So how does one who is hired to be a continuous support during labor and delivery ever get away? Good question. As a Birth Doula, finding pockets of time between scheduled births to leave town becomes a challenge. Even though I have a backup doula for every client, I’m committed to being there for each client and have yet to call on the services of a backup doula. I found a few days recently when there were no births for a while and no postpartum visits scheduled so I took advantage and did a short getaway to NYC with my husband as a tag-along to his business trip.
A few days in NYC always feels like a whirlwind – so much to do and see. We took in Hades Town on Broadway and were so happy to see a familiar face of a friend from Milwaukee in the cast.
An obligatory purchase of roasted chestnuts is an integral part of a winter visit on the streets of New York. A solemn visit to the 911 Memorial and Museum was very moving. It brought back the overwhelming emotions of that tragic day. The architecture of the building along with the exhibits create a visceral experience. Spencer Finch created this amazing installation titled: Trying To Remember the Color of the Sky on That September Morning. Each of the 2,983 blue squares represents one of the victims of the 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. No two squares are the same color blue. Eight children died that day.
My first visit to the National Museum of the American Indian was excellent. Of course I was drawn to the various baby carriers on display from the many tribes across the American continents. Many cultures understand the benefits of keeping baby close – the regulation of the baby’s heartbeat, temperature and breathing all are impacted by being worn on the mother.
No matter where I turned, there was something to remind me of the birth work I do at home in Milwaukee of supporting people during the most sacred time of their lives. I carry my clients in my heart wherever I go. On a personal note, there was also a little time to do some shopping for my first grandchild arriving soon. Shh, don’t tell baby’s parents. I want that all to be a surprise.