Andrea Howard

Birth + Postpartum Doula
Lactation Counselor
Newborn Care Specialist
Harbour City Doulas Co-Owner

Tell us about your life!

My day to day life is filled with babies, coffee, as many trips into the forest as I can manage, and a lot of driving! I have five amazing kids and a house full of pets (a dog, two cats, and two rats!). To say my days are busy is an understatement, but I love to be busy!

 

How long have you lived on Vancouver Island? What’s your favorite part about island life?

I have lived on Vancouver Island since I was a toddler. I grew up here and I can’t imagine ever wanting to move away! My favorite part is the proximity to nature. I love that I don’t have to travel very far at all to go hiking, camping, kayaking, or to just sit at the beach.

 

If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?

“Well… I didn’t Expect That To Happen.” I’m a planner, and it cracks me up (and gives me deep anxiety) that no part of my life so far has gone to “plan”. This is probably why I’m so good at helping my clients roll with the punches when they have to make changes to their birth plans!

 

What song would you sing at karaoke night?

I can rap every word to “99 Problems” by Jay-Z. Yes, seriously!

 

What series can you binge-watch on repeat?

I just finished binging Gilmore Girls for the fourth or fifth time. It’s so cozy and comforting! I also love the classics like The Office, How I Met Your Mother, and Modern Family. Anything that makes me laugh!

 

What takes up way too much of your time?

Looking for something that I “just put down for a minute” while I got distracted by something else. My phone, my keys, that piece of paper, my coffee… the basics!

 

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I’m a major introvert and usually get pretty anxious or nervous when I’m talking to someone. Small chat doesn’t come easily to me! I thrive with a ton of alone time and quiet, which if often pretty hard to achieve with a full house and a busy lifestyle.

 

Describe your ideal weekend!

Hmm… it would start by waking up to sunshine and birds chirping, followed by coffee in bed. Then, I’d meet a friend for a hike with our dogs followed by a to-go lunch on the beach. Then I’d come home and bake, work on a home renovation project (I love a good DIY!), or watch a movie with the kids. After that, we’d order takeout for dinner, head out to watch the sunset, and be in bed by 10pm!

 

Tell us about one of your most memorable moments as a doula.

I can think of a few! A surprise breech baby, the first time I was ever invited into the OR for a c-section, and the first marathon birth all come to mind. My favorite moments during birth are when my clients can feel their baby’s head just before they’re born. The look of shock and excitement in their eyes always makes me tear up!

 

What made you become a doula?

I became a doula because I think that how we experience birth can have a direct impact on how we approach parenting. I know that unwavering, loving, and gentle support from someone that you feel close to can make birth and early parenting feel way less lonely, and I want as many people as possible to experience that feeling.