About Me

Coleman family

I am a wife and mother first and foremost, but I have many other interests that make up who I am. I love to read and study and I spend hours trying to understand and read so many things that have to do with the chosen field that I am interested in studying, often childbirth and midwifery. I love to sing and have performed in many musical theatre productions [in my past life]. I enjoy ballroom dancing, especially swing dancing. I love to read [did I say that already?] and I enjoy snow skiing and soccer. I love to travel and see new places and this brings me great pleasure. Writing is a long forgotten passion of mine and I may someday pick it back up again. For now I write in my journal and blog. When I am not busy teaching classes or attending births, I enjoy relaxing with my family, watching movies and playing games. My husband and I homeschool our 6 children.

---

My Philosophy

In labor with one of our babies

Birth is ancient. Birth is sacred. Those who attend birth are privileged and invited guests and should act accordingly. I use my Head, Heart, and Hands as a way to determine appropriate action at a birth. What I think must be brought to my heart and must mesh with my feelings there before it is carried out in my hands. I believe silence is often more important than words Unnecessary noise and talk at a birth can be detrimental. Every action or word carried out will affect the birthing atmosphere. Birth is spiritual and an atmosphere of love is more conducive to safe birthing than one of fear. I use the Human Values of truth, right action, peace, love, and non violence as a way to determine what is right and good for me as an educator and doula to perform in any situation with a birthing family whether in my classes or in a birth or postpartum setting. It is my hope that any client I may have will feel more confident and sure in themselves, their body, and their ability to care for their baby after they have spent time with me one on one or in my classes.

---

Trainings and Certifications

D.O.N.A. Doula training- Dallas, Texas- 2002
Birthworks Doula Training- Arlington, Texas- 2003
Birthworks Childbirth Educator Training- Arlington, Texas-2003
Breastfeeding Educator Training- Texas 2003
First Aid and CPR- American Red Cross- 2003
Neonatal Resuscitation Training & Certification {with Karen Strange}- 2002
ICAN of North Texas Chapter Leader- DFW, Texas: 2001-2003
ICAN of Tacoma Chapter Leader- Tacoma, Wa: 2005-2007
Midwifery Today Conference - Eugene, OR March 2009
Midwifery Today Beginning Midwifery Skills- Eugene, OR March 2009
ICAN of Olympia Chapter Leader- Olympia, Wa: 2008-2009
Birthworks Childbirth Educator Training- Olympia, WA - 2009
Birthworks Childbirth Educator Certification- May 2009
AAMI Beginning Midwifery Skills Lab- Port Orchard, Wa- July 2010


 "A woman will labor the best wherever she feels the safest and most  secure."- Cathy Daub