From the Archive: The First Blog Post (2018)
Editor's Note (Juneteenth 2026): The piece was originally written in early Spring of 2018 during the launch of Hija Del Sol Birth Services, years before Birthers of Civilization existed. Reading it now, I'm struck by how much has changed—and how much has remained the same. At the time, I was a new mother, overcoming homelessness, a young substitute teacher, newly trained birth worker, and a woman trying to find the courage to share her voice. What began as a small birth work website has since grown into a full-spectrum doula practice, training institute, advocacy platform, and community archive. I've preserved the spirit of the original post as a reminder of where this journey began...
Stepping Into 2018
It's an honor to have you here.
I'm incredibly anxious about launching this website, but even more hopeful about what it might become. Whoever you are, I hope you find something here that serves you—whether it's knowledge, curiosity, inspiration, or simply a new perspective.
Birth work is one of the most humbling callings I've ever known. It is not easy work, but it is necessary work—especially in my community and in communities like mine around the world.
I hope to use this platform to help normalize conversations about maternal health, birth, common birthing practices, and the importance of self-care. I hope to contribute, in whatever small way I can, to a future where families are informed, supported, and empowered.
For those wondering, my name is Athena, though many people know me as Hija Del Sol. One of the questions I hear most often—after people attempt to pronounce it—is: "What does it mean?" The answer is simple:
Daughter of the Sun.
It was a nickname I acquired while pregnant with my firstborn daughter, and it stayed with me.
As this new year unfolds, I find myself filled with gratitude and anticipation for what lies ahead for both myself and Hija Del Sol Birth Services. I hope to connect with people who are authentic, compassionate, and passionate about the need for more birth workers—especially birth workers of color—serving our communities.
I intend to write honestly here. I hope you'll follow along as I continue learning, growing, and working toward my dream of one day establishing my own midwifery practice.
Stay tuned, beautiful Sols.
There's so much more to come.
Authentically yours,
Athena ("Hija Del Sol")
Published by Athena Gabriella Guice via HijaDelSolBirths.com on March 2018.