listed as well. The below table provides a few different options for breaking down the Rain or Shine Doula’s birth support fee by gestational week of your pregnancy. Obviously the sooner your Doula is hired the more options you will have to pay the fee for support. Specific options and a visual of what it looks like is always good, right?  Insurance Coverage
For those with group or private benefits coverages, including health spending accounts, you may be in luck. We recommend calling your company to determine if your Doula fees will be covered prior to signing a contract for our support. This will notify you of any prerequisites or certifications your insurance company will need for coverage, and allows you to be prepared with information. Knowledge is power! Gofundme Create a personalized campaign that highlights the significance of having Rain or Shine Doulas’ non-medical support throughout your pregnancy journey. Share your story, emphasizing the positive impact a doula can make on your birthing experience. Encourage friends, family, and well-wishers to contribute to this meaningful cause instead of traditional baby gifts. By leveraging GoFundMe, you provide an opportunity for your loved ones to contribute to your well-being during this transformative period in your life. Not sure what to write? Kristle will help you! It is important to remember to communicate openly with doula about your financial situation. We are passionate about ensuring that everyone who desires our support can access it, and we are willing to explore creative solutions with you. As you embark on this incredible journey, navigating the exciting twists and turns of pregnancy, I want to assure you that the investment in Rain or Shine doula support is more than just a financial transaction—it's a commitment to prioritizing your well-being during this transformative time. Remember, you're not just hiring us as your Doula; you're enlisting a compassionate ally, a source of unwavering support, and someone who will cheer you on through the marathon of parenthood. So, whether you're maneuvering payment plans like a pro or contemplating the art of the crowdfunding pitch, know that you're making a choice that transcends dollars and cents. Embrace the adventure, relish the quirks, and trust that your decision to welcome a doula into your team is a step towards a birth experience that's uniquely yours. Here's to the amazing journey ahead—may it be filled with joy, laughter, and a doula by your side! Welcome to the ultimate parenting playbook, where your ROS Doula is your secret weapon for achieving those epic #SquadGoals. As you embark on this adventure of expanding your team with a precious new member, your Doula steps in as the seasoned coach, ensuring that the parenting crew and siblings not only play well together but create a symphony of harmony. Picture us as your weatherproof support system, ready to stand by you through the sunny days of laughter and the occasional stormy nights of parenting puzzles.
Here are specific ways that your ROS Doula brings your squad together and focuses on the existing team members: Sibling Bonding Strategies Your ROS Doula is not just here for the newborn – we're all about nurturing the connections between older siblings and the newest team member. From creative bonding activities to addressing any concerns or adjustments, we ensure that the whole squad is united and supportive. Parental Self-Care Navigation Parenthood can be an all-consuming journey, and your Doula is the compass guiding parents back to self-care shores. We offer strategies to carve out moments of personal rejuvenation, ensuring that the well-being of each team member is prioritized amidst the whirlwind of baby bliss. Team Communication Enhancement Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful squad. Your ROS Doula serves as the communication coach, facilitating open and supportive dialogues between parents and siblings. We help navigate the adjustment period, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued in the evolving family dynamic. Relationship Rekindling for Parents: Amidst the beautiful chaos of welcoming a new family member, your ROS Doula recognizes the importance of maintaining the foundation of the original team – the parents. We provide guidance on nurturing the romantic and emotional connection between partners, ensuring that the love that started the family continues to grow, even in the midst of midnight feedings and diaper changes. From creative date night ideas to communication strategies, we help keep the flame alive in the midst of parenthood's whirlwind. As the curtain falls on this parenting performance, your ROS Doula takes a bow, knowing that the harmony we've orchestrated will resonate through your family's journey. From the laughter-filled sunny days to the occasional stormy nights, we've weathered it all together. Your squad, once a dynamic duo, trio or quad, now stands united, each member shining in their unique role. So, here's to the bonds nurtured, the self-care moments savored, and the flames of romance rekindled. With your Doula as the conductor of this symphony, your family isn't just weatherproof; it's a force of nature, ready to tackle any parenting puzzle that comes your way. Bravo to you and the incredible adventure that lies ahead! How did the hospital just let you leave with this tiny human? Do you feel like you need a grown-up? Let us break down the baby-specific ways your ROS Postpartum Doula will be supporting you. Our approach is going to be tailored to your stage of life, be it a new parent or seasoned pro. There are ebbs and flows for each and we are here for it!
The two most important right at the top because OF COURSE they are the hop topics. Infant Feeding Support Your ROS Doula is on board for all ways to feed your baby. We specifically took Infant feeding training rather than specific lactation training. The ultimate goal is to feed your baby. What that looks like is up to you, and we will get you there. Human milk feeding is HARD. Formula Feeding is HARD. It can be a complex and sometimes challenging process for new parents and their babies. Sleep Coaching HELLO….what in the world is going on? One of the most challenging aspects of caring for a newborn is navigating sleep patterns. Your ROS Doula provides valuable assistance by offering sleep coaching. This includes creating a conducive sleep environment, establishing healthy sleep routines, and guiding parents through strategies to encourage better sleep for both baby and themselves. We help new parents to better manage sleep challenges, promoting a more restful atmosphere at home. The beauty of your ROS Postpartum Doula is we are either right there with you at 2am on an overnight Doula Visit, or we are a phone call away…at 2 am, because that is when you need help the most. Infant Care Guidance Your ROS Doula does not just come to your home and snuggle your baby. We also have lots of research hours and training in our back pockets to provide you with evidence based tips for newborn care. Rain or Shine Doulas excels in providing hands-on support and expert advice on newborn care. From diapering, swaddling, and soothing methods, they help new parents navigate the intricacies of caring for their precious bundle. Developmental Milestone Monitoring Keeping track of a newborn's developmental milestones is crucial, and your ROS Doula is there to guide you through this exciting journey. We offer evidence-based insights into age-appropriate activities and exercises that stimulate the baby's growth and motor skills. By fostering a nurturing environment, your ROS Doula helps create a foundation for the infant's overall well-being and development. Emotional Support for Newborn-Related Concerns “It gets better”, “just wait until…” , “I did this with baby and they were fine”. These statements will not be said by your ROS Doula. Welcoming a new baby can bring about a range of emotions and concerns. Your ROS Doula provides a compassionate ear and emotional support, addressing any anxieties or uncertainties related to the newborn. This may include postpartum blues, adjusting to the demands of caring for a newborn, or simply being a reassuring presence during the challenging days. In the whirlwind of newborn chaos, your Rain or Shine Doula is not just your superhero; they're the wise sage you never knew you needed. From decoding the mysteries of infant feeding to orchestrating a symphony of sleep at 2 am, they've got your back. It's not just about diaper changes and swaddling; it's about transforming the cacophony of questions into a sweet lullaby of confidence. As you navigate the unpredictable seas of parenthood, remember, with your ROS Doula by your side, even the stormiest nights can end in a calm sunrise of baby bliss. Here's to the adventure ahead – you've got this! I promise you, Rain or Shine Doulas do not care what your home looks like.
During our visit, we look forward to creating some peace and helping get some tasks off your radar, to allow you to heal and transition through this amazing part of your life. When booking Rain or Shine Doulas for Postpartum support, you will receive blank “What’s on my Radar'' lists that you can keep on your fridge to jot down your needs between visits. Do you have trouble telling people what to do? Write it on the list! We LOVE lists and also LOVE direction. Unlike your family we are paid to be here and for you to give direction. We will follow your direction. We do not have feelings attached to you and won’t try to put our feelings into what you are asking. We will just do it because this is your house and you make the rules. Here are some ideas on what Rain or Shine Doulas can take care of related to your home. 1. Household Organization: Adding a whole other person who, while just a tiny little potato, has a lot of STUFF, can be challenging. Whether we start before birth or after, we can help improve your home's functionality. 2. Meal Preparation: Rain or Shine Doulas love to cook and would love to help make food for your family. 3. Grocery Shopping: Taking care of grocery shopping can be part of your support, not going to lie, Kristle knows the superstore layout like the back of her hand! 4. Baby Gear Organization: Like we said above, tiny humans need things. We help fit it all in. 5. Sibling Care: Kids are so fun! Rain or Shine Doulas can offer support in caring for them, ensuring a smooth transition for the entire family. 6. Errand Running: Handling errands like picking up prescriptions or other necessities, saving time and energy for you. 7. Support with Pets: If there are pets in the household, Rain or Shine Doulas can assist in their care, ensuring they also adjust to your new family dynamics. Finally, my favorite thing...a reset! This comes standard as part of each visit, and includes the following:
Did I miss anything else for your home? Let us chat about it! Who knew in 2019 as I sat in Suzanne’s kitchen with my DONA birth doula training manual in front of me that I would still be here 4 years later with the same passion and want to be a Doula. Typically with my ADHD I move on from projects almost as fast as I start them, but yet birth and babies have been on my mind and in my heart. I took a small hiatus while I sorted my life out, including being laid off from my job, getting divorced, moving twice and spending 1.5 years working full time as an End of Life Doula for a terminally ill woman.
I did step away from the birth and postpartum world and it allowed me to reflect and really dig into what I want to do. I have spent the majority of my career leading people and building teams for a company. While that was fulfilling in its own right, the birth of my son made me realize that I adore connecting with people on a more emotional level. Business is business but having the privilege of entering someone’s life at one of the most vulnerable times of their lives is an honor each and every time. Deciding to reenter the birth world is not without its share of challenges. I have been away from it so I have lost my connections in the community. I feel like the new kid on the block again, starting fresh even though I have put hundreds of hours into this work already. It has given me the confidence to reach out for new ideas because I don’t want to be your typical Doula. I want to challenge myself and my team that I get to build. This support is so needed and I want to make it accessible to more than it has been. My Rain or Shine facebook page sends me notifications every day telling me how many people have viewed my facebook page in a day. Sometimes I get upwards of 10 views. This tells me there is still a need for my presence in the birth world and why am I not in it? Welcome back. I am here now! I am glad you are here. It is about time I start blogging, don’t you think? It will give me yet another platform to talk, and I can gather my thoughts a little better compared to when I stick the camera in my face for a car or office chat. Today I want to share some realizations. If you have been following me for a bit, you will know that 2021 is the year of Me First. I am also trying to piece together several businesses, be my own boss and live my best life. All that mixed together brings me here, and gives me the strength to share with you. I am going to stop obsessing on how to do this properly and I am just going to start.
My wife bought a pants romper from Walmart last year, saying that she wanted it for around the house. You know, a romper is all one piece, you have to get all the way naked to use the bathroom. This seems like it would be a strike against them, but I tried it on and let me tell you it was comfortable! The lack of elastic and a waistband in the hip/waist area is rather lovely, but there is not a risk of butt exposure on windy days like a dress would cause. Looking in the mirror, old Kristle would have immediately zoned in on my big ol’belly. The automatic response to that is “aw Kristle, it’s not that big…” or “yeah girl OMG I’m glad you finally noticed…”, and I am going to stop you right there. This is not what this is about. I know the belly is big. I had a baby and didn’t take care of myself for 4 years. We are changing this now, right? Six months ago this romper would not see the light of day outside. Regardless that it would have been November in Edmonton where no one sees the light of day, I would have not worn this in public. Guess what I did today? I wore the romper to the dog park, in broad daylight. Bright and early, while the morning dog park people were power walking their dogs around before work. I was power walking my dog around too, in the most comfortable outfit. What is the difference? I have realized that I am working on my body to be healthy, not to lose weight. Self-love runs deeper than bubble baths and yoga. There are a lot of ways to show yourself self-love. Letting go of the fear others will judge me is one of them. My point is that I am developing a strong passion for overcoming obstacles in my life, and I want to help others do the same thing. I adore being faced with a challenge or the desire to accomplish something, and actually coming up with a solution and doing it! What is it that you want to do? Why don’t we have a chat about it and perhaps I can help with the navigation. Yes, I am a Doula. Yes I have a passion for families and babies. I have also discovered the passion that I have for helping people get to where they want to go. You all have an idea of how you want to live your life. What is stopping you? What is holding you back? Money? Your kids? Your fear? Let’s talk about it. I don’t have anything official because I doubt what I am wanting exists. I have not fit in anywhere else in my life, so I always just pave my own way. I am doing that here too. I challenge you to reach out and let's talk about where you want to be. Perhaps talking to me is what will get you started. What do you have to lose? |
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