Artwork by Marlene L’Abbe
My cell phone rings at exactly 3:26 AM. I reach for my phone on my bed stand – the same way you wave your hand back and forth trying to pull the string attached to the light bulb in a dark closet – hit or miss. Finally, I find the phone. X is calling. She needs my assistance. In an instant I am wide awake – adrenaline pumping. I dress and brush my teeth, pull my hair back in a low pony tail, and put on my favorite earrings – a pair of sterling silver wings that inspire me. I decide to put my game face on, which means some good lipstick and mascara. I pack a lunch, look over my doula bag, and grab my camera. I make sure I have X’s files and my doula handbook. I kiss Peter and quietly shut the front door. Continue reading