When I got pregnant for the third time, I wanted to have that baby at home, because I knew I wanted to become a midwife and I wanted the experience for myself. I found a good midwife who listened to me. It was a long labor on a hot day in August, but I felt very empowered and proud of myself for doing it. After that, I would never consider any other place for birth, unless there was a definite reason to go to the hospital. My fourth son, Bonham was born at our home and so was my fifth, Anson. They were good birth experiences. I strongly believe in breastfeeding, and I enjoyed breastfeeding my sons. They all nursed for a long time, and I am convinced that is one reason they are all so smart.

I do have a life outside of being a midwife. I love to read and I always have a big pile of reading in progress. I love to go to the library. I try to walk my collie dog, Gracie, every morning. We usually take her to the park once or twice a week, and if you call me between 6:00 and 6:30 am, I am usually out walking my dog. I like to play Scrabble. My husband and I are quite competitive. I enjoy raising a garden every year- especially homegrown tomatoes. This year, I am growing a hummingbird garden with lots of red and purple flowers. I love being a mother and a wife and spending time with my family. We are very involved with baseball with all of the boys. I consider myself to be their main teacher even though we don’t home school. I am from Amarillo, Texas and I love going back home whenever I can. We always go to my family reunion in June. I love my church and try to stay involved with that as much as I can. I have been a Sunday school teacher for many years.

So now I am a midwife myself! I am blessed to do what I do because I have a chance to get to know mothers and their families intimately. It is what I always wanted to do and I want to continue as long as I can. I thank the Lord for the privilege of serving women and their families.