Doula Musings

Newborn Poop and All: Day 2 With My Baby

Day 2 With My Baby: Newborn Poop and All

By Jodi Graves | May 6, 2025
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I thought our first night with our newborn would be a lot harder than it was

first month with a newborn

Day 1 With My Newborn Baby

By Jodi Graves | April 22, 2025
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Blog 1: A Day-by-Day Look at the First Month with Your Newborn We just pulled out of the parking lot with this tiny, perfect little angel. Is the car seat secured properly? I’m not really sure…thank goodness I decided to sit in the backseat next to her so I can watch her closely. She’s so…

Compliment Day

Celebrating Our Amazing Parents on Compliment Day

By Jodi Graves | March 1, 2025

Did you know March 1st is World Compliment Day? We at Michigan Family Doulas want to take a moment to celebrate you and the incredible journey you are on. Parenthood is a beautiful, challenging, and transformative experience, and we are in awe of your strength, dedication, and love. You Are Amazing Every day, you show…

How to Use Pumped Milk for Better Baby Sleep: The Importance of Tryptophan

By Jodi Graves | February 3, 2025
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We all know about tryptophan—it’s the chemical in turkey that makes us sleepy after we gorge ourselves on Thanksgiving. But did you know that tryptophan is also an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in our sleep patterns? Let’s dive deeper into what tryptophan is and how it benefits both adults and infants.…

Maternal Health Awareness

Maternal Health Awareness Day: Know What’s at Stake

By Jodi Graves | January 21, 2025

Did you know that 40 million women every year who give birth suffer from long-term detrimental health complications that have never been seen in generations before us? As we approach Maternal Health Awareness Day on January 23, 2025, it’s crucial to shine a light on the importance of maternal health and the ongoing efforts to…

The Hilarious World of Pregnancy Cravings: A Journey Through Pickles and Ice Cream

By Jodi Graves | January 3, 2025

Ah, pregnancy cravings! Those delightful, bizarre, and sometimes downright hilarious urges that make expectant mothers raid the fridge at 3 AM for a pickle and peanut butter sandwich. If you’re pregnant or have ever been around someone who is, you know that these cravings are no joke. But let’s take a lighthearted look at some…

doula support

How a VBAC Looks Different with Doula Support

By Jodi Graves | December 28, 2024
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Choosing to have a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is a significant decision for many women. It comes with its own set of challenges and emotional complexities. Having a doula by your side can make a world of difference in this journey. Here’s how a VBAC experience can be transformed with the support of a…

Jodi Long Birth Doula

Welcoming a New Baby into the World: A Doula’s Musings

By Jodi Graves | December 23, 2024
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As a birth doula for over 20 years, I have the incredible honor of supporting families during one of the most transformative moments of their lives. Each birth is unique, and every family has its own story. Here’s a glimpse into what it’s like welcoming a new baby into the world from my perspective. The…

Gifts to NEVER Buy

Top 7 Holiday Gifts to NEVER Buy a Newborn Baby or a New Mother

By Jodi Graves | December 21, 2024
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The holiday season is upon us, and while it’s a time for giving, not all gifts are created equal—especially when it comes to newborns and new mothers. At Michigan Family Doulas, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you avoid some common gifting pitfalls. Here’s a lighthearted look at the top holiday gifts…

Cozy Up in Detroit: Winter Activities to Do

By Jodi Graves | December 19, 2024

Winter in Detroit brings a cozy mix of activities for everyone. Ice skating, exploring festivemarkets, and sipping hot drinks at local cafes are just the beginning. As the city transforms intoa winter wonderland, downtown streets glow with lights, and seasonal events fill the air withcheer. Discover the Magic of Detroit with Michigan Family Doulas Whether…