In Conversation with: Marita Kaji-O'Grady
Meet Marita, a mother & creative who recently returned from living with her partner in Kyoto, Japan, to birth her son in the Northern Rivers of Australia.
Photography by Thea Blocksidge
Marita is a mother & creative - one half of TLC World, a shoot agency and online vintage store based out of Australia. Recently living in Japan, she returned to Australia late last year to birth her son, and is now based in the Northern Rivers of Australia with her partner and now - little boy.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, the home you live in, and who you share it with?
My name is Marita, I live in the Northern Rivers area and currently share my home with my partner and soon our little boy. We just got back from a brief stint living in Japan where we hope to return one day as a family to renovate the tiny farm house we bought and live and connect with that part of my heritage.
What do days in your last trimester look like?
Very slow days, like the most relaxing vacation. Typically doing yoga, swimming at the river, napping and cooking nourishing meals. 
Do you have any rituals or rhythms as of late that you incorporate into your daily life?
Yoga has been an incredibly important daily ritual throughout my pregnancy. It has helped me connect with myself and the experience of pregnancy which has been really important, especially given how unexpected it was for me!
What does community look like to you?
Community is a few close friends and family who you know will always be there and you will too.
How has pregnancy changed your relationship with yourself?
Through ups and downs it has helped me be easier on myself, come to accept that I don't have to be perfect to be a mother and to (try) go with the flow.
Are there any books/podcasts/journals that have inspired you on your journey into motherhood?
My midwife suggested The Great Birth Rebellion podcast which helped me navigate some of the trickier decisions to be made during pregnancy.
My friend Thea gifted Ina May Gaskin’s Guide to Birth which I loved and led me to watch the film on the Farm which is amazing on YouTube. Being able to see positive birth experiences and the calm midwives was uplifting and my partner really enjoyed watching it too.
Can you tell us one piece of advice or lesson in life that you want to pass onto your child?
To always have empathy.