Service: Labor and Birth Doula Context: Father, 2nd Child, 1st at-home birth Despite our preparations, our first birth taught us that we can always know, prepare, and expect more. We met Julie in our doula interviews early in our preparations, and with our first home-birth, we knew we needed someone with the knowledge to build our trust, the confidence to direct when needed, and the serenity to alleviate our anxieties. Julie brought every one of those to the table, and more! During our first birth, I couldn't help but feel like a third-wheel, understanding key parts of the birth, but serving mostly as an observer, with the occasional comforting words. In preparation for our 2nd, Julie offered both live Q&As, and preparatory, informative, and engaging classes, which helped prepare not only my wife, but myself in both what to expect and how to engage with each part of the birth. Rather than only observing, or waiting for direction, I became an active participant, predicting and understanding my wife's needs, while also being able to adapt as needed. As labor's frequently do, ours started late in the night, and with a quick call, Julie assessed the situation and determined to come over to help, even in the early stages. As a doula, she helped guide us into active labor, recognizing when we hit hurdles, and confidently and calmly discussed alternative positions and practices. Serving not only as doula, she frequently provided updates that would help our midwife determine how far along we were, and stayed by Laura's side through delivery! In the interest of time, I'll end with an appreciation of Julie's ability to frequently bridge the gap when all the participants became a little too single-minded; Julie would swoop in, suggesting breaks, and even cooking up some delicious meals! Even afterwards, Julie visited and brought a smorgasbord of home-cooked foods, taking the weight off of running a household, and letting my wife, my children, and myself, take time to simply be with each other. Thank you so much, Julie, for not only being what my wife needed, but helping me to be the same! P.S. For the Mother's perspective, Laura's review should post soon!