As first time parents, we were attracted to the idea of having a doula since we didn't know much about babies and birth. Having someone with the knowledge and experience we lacked, someone familiar with the whole birthing process, someone who we could trust to remind us of and advocate our birth plan and wishes throughout the process. Originally we had another doula, which ended up having a conference out of town when I went into labor. Taryn was referred to us by our original doula. I started having contractions on a Wednesday afternoon. Taryn arrived at our house that evening. It was the first time we met. She had the most amazing energy! She was so calm and knowledgeable, I felt comfortable with her right away. We went to the hospital that night but they sent us back because I wasn't dilated enough. I spent the whole night having contractions every few minutes (and vomiting after each one of them!). Taryn never left my side. I made a "nest" on my bedroom floor and she spent the whole night by my side, comforting me, holding my hand when I needed support and encouragement, holding my hair every time I needed to vomit, talking to me. By the time Thursday came, there was no need for words. Based on my body language, or the look on my face, she knew exactly what was on my mind, what I needed and how to help me. It felt as if we knew each other for a long time! My water broke Thursday evening and we went to the hospital. Long story short, our daughter was born on Friday evening. I ended up being on labor for 50 hours and pushed for 3. We ended up having a C-section because our daughter was stuck on the birth canal and my water had been broken for more than 24hrs (which became at risk of infection). The labor process was long, difficult and many things ended up going differently then what we had originally planned. Despite all difficulties, my husband and I left the hospital with great appreciation for our doula. She was an amazing "birth manager," always reminding us of our original birth wishes and helping us keep calm while making the best and most educated decisions as things were happening. Even though things ended up happening totally differently than our original wishes, we have absolutely no regrets. Taryn, with her positive attitude, knowledge, patience and sense of humor made this experience so amazing and positive! And if you are reading this, and looking for a doula to help you, to care for you and to guide you and your family throughout your birth journey, I could not express how highly I recommend Taryn to share this experience with you! We are eternally thankful for having the luck of meeting her. read more