Feeling Holi-dazed…
It’s been a big, busy, influenza-filled fall (with a dash of hand, foot and mouth, and maybe a little tummy bug or three?). That time of year in between the Halloween candy craze, giving thanks and deciding when to dig out the decorations. Are you a “November-1st-decorator” or a “shit-I-forgot-can-we-skip-this-year” kind of person? Maybe a bit of both! Emma’s been getting back into the baking spirit (this cake!), Gill’s been making vats of chicken soup and Lizzy has been slinging books and cocktails.
We’ve also been able to gather IRL! Brood hosted in-person events for our growing doula team with Pocket Doula who supported us in uncovering our positionalities and intersectionalities, because who you are affects how you care. And we loved our Circle of Care event with otō healing and A La Ligne. All of these gatherings were just what we needed — sharing space and community with pregnant folks, doulas and caregivers reminded us why we love doing what we do. Thanks to everyone who came out, and a reminder that we have one more Circle of Care event coming up on November 24, for care and frontline workers. There are a few tickets left — come move and bathe in sound with us!
With the holidays coming in hot, we’re here to support the pregnant folks and new parents in your life. This time of year can be incredibly overwhelming at the BEST of times, then add things like managing illnesses and traveling with a baby for the first time. It’s hard to know how to support pregnant people and new families, but one thing we do know is that the best gift is the gift of postpartum support. Brood doula and writer Ashley Jardine shares her experience and rallying cry for postpartum doula support as one of the best gifts you can give. Or, if you’re looking for a stocking stuffer, check out Brood’s Gift Guide with lots of treats (and discounts!) from our community.
We hope you have an easeful holiday season, filled with joyful reunions and memories and hopefully lots of baby snuggles. Remember to take time for yourself and rest when you can.
Brood
What we’re reading lately
- When babies are in the NICU, relatives and friends can show up for parents in ways that might surprise you.
- This powerful, emotional, hopeful selection of essays on Contemporary Indigenous Parenting from writer, parent and friend-of-Brood, Michelle Cyca.
- Postpartum depression and anxiety have increased during the pandemic, and more studies like this are showing us why.
- We’re creating user manuals to better ask for help, and show up for friends and family.
- Available Joy.
