Small Things, Great Love Birth Services

11/06/2026

A common misconception is that, for example, "5 minutes between contractions" means a contraction, then 5 minutes of rest, and then another contraction. The typical understanding of this, however is that there are 5 minutes between the start of one contraction and the start of the next!

11/05/2026

Puffy coats can leave slack in the harness, leaving it unable to secure a child as intended in the event of a crash. Remove fluffy layers before buckling, then add the coat (backwards) or a blanket over the correctly secured harness for warmth.

11/04/2026

Hospital rooms can be cold and impersonal, and they do not generally inspire the rush of oxytocin needed to sustain labor. There are some things you can do, though, to personalize your space and make it more comforting.

The last two births I attended had more than their fair share of pivots and uncertainty. Both babies unexpectedly showed up about a month early. Both moms showed up for a regular check-up and transitioned into medically-necessary inductions. Both sets of parents did an incredible job staying brave and advocating for themselves and their children as the ground shifted beneath their feet.

They also both created cozy havens out of their delivery rooms. I ask during prenatals what my clients are wanting the mood to be. Joyful, peaceful, energetic, etc. These two went hygge to the max! We adjusted the thermostat up and had flameless candles, a framed ultrasound photo, calming music, essential oils, no overhead lights, comfy blankets and pillows from home, and more!

Nurses came into both rooms and said, "I love the vibes in here!"

This is my goal for my clients. Knowing what their options are so we can preserve as much of their birth plan as possible, even when things take an unforeseen turn.

What are some things you brought to the hospital to change how the room felt?

11/01/2026

Should you hire a Night Nanny or a Postpartum Doula to care for your baby overnight?

A typical overnight shift for both roles often have a fair bit of overlap. We may both change diapers, feed the baby or bring them to the nursing parent, and wash bottles or pump parts. There are some key distinctions, however, and being familiar with these will help you find the right person for your specific needs.

A main difference between Night Nannies and Postpartum Doulas is that doulas care for all members of the family, but especially the parent(s). I often hear the phrase “hold the mother, not the baby” in reference to this approach. For a day shift, this means that if I’m getting baby snuggles, it’s so the parents can rest, shower, or eat a full meal without being interrupted. I'm not there to care for the baby while the parents work, for example, unlike a nanny. For a nighttime shift, this often means that I'm chatting with the parents for a while before they head to bed. We review how baby did that day, do a mental health check-in, troubleshoot any issues or concerns, etc.

Also, where nannies are generally signing long-term contracts, postpartum doulas generally specialize in the first 12 weeks or so. We support, nurture, and educate the parents as they settle into their new roles.

10/31/2026

Newborns can produce breast milk! 🤯 A small number of babies experience neonatal galactorrhea due to hormones that made it through the placenta into their blood stream.

It used to be believed that witches cast spells on babies so they could use the milk to feed their familiars!

It is generally benign and usually resolves on its own, but any redness or swelling can be a sign of an infection. Reach out to your doctor with any questions or concerns and for information regarding your particular situation.

10/31/2026

See you there!

Hey Emerging Leaders! Nonprofit November is almost here 🧡

Join us for our next networking social at Morganton Ponds. We’ll have representatives from several Burke County nonprofits sharing about their work and ways to get involved. Food is provided by our generous hosts at Morganton Ponds!

📅 Thursday, November 19
🕠 5:30 to 7:00 PM
📍 Morganton Ponds, 410 S Sterling St., Downtown Morganton

Burke Emerging Leaders FREE and open to anyone aged 21 - 40.

Burke County Chamber of Commerce 🤝 Burke County United Way

10/31/2026

Celina is lovely, and this will be a fantastic workshop!

BRINGING BABY HOME | VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

Preparing for a new baby also means preparing for the changes that parenthood can bring to your relationship.

Bringing Baby Home is a 12-hour virtual workshop designed to help couples strengthen their connection, navigate the transition to parenthood, and build a foundation for this next chapter.

Saturdays, November 7, 14 & 21
Virtual | Zoom

Comment "NOVEMBER" to receive the registration link to this event and other November groups.

10/26/2026

Are a Postpartum Doula and a Night Nanny the same thing? Short answer: nope! Long answer: you gotta click because it won't fit here 😅

Understanding the roles of Night Nurses, Night Nannies, and Postpartum Doulas will help you choose the best person to help your family by caring for your newborn overnight.

10/26/2026

Due to a sweet baby being very excited to come earthside and hang out with her awesome parents, I have an open birth doula slot for a late November due date. If you're in the final stretch and are thinking you want some more support, send me a message!

10/05/2026

*Edit* I am full for December, but I have a November opening due to a premie birth. Updated availability into Spring 2027! If you're interested in TLC after baby arrives, send me a message and we can chat about what would work best for your family.