Posts by Jodi Graves
Day 5 With My Newborn: The Newborn Has Taken Over—Send Help (and Snacks)
It’s Day 5 with our newborn. Or as I now refer to it: Day 5 of the Siege. I remember a time, long ago (last week) when I thought I was a functioning adult, had a schedule, wore real pants. I made tea and drank it hot. Now? I’m unsure if it’s morning, evening, or…
Read MoreThe Unseen Burden: Why We Resist Asking for Help
Happy National Parent’s Day, Michigan families! Today, July 27th, is a day dedicated to celebrating the incredible, often tireless, work that parents do every single day. At Michigan Family Doulas, we see your dedication, your resilience, and your unwavering love for your children. But we also see something else that’s equally powerful, and sometimes, incredibly…
Read MoreThe Postpartum Reality: Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, It’s Essential
We aren’t talking “spa day” this International Self-Care Day. Prioritizing our well-being isn’t a luxury, but a fundamental necessity for a healthy, balanced life as we reflect on this internationally recognized day. That is why self-care is important for everyone; it holds an exceptionally profound and often overlooked significance for birthing people in the postpartum…
Read MoreSip Your Way to Summer Wellness: Our Hydrating Berry & Greens Pregnancy Smoothie!
Summer in Michigan is all about staying cool, refreshed, and energized! And when you’re navigating pregnancy, finding quick, nutritious ways to fuel your body is key. While delicious summer salads are fantastic, sometimes you just need something fast, easy, and incredibly hydrating – especially when the heat hits. Enter, the pregnancy smoothie! That’s where the…
Read MoreMichigan Summer Harvest Salad
Summer in Michigan is glorious! Long days, beautiful lakes, and best of all, a bounty of fresh, vibrant produce. As Michigan Family Doulas, we know how important it is to nourish your body, especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period. And what better way to do that than with a refreshing, nutrient-packed local Michigan summer…
Read MoreDay 4 With My Newborn: Where Am I and What Is That Smell?
Day 4 With My Newborn and I have no idea what day of the week it is…
Read MoreBaby Heat Safety: MFD Breaks it Down
Here are the top questions we get asked at Michigan Family Doulas about baby heat safety. Whether you are visiting the Ann Arbor Art Fair, heading up north to Traverse City for the Cherry Festival, or just relaxing in your backyard, we want you to feel confident your baby is comfortable and safe! We are…
Read MoreDay 3 With My Newborn: The Milk-Stained Chronicles
Well, here we are. Day 3 With My Newborn. I’d like to say I’m thriving, but honestly, I just found a pacifier in my coffee mug and I’m not entirely sure I didn’t sip around it. Also, please don’t judge me but I am not bothering with decaf coffee. I asked my husband for an…
Read MoreChicken Noodle Powerhouse Soup: The B Vitamins Benefit
Hey mamas, Jodi here from Michigan Family Doulas! We spend so much time preparing for birth, nesting, and getting ready for baby’s arrival, but what about after? That fourth trimester is a marathon of healing, adjusting, and round-the-clock baby care. To truly thrive through this incredible time, proper nourishment is absolutely key to a smoother,…
Read MoreMore Than a Month: Michigan Family Doulas’ Heart for Infertility Awareness
June is Infertility Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the struggles, triumphs, and complex emotions that can surround the journey to parenthood. Infertility is far more than a statistic or a medical diagnosis; it’s a deeply personal experience that touches every aspect of a person’s life. This month, we want to reaffirm…
Read More