Anyone else use/using a midwife?

This is my first baby and I’m so excited!! Due date is 02/17!!

Just wondering if anyone who has used a midwife at a birthing center *outside a hospital setting*, recommends anything that no one really thinks about??

What was/is in your go-bag??

And how was your experience?

Should I opt for the birthing pool for labor and delivery or just labor?? I’ve heard you’re more likely to tear if you actually deliver in the water… so I definitely don’t want to do that if that’s more likely👀 just wanna hear other’s experiences tho!!