Mary Brighum Smits Smits

What haven't I been up to??? I've been raising 4 children - homeschooling my 3 boys from 1995-2006 and now also homeschooling our daughter since 2013. Diagnosed with dyslexia, Irlen Syndrome, and audio processing disorder, it was necessary to customize her education in a way not available through our public schools.

In 2004 I found my passion and vocation when I attended my first birth while acting as a doula. I started training in 2005, became certified in Feb 2006, and shortly thereafter, I opened my business, Mother's Advocate Doula Services. I also teach private childbirth education classes, known as "Mother's Choice Birth Education" I couldn't have dreamed of a more fulfilling career!

In the spring of 2010 I took on the position of Project Manager of Elizabeth Ministry International, and in December 2010 also became a contributing writer of ministry resources. My main goals as part of this ministry were to create products and resources that bring comfort and healing to families suffering the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant/child death. While I still have a heart for this ministry, I discontinued my work at EMI at the end of 2015 to focus on homeschooling my freshman, to devote more time to my doula and birth education clients, and to pursue my certificate in Biblical Counseling. I still have a bit of artistic fun on the side as a free-lance graphic artist.

Starting a family as young as I did has been both challenging and wonderful. Steve and I literally grew up together and are still best friends. Together, we found the joy of living for Christ. In all we do, we seek to honor Him. Steve serves as the worship music director at our home church - Freedom Fellowship in Kaukauna, and I hope to serve as a Biblical Counselor when I finish my training.

I guess I didn't hang out with too many funny people, as I can't think of much of anything.

Maybe Paul Rodemaker being so tall that he could easily copy my test answers right over my shoulder in English class?

Going to the art room every study hall with Leah and Carol and all the other artsie students is a great memory.

One of my best memories though is actually of my mom. Since she worked in a bridal store, she altered a prom dress for me so I could go to prom 7 1/2 months pregnant. Then I missed the prom because I went into labor the night before the dance 5 weeks ahead of schedule! I called her from the hospital, in active labor, continually saying, "I'm so sorry about the dress, mom!" Well, she took that dress and altered it back, so I could wear it the next year. What a mom!

Other than that, I'm just so thankful for those friends and even some teachers who stood by me through having a baby. It was really tough.
Thanks to all.