Black and white collage showing a midwife checking a baby, a birthing mother, a family with children, and craniosacral therapy.

The Hearts and Hands Behind Our Services

At The Green Stork, we are a team of dedicated professionals passionate about empowering families through the transformative journey of birth. We believe in providing personalized, holistic care that honors your unique needs and supports you every step of the way.

Stephanie Holthus, CPM, LM, CLC, CST

Stephanie is the heart and soul of The Green Stork. As a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and Licensed Midwife (LM), she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every birth. Her journey into midwifery was deeply personal, inspired by her own experiences with motherhood and a desire to provide women with empowering birth options. Stephanie's dedication extends beyond midwifery, holding certifications as a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) and Craniosacral Therapist (CST), allowing her to offer comprehensive care to mothers and babies. Her passion for natural birth and holistic wellness shines through in her compassionate approach.

Becca Van Dyke, Doula

Becca is a dedicated and nurturing doula, whose passion for birth work stems from a deep admiration for the miracle of life. Her calm and reassuring presence provides invaluable support to families during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Becca understands the importance of emotional and physical support during this transformative time, and she is committed to helping women achieve a positive and empowering birth experience. Her experience working at the local pregnancy center also gives her a unique insight into the needs of new mothers.

Our Shared Commitment

A compassionate midwife leans over a woman laboring in a birth pool inside a home, offering hands-on support and encouragement. Highlights continuous water birth support and home birth services in Northern MN.
We are honored to be a part of your journey

We are united in our commitment to providing exceptional care that is both evidence-based and deeply compassionate. We believe in the power of informed choice and are dedicated to empowering families to have the birth experience they desire.

@greenstorkmn
  • We’ve been working behind the scenes on a major update that’s going to change the game — and we can’t wait to share it with you!Stay tuned over the next week as we finalize everything. This one’s going to make midwifery care a whole lot more accessible for many.Who’s ready? 👀#Homebirth #GreenStorkMN #Waterbirth #MidwiferyCare #NorthernMNMidwifery
  • It’s birthday month for this midwife!  Which means I renewed my midwifery license with the Board of Medical Practice, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude! Being a licensed midwife isn’t just a credential — it’s a vital commitment to safety, excellence, and trust. It ensures I’m held to the highest standards of care so every family I serve receives skilled, evidence-based support during one of life’s most sacred journeys.This renewal is an incredible honor. For the next year (and many more, I hope!), I get to keep showing up for our community — walking alongside mothers, babies, and families with compassion, knowledge, and confidence.Looking at this form, I’m filled with pride and deeply humbled.  It represents countless hours of study, reflection, and growth — diving deep into topics that real-life births hadn’t yet shown me. Formal education has this beautiful way of filling in the gaps we didn’t even know existed, strengthening us in ways that make us better caregivers.I truly love continuing education. It keeps the fire alive, sharpens my skills, and reminds me why I fell in love with midwifery in the first place: to serve with wisdom, humility, and an open heart.Here’s to another year of supporting life’s most beautiful beginnings! 💕If you’re in our community and considering your birth options, I’d love to connect.#MidwifeLife #LicensedMidwife #GreenStorkMN #BirthSupport #HonoredToServe
  • ❤️ Celebrating 250 years of freedom on the lake and under a sky that lit up with fireworks this weekend.What a fun-filled, heart-full few days — soaked in family laughter, chasing my youngest nieces and nephews around, and making memories that I’ll treasure forever. Fireworks exploding overhead while I waited for labor to begin… It was the perfect mix of celebration and quiet anticipation.No new babies joined us this weekend, but every single moment was beautifully spent. Time with the people I love most is never wasted. Grateful for this wild, wonderful life and the freedom to celebrate it together.Happy 250th Independence Day 🇺🇸✨#4thOfJuly250 #250YearsStrong #GreenStorkMN #MidwifeLife #OnCallFunStillHad
  • 💚 Happy Father’s Day from The Green Stork 💚Today, we’re celebrating the dads, partners, bonus dads, grandpas, and father figures who show up with love, support, and sometimes an impressive collection of snacks.From timing contractions like they’re training for the Olympics, to mastering the art of assembling baby gear with only minimal confusion, fathers play a beautiful role in the journey of welcoming new life.
We see the nervous hand-holding, the encouraging words, the late-night diaper changes, and the quiet moments of wonder when a new baby is placed in loving arms. Those moments matter. They help create the foundation of a growing family.To all the fathers who have supported pregnancies, births, postpartum healing, and the everyday adventures of parenthood: thank you for your strength, tenderness, patience, and willingness to learn as you go.
Today we celebrate you—the protectors, the cheerleaders, the baby-rockers, the swaddle-attempters, and the makers of terrible-but-somehow-beloved dad jokes.Wishing you a Father’s Day filled with love, laughter, and at least one uninterrupted cup of coffee. ☕👶💚With gratitude,
The Green Stork Midwifery#HappyFathersDay #GreenStorkMN #MidwiferyCare #FamilyCenteredCare #Fatherhood
  • The Green Stork is celebrating 15 years this month! 🎉💚Technically, the journey started in early 2011, but it took until June to give this little side gig a name. And when I say it took until June, I mean I agonized over it for months.I wanted a name that could grow with me. A name that could hold a big dream.From the very beginning, I envisioned a place where women and families could find support through the entire childbearing year—from preconception to pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and well-woman care. A true one-stop shop for compassionate, family-centered support.Fifteen years later, that dream is still growing and evolving. Some things have changed. Some things have expanded beyond what I could have imagined. But one thing has remained exactly the same: providing care that helps families feel seen, heard, held, truly cared for, and fully supported.As we celebrate our 15th year, I thought I’d answer one of the questions I’m asked most often:Where did the name “The Green Stork” come from?At the time, I was working full-time in sales and marketing, and I knew I wanted green to be part of the brand somehow. I didn’t know if it would be in the name, but I knew the color would be there.Around the same time, our first baby was affectionately known as “The Bean” throughout my pregnancy. (In fact, we didn’t decide on his actual name until he was more than 24 hours old!) His pregnancy was also what sparked my journey into childbirth education, so I wanted to somehow incorporate that part of the story too.One morning, during our 10-minute drive to work, I was once again talking through my naming struggles with my husband. After months of me overthinking every possibility, he casually blurted out:“Why don’t you just call it The Green Stork or something?”Just like that.Done.Months of brainstorming solved in a single sentence.I immediately knew that was it.The image of a stork carrying a little bean pod popped into my head, and by the time I got to work, I had already messaged my dear friend Megan, a graphic designer, asking if she would create a logo.Continued in comments…
  • Saying goodbye is never easy,
but we are feeling so blessed knowing this is only a “goodbye for now.”It meant the world when Mom said,
“I know I’ll see you around the community.”There is no greater honor than being asked to care for a family again.
Growing closer to you all this past year has been such a beautiful light in our lives.We are truly grateful this is just a “goodbye for now.” #MidwiferyCare #Homebirth #PostpartumSupport #GreenstorkMN #birth
  • ✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
  • ✨A Mother’s Day Miracle ✨This sweet little boy chose the most beautiful way to celebrate his very first Mother’s Day — by arriving safely into his momma’s arms on that very day. 💙It started with a text “I’m certain my water just broke” early that morning. We stayed in close touch as the day unfolded peacefully. While waiting for labor to pick up, I was able to go to church, visit my mother-in-law, plant flowers with my family, sneak in a nap, and enjoy a special dinner together. Then around 7:30pm, consistent contractions began and we knew it was time.Our team arrived just after 8pm, and in the quiet of their home, this precious boy was born gently in the water. He was lifted straight to his mother’s chest as his daddy whispered prayers of strength, safety, love, and gratitude into her ear. It was calm, sacred, and incredibly beautiful.What an unforgettable gift — welcoming new life on Mother’s Day.We are so honored to have walked beside this strong, radiant mama and her loving family. Welcome to the world, sweet boy. Your timing was pure magic. 🌸Congratulations to this beautiful family! 💚#HomeBirth #MothersDayBaby #TheGreenStork #WaterBirth #MidwiferyCare
  • We are still smiling about this beautiful gift from one of our incredible clients! 💚“Birth Work is Kingdom Work” sweaters — a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.Every birth we attend, every family we walk alongside, and every sacred moment we witness feels like holy ground. Supporting new life, serving mothers, and caring for families in their most vulnerable and joyful season is truly Kingdom work.We are so thankful for clients who become friends — who see our hearts and pour love back into us in such meaningful ways. This sweater is more than clothing; it’s a daily encouragement and a beautiful testimony of the community we’re building together.Thank you, for this thoughtful and faith-filled gift. It will be worn with so much gratitude and purpose. 🙏If you’re feeling called to this kind of birth work or are looking for midwifery care rooted in deep respect, love, and faith — we’d love to walk with you.#BirthWorkIsKingdomWork #GreenStorkMN #MidwiferyCare #HomeBirth #BemidjiMN
We’ve been working behind the scenes on a major update that’s going to change the game — and we can’t wait to share it with you!Stay tuned over the next week as we finalize everything. This one’s going to make midwifery care a whole lot more accessible for many.Who’s ready? 👀#Homebirth #GreenStorkMN #Waterbirth #MidwiferyCare #NorthernMNMidwifery
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
It’s birthday month for this midwife!  Which means I renewed my midwifery license with the Board of Medical Practice, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude! Being a licensed midwife isn’t just a credential — it’s a vital commitment to safety, excellence, and trust. It ensures I’m held to the highest standards of care so every family I serve receives skilled, evidence-based support during one of life’s most sacred journeys.This renewal is an incredible honor. For the next year (and many more, I hope!), I get to keep showing up for our community — walking alongside mothers, babies, and families with compassion, knowledge, and confidence.Looking at this form, I’m filled with pride and deeply humbled.  It represents countless hours of study, reflection, and growth — diving deep into topics that real-life births hadn’t yet shown me. Formal education has this beautiful way of filling in the gaps we didn’t even know existed, strengthening us in ways that make us better caregivers.I truly love continuing education. It keeps the fire alive, sharpens my skills, and reminds me why I fell in love with midwifery in the first place: to serve with wisdom, humility, and an open heart.Here’s to another year of supporting life’s most beautiful beginnings! 💕If you’re in our community and considering your birth options, I’d love to connect.#MidwifeLife #LicensedMidwife #GreenStorkMN #BirthSupport #HonoredToServe
It’s birthday month for this midwife! Which means I renewed my midwifery license with the Board of Medical Practice, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude! Being a licensed midwife isn’t just a credential — it’s a vital commitment to safety, excellence, and trust. It ensures I’m held to the highest standards of care so every family I serve receives skilled, evidence-based support during one of life’s most sacred journeys.This renewal is an incredible honor. For the next year (and many more, I hope!), I get to keep showing up for our community — walking alongside mothers, babies, and families with compassion, knowledge, and confidence.Looking at this form, I’m filled with pride and deeply humbled. It represents countless hours of study, reflection, and growth — diving deep into topics that real-life births hadn’t yet shown me. Formal education has this beautiful way of filling in the gaps we didn’t even know existed, strengthening us in ways that make us better caregivers.I truly love continuing education. It keeps the fire alive, sharpens my skills, and reminds me why I fell in love with midwifery in the first place: to serve with wisdom, humility, and an open heart.Here’s to another year of supporting life’s most beautiful beginnings! 💕If you’re in our community and considering your birth options, I’d love to connect.#MidwifeLife #LicensedMidwife #GreenStorkMN #BirthSupport #HonoredToServe
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
❤️ Celebrating 250 years of freedom on the lake and under a sky that lit up with fireworks this weekend.What a fun-filled, heart-full few days — soaked in family laughter, chasing my youngest nieces and nephews around, and making memories that I’ll treasure forever. Fireworks exploding overhead while I waited for labor to begin… It was the perfect mix of celebration and quiet anticipation.No new babies joined us this weekend, but every single moment was beautifully spent. Time with the people I love most is never wasted. Grateful for this wild, wonderful life and the freedom to celebrate it together.Happy 250th Independence Day 🇺🇸✨#4thOfJuly250 #250YearsStrong #GreenStorkMN #MidwifeLife #OnCallFunStillHad
❤️ Celebrating 250 years of freedom on the lake and under a sky that lit up with fireworks this weekend.What a fun-filled, heart-full few days — soaked in family laughter, chasing my youngest nieces and nephews around, and making memories that I’ll treasure forever. Fireworks exploding overhead while I waited for labor to begin… It was the perfect mix of celebration and quiet anticipation.No new babies joined us this weekend, but every single moment was beautifully spent. Time with the people I love most is never wasted. Grateful for this wild, wonderful life and the freedom to celebrate it together.Happy 250th Independence Day 🇺🇸✨#4thOfJuly250 #250YearsStrong #GreenStorkMN #MidwifeLife #OnCallFunStillHad
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
💚 Happy Father’s Day from The Green Stork 💚Today, we’re celebrating the dads, partners, bonus dads, grandpas, and father figures who show up with love, support, and sometimes an impressive collection of snacks.From timing contractions like they’re training for the Olympics, to mastering the art of assembling baby gear with only minimal confusion, fathers play a beautiful role in the journey of welcoming new life. We see the nervous hand-holding, the encouraging words, the late-night diaper changes, and the quiet moments of wonder when a new baby is placed in loving arms. Those moments matter. They help create the foundation of a growing family.To all the fathers who have supported pregnancies, births, postpartum healing, and the everyday adventures of parenthood: thank you for your strength, tenderness, patience, and willingness to learn as you go. Today we celebrate you—the protectors, the cheerleaders, the baby-rockers, the swaddle-attempters, and the makers of terrible-but-somehow-beloved dad jokes.Wishing you a Father’s Day filled with love, laughter, and at least one uninterrupted cup of coffee. ☕👶💚With gratitude, The Green Stork Midwifery#HappyFathersDay #GreenStorkMN #MidwiferyCare #FamilyCenteredCare #Fatherhood
4 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
The Green Stork is celebrating 15 years this month! 🎉💚Technically, the journey started in early 2011, but it took until June to give this little side gig a name. And when I say it took until June, I mean I agonized over it for months.I wanted a name that could grow with me. A name that could hold a big dream.From the very beginning, I envisioned a place where women and families could find support through the entire childbearing year—from preconception to pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and well-woman care. A true one-stop shop for compassionate, family-centered support.Fifteen years later, that dream is still growing and evolving. Some things have changed. Some things have expanded beyond what I could have imagined. But one thing has remained exactly the same: providing care that helps families feel seen, heard, held, truly cared for, and fully supported.As we celebrate our 15th year, I thought I’d answer one of the questions I’m asked most often:Where did the name “The Green Stork” come from?At the time, I was working full-time in sales and marketing, and I knew I wanted green to be part of the brand somehow. I didn’t know if it would be in the name, but I knew the color would be there.Around the same time, our first baby was affectionately known as “The Bean” throughout my pregnancy. (In fact, we didn’t decide on his actual name until he was more than 24 hours old!) His pregnancy was also what sparked my journey into childbirth education, so I wanted to somehow incorporate that part of the story too.One morning, during our 10-minute drive to work, I was once again talking through my naming struggles with my husband. After months of me overthinking every possibility, he casually blurted out:“Why don’t you just call it The Green Stork or something?”Just like that.Done.Months of brainstorming solved in a single sentence.I immediately knew that was it.The image of a stork carrying a little bean pod popped into my head, and by the time I got to work, I had already messaged my dear friend Megan, a graphic designer, asking if she would create a logo.Continued in comments…
The Green Stork is celebrating 15 years this month! 🎉💚Technically, the journey started in early 2011, but it took until June to give this little side gig a name. And when I say it took until June, I mean I agonized over it for months.I wanted a name that could grow with me. A name that could hold a big dream.From the very beginning, I envisioned a place where women and families could find support through the entire childbearing year—from preconception to pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and well-woman care. A true one-stop shop for compassionate, family-centered support.Fifteen years later, that dream is still growing and evolving. Some things have changed. Some things have expanded beyond what I could have imagined. But one thing has remained exactly the same: providing care that helps families feel seen, heard, held, truly cared for, and fully supported.As we celebrate our 15th year, I thought I’d answer one of the questions I’m asked most often:Where did the name “The Green Stork” come from?At the time, I was working full-time in sales and marketing, and I knew I wanted green to be part of the brand somehow. I didn’t know if it would be in the name, but I knew the color would be there.Around the same time, our first baby was affectionately known as “The Bean” throughout my pregnancy. (In fact, we didn’t decide on his actual name until he was more than 24 hours old!) His pregnancy was also what sparked my journey into childbirth education, so I wanted to somehow incorporate that part of the story too.One morning, during our 10-minute drive to work, I was once again talking through my naming struggles with my husband. After months of me overthinking every possibility, he casually blurted out:“Why don’t you just call it The Green Stork or something?”Just like that.Done.Months of brainstorming solved in a single sentence.I immediately knew that was it.The image of a stork carrying a little bean pod popped into my head, and by the time I got to work, I had already messaged my dear friend Megan, a graphic designer, asking if she would create a logo.Continued in comments…
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
Saying goodbye is never easy,
but we are feeling so blessed knowing this is only a “goodbye for now.”It meant the world when Mom said,
“I know I’ll see you around the community.”There is no greater honor than being asked to care for a family again.
Growing closer to you all this past year has been such a beautiful light in our lives.We are truly grateful this is just a “goodbye for now.” #MidwiferyCare #Homebirth #PostpartumSupport #GreenstorkMN #birth
Saying goodbye is never easy, but we are feeling so blessed knowing this is only a “goodbye for now.”It meant the world when Mom said, “I know I’ll see you around the community.”There is no greater honor than being asked to care for a family again. Growing closer to you all this past year has been such a beautiful light in our lives.We are truly grateful this is just a “goodbye for now.” #MidwiferyCare #Homebirth #PostpartumSupport #GreenstorkMN #birth
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨
We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙  The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
✨ A Special Birth Announcement ✨ We are overjoyed to share the beautiful arrival of Baby Shepherd — welcomed with so much love! 💙 The third baby in just 6 days for The Green Stork team.This sweet boy, Sarah’s sixth baby, decided to throw his mama quite the curveball with one of her longest labors yet. But as always, Sarah was strong, radiant, and surrounded by love. It was such an honor to care for her again — she holds a special place in our hearts not only as a treasured birth assistant, but as one of the few families we’ve walked with through four births with, and the first we’ve supported for three as her midwife. What a deep blessing to share that kind of history and trust.Shepherd made his entrance gently born into his daddy’s hands in the water and en caul — a truly magical moment as he was lifted to his mother’s chest.Right after birth, the big siblings came roaring in in to meet him, say goodnight, marvel at the placenta, and hug mom and dad goodnight. Two sets of grandparents were there too, pitching in with open arms, warm meals, and endless love — turning the day into a true family affair filled with joy and togetherness.Sarah, we are so incredibly proud of you and in awe of the beautiful family you and your husband have built. Thank you for trusting us once again with your sacred journey.Welcome to the world, precious Shepherd. You are already so loved. 🌸Congratulations to Sarah, James, and to your whole beautiful tribe!We love you all so much. 💚#HomeBirth #WaterBirth #EnCaulBirth #TheGreenStork #FamilyBirth
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
✨A Mother’s Day Miracle ✨This sweet little boy chose the most beautiful way to celebrate his very first Mother’s Day — by arriving safely into his momma’s arms on that very day. 💙It started with a text “I’m certain my water just broke” early that morning. We stayed in close touch as the day unfolded peacefully. While waiting for labor to pick up, I was able to go to church, visit my mother-in-law, plant flowers with my family, sneak in a nap, and enjoy a special dinner together. Then around 7:30pm, consistent contractions began and we knew it was time.Our team arrived just after 8pm, and in the quiet of their home, this precious boy was born gently in the water. He was lifted straight to his mother’s chest as his daddy whispered prayers of strength, safety, love, and gratitude into her ear. It was calm, sacred, and incredibly beautiful.What an unforgettable gift — welcoming new life on Mother’s Day.We are so honored to have walked beside this strong, radiant mama and her loving family. Welcome to the world, sweet boy. Your timing was pure magic. 🌸Congratulations to this beautiful family! 💚#HomeBirth #MothersDayBaby #TheGreenStork #WaterBirth #MidwiferyCare
✨A Mother’s Day Miracle ✨This sweet little boy chose the most beautiful way to celebrate his very first Mother’s Day — by arriving safely into his momma’s arms on that very day. 💙It started with a text “I’m certain my water just broke” early that morning. We stayed in close touch as the day unfolded peacefully. While waiting for labor to pick up, I was able to go to church, visit my mother-in-law, plant flowers with my family, sneak in a nap, and enjoy a special dinner together. Then around 7:30pm, consistent contractions began and we knew it was time.Our team arrived just after 8pm, and in the quiet of their home, this precious boy was born gently in the water. He was lifted straight to his mother’s chest as his daddy whispered prayers of strength, safety, love, and gratitude into her ear. It was calm, sacred, and incredibly beautiful.What an unforgettable gift — welcoming new life on Mother’s Day.We are so honored to have walked beside this strong, radiant mama and her loving family. Welcome to the world, sweet boy. Your timing was pure magic. 🌸Congratulations to this beautiful family! 💚#HomeBirth #MothersDayBaby #TheGreenStork #WaterBirth #MidwiferyCare
✨A Mother’s Day Miracle ✨This sweet little boy chose the most beautiful way to celebrate his very first Mother’s Day — by arriving safely into his momma’s arms on that very day. 💙It started with a text “I’m certain my water just broke” early that morning. We stayed in close touch as the day unfolded peacefully. While waiting for labor to pick up, I was able to go to church, visit my mother-in-law, plant flowers with my family, sneak in a nap, and enjoy a special dinner together. Then around 7:30pm, consistent contractions began and we knew it was time.Our team arrived just after 8pm, and in the quiet of their home, this precious boy was born gently in the water. He was lifted straight to his mother’s chest as his daddy whispered prayers of strength, safety, love, and gratitude into her ear. It was calm, sacred, and incredibly beautiful.What an unforgettable gift — welcoming new life on Mother’s Day.We are so honored to have walked beside this strong, radiant mama and her loving family. Welcome to the world, sweet boy. Your timing was pure magic. 🌸Congratulations to this beautiful family! 💚#HomeBirth #MothersDayBaby #TheGreenStork #WaterBirth #MidwiferyCare
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
We are still smiling about this beautiful gift from one of our incredible clients! 💚“Birth Work is Kingdom Work” sweaters — a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.Every birth we attend, every family we walk alongside, and every sacred moment we witness feels like holy ground. Supporting new life, serving mothers, and caring for families in their most vulnerable and joyful season is truly Kingdom work.We are so thankful for clients who become friends — who see our hearts and pour love back into us in such meaningful ways. This sweater is more than clothing; it’s a daily encouragement and a beautiful testimony of the community we’re building together.Thank you, for this thoughtful and faith-filled gift. It will be worn with so much gratitude and purpose. 🙏If you’re feeling called to this kind of birth work or are looking for midwifery care rooted in deep respect, love, and faith — we’d love to walk with you.#BirthWorkIsKingdomWork #GreenStorkMN #MidwiferyCare #HomeBirth #BemidjiMN
We are still smiling about this beautiful gift from one of our incredible clients! 💚“Birth Work is Kingdom Work” sweaters — a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.Every birth we attend, every family we walk alongside, and every sacred moment we witness feels like holy ground. Supporting new life, serving mothers, and caring for families in their most vulnerable and joyful season is truly Kingdom work.We are so thankful for clients who become friends — who see our hearts and pour love back into us in such meaningful ways. This sweater is more than clothing; it’s a daily encouragement and a beautiful testimony of the community we’re building together.Thank you, for this thoughtful and faith-filled gift. It will be worn with so much gratitude and purpose. 🙏If you’re feeling called to this kind of birth work or are looking for midwifery care rooted in deep respect, love, and faith — we’d love to walk with you.#BirthWorkIsKingdomWork #GreenStorkMN #MidwiferyCare #HomeBirth #BemidjiMN
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
9/9

Real Stories, Real Joy

“My husband and I welcomed our second child in October 2018. Becca was our Doula and our experience was wonderful! Before the birth she met with us to prepare- getting to know us and our preferences for labor/birth, etc. She was very professional, yet personable, and you could tell she is very passionate about what she does – being that extra line of support and knowledge for expecting Mothers (and Dads, too!).

During labor, it was so encouraging to to have her with us, giving me gentle reminders to breathe naturally, massage, getting what we needed when we needed it- ASAP (including hospital staff, if they left the room).

My husband felt more confident with her helping us, because he could better focus on me – helping me moment to moment with each contraction. Becca was able work together with him during contractions while still keeping an eye on the bigger picture – where we were in the process and how things were going overall.

In the recovery room, my nurse told me she had a positive and encouraging experience working with Becca. The way she described it conveyed that she appreciated Becca’s attitude of working together with the hospital staff as a team for the same purpose – healthy mom, healthy baby, and a positive birth experience.”

Sheila Ewert

"My wife deeply appreciated the caring and personal service that Steph provided for our growing family. I have been through childbirth five times with my wife, two of them home births, and I have seen a range of personalities among the doulas, midwives, nurses, and doctors who have helped us. Steph is simply extraordinary. She took the time to get to know us, she provided the support we desired, but she also knew when to withdraw into the sidelines and let my wife’s labor take its natural course.

As a husband, I wanted to be as hands on as possible, but the fact of the matter is that one person can only do so much. I would recommend to other husbands that money spent on a doula is well spent, since it always helps to have another set of hands to refill a water bottle or massage a laboring mother’s back or handle any of the thousand other little things that come up along the way. Steph did all of these things and more, always with a sense of calm and gentle encouragement."

Ryan MacPherson (2015)

"My wife and I welcomed our first baby, Graham, into this world with the help of Becca. We could not have been happier with the comfort and support that Becca provided both of us throughout the process. Becca is professional and passionate about her work, and we were amazed at her level of commitment to us throughout a long and stressful labor. Both of us highly recommend Becca, and we’ll surely have her with us for round 2 whenever that may be!”

Dan Ryan

“…As all parents know, life doesn’t happen how we think it may. Babies are full of many surprises and have their own schedule. After an amazingly smooth pregnancy, Alicia went into labor 6 weeks early. We were in disbelief and shocked, this couldn’t’ be happening. Steph was the first person I called. She advised us to head to the hospital and kept in contact along the way. After realizing the labor was not slowing down, the doctors decided it would be best to transport Alicia to Rochester. Again we were in disbelief and struggled with the fact that Alicia would be laboring in the ambulance alone, while I rushed home to grab a few things and then drive to Rochester. But again, Steph was there. She reassured me that our birth story would still be beautiful and that Rochester is an amazing place to give birth. She offered to drive and meet us in Rochester to continue leading us through our birth journey.

She not only met us there, she lead me down the highway, into town, to the parking ramp and up to Alicia’s room. In this midst of all the unknowns, worries and fear, Steph was there to put us at ease.

She was an incredible coach through labor and helped Alicia to reach her goal of having an all natural birth. She also made sure I was taken care of with food and hydration throughout the morning. Steph did a wonderful job of photographing of our birth story as well. The memories she captured will be cherished forever.

Looking back, I can’t imagine our birth story without Steph.

From the early days of learning techniques in her class, to capturing our first family photos, Steph made our birth story an amazing experience. She is living her passion and we are eternally grateful she is our Doula.” 

Dan & Alicia W.