I knew I wanted a doula from the moment I found out I was pregnant and after a short search online, I found Maria. I appreciated her profile and personal statement and found her to be, in person, exactly as she presented online. What I appreciated most about Maria was her flexibility and her focus on me...my birth plan changed significantly after labor started; I had big ideas about a natural birth, but nothing could have prepared me for what labor would be like or the challenges I would face (back labor, prolonged labor), and while Maria worked to make certain the choices I made would still result in me being happy about the birth process, it was never about her own views or personal ideas and wishes, it was all about me and my needs and wishes; and, Maria’s flexibility, support, and positive attitude are one of the biggest reasons why I can still look back on the birth of my son so positively and happily, in spite of the changes in my birth plan. I also appreciated the time Maria took with me, not only to discuss my birth plan and answer my questions, but just to get to know me personally; we were never rushed. While we were complete strangers when we first met for an interview, I felt like I had one of my best friends in the delivery room with me, and her support postpartum got me through some difficult times when I experienced breastfeeding troubles. I do not hesitate to recommend Maria as a birth doula and can say, without a doubt, that I would request her services again if and when I need them.