2024 in the Rearview: Birth, Community, and Looking Ahead
Wow—what a year! As 2024 wraps up, I’m sitting here reflecting on all the beautiful, chaotic, and downright amazing moments I’ve been lucky enough to experience. From home births to hospital births, belly births, VBACs after multiple Cesareans, epidurals, unmedicated labors—you name it—I’ve been there cheering families on and capturing those raw, unforgettable moments.
This year has been packed with so much goodness. I’ve shared late-night laughs over DoorDash meals at the hospital, witnessed partners step into their superhero roles after hands-on training, and watched clients fiercely advocate for the birth they wanted. Every single birth I supported or photographed was unique, powerful, and full of moments that will stick with me forever. And let’s not forget about the photography! Birth photography is where it all started for me, and there’s nothing like freezing those first cries, emotional glances, and joyful celebrations into memories that families will cherish forever.
Being on call as both a doula and a birth photographer is a wild ride, to say the least. My family has been my rock through it all. Whether it’s rearranging plans at the last second or cheering me on when I’m running on fumes, they’ve pulled together in ways that remind me how lucky I am. This work might be unpredictable, but having their support makes it all possible.
This year wasn’t just about births, though. I also dove deeper into building community with Forest Frolics and Village Vibes Momma Meetups—spaces where parents can come together, connect, and strengthen their village. Seeing moms (and moms-to-be!) laugh, share, and support each other has been one of the most rewarding parts of this year. It’s proof that we’re all better together, and I’m so excited to keep growing these groups in the years to come.
The connections didn’t stop there. I’ve met some truly incredible midwives, doulas, lactation consultants, and other birth pros this year, forming friendships and learning from their wisdom. And let’s not forget the local community, whose generosity helped us pull off an incredible giveaway that brought so much joy to the families we serve. It’s been a year full of teamwork, laughter, and big-hearted support.
And 2025? Oh, I have BIG dreams and goals for the year ahead! I can’t wait to keep building, learning, and growing—personally, professionally, and within our community. There’s so much more to come, and I’m beyond excited to see where this journey takes me next.
So here’s to 2024: the laughter, the love, the wild moments, and the unforgettable stories. Thank you for trusting me, for letting me be part of your lives, and for reminding me why this work is so worth it. Let’s make 2025 even better—I’m ready for every baby, every birth, and every new connection.
With so much love and gratitude,
Ash
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